Discover the Best Sunset Viewpoints in Dorset

Dorset’s sunsets showcase unmissable natural beauty - with rolling countryside, dramatic cliffs, and historic landmarks, there are no shortage of stunning vantage points on offer to watch the sunset in Dorset

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It doesn't get much better than this! Durdle Door, famous for its striking limestone arch, provides some of the most breathtaking sunset views in Dorset. Plus, if you want to avoid the crowds of the arch itself, the nearby and slightly quieter Lulworth Cove also offers stunning vistas as the sun sets over its calm waters. The natural beauty of this stretch of coast is enhanced at sunset, creating a tranquil and serene ambiance you won't want to miss.

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Up your sunset experience at Studland Bay: a stunning sandy beach on the Isle of Purbeck that provides breathtaking views of the coastline. The sunsets here are truly spectacular (and justifiably well-loved), painting the water with golden tones that reflect off the bay and the nearby iconic Old Harry Rocks.

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If you like your sunsets postcard pretty, make a beeline for the 18 mile Chesil Beach. The changing colors over the sea and the beach's distinctive shape make it an exceptional spot for sunset watching - especially from the Portland end!

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As the highest point on the Jurassic Coast, Golden Cap offers sweeping views over the coastline. If you're in the mood for a blissful sunset-gazing session, this elevated vantage point is a breathtaking spot to do it, with the sun setting over the cliffs and the sea stretching out below. 

You don’t need us to tell you about Corfe Castle, the dramatic 11th-century ruins overlooking the Purbeck Hills. The silhouette of the crumbled towers against the sun's warm hues, the rolling hills becoming bathed in warm, golden light...sunset here is a visually captivating, timeless experience everyone should enjoy.

Here are the ten best sunset viewpoints across Dorset, chosen for their breathtaking vistas, accessibility, and variety, spanning the Jurassic Coast and countryside. 

1. Chesil Beach (Abbotsbury/West Bexington)
• Why: This 18-mile shingle beach along the Fleet Lagoon offers stunning sunsets, with golden light reflecting off pebbles and Portland’s silhouette in the distance.
• Location: Near Abbotsbury, DT3 4LA.
• Access: Free parking at Chesil Beach car park. Flat terrain, though pebbles are uneven. Wheelchair-friendly with sturdy wheels.
2. Hardy’s Monument (Portesham)
• Why: At 239 meters, this hilltop monument provides 360-degree views of the Dorset Downs and Jurassic Coast, with the 72-foot Hardy Monument framing vibrant sunsets.
• Location: Near Portesham, DT2 9HY (6 miles from Chesil Beach).
• Access: Free National Trust car park. 10-minute uphill walk on a clear path. Wear sturdy shoes; can be windy.
• Tips: Stop at The Kings Arms in Portesham for dinner. Ideal for a romantic or serene evening.
3. Durdle Door (Lulworth)
• Why: Rated the UK’s top sunset spot (273/300 score), this limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast glows as the sun sets behind it, with 1,904 annual sunshine hours.
• Location: Near Lulworth, BH20 5PU (20 miles from Chesil Beach).
• Access: Durdle Door Car Park (£5-£10). 20-minute downhill walk (steep sections) to cliffs or beach. Less crowded at sunset.
4. Golden Cap (Seatown)
• Why: The south coast’s highest point (191 meters), its sandstone cliffs shine at sunset, with views of Lyme Bay and West Bay.
• Location: Near Seatown, DT6 6JU (15 miles from Chesil Beach).
• Access: Seatown parking (£3-£5). 40-minute uphill hike via South West Coast Path (moderate). Free for National Trust members.
• Tips: Start hiking 1.5 hours before sunset. Refuel at The Anchor Inn. Great for photographers.
5. Colmer’s Hill (Symondsbury)
• Why: Topped with Scots pines, this iconic hill creates a striking sunset silhouette, with views of West Dorset and the coast.
• Location: Near Symondsbury, DT6 6HG (10 miles from Chesil Beach).
• Access: Free parking at Symondsbury Estate. 30-minute steep walk to summit. Symondsbury Kitchen offers snacks.
• Tips: View from Allington Hill for a distant perspective or climb for immersion. Autumn enhances foliage colors.
6. Corfe Castle (West Hill)
• Why: A top-10 UK sunset spot, the 12th-century castle ruins glow from West Hill, blending history and scenic beauty.
• Location: Near Corfe Castle, BH20 5EZ (25 miles from Chesil Beach).
• Access: Parking (£4-£6). 15-minute walk to West Hill. Avoid cliff edges.
• Tips: Explore the castle earlier, then hike for sunset. Dine at The Bankes Arms. Ideal for history buffs.
7. Swyre Head (Isle of Purbeck)
• Why: Purbeck’s highest point offers panoramic views of Corfe Castle and Kimmeridge, with a natural mound for sunset viewing.
• Location: Near Worth Matravers, BH19 3LE (30 miles from Chesil Beach).
• Access: Free parking. 20-minute moderate walk to summit. Quieter than Durdle Door.
• Tips: Bring a picnic. Combine with Chapman’s Pool if tides allow. Perfect for solitude.
8. West Bay Cliffs (Bridport)
• Why: The golden cliffs, featured in Broadchurch, create a cinematic sunset over the Jurassic Coast.
• Location: Near Bridport, DT6 4EN (12 miles from Chesil Beach).
• Access: Parking (£2-£5). Short walk to cliff-top paths via South West Coast Path. Beach-level viewing is accessible.
• Tips: Explore the harbour earlier. Enjoy fish and chips at The Fish Kiosk during sunset. Family-friendly.
9. Lyme Regis (The Cobb)
• Why: The historic Cobb harbor wall offers a romantic sunset setting, with views across Lyme Bay and fossil-rich cliffs.
• Location: Lyme Regis, DT7 3JJ (20 miles from Chesil Beach).
• Access: Parking (£2-£4). Flat walk to The Cobb, accessible for most. Avoid high tide or storms.
• Tips: Pair with fossil hunting earlier. Dine at The Cobb Arms. Ideal for a coastal vibe.
10. Eggardon Hill (Powerstock)
• Why: This Iron Age hillfort offers sweeping views of the Dorset countryside and distant coast, with vibrant sunsets over rolling hills.
• Location: Near Powerstock, DT6 3ST (8 miles from Chesil Beach).
• Access: Limited free parking. 20-minute moderate walk to summit. Paths can be muddy.
• Tips: Less crowded, great for tranquility. Combine with Colmer’s Hill for a dual-hill day. Bring binoculars.

Here are some final notes:

• Easiest Access: Chesil Beach, West Bay, and Lyme Regis offer flat or minimal walking, ideal for all abilities.
• Iconic Views: Durdle Door and Golden Cap are Jurassic Coast highlights but involve hikes. Colmer’s Hill and Corfe Castle add historic charm.
• Quiet Spots: Swyre Head and Eggardon Hill provide solitude and expansive views.
• Family-Friendly: Chesil Beach and West Bay have space for kids to explore pre-sunset.