Stair Hole

Rock formations don't get much more dramatic than this twisted masterpiece of limestone carved by centuries of coastal erosion. Stair Hole sits just west of West Lulworth, where the sea has punched through the Portland stone to create a series of arches and caves that look almost too perfect to be natural.

Walking down from the coastal path, you'll spot the main archway first - a proper cathedral-sized opening where waves crash through during high tide. The geology here tells the whole story of Dorset's Jurassic Coast in one compact spot, with layers of rock folded and contorted like pastry.

Families love scrambling around the rocky platforms at low tide, though keep a close eye on little ones as the rocks can be slippery. Photography enthusiasts will have a field day, especially in late afternoon when the light catches the limestone just right.

It's free to visit and you can easily combine it with the more famous Durdle Door, which sits just along the coast path. Allow an hour here if you want to explore properly, though you could spend five minutes and still get the Instagram shot.

Staying at Durdle Door Holiday Park puts you within easy walking distance - it's less than a mile along well-marked paths. The view alone makes it well worth the modest walk from the car park.