The 'Lulworth Crumple' visible here demonstrates intense tectonic folding from 30 million years ago.
The sea arches are formed by the sea breaking through the hard Portland limestone outer layer to reach softer clays behind it.
Stair Hole is part of the Dorset and East Devon Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The alternating bands of rock represent different geological periods, ranging from the Jurassic to the Cretaceous.
The site illustrates the process of how a sea cave eventually collapses to form a cove.
Stair Hole is a small cove located on the Jurassic Coast featuring significant geological folding known as the Lulworth Crumple. The site showcases complex limestone rock formations, sea caves, and natural arches created by wave erosion. Unlike the adjacent Lulworth Cove, Stair Hole is smaller and characterized by its visible layers of Portland and Purbeck limestone. The cove serves as a natural laboratory for observing how different rock strata react to marine erosion. It is part of the Lulworth Estate and is protected for its scientific importance.
The elevated viewpoint along the South West Coast Path looking down into the cove.
Visit during low tide to safely access the shoreline and view the caves closely.
Bring sturdy footwear, as the paths leading down to the cove are uneven and can be slippery.
Check the local tide tables before departure to avoid being cut off or unable to see the base of the cliffs.
Attempting to swim or enter the sea caves, as falling rocks and unpredictable currents pose severe safety risks.
Do not climb the cliffs or remove geological specimens; respect the protected status of the fossil-rich area.
