Sometimes the most beautiful beaches in the world are right on our doorstep, and there's one with golden shingle and pristine blue waves that's been compared to Portugal's Algarve08:53, 07 Jul 2026You don't have to travel miles or even over sea to discover some of the world's best beaches, as there's one right here in the UK that has often been compared to the Algarve - and it's not in Cornwall or Devon.‌The UK is made up of beautiful stretches of golden coastline, dramatic cliffs and lapping waters, with Cornwall and Devon among the most popular seaside destinations. Yet, tucked away along the 95-mile expanse of the Jurassic Coast, lies one of the planet's most stunning locations.‌Durdle Door Beach is famed for its curved shingle beach, pristine blue waters, white-washed cliffs, and striking limestone arch, carved naturally by wave erosion more than 10,000 years ago. Standing at a towering 200ft, the iconic arch is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ranks among the most photographed spots in Britain, if not the world.‌It attracts visitors far and wide to marvel at its magnificent formation situated along the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth in Dorset. It's also drawn in film crews and been used as a major filming location, including for movies, Mansfield Park, Nanny McPhee and Far From the Madding Crowd, as well as TV shows, Doctor Who and Netflix's The Sandman.‌While the impressive limestone arch is a major draw to the coastline, the beach itself offers a little slice of paradise and has frequently been compared to the Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region. One visitor shared on TripAdvisor: "The rocks protruding out of the sea were so pretty you would forget you're still in England (apart from the clouds!) and reminded me of a trip to Portugal.""You don’t feel like you are in the UK. It seems more like Portugal or California," a second shared. While a third also noted: "Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door: Reminded me of the Algarve in Portugal!"The beach has been globally recognised and was even named as 'one of the best beaches in the world you should visit in your lifetime' by National Geographic last year. The publication said that the "beach and its namesake limestone arch are absolute showstoppers".‌It's a haven during the summer months, with its curved shingle beach the perfect retreat to soak up the rays or take a dip in its inviting blue waters. There are stone steps leading down to the beach, but a walk along the Jurassic Coast also offers some of the most spectacular views of Durdle Door, especially during a golden sunset.After time spent on the picturesque shore, there's plenty more to explore in the area, including the nearby Man O’War Beach, Lulworth Cove and Stair Hole. The nearest village to Durdle Door, West Lulworth, is also worth a visit, with its idyllic thatched stone cottages, 16th-century Castle Inn, along with a selection of ice cream parlours and coffee houses for that summer refreshment.Article continues belowDo you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com