During the Jurassic period there was a worldwide fall in the sea levels. This allowed Cycada and Pine trees to grow on the exposed rock. Later the land flooded and the sediment from freshwater algae formed calcareous sediment around the base of the trees. The trees died and rotted away, leaving the bowl shapes, known as burrs, which we see today. The Fossil Forest is located within the Lulworth Firing Range and is only accessible at weekends, or during the Easter Holidays and the month of August.

The Fossil Forest is a popular destination for Geology Field Trips. Southampton University has performed a geological survey which is documented in:- The Fossil Forest.

Cycada Trees grew on exposed rock	The sea levels rose
Algae formed sediment around trees	The interior of the trees rotted away
Left the calcareous bowl shaped burrs	The Fossil Forest, Lulworth Cove