Crime, Purbeck | Posted on April 7th, 2026 | return to news

Dorset Police break up illegal 2,000-strong rave near Lulworth Cove

Police made 11 arrests in the process of shutting down a rave that attracted 2,000 people to East Lulworth.

An illegal rave that drew a crowd of 2,000 people took place near Lulworth Cove during the Easter bank holiday weekend. In the process of shutting down the event, police were attacked.

Police received reports late in the evening of Saturday 4 April that hundreds of people had gathered at a site in East Lulworth for an unauthorised music event, with around 100 cars parked in the area, creating traffic and access problems.

According to police, the revellers had broken down a security fence and were holding the event on a Ministry of Defence firing range. The event was planned to last several days. Police added that there were no sanitation or medical facilities on site, and that there were reports of drinking and drug use. Police also reported that there was at least one medical issue requiring an ambulance.

Revellers were told to leave and equipment was seized. On Sunday 5 April, police closed roads in the area to prevent more people joining. After the crowd did not respond, a public order operation was put in place, with police donning riot gear to disperse the crowd. Officers from Dorset Police were joined by officers from forces across the country.

A police statement said: “While responding to the incident, our officers came under attack from missiles and faced a violent and hostile reception. Violence in our communities and against our officers will not be tolerated. These types of events are illegal and cause significant disruption to communities — we must respond to ensure the safety of everyone, and it is unacceptable that we are faced with violence while doing so.”

Objects thrown at police reportedly included bottles. At least one arrest was made for assault on an emergency worker.

Following the event, it was alleged that the force had used “unethical” force to shut down the event. On social media, some commentators argued that the rave should have been left alone for people to enjoy themselves.

In response, police said they had taken “appropriate and proportionate action” to bring the rave to a “safe conclusion”.

Local residents praised the police. Writing on social media, Janet Lickiss said: “We live very close to the rave site. All [Dorset Police] officers were so professional. They kept us informed about what was happening during the day, which was appreciated.

“I understand the comments on here about young people having fun, but I think what is not understood is that a great deal of damage was done by ravers entering the site. Local roads were impassable, so emergency vehicles could not have reached local residents, and livestock have been left distressed.”

The police added: “We will not tolerate unlicensed music events because of the increased risks they present and the impact they have on our communities and those visiting the area. We will now continue to review evidence from the scene to identify any further offences committed, and detailed enquiries will be carried out.”