The Jurassic Coast in England is a stunning 95-mile stretch of coastline, stretching from Dorset to East Devon. It showcases 185 million years of geological history, with fascinating rock formations, cliffs and beaches to explore. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers an array of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking and rock climbing. Visitors can witness the breathtaking beauty of this natural wonder and experience the magic of its ancient history.
Official websites:
https://jurassiccoast.org
https://www.visit-dorset.com
Google map of the Jurassic Coast
The Best Places to Visit on the Jurassic Coast
#1 Durdle Door
Durdle Door is a striking natural limestone arch situated on the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Dorset. Formed by erosion over thousands of years, this iconic landmark is a testament to the geological processes that have shaped the coastline. Offering picturesque views and opportunities for photography, Durdle Door attracts visitors from around the world. The beach beneath the arch can be accessed via a steep footpath, providing a unique vantage point to admire the surrounding coastal scenery, including dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and the clear waters of the English Channel.
Official website: https://lulworth.com/
Google map Durdle Door 4.8/5
Google map Man O’War Beach 4.8/5
#2 Lulworth Cove
Lulworth Cove is a scenic and sheltered bay on the Jurassic Coast, renowned for its unique horseshoe-shaped coastline created by the erosive forces of the sea. The cove’s crystal-clear waters, pebble beach, and stunning geological formations make it a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and coastal walks. Visitors can traverse the South West Coast Path to explore nearby attractions, such as Durdle Door and Stair Hole, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking views of the cove and its surroundings. The nearby Lulworth Heritage Centre offers informative exhibits and guided walks, allowing visitors to learn about the area’s geological history, coastal processes, and local wildlife, further enriching their experience at this remarkable natural attraction.
Official website: https://lulworth.com/
Google map 4.7/5
#3 Old Harry Rocks
Old Harry Rocks are a series of striking chalk formations located near Studland, Dorset. Comprising three distinctive stacks, these natural landmarks mark the eastern end of the coastline designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rocks are accessible via walking trails that offer stunning coastal views, allowing visitors to appreciate the geological wonders and learn about the area’s rich history, including tales of smugglers and pirates.
Official website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
Google map 4.8/5
Swanage
Swanage is a charming seaside town situated in Dorset. Known for its Victorian architecture, sandy beach, and historic pier, Swanage offers a variety of attractions and activities, such as boat trips, coastal walks, and local festivals. Visitors can explore the town’s heritage at the Swanage Museum, ride the Swanage Railway, or venture along the South West Coast Path to discover nearby geological wonders, including Old Harry Rocks and Durlston Country Park.
Google map Swanage Beach 4.7/5
Google map Swanage Heritage Railway 4.9/5
Google map Durlston Country Park & Anvil Lighthouse 4.7/5
Google map Corfe Castle 4.7/5
Google map Brownsea Island 4.8/5
The Isle of Purbeck
The Isle of Purbeck is a picturesque peninsula located in Dorset, bordered by the English Channel and Poole Harbour. Although not a true island, this scenic region offers a diverse landscape of rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and sandy beaches. Visitors can explore charming villages, such as Corfe Castle and Kimmeridge, hike the South West Coast Path, or discover the area’s rich history and geology through various attractions, including the Jurassic Coast and the Purbeck Mineral and Mining Museum.
Charmouth Beach and Heritage Coast Centre
Charmouth Beach and Heritage Coast Centre are situated on Dorset’s east coast, offering visitors an opportunity to discover the area’s geological and fossil-rich heritage. Charmouth Beach is a popular destination for fossil hunting, with guided walks and workshops led by the Heritage Coast Centre. The center itself provides informative exhibits and displays, revealing the fascinating history of the Jurassic Coast and its abundant marine life.
Google map Charmouth Beach 4.6/5
Google map Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre 4.6/5
Weymouth
Weymouth is a bustling seaside town located on the south coast of Dorset. With its wide sandy beach, vibrant waterfront, and Georgian architecture, Weymouth offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors, including the SEA LIFE Centre, Sandworld, and Nothe Fort. The town’s picturesque harbor is also home to numerous restaurants, shops, and events, making Weymouth an ideal base for exploring the Jurassic Coast and its many treasures.
Google map Weymouth Beach 4.7/5
Lyme Regis
Lyme Regis is a historic coastal town situated in East Dorset, known for its rich fossil heritage and stunning natural beauty. Often referred to as the “Pearl of Dorset,” Lyme Regis features a vibrant harbor, sandy beach, and the famous Cobb, a centuries-old stone pier. Visitors can explore the town’s ancient history at the Lyme Regis Museum, search for fossils along the beach, or stroll through the charming streets lined with independent shops and eateries.
Google map Lyme Regis
Google map Lyme Regis Beach 4.7/5
Google map The Cobb 4.6/5
Kimmeridge Bay
Kimmeridge Bay is a picturesque coastal location in Dorset, featuring a rocky shoreline, clear waters, and diverse marine life. This tranquil bay is a popular destination for snorkeling, rock pooling, and fossil hunting, offering visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The nearby Fine Foundation Marine Centre provides educational exhibits and activities, allowing visitors to learn about Kimmeridge Bay’s unique coastal environment and conservation efforts.
Google map 4.6/5
Portland Bill
Portland Bill is a prominent headland located on the Isle of Portland in Dorset, known for its iconic lighthouse, dramatic cliffs, and stunning sea views. The area is a popular destination for birdwatching, hiking, and photography, with several walking trails providing access to a variety of coastal vistas. Visitors can also explore the Portland Bill Lighthouse, which offers guided tours and an informative visitor center that delves into the history of the lighthouse and local maritime heritage.
Google map Portland Bill Lighthouse 4.6/5
Chesil Beach
Chesil Beach is an impressive 18-mile-long pebble barrier beach in Dorset, stretching from West Bay to Portland. This unique natural formation is a haven for wildlife and a popular destination for birdwatching, fishing, and beachcombing. Visitors can stroll along the pebble shore, admire the vast expanse of the beach, and learn about its geology and ecology at the Chesil Beach Visitor Centre, which also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Google map 4.6/5
West Bay
West Bay is a charming coastal village located in Dorset, known for its striking golden cliffs, picturesque harbor, and sandy beach. The village serves as the gateway to the coastline designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a range of activities, including coastal walks, boat trips, and fossil hunting. Visitors can explore the area’s history at the West Bay Discovery Centre, enjoy local seafood at the harbor’s restaurants, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty of the stunning cliffs and shoreline.
Google map West Bay Beach 4.6/5
Sidmouth
Sidmouth is an elegant Regency town nestled along the Devon coast, known for its beautiful gardens, historic architecture, and scenic promenade. Visitors can enjoy the town’s sandy beaches, browse the independent shops, and explore the picturesque countryside through various walking trails. Sidmouth is also home to the Donkey Sanctuary, a popular family-friendly attraction that offers a unique insight into the care and conservation of these gentle creatures.
Google map Sidmouth Town
Google map Sidmouth Beach 4.6/5
Branscombe Beach
Branscombe Beach is a secluded pebble beach located in the picturesque village of Branscombe, Devon. Surrounded by striking cliffs and lush countryside, the beach offers a tranquil escape for visitors seeking relaxation and stunning coastal views. Branscombe Beach is perfect for rock pooling, swimming, and beachcombing, while the nearby village provides an opportunity to explore charming thatched cottages, ancient buildings, and delightful tea rooms.
Google map 4.7/5
Abbotsbury
Abbotsbury is a historic village situated in Dorset, featuring an array of well-preserved buildings, quaint streets, and beautiful countryside. The village is home to several unique attractions, including the Abbotsbury Swannery, a sanctuary for nesting mute swans, and the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, which showcase a diverse collection of exotic plants. Visitors can also explore the ruins of Abbotsbury Abbey and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from St Catherine’s Chapel, a 14th-century hilltop chapel.
Google map 4.6/5
Poole Harbour
Poole Harbour is a vast natural harbor located in Dorset, England, celebrated for its ecological importance and diverse wildlife. The harbor is home to numerous bird species and marine life, and is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Special Protection Area, and Ramsar site. Poole Harbour provides a range of recreational activities, including sailing, fishing, and watersports, and encompasses the picturesque wildlife sanctuary of Brownsea Island.
Google map 4.6/5
Sandbanks
Sandbanks is an affluent peninsula situated in Poole Harbour, Dorset, famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and luxurious real estate. Often referred to as “Britain’s Palm Beach,” Sandbanks boasts Blue Flag beaches, a bustling marina, and high-end restaurants and shops. The peninsula also offers various recreational activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and watersports, and is connected to the Isle of Purbeck via a chain ferry, providing access to the Jurassic Coast and its numerous attractions.
Google map Sandbanks Peninsula
Google map 4.7/5 Sandbanks Beach
Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle is a historic fortress located in the charming village of Corfe, Dorset. The castle, now in ruins, was originally built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror and has played a significant role in English history. Managed by the National Trust, Corfe Castle offers visitors the chance to explore its rich history through guided tours and interactive exhibits. The surrounding village, walking trails, and stunning views of the Isle of Purbeck add to the area’s appeal.
Google map 4.7/5
Studland Bay
Studland Bay is a picturesque coastal area in Dorset, England, known for its sandy beaches, sand dunes, and diverse wildlife. Part of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bay offers a range of recreational activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. The South West Coast Path provides access to the nearby Old Harry Rocks, while the National Trust manages the area and oversees its conservation efforts.
Google map 5/5 Studland Bay
Google map 4.7/5 Shell Bay Beach
Google map 4.7/5 Knoll Beach
Google map 4.7/5 South Beach
Google map Studland Village