Resort Dorset on FacebookResort Dorset on TwitterResort Dorset on Instagram

Chesil Beach

Chesil Beach at Portland

Chesil Beach is a stunning 18-mile long shingle bank running between West Bay and Portland. The bank protects the land behind it, without it the sea would be further inland.

Interestingly, the pebbles vary in size from pea sized at West Bay to large potato size at Portland. This could be due to the southwesterly gales that would carry all of the material to the east and the less strong waves from other directions may carry the smaller pebbles back to the west. Another school of thought is that the larger pebbles move more quickly due to their larger surface area.

Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon

Protected behind Chesil Beach is the Fleet lagoon, a tidal lagoon that is home to a variety of fish, sea anemones, sea grasses and numerous types of seaweed. Both the Chesil Bank and the Fleet lagoon are considered nationally important and are protected by international agreements that recognise the importance of the wildlife and geology. 

Please share or leave a comment

More Places of Interest

More Places of Interest...

Places to Go

Find places to go and things to do in Dorset using the options below.

Dorset Events

03 June 2023
Summerfest
Weymouth
01 Jun 2023 to 03 Jun 2023
Swanage Fairy Festival
Swanage
Weymouth
03 Jun 2023 to 04 Jun 2023
Family Fest
Wimborne

Latest Dorset Features

23 Mar 2023
Easter Events in Dorset Dorset’s Egg-stravaganza of Easter Activities! The Easter holidays are upon us! Whether you’re visiting Dorset for a holiday or live here and want to explore more of your county, there’s never a shortage of places to go and activities for the kids – and big kids! – to get involved in. But what’s on? Dorset is chock full of family-friendly attractions, and many will be hosting Easter Egg Hunts or other fun activities for kids to enjoy over ... Read more...
19 Jan 2023
Half-term Fun in Dorset So, it’s the half term and you may be wondering how you’re going to keep the kids entertained! Well don’t worry, whether you are local resident or are staying in Dorset on a break, there’s lots to do throughout the seasons. Our Resort family has children of different ages and here are some of the things we plan to enjoy; perhaps you will too! Fossil Hunting – you may just discover the next big thing! Do be aware of the tide times, stay away from ... Read more...
9 Jan 2023
Blue Monday The third Monday in January (the 16th this year) is recognised as the gloomiest day of the year. So, if you are likely to feel the effects of ‘Blue Monday’, let’s see if we can find a way to help make it more bearable with a few ideas to lift your spirits. 1. Take a walk, but plan ahead, look at the weather forecast and consider your route. If you fancy getting your heart pumping then head to Symondsbury, Bridport and trudge up Colmer’s Hill; the rewarding ... Read more...

More articles available in the features section.

Sign up for Resort Dorset offers, events and news by email
Your data will only be used to send relevant information relating to Resort Dorset magazine and digital platforms. We will not share your data with any third parties, and you can of course unsubscribe at any time. Please see our full privacy policy here.