Resort Dorset on FacebookResort Dorset on TwitterResort Dorset on Instagram

Jurassic Coast

12 February 2018

Jurassic Coast

Covering 95 miles, from Orcombe Point in east Devon to Old Harry Rocks in Dorset, the Jurassic Coast is an unprecedented place where the history from millions of years is lying beneath your feet. In 2001, the coastline was listed as one of the UNESCO’s natural World Heritage sites due to it being one of the most significant Earth Science locations in the world.

The sheer beauty of the coastline that makes this place so special. At 18 miles long, Chesil Beach, with the Fleet Lagoon behind it, is probably the single largest feature of the coastline. The entire length is made of pebbles that gradually increase in size from pea sized at West Bay to cobbles at Portland. Other famous landmarks include Old Harry RocksDurdle DoorLulworth Cove, and the stacks at Ladram Bay, all shaped by nature and well worth seeing.

History

This is the only place in the world where the geology, exposed in cliffs for all to see, is a near-continuous sequence of rocks revealing 185 million years of the Earth’s history. A walk along the coast is like taking a ‘walk through time’, through the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods of geological time.

Durdle Door

As storms erode the cliffs a variety of fossils are revealed, with one of the largest finds in recent years being a fearsome pliosaur, a monster beast measuring up to 16 metres in length that would have roamed the seas 150-million years ago. The fossilised skull is now on permanent display at the Dorset Museum in Dorchester

Fossil hunting is great fun but keep well away from the base of the cliffs as cliff falls can take place at any time of year. The safest and most rewarding way of trying it yourself is by joining an experienced guide, which you can do at Lyme Regis and Charmouth. 

Fossil Forest

Fun Facts

  • The Jurassic Coast was the UK’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • The Jurassic Coast is a whopping 95 miles long.
  • The name “Jurassic Coast” derives from the fact that it uncovers history from the Jurassic, Triassic and Cretaceous periods.
  • Geologists regards the area as one of the most significant educational sites in the world.

West Bay

Ways to see the Jurassic Coast

The B3157 coast road is a particularly scenic route between Weymouth and Bridport. You can travel on the Jurassic Coaster buses which will take you primarily along the Jurassic Coast in Dorset between Poole and Lyme Regis. The X53 bus departs from Weymouth and travels East to Axminster (above Lyme Regis), where you can stop off at places such as Abbotsbury, Burton Bradstock, Bridport and West Bay. The X51 travels West towards Poole, passing the famous Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. Take a look at more stops and the relevant timetables here.

People have been visiting this part of the country and enjoying all it can offer for centuries. And if you enjoy walking, the South West Coast Path covers all 95 miles, so you will not miss a thing!

What to see and do on Dorset's Jurassic Coast

Please share or leave a comment

More Recent 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.