Resort Dorset on FacebookResort Dorset on TwitterResort Dorset on Instagram

Weymouth Old Harbour

Weymouth Old Harbour

From the early departure of the fishing fleet to the evening return of the yachts that have enjoyed a day’s sailing, there is always something happening on and around Weymouth’s delightful harbourside. Find a comfortable spot to sit and you could spend hours engrossed in the action both on and off the water.

Private motor cruisers and yachts of all sizes, with decks gleaming and ropes coiled in neat circles, pass to and fro in a constant parade. The taller-masted vessels will have to wait for the Town Bridge to rise before they can pass in and out of the inner harbour. From mid-April to mid-September this occurs at two-hourly intervals from 8am until 8pm (another at 9pm in June, July & August) and if you’ve not seen it before then it’s a holiday photo opportunity worth catching.

Weymouth Town Bridge

A novelty way for pedestrians to cross the harbour is by taking one of the small rowing boats that ferry passengers from steps not far from the Pavilion Theatre to Nothe Parade on the far side. Those wanting to go further can take a ferry over to Portland or enjoy a trip along the Jurassic Coast to see just why UNESCO awarded the coastline natural World Heritage status. Fast RIB rides and angling or diving trips are alternative ways of getting out on the water.

But landlubbers can also enjoy the Weymouth Old Harbour as there’s plenty to see and do on both sides. In Trinity Street there’s a Tudor house that has been restored by the Weymouth Civic Society: furnished in period style it is open to the public on selected days. The Nothe Fort is a fascinating museum with over 70 rooms and underground passages to explore. The Fort is situated in the Nothe Gardens, which are perfect if you are looking for somewhere to enjoy a picnic. 

Weymouth Harbour

Browse in the delightful gallery which has lots of inspiration for the home or for gifts; pick up fresh fish from the harbourside fishmonger who will have received much of his catch from the local fishing boats; purchase a crab line and bucket from the chandlers and watch the children have fun dangling their lines over the harbour wall – you could spend a whole enjoyable day here.

Sit outside and enjoy a bite to eat at one of the tea rooms, cafes and restaurants that serve up a tempting selection of snacks and meals. The harbour walls are ideal for sitting on while tucking in to paper-wrapped fish and chips and sipping a cool drink from one of the harbourside pubs. But please don’t feed the seagulls as they can become aggressive and cause injury as they try to snatch food from your hand.

Don't forget to take photos! Weymouth Harbour provides plenty of opportunities for you and your camera - you can view these Weymouth photos for inspiration, you'll find several photographs of the harbour (available as prints too).

View towards the Town Bridge

The award-winning Dorset Seafood Festival that takes on the Weymouth Peninsula in September. This fabulous event continues to grow each year and there is sure to be lots to explore. With lots of fantastic stalls offering a wide variety of mouth-watering seafood dishes to be enjoyed with the classic English sparkling wines and Badger beers! 

Things to do around Weymouth Harbour

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

24 January 2025
The UK Rock Show
Weymouth
Bournemouth
25 January 2025
Burns Night Celebration
Weymouth
24 Jan 2025 to 26 Jan 2025
Panto: Goldilocks and the Three Bears
Christchurch
30 January 2025
Tease (18+)
Weymouth

Latest Dorset Features

13 Jan 2025
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. If you're looking for things to do in Dorset we have found lots of Dorset events to keep you entertained. Our Resort family has children of different ages, here are some of the things we plan to enjoy; perhaps you will too. If you ... Read more...
6 Jan 2025
Blue Monday The third Monday in January is recognised as the gloomiest day of the year, that's the 20th January 2025. 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 ... Read more...
1 Jan 2025
Dorset Breaks 2025 As we head into a new year it's a great time to get planning your next Dorset break. Here are a few places you might want to seek out for your next Dorset getaway! Attention! Stand by your beds for this wow factor holiday let! The Standby Generator Bunker is an impressive abode tucked away in the rural village of Ringstead, just over 7 miles from Weymouth, boasting stunning sea views and a unique history. The Bunker was part of RAF Ringstead, a component of the ... 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.