
The Jurassic Coast - Dorset and East Devon
Accommodation, restaurants & cafés, tourist attractions & facilities
For information on accommodation, restaurants & cafés, tourist attractions & facilities - on Dorset & East Devon's amazing Jurassic Coast - simply select a town or village from the map or the drop-down list ...
EXETER (DEVON)
Exeter, situated on the River Exe in the county of Devon is full of character and ancient history. The city, with its magnificent cathedral dating back to Norman times, offers all the modern day amenities and comforts for the holidaymaker. The surrounding area of Devon with its sweeping countryside, its narrow hedged lanes and lush green fields are only a few miles from the centre. Exeter is also an ideal place to visit Devon and the western end of The Jurassic Coast, now a World Heritage site.
EXMOUTH (DEVON)
Exmouth is noted for its two-miles of golden sands and fascinating rock pools. It is a pleasure for children and adults alike. The estuary of the river Exe is internationally known for its wildlife. A boat trip up the river is a must to fully appreciate the natural history of this area.
BUDLEIGH SALTERTON (DEVON)
On the coast of East Devon, Budleigh Salterton enjoys the benefits of a beautiful rural setting, surrounded by farmland and woodland. The coastline forms the western most section of The Jurassic Coast and the cliffs on either side of the town are the unique Red Devonian Sandstone. The beach, formed of large pebbles extends for over 2 miles, from Littleham Cove in the west and to Otterhead in the east where the River Otter meets the sea. Bathing is safe and the water clear. Beach side cafes and beach huts make for a relaxing holiday.
LADRAM BAY (DEVON)
One of the many dramatic sights along the World Heritage Coast are the red sandstone stacks at Ladram Bay, East Devon. They were formed from caves that over time were hollowed out by the sea, becoming arches which eventually collapsed, forming the stacks we see today. These are Triassic rocks between 250 and 200 million years old and the oldest rocks along the World Heritage Coast. The clean, sand-washed beach at Ladram Bay is sheltered and a popular destination for bathers and those keen on water sports.OTTERY ST. MARY (DEVON)
Ottery St Mary is popular for those wishing to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the beautiful surroundings of the Otter valley and is only 20 minutes drive from Exeter. Its medieval church was built as a replica of Exeter Cathedral. The town walk features the 18th century tumbling weir and there are also a number of easily accessible circular walks in close proximity of the town centre. It is the birthplace of the famous poet, Samuel Taylor Coleridge.SIDMOUTH (DEVON)
Sidmouth has beautiful gardens, regency buildings, fine hotels, clean beaches and friendly shops - a lovely seaside town nestling beneath stunning red cliffs. The pebbly beach is an ideal place in which to relax.A climb to the top of Peak Hill enables you to enjoy the magnificent panorama Sidmouth and the coast. In the other direction is Salcombe Hill whilst inland are the rolling hills of the attractive Sid Valley. The less energetic can enjoy a gentle stroll around town, along the seafront and through the park and gardens, which have excelled in the "Britain in Bloom" Competition. The Heritage Centre provides guided walks taking in the main landmarks of the town.
The Esplanade, a mile long, is backed by a row of Georgian houses. For many years the town has been host to the International Festival of Folk Arts with folk singing and dancing featuring international artists and ending with a torchlight procession through the town.
HONITON (DEVON)
Honiton is renowned for numerous specialist shops dedicated to both lace and pottery and in recent years has become a centre for antiques and antiquarian books. The towns many cafes, pubs, restaurants and hotels offer something to suit all tastes. From the town there are miles of beautiful country walks. There is a street market each Tuesday and Saturday.BRANSCOMBE (DEVON)
Branscombe is believed to be the longest village in the country. It lies in a spectacular valley leading down to the sea. There are rows of pretty thatched cottages, a picturesque dovecote, church and two pubs. There are a number of historic, but still working buildings such as the old bakery and the forge.The surrounding countryside is a walker's delight. The spectacular coastal path from Sidmouth to the west and Beer to the east takes about half a day.
BEER (DEVON)
Beer is a beautiful, unspoilt Devon fishing village and was once a smugglers haven. It occupies one of the most sheltered positions on the Devon coast. Beer is a natural suntrap and the views across the bay from Jubilee Gardens, set high on the cliffs, are breathtaking. The beach at Beer is very sheltered. There is a small stream following the line of the pavement through Beer's gently sloping streets across the beach to the sea. Nearby Pecorama is well worth a visit.
SEATON (DEVON)
Seaton, at the mouth of the River Axe, overlooks Seaton Bay. The South West Coastal Path passes along the seafront and walkers can head westwards to Beer, or eastwards to Lyme Regis. The Seaton Tramway runs three miles along the beautiful Axe Estuary to the market town of Colyton. It is much used by birdwatchers, transport enthusiasts or those simply wanting to enjoy the beautiful riverside scenery. The town itself has many small individual shops. The Jubilee Gardens adjoin the sea front. August Bank Holiday weekend sees the start of Seaton Carnival Week. The Axe Valley Heritage Centre (open from May to October) houses a collection of local interest, archaeological finds and displays of period costume.AXMOUTH (DEVON)
Axmouth is situated at the entrance of a Coombe, with a clear brook flowing down its street. The peace and tranquility of Axmouth make it a popular venue. The Sea Discovery Centre is interesting and is on the eastern side of the river Axe, beside the harbour, and opposite the yacht club. This attraction is suitable for all ages including toddlers. The River Axe meanders its way through the valley and into Lyme Bay. The harbour moors the boats of the local fishermen.AXMINSTER (DEVON)
Axminster is a pleasant, unspoilt Devon market town that has charm and character. The town has many interesting and attractive streets radiating out from the town square and the Minster church of St Nicholas which has Saxon origins. The carpet industry, started in 1755, produced the highest quality carpets for the country's stately homes and mansions.
CHARD (SOMERSET)
Chard is a lovely market town on a slope of hills 500ft above sea level making it the highest town in Somerset and also the most southerly being only one mile from the Devon border.The High Street is flanked by two streams and possesses wide variety of good shops.
The excellent museum at Godworthy House provides a history of the town and its hinterland.
Forde Abbey a former medieval monastery is just four miles south east of Crewkerne, has beautiful gardens and is well worth a visit.
LYME REGIS (DORSET)
Lyme Regis is a popular resort on the Devon/Dorset border. Its steep, narrow streets with interesting architecture, shops, galleries, pubs and cafes are waiting to be explored. The south facing beaches are safe for bathing. Many come to Lyme Regis for its geology as the town is famous for the fossils found in the cliffs and beaches, which are part of the Jurassic Coast. Land slips have recently exposes many fossils and fossil hunting expeditions arm held throughout the year. The Cobb provides both a breakwater to protect the town from storms and an artificial harbour.
CHARMOUTH (DORSET)
Charmouth overlooks Lyme Bay and its undulating hills make it a prominent part of West Dorset's area of outstanding natural beauty. It is one of the best places for fossil hunting and some of the finds can be seen at the Heritage Centre.Paragraph goes here...
CHIDEOCK (DORSET)
Chideock is a pretty village just inland from the coast and 3½ miles west of Bridport. It now lies on the busy A35 from Dorchester and Bridport to Honiton in Devon .The smaller hamlet of Seatown lies close to the coast and has easy access to the South West Coastpath. The towering cliffs are a feature of this part of coastline.
CREWKERNE (SOMERSET)
The town is situated in a well wooded valley, near the river Parrot and is surrounded by ancient, interesting villages which are important to this busy market town . They in turn help to make the character that attracts visitors to this friendly town.A nature trail through Bincombe Beeches starts at the centre of the town.
BRIDPORT (DORSET)
Bridport was in the past noted for its rope making industry. It is an interesting town to visit with shops, museum, brewery tour and holds an excellent street market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. West Bay, a pretty harbour village, is the gateway to the Jurassic Coast. Here the River Brit flows into the sea through the harbour basin. The cliffs are a formidable feature, and from Golden Cap the highest, there are stunning coastal views on a clear day.Paragraph goes here...
WEST BAY (DORSET)
West Bay is a pretty harbour village considered the gateway to the Jurassic Coast. Here the River Brit flows into the sea through the harbour basin. The cliffs are a formidable feature, and from Golden Cap the highest, there are stunning coastal views on a clear day
BEAMINSTER (DORSET)
Beaminster (pronounced ‘Beminster’) is a quaint town situated amidst the gently folding hills of West Dorset. For the wild life enthusiast the surrounding countryside is a dream .The Vale of the River Brit has changed little over the centuries and is known as Dorset’s Hidden Valley. Country houses such as Mapperton and Melplash are nearby.
YEOVIL (SOMERSET)
The vibrant market town of Yeovil with a population of 40,000, is situated at the Southern boundary of Somerset, 130 miles from London, 40 miles south of Bristol and 30 miles from Taunton. The Town Centre has a wide range of national and independent shops situated within the Quedam Shopping Centre and surrounding streets. The indoor swimming pool and Octagon Theatre provides sporting and cultural facilities.
ABBOTSBURY (DORSET)
The wonderful Chesil Bank on the World Heritage Coast, forms a dramatic backdrop for the traditional and unspoilt village of Abbotsbury which dates back to 1006, when the village was given to Orc by King Canute. Surrounded by rolling hills, this charming and picturesque village of thatched and slate roofed cottages dating from the 16th and 17th century offers a surprising amount for the visitor to enjoy. Truly a “village to explore”, it includes galleries selling locally created art and crafts, village shops, delightful tearooms and also boasts two relaxing and welcoming pubs. A leisurely walk around the village to discover all it has to offer will be well repayed. A small free booklet “Discovering Abbotsbury” is available locally which includes an introduction to the village and some short village walks to illustrate all there is to see.Almost centrally placed on this amazing Jurassic Coast and the X53 Jurassic Bus route Abbotsbury is a great place to have as a base for exploring the Jurassic Coast. Accommodation is available in the hotel, delightful self-catering cottages and B&Bs.
Benedictine Monks established St Peter's Monastery at Abbotsbury in the 1040s. They built the magnificent thatched Tithe Barn in the 1390's. The monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution. Some of the ruins can be seen around St. Nicholas' Church in the village. In the grounds of the Tithe Barn lies a Childrens’ Farm where youngsters may bottle feed the goats, cuddle guinea pigs, ride ponies, race toy tractors and play in the soft play area.
Abbotsbury Swannery is the only place in the world where you are able to walk through the heart of a colony of nesting Mute Swans. The Swannery was established by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury during the 1040's. The monks farmed the swans to produce food for their lavish banquets. St Peter's monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution. Some of the ruins are still visible around St Nicholas' Church in the village. Since that time the Swannery has been under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates. From mid-May to late June, hundreds of fluffy cygnets hatch from eggs in nests on or near the pathways.
The Subtropical Gardens were established in 1765 by the first Countess of Ilchester as a kitchen garden for her nearby manor house. Developed since then into a magnificent 20 acre garden filled with rare and exotic plants from all over the world. Many of these plants were first introductions to this country. The Garden is a mixture of formal and informal, with charming walled garden walks and spectacular woodland valley views. World famous for its Camellia Groves and Magnolias and noted for its Rhododendron and Hydrangea collections, in summer it is awash with subtropical colour.
SHERBORNE (DORSET)
Originally a Saxon settlement, the mellow stone buildings of Sherborne are surrounded by green valleys and wooded hills. In 705AD St. Aldhelm chose this site for his new cathedral. The Abbey church has some of the finest fan vaulting to be seen anywhere made from the local Ham stone. It has a very fine reredos engraved by Lawrence Whistler. A visit especially during a service when the vaulting resounds with fine singing is an experience never to be forgotten.Sherborne's "new" castle was built in 1594 by Sir Walter Raleigh. The remains of the "old" castle on the other side of Sherborne Lake are evidence of its having been destroyed in a fierce siege in 1645.
Sherborne offers some especially good and varied shopping amongst its antique shops, boutiques and shops selling delicious local produce.
CERNE ABBAS (DORSET)
Famous for its Giant, Cerne Abbas is a quintessentially English village appearing in Thomas Hardy’s novels as “Abbots-Cernel”. The village grew around the Benedictine Abbey founded in AD987. Sadly this was destroyed in 1539 with the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII but remnants of the Abbot’s Porch and the Abbey Guesthouse may still be visited via the top of Abbey Street, as may St. Augustine’s Well at the far end of a pretty burial ground. St. Mary’s Church built for the parishioners by the abbey is in the heart of the village and retains many original features.Cerne’s underground water gave rise to a brewing industry and the village at one time had 14 public houses. There were other small industries such as milling, silk weaving, tanning, hat and glove making supporting a population of 1500.
By 1906 industry had declined and the population had halved due largely to the village being bypassed by the railway but Cerne is now an active community of some 700 people and able to boast three historic public houses, a school, Post Office, a village stores and a number of other shops.
The Giant – an 180 foot high figure carved into the steep hillside may best be seen from a viewpoint on the A35 Dorchester to Sherborne road. Whilst now a scheduled ancient monument the origins of the Giant are unclear. Credited by many with various tales related to fertility some believe he represents the god Hercules and is some 1500 years old. Others argue that he is a more recent caricature of any of a number of historical figures. In any event he is well worth a visit.
WEYMOUTH (DORSET)
Weymouth has an award winning beach with fine golden sands and due to its gently shelving nature is ideal for children and adults alike. The Esplanade is noted for its fine Georgian buildings overlooking the wide sweep of Weymouth Bay. The historic harbour and marina provides year round activity. Condor Ferries leave Weymouth for the Channel Islands and France. There is always something interesting to do. Across the harbour the Nothe Fort with museum and gardens with lovely views towards Portland. The views along the World Heritage coastline extending as far as the eye can see are impressive to say the least. The town is surrounded by the Bird Reserves of Radipole Lake and Lodmoor.BUCKLAND NEWTON (DORSET)
Buckland Newton is a village in mid Dorset located between Sherborne to the north and the County town of Dorchester to the south with Sturminster Newton to the North East. It is featured in Hardy's novel 'The Woodlanders', which is set in this part of DorsetThe village nestles in spectacular Dorset countryside on the edge of the Dorset Downs where they over look the Blackmore Vale. It is within the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The village and surrounding hamlets have a population of around 500 and consist of a thriving mix of farms, local businesses, homeworkers, workers in nearby towns and villages and retired people.
Access to all parts of Dorset including the Jurassic Coast is good.
There is a pub with a restaurant (The Gaggle of Geese), Post Office, an excellent Village Hall with many events and users, Village Shop and Primary School. The nearby visitor attractions include the towns of Sherborne and Dorchester, the village of Cerne Abbas with its famous giant on the hillside. It is wonderful countryside for walking with many footpaths. Golf, fishing, caravanning and camping facilities are all nearby, as are holiday cottages for rent. There is a Grade 1 Listed Parish Church with an outstanding interior and organ and a number of attractive buildings in the area.The area around the manor and Church is a Conservation Area. The village contains the source of the River Lydden, a tributary of the Stour, which reaches the sea at Christchurch.'
DORCHESTER (DORSET)
The county town of Dorset is rich in history. From the vast Neolithic ramparts of Maiden Castle, to Maumbury Rings and the Roman town house with its surviving mosaic floor. It has an excellent shopping centre and fascinating weekly market on a Wednesday. Dorchester has close links with the author, Thomas Hardy, born at nearby Higher Bockhampton. At the County Museum visitors can discover much about Dorset including Thomas Hardy. Other attractions in Dorchester include a Dinosaur Museum and Tutankhamun exhibition.Nearby Villages are:- Moreton – Its Georgian Gothic church, bombed in WW 2, has been reconstructed with beautifully etched windows by Laurence Whistler. Lawrence of Arabia is buried in the nearby graveyard. Cerne Abbas –There are many attractive buildings around a pretty village centre and the famous chalk giant on the hillside Puddletown - A large village in the Piddle Valley with pretty thatched cottages in the square and 15th century church. The village named “Weatherbury” in the novels of Thomas Hardy. Athelhampton’s 15th C House and Gardens are nearby. Tolpuddle – famed for the Tolpuddle Martyrs who were deported from here to Australia in 1834 for forming a trade union. Visit the Martyr’s Museum in the village.
PORTLAND (DORSET)
From the wide curve of Weymouth Bay the “Isle” of Portland reaches out to the sea commanding stunning coastal scenery. It is linked to the mainland by a causeway across the pebbles of the Chesil Bank. Portland is famed for its stone quarries and the stone was put into St.Paul’s Cathedral by Sir Christopher Wren in the 17th century. Portland Bill with its Bird Observatory is an important stopping place for thousands of migratory birds. The disused quarries have become habitats for a wealth of wildlife and rare plants. There are superb views over the harbour and coast from Fortuneswell.
OSMINGTON MILLS (DORSET)
Osmington has narrow streets with picturesque thatched cottages on either side. Paths from the village lead to the chalk hills behind on which has been carved a horse with rider said to be King George III. Osmington Mills was once a small fishing village. Here the South West Coast Path offers spectacular views across the sea towards Portland.
RINGSTEAD (DORSET)
Ringstead is a small hamlet with an attractive shingle beach - Ringsted Bay. It faces into Weymouth Bay and is 2 miles to the east of Osmington. The towering cliff of White Nothe is an attractive sight.
PUDDLETOWN (DORSET)
Puddletown is a large village in the Piddle Valley with pretty thatched cottages in the square and 15th century church.The village is named “Weatherbury” in the novels of Thomas Hardy.
Athelhampton’s 15thC House and Gardens are nearby.
TOLPUDDLE (DORSET)
Tolpuddle is famed for the Tolpuddle Martyrs who were deported from here to Australia in 1834 for forming a trade union.There is a Martyr’s Museum in the village illustrating the history of this.
MORETON (DORSET)
Moreton's Georgian Gothic church, bombed in World War II, has been reconstructed with beautifully etched windows by Laurence Whistler.Lawrence of Arabia is buried in the nearby graveyard.
DURDLE DOOR (DORSET)
Durdle Door, just along the coast path from Lulworth Cove, is a spectacular geological feature - the massive rock arch, set right on the Jurassic Coast.
LULWORTH (DORSET)
Lulworth is known especially for its a beautiful shell shaped cove - Lulworth Cove - and the folded rocks of Stairhole.The famous Fossil Forest, a short walk from the cove, is the fossil remains of prehistoric trees formed about 135 million years ago. It lies within the Lulworth army firing ranges so ensure the ranges are open to the public during your visit.
