The words ‘Jurassic Coast’ might conjure images of a famous movie franchise. But while the 95-mile stretch straddling Devon and Dorset has deep ties to dinosaurs, there’s more than dusty fossils to be discovered here.
More than 250 million years old, England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts pristine beaches, quaint seaside towns and adventure experiences to suit almost every type of traveller.
Just a three-hour drive or train ride from London, the prehistoric coastline is packed with potential for girls’ trips, staycations and weekends with friends. Think scenic walks, spa days, and fish and chips al fresco.
A team of Metro journalists did a test drive of the region’s top attractions on a 58-kilometre charity trek so you don’t have to. Here’s what we found.
Devon’s geological wonders
All along the coast, history takes shape — rising from the sea in sandstone cliffs and unusual rock formations.
The best-known attraction is Durdle Door, a magnificent 200ft limestone arch known locally as the ‘drinking dragon’.
One of Devon’s most popular attractions, it’s best viewed from the coastal path at Lulworth Cove. Watch out for seals and dolphins in the water below.
Walking with the Jurassic Coast’s dinosaurs
Priceless relics have been discovered along the Jurassic Coast, and there are still plenty for eagle-eyed visitors to collect.
Aspiring paleontologists should head straight for Lyme Regis, widely hailed as England’s fossil capital thanks to the discoveries of Mary Anning, who unearthed many treasures including the first plesiosaur skeleton.
If you’re just starting out, guided tours are the best way to explore the most lucrative spots — plus professionals who can help with identifying what you’ve found.
The Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre offers a 1.5 hour fossil hunting session for up to 7 people, or you can try your luck alone on the beaches between Charmouth and Lyme Regis.
Getting to the Jurassic Coast
You can get to the Jurassic Coast via direct trains from London Waterloo to Poole and Weymouth every half an hour, taking less than three hours.
Jurassic Coaster bus services run from Poole to Axminster, and from Lyme Regis to Seaton, including a service with an open top.
Ride a ferry from Sandbanks to Studland crossing Poole Harbour, to reach Swanage and the east of the Jurassic Coast. Queues can be long in peak season.
Access to a car is handy for rural day trips once you arrive, but be sure to put an exact destination into your navigator, as the Jurassic Coast covers a huge area.
Signs point you inland towards dinosaur footprints; not something you see on your average countryside ramble.
A quick detour from Priest’s Way walking trail will take you to more than 100 dinosaur tracks preserved in a quarry site, where you can stand in the footsteps of enormous sauropods.
If dinos aren’t your thing, follow in Metro’s footsteps and retrace our charity walk along the length of the Southwest Coast Path instead. Double check last-minute route changes with South West Coast Path Association.
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Natural beauty
It might be hundreds of million years old, but this part of England is bursting with life.
For visitors more interested in living wildlife, a good place to start Hengistbury Head. An official UK site of scientific interest, this nature reserve offers guided events including Birdsong for Beginners and sustainable wreath-making in the run-up to Christmas.
Take a boat from Poole’s natural harbour to explore Brownsea Island. Teeming with a huge variety of seabirds and peacocks, you might even spot a red squirrel, extinct in the UK aside from here and the Isle of Wight.
Not only for avian enthusiasts, bird-watching tours offer the best chance of seeing species such as puffins, while enjoying a leisurely cruise. Stuart Line Cruises offers adults-only 3-hour trips from November to March. Guests are accompanied by two ornithologists who act as guides, and there’s also the option to book a private charter.
Life’s a beach
On the off chance there’s a glimmer of rare British sunshine, make a beeline for the beach in towns such as Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth, and Swanage.
For a break from dino bones, wander Bournemouth’s Grade II listed pleasure gardens, explore Poole Harbour via kayak, canoe or SUP, or sip a cold cocktail in Sandbanks, the UK’s answer to St Tropez.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, Oyster & Fish House has spectacular views and seafood to match — the standout is cockle popcorn. Catch in Weymouth’s Old Fish Market is another solid bet, and even boasts a Michelin star.
For vegans, Twelve Eatery in Bournemouth has a great selection including a raw lasagna, while fine-dining Arbor restaurant at the Greenhouse Hotel, also in Bournemouth, focuses on sustainability without sacrificing on taste.
Where to stay on the Jurassic Coast
In the countryside near Dorchester is Silverlake, a new luxury village where nature is on your doorstep – or, more accurately, your private lakeside deck.
Moonbeam Cottage is perfect for a big group, with four bedrooms and a massive open-plan kitchen.
You can go wild swimming and paddle boarding on the on-site lakes, but if you prefer a pool, the spa has you covered. You can also get a massage or a tasty pizza from a wood-fired oven.
Guests are advised to carry torches if to walk after dark, as the area is dimly lit to benefit the teeming wildlife including otters and birds.
2024 nightly rates start from £2,701 for a seven-night stay for 2 people. To book, visit www.oliverstravels.com or phone 03338880205
Another place worth looking at for a larger group is Jurassic Coast Holiday Homes, which looks after The Georgian House in Weymouth and Poxwell Manor West Wing, around six miles east.
Sleeping up to eight, the first property is a short walk from Weymouth beach and town centre.
Immaculately presented with generously sized bedrooms, it’s just a ten-minute stroll to the beach, as well as being near the supermarket for any last-minute supplies.
Poxwell Manor is well equipped and spacious, with a gorgeous stone exterior and a vast, enchanting garden.
The property is a short drive to the seaside, where you can also find a good variety of lovely restaurant options, including recommendations from the Manor’s host. On the list is ITALIAN, which captures spectacular sunset views.
Prices for both houses start at £530 for a 3 night stay and go up to £1995 for a 7 night stay in the summer peak season. Visit Jurassic Coast Holiday Homes for more information.
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