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The Jurassic Coast is a fascinating and beautiful part of England that begins in Exmouth and spans 95 miles to Swanage. It is a geological wonder and is the country’s only natural World Heritage Site. If you are looking for a holiday destination that offers outdoor adventure, scientific discoveries, rich history and stunning landscapes, then the Jurassic Coast is the place to head! Visitors are blown away by the wild and dramatic vistas of this region and below we will give you some ideas of the best ways to explore it.
As the area’s name suggests, the ‘Jurassic’ Coast is rich in fossils and geological interest. Along the coast you can see three geological periods of history, the Triassic, the Jurassic and the Cretaceous, collectively known as the Mesozoic Era and spanning over 250 million years! Evidence from these periods are recorded in the cliffs and rocks of the Jurassic Coast and with the help of a local expert, you can gain some fascinating insights. Chris Pamplin provides Fossil Walks at Charmouth, Dorset and is a professional geologist with over 20 years’ experience in finding fossils. With his expert advice you will get explore the best spots for fossil hunting and learn about the geology of the area. You can opt for a private tour of up to 5 people or join one of the holiday group walks during the summer. Chris will provide you with safety goggles and a small hammer and give you the exciting opportunity to break open potential fossil rich rocks. Who knows what you might find!
The Jurassic Coast is well connected to the cycle network and offers you the chance to explore the stunning scenery at your own pace. Route 2 of the National Cycle Network is one of your best options as it runs all the way from Exmouth in Devon to Studland in Dorset. Along this route you will get the chance to see some of the region’s most striking coastline and you have plenty of opportunities to stop on the beach or in one of the quaint local villages. If you fancy off-road mountain biking, there are also many unpaved bridleways for you to explore! Bike hire in the region is easily accessible in the larger towns and resorts where you will find businesses offering a range of different bikes. Make sure to check out the Sustrans website for more detailed information about cycle routes.
One of the best ways to see the beauty of the Jurassic Coast is to hop on a boat and observe it from the waves. See the different layers of the cliffs from a better perspective and appreciate the geology. Many tours also offer informative narration or guides, giving you the chance to learn more about the history of this famous coastline. You have a host of different boat tours options to choose from, from speed boat tours to three-masted sailing ships. Choose the option that gives you the pace you want. Most of the port towns along the coast offer some sort of boat tour. You can also easily combine it with activities such as wildlife safaris, snorkelling and fishing.
If you want to explore the Jurassic Coast by sea at your own pace then opt for a kayaking session or hire a canoe from outlets along the coast. It is a fun way to discover the local landmarks, such as Old Harry Rocks in Swanage, and enjoy areas not easily accessible from land. Head to Lulworth Cove, a large natural harbour for sheltered waters, stunning scenery and the chance to kayak through the infamous coastal arch, Durdle Door. Kayaking is a sport open to all and you do not need to be experienced to explore the Jurassic Coast as there are plenty of sheltered areas for the unexperienced. If you set out with an organised tour, there are often games to play in teams and it is a fantastic day out for all ages!
Coasteering is a fantastic way to get up close and personal with the geology of the Jurassic Coast. It is an adrenaline filled activity and full of excitement as you dive into the sea, scramble up ravines and explore the coastal cliffs. You will get the chance to discover hidden coves, sea caves and spectacular geological features. It is also open to all levels of ability, but must be supervised by an expert local guide to ensure you are safe and find the best spots! As all equipment is usually provided all you need is a sturdy pair of shoes and a good bit of courage and you are ready to embark on your adventure. Coasteering is an unforgettable way to explore the Jurassic Coast, but is not for the faint of heart!