What is the Jurassic Coast famous for?

It is famous for its geology, fossils, dramatic cliffs, natural arches, and its continuous record of Earth’s history spanning 185 million years.

Is the Jurassic Coast suitable for walking holidays?

Yes — it is one of the UK’s most celebrated coastal walking areas, with long-distance routes and shorter village-to-village sections.

Can you explore the Jurassic Coast without a car?

Yes — many sections are accessible by train and bus, particularly around Lyme Regis, Weymouth, Swanage, and Exmouth.

Are there long-distance walking routes along the Jurassic Coast?

Yes — the South West Coast Path runs the full length of the UNESCO site, offering continuous coastal access.

Walking Holidays & Outdoor Adventures on the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site

Q: Where is the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site located?

The Jurassic Coast runs along the south coast of England from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset.

A World Heritage coastline of cliffs, fossils, and ancient seas

The Jurassic Coast is one of England’s most extraordinary landscapes to explore on foot — a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for its globally significant geology and uninterrupted record of 185 million years of Earth’s history. Stretching for 95 miles along the south coast of England, from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset, the Jurassic Coast combines dramatic cliffs, fossil-rich beaches, hidden coves, and far-reaching sea views into one of Europe’s most distinctive coastal walking environments.

For those planning walking holidays, the Jurassic Coast offers continuous access via the South West Coast Path, with clifftop routes, coastal descents, and village-to-village sections linking places such as Lyme Regis, Charmouth, West Bay, Lulworth Cove, Swanage, and Studland. These same coastal corridors also support relaxed cycling holidays, particularly where inland lanes and valleys run parallel to the coast. Beyond walking and cycling, the area lends itself naturally to wider outdoor adventures, including kayaking beneath limestone cliffs, paddleboarding in sheltered bays, and fossil hunting along ever-changing shorelines. With a wide range of independent places to stay along the route, the Jurassic Coast is well suited to both linear journeys and slower, base-led exploration.

About the Jurassic Coast

Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, the Jurassic Coast is internationally recognised for its geological value. Unlike cultural landscapes shaped primarily by human activity, this coastline tells a natural story — one revealed through erosion, landslips, and exposed rock layers that chart the evolution of life from the Triassic through to the Cretaceous periods.

The coast’s iconic formations — including Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, Old Harry Rocks, Golden Cap, and the fossil beaches of Lyme Regis and Charmouth — are not static landmarks but part of a constantly changing environment. Walking here offers an ever-evolving experience, where storms reshape beaches, cliffs reveal new fossils, and the relationship between land and sea is always in motion.

Trails & Routes Along the Jurassic Coast

South West Coast Path (Jurassic Coast Section)

A continuous clifftop route following the full length of the UNESCO site, linking Devon and Dorset through dramatic coastal scenery.

Lyme Regis to Charmouth

A classic coastal walk passing fossil-rich beaches, low cliffs, and accessible shoreline sections.

Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door

A short but iconic walk connecting two of the Jurassic Coast’s most famous geological features.

West Bay to Burton Bradstock

Clifftop walking above golden sandstone cliffs and expansive beaches.

Studland Bay & Old Harry Rocks

Gentler coastal paths with chalk stacks, heathland, and sweeping views across Poole Bay.

Adventure Highlights

Walk through a UNESCO-listed coastline shaped by deep geological time
Dramatic clifftop routes via the South West Coast Path
Fossil-rich beaches and globally important geological sites
Kayaking and paddleboarding beneath limestone and chalk cliffs
Quiet inland lanes ideal for scenic cycling
Coastal villages, harbours, and historic seaside towns
Strong public transport links enabling car-free walking sections

Outdoor Adventures

The Jurassic Coast is a natural playground for self-guided outdoor exploration. Days can be spent tackling exposed clifftop walks, following gentler shoreline routes, or combining coastal paths with inland cycling loops through Dorset and Devon countryside. Calm bays support paddleboarding and kayaking, while fossil hunting remains a uniquely immersive way to engage with the landscape. Whether moving slowly along a single stretch or covering multiple sections over several days, the coast offers constant variety within a clearly defined route.

Explore the Area

Lyme Regis – Historic seaside town and gateway to fossil beaches
Charmouth – World-famous for fossil hunting and coastal walking
West Bay – Harbour town beneath dramatic sandstone cliffs
Lulworth Cove – Circular coastal walks and geological landmarks
Swanage – Traditional resort with rail and coastal path access
Studland – Beaches, heathland, and chalk headlands