If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Where is the Jurassic Coast?”, you’re soon to find one of England’s most interesting and stunning destinations. From Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset, the Jurassic Coast is a breathtaking 95-mile coastline of cliffs, beaches, and coves that tell 185 million years of Earth’s history.
But aside from its UNESCO designation and legendary photo opportunities, the Jurassic Coast has a wealth of distinctive, off-the-beaten-path sites just waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers . Let’s explore where the Jurassic Coast is — and the extraordinary places you should visit that often get overlooked.
Where Is the Jurassic Coast?
Situated on the southern English coast, the Jurassic Coast stretches across the counties of Devon and Dorset. When individuals inquire “Where is the Jurassic Coast,” they’re actually asking where they can walk back in time — revealing rocks and fossils that are from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous eras.
It’s conveniently located near cities such as Exeter, Weymouth, and Dorchester, so it’s a great place to visit for weekend breaks and longer coastal holidays.
Special Top Attractions on the Jurassic Coast
Now that you know where the Jurassic Coast is, here are some special top attractions you won’t want to miss:
1. Hooken Cliffs and the Undercliff Walk (Seaton to Lyme Regis)
The majority of tourists come straight to Lyme Regis, but the Hooken Cliffs and Undercliff Walk provide an altogether wilder, stranger experience. This untamed, landslip-formed terrain is dense with undergrowth, towering cliffs, and sinister, deserted paths. It is like entering a lost world — and fossil collectors frequently uncover real jewels here.
2. The Fossil Forest, Lulworth
While Durdle Door receives the Instagram glory, few know that nearby is a prehistoric secret: the Fossil Forest. Concealed in Lulworth Cove, the location contains the fossilized traces of an ancient tropical forest, where tree stumps petrified into stone almost 145 million years ago. It’s a dream-like experience to tread where dinosaurs used to walk.
3. Beer Village and Quarry Caves
Snuggled into the coast, the quaint village of Beer has more than postcard prettiness. Visit Beer Quarry Caves, a massive cave system where the Romans quarried stone thousands of years ago. It’s a moody and quirky detour on your Jurassic Coast trail — and one filled with amazing history.
4. Golden Cap — The Top of the Jurassic Coast
Though it’s easily overlooked by most tourists, the ascent to Golden Cap’s summit is a must for those in search of far-reaching views over the coast. With its position as the south coast’s highest point in England, it boasts stunning vistas over Lyme Bay and Dorset’s rolling hills.
5. Worbarrow Bay
Remote and only accessible by a lovely trek through the abandoned WWII ghost village of Tyneham, Worbarrow Bay is an isolated, unspoiled beach experience. It’s one of the Jurassic Coast’s authentic hidden treasures — ideal for those who enjoy serene, off-the-beaten-path travel.
Why Visit the Secret Side of the Jurassic Coast?
Most people will immediately think “Where is the Jurassic Coast?” and picture the popular arches and beaches. However, digging deeper — both in the ground, and in meaning — uncovers a coastline abounding with secret places, primeval forests, and breathtakingly beautiful natural landscapes that most tourists never get the chance to appreciate.
Visiting these special sites not only puts you in touch with nature but also provides a deeper appreciation of why the Jurassic Coast is so significant and so enchanting.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have a handle on where the Jurassic Coast is and have found some treasures along the way, it’s time to start planning your own unforgettable coastal journey. Whether you’re coming for the history, the scenery, or the simple thrill of the hunt, the Jurassic Coast has an experience to give that’s simply unique.Ready to get started? The Jurassic Coast awaits!
