The Jurassic Coast is 95 miles of pure beauty, that and an amazing history from the last 185 million years.
It’s so special that in 2001 it was given the prestigious title of England’s first natural World Heritage Site status by UNESCO.
If that’s not enough reason to visit the Jurassic Coast, then I guess I will have to tempt you with gorgeous photos of this incredible part of the south coast of England.
In five and a half days, I hiked from the start of the Jurassic Coast. Following the South West Coast Path, along this dramatic coastline starting at Orcombe Point in Exmouth, Devon near Exeter and finishing at Old Harry Rocks near Studland in Dorset.
A journey filled with adventures, challenges but most of all spectacular scenery to keep you entertained for the full day.
The Jurassic Coast is 95 miles of pure beauty 🙂
Are you wondering whether you should visit the Jurassic Coast? Maybe you’re thinking about hiking the Jurassic Coast or simply taking a day trip in Dorset to the iconic spots along the route?
Here are 45 stunning reasons why you should explore the entire Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Whether it’s over a few days, weeks or even year, there are no timescales for experiencing something magical.
Each mile of this incredible coastline has stunning views so here are my favourite memories and photos from the Jurassic Coast to tempt you to visit!
Why you should visit the Jurassic Coast?
(All 95 miles!)
Jurassic Coast – Exmouth to Sidmouth
Even before you start the hike, the views looking out to sea along Exmouth seafront are beautiful
And as you start the hike from Orcombe Point in Exmouth you can look back to views of this Devon Town, whilst enjoying the green countryside around you
You can’t help but notice The dramatic colours of the red cliffs against the lush green grass and blue sea, even on a grey day!
And then there are a few brightly coloured beach huts, with their own stylish designs
The curve of the coast is wonderful to see from high cliffs (and you might even be lucky to see the Red Arrows)
There are some striking rock formations, ever-changing with the weather and sea battering them
If you get up early then sometimes it’s even more magical
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Plenty of hidden spots you can stop and enjoy the views
Those striking red cliffs never get boring, even hidden in greenery you can still spot them
Jurassic Coast – Sidmouth to Seaton
The path will take you up close to the ever-changing rocks on the Jurassic Coast
Green fields make a stunning contrast to the red cliffs and blue ocean
You might even spot some wild horses
Don’t forget you can always look back to see where you’ve hiked (and those views too)
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Each new beach brings a smile to your face (Because there’s a change of a coffee shop & cake!)
You never know when a good photo opportunity might come along (#boatgeek)
The beauty of the Jurassic Coast is that it has plenty of opportunities to sit and enjoy the views – grass always makes a comfy seat (but there are lots of benches too!)
See how many little signs you can spot on the route
Be sure to stop for a beer in the cute Devon village of Beer (can you spot the beer garden?)
Enjoy walking through the cute seaside towns – this one is called Seaton
Jurassic Coast – Seaton to Weymouth
Even when the path takes you away from the Jurassic Coast, the trees magically part every now and again so you can see the sea!
Well you are in the UK, so even in bad weather Lyme Regis still is a great place to stop for coffee and cake
Charmouth beach is great for fossil hunting (of course it’s not so great in the rain!)
For those TV fans, you might spot a few famous places on the route (aka Broadchurch)
Then you can hike along 18 miles of Chesil beach (or less if you prefer!)
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There’s something so photogenic about harbours – the one at Weymouth is a great place to walk around, you can even stop for fish & chips too
Jurassic Coast – Weymouth to Lulworth Cove
All that UK rain creates a lush green jungle environment on the Jurassic Coast – it’s almost tropical!
Those thatched roofs never get boring, especially when it’s a pub too (the official South West Coast path takes you right past the front door!)
Steep climbs always reward you with the best views
If you time it right then boats add the perfect extra to your photo (but I’m in love with those rugged cliffs)
Stunning white chalk cliffs, add a different layer into the history of this beautiful Jurassic Coast landscape
Yet more dreamy views and you can see how close the path goes to the edge – eek!
Popular tourist spots look even more dramatic in moody weather
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You keep spotting interesting rock formations but it makes you wonder how different the Jurassic Coast will be in 10 years time?
Lulworth Cove is a stunning spot (but also very popular) – it’s quieter towards the far end of the beach (and up!) Many people walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door as a day trip
Want to try some day walks on the Jurassic Coast? I’ve included two of my favourites sections in my best day hikes in England post, including the route map + gpx file.
Jurassic Coast – Lulworth Cove to Durlston
From one beautiful cove, there’s another one just around the corner so you can escape the crowds during peak seasons
From high cliff top walks to dropping back down to the sea level – you can’t get bored of the views
And out of nowhere, there are cool towers on the route
Chapman’s Pool is another wonderful spot on the Jurassic Coast. One of my favourite parts of the walk.
And you think you’ve seen everything, then these little gems pop up – years of history in one spot
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The contours of the land on the Jurassic Coast are fascinating
Dotted along the route you’ll see various lighthouses (this one is hiding!)
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Jurassic Coast – Durlston to Old Harry Rocks
The from the roof of Durlston Castle you can see the final destination in the distance.
(Stop here for a coffee & some cake it’s delicious!)
Reaching Swanage beach is another cute seaside town but not much of the Jurassic Coast to explore
But another highlight is yet to come – Old Harry Rocks at Studland make for a spectacular end to this wonderful hike
It’s simply the perfect way to end your Jurassic Coast adventure
I hope that makes you want to visit the Jurassic Coast. If you have any more questions about where to go or what to do on the Jurassic Coast then ask me any questions in the comments below.
Tell me if you had a favourite Jurassic Coast photo?
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Okay…I’m ready to tackle this trail! Gorgeous images Becky. I so admire your adventurous spirit!!
Yippee, you’ll love it Lynne. I will hurry up and get my post written for you so you can check out.
Wow, your pictures are amazing!! I’ve heard of the Jurassic Coast, but didn’t really know much about it! Your photos have definitely convinced me I need to go! Great post!
Ah thank you Savannah, it really is stunning. I’m in the middle of writing a more detailed post about how to do but I wanted to share these gorgeous photos first!
This hike was already on my wish list, and now, after seeing all your photos, I’m even more desperate to do it! I bet we won’t be so lucky with the weather next summer in the UK though…
Haha did you not see the photo with heavy rain and 40 mph winds! That was August!!! Spring and autumn would be a wonderful time to hike and even winter would be lovely too as long as you wrap up warm 🙂
I’ve been wanting to explore the southern part of England more and this trail looks absolutely amazing! What’s the best time of the year to hike it? Did you end up spending the nights in different towns or can you camp on the trail? Thanks!
Hi April, it’s really stunning, I’d definitely recommend it. Well, any time of year in the UK I can imagine it’s beautiful. I hiked end of August but as you can see from the photos I had one day that was also like winter. There isn’t lots of shelter on some sections so in the rain for the full hike it would be pretty tough but I loved the moody look that the cloudy weather gave. I wild camped but you can stay in hotels, B&Bs or campsites. I’m writing a full post which should be done by next week. I will send you the link when I’ve written 🙂
I’ve started seeing more pictures of the Jurassic Coast. It looks so beautiful, the photographer in me wants to visit so badly. Even the little towns in between look so lovely.
Ah yes, I loved both the little seaside towns and the rugged cliffs, there’s such a mix of beautiful things on the whole walk!
Awesome post- I did a day hike here but this is super handy to break down some of the sections!! You capture its beauty well!
Well my full detailed post about the hike is coming soon, this was a bit of a teaser plus I had so many photos I wanted to share them all. Which section of the hike did you do?
When you write your next blog on the Jurassic Coast you should point out to your followers that no land owners along the Jurassic Coast allow wild camping and that they should make sure they use proper toilet facilities. Human waste along the coast is becoming a problem….
Thanks, Martin, I appreciate your comments and have addressed the point on human waste whilst wild camping in my post dedicated to the topic which you can find on my blog. I also find it disgusting and there’s no need for it! I will be writing a section on wild camping within the overall post so will also reinforce this message and include a link. Thanks 🙂
Oh god. What gorgeous pics. I feel like I’m on Jurassic Coast right now. I definitely come to Jurassic to enjoy totally its beauty if I have chance. Thank you so much for your amazing post! Keep going!
Ah thank you so much. I hope you get the chance to visit. Have a lovely day 🙂
Great photos! Brought back some great memories of living in Dorset! Thanks for sharing
Ah that’s so lovely thanks so much Simon, I’m really glad you liked them. Have a lovely day 🙂