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Discover the Jurassic Coast in Dorset

Tthe Jurassic Coast is home to some of the world’s most significant sites and discoveries. The golden beaches of Devon and the surf of Cornwall not far away. So, Dorset’s coastline can often be overlooked by those planning a beach holiday.

The striking red cliffs that line the coast of Dorset and East Devon aren’t just a beautiful sight. They date back as far as 185 million years in places – making the area a truly unique place to visit.

Cliffs and beaches on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset
Cliffs and beaches on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset

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The Jurassic Coast stretches for an impressive 95 miles. Dorset is home to several Gateway Towns that make convenient bases for those determined to explore the areas once roamed by dinosaurs!

Lyme Regis

Lyme Regis is one of the most famous Jurassic towns. If you fancy trying your hand at a spot of fossil hunting this is probably the best place to start.

Right in the heart of the Jurassic Coast, this pretty town was home to a landmark discovery more than two centuries ago. Twelve year old fossil hunter Mary Anning found her way into the history books when she unearthed a fossilised dinosaur skull. It measured 2m and she dedicated her life to searching for fossils.

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Fossils on the Jurassic coast in Dorset
Fossils on the Jurassic coast in Dorset

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Fossil hunting

There’s no guarantee you’ll make the discoveries that Mary did all those years ago. But, fossil hunting remains one of the most popular Dorset beach attractions!

If you’re not sure where to start you’ll find local tours run throughout the year. They can point out the key points of the World Heritage Site to make sure you don’t miss anything.

Lyme Regis is also a popular resort with Jane Austen fans. She set her novel Persuasion in the town and holidayed there at least twice. There are also tours of Jane Austen’s Lyme Regis, so the town is perfect for anybody who loves history.

A cycling trip in Dorset on the Jurassic Coast

Fossil hunting on the beaches of the Jurassic Coast in Dorset
Fossil hunting on the beaches of the Jurassic Coast in Dorset

The beaches of Dorset

Fossils aside, the beaches of Dorset have plenty to offer families and those who just fancy lying back on the sand. If you’ve never been to Durdle Door you’ll be sure to have seen pictures of it. It’s well worth the stroll from Lulworth Cove to this shingle beach and the striking rock arch that juts into the sea.

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Chesil Beach is another Dorset spot that shouldn’t be missed, and it rolls on for an amazing 18 miles. This World Heritage Site makes a great place for a wander and showcases the Jurassic Coast’s rugged beauty to perfection.

This article was brought to you by Blue Chip Holidays providing luxury holiday cottages and holiday apartments across Dorset, Devon and Cornwall.

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This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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A Local’s Guide for Visitors Drinking in Brighton | Heather on her travels

Monday 3rd of December 2012

[...]  Brighton – a very British seaside town Golden beaches and fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast [...]

Dorset holiday cottages

Thursday 8th of November 2012

Jurassic Coast in Dorset is a lovely place and I'm amazed with it's breathtaking views.I'm glad that it is now in the ten natural wonders of the world.If you will visit UK be sure to include Dorset in your list.

Stuart Wooster

Wednesday 31st of October 2012

I love the Dorset coast, there is so much to see there. Along with all the beautiful coast line there is also places like Weymouth to drop by and if you are in a easterly direction you can drop in to tourist attractions such as the infamous Monkey World.

Barbara Weibel

Thursday 25th of October 2012

I'm a rockhound from way back, so this is now on my list of :must dos" when I come to the UK next year.