Local Area FAQs

Bridport doesn’t have a harbour. The nearest harbour is at West Bay – a small fishing village just 1 mile away. There is pay and display car parking close to the harbour or you can enjoy a scenic 30 minute walk from Bridport town centre along the river.

West Bay Harbour is a hive of activity, especially in the summer months. There are a selection of yachts and motor boats moored in the harbour as well as commercial fishing boats and charter boats offering fishing trips and rib rides. The harbour drys out at low water.

There is a walk way around the harbour, with benches to sit back and watch the comings and goings. There are a number of food kiosks serving fish and chips, ice cream and fresh sea food. It’s also popular for families to go crabbing here.

Dogs are allowed off lead on all 3 of the beaches at West Bay between 1st October and 30th April.

Dogs are not permitted on East Beach (east of the harbour) or West Beach (west of the harbour) between 1st May and 30th September.

There is a third beach at West Bay where dogs are welcome year round. This is separated from West Beach by a rocky groyne.

We kindly remind visitors that dogs should be kept on a lead when walking around the harbour or pier.

Take a look at our blog for our top pick of dog friendly beaches in Dorset.

There are a number of dog friendly beaches to choose from in Lyme Regis. Some are dog friendly year-round, whilst others have seasonal restrictions in place.

• East Cliff Beach – dog friendly year round
• Church Cliff Beach – dog friendly year round
• Monmouth Beach – dog friendly year round
• Town Beach / Front Beach – seasonal restrictions apply. Dog friendly October to April

Dogs must be kept on a short lead and under close control on Marine Parade and The Cobb.

We encourage you to read signage carefully when visiting Lyme Regis with your four-legged friend to ensure you know exactly where the dog friendly areas start and end.

The beaches at West Bay have fine shingle rather than sand.

East Beach (east of the pier) has a sloping bank of shingle which gets fine as you get close to the waters edge.

West Beach (west of the pier) is pebbly. The pebbles get smaller as you get closer to the water and there are patches of coarse sand.

West Bay is the perfect choice for a fun-filled family day at the beach. There are lots of facilities close by.

West Bay is a small fishing village on the outskirts of Bridport. It takes approximately 30 minutes to walk to Bridport town centre to West Bay. The drive is only 5 minutes.

Broadchurch is a fictional town that featured in the hit ITV drama Broadchurch, featuring David Tennant and Olivia Coleman. It is based on the small fishing village of West Bay.

Many locations in West Dorset feature in the series, including Bridport, Eype and Little Breedy. As you walk around West Bay you will recognise many landmarks from the drama.

Yes, you can swim at West Bay – West Bay is a fantastic destination for a family day out at the beach.

If you plan on taking a dip we highly recommend heading to East Beach (east of the harbour). This beach is manned by RNLI Lifeguards during the peak season.

Always swim between the red and yellow flags. This is the area of the beach that the lifeguard deem safe for swimming. The knowledgable team re evaluate this throughout the day and may change the position based on the current weather conditions and sea state.

If you decide to swim at West Bay’s other beaches always consult the weather and proceed with caution. Remember the motto – if in doubt, don’t go out!

West Bay is a picturesque fishing village on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset. It is situated on the outskirts of Bridport and within easy reach of West Dorset Leisure Holidays Park’s. There are 3 picturesque beaches at West Bay, making it the perfect destination for a fun filled family day out. It’s well worth a visit in the summer or winter months.

East Beach is the most iconic of Bridport’s 3 beaches. It is situated to the east of the harbour and boasts striking sandstone cliffs that feature heavily in ITV’s famed drama, Broadchurch.

The town centres around a quaint working harbour where you can see fishing boat and yachts. The harbour is flanked by lots of kiosks offering delicious food and drink, including fish and chips and ice cream.

There are a handful of shops to peruse during your visit alongside an arcade and some excellent pubs and restaurants.

In terms of activities you can enjoy fishing trips, paddle board hire, row boat and canoe hire and adrenaline fuelled rib rides.

The West Bay Discovery Centre is also a popular choice with families. There’s also an award-winning outdoor play park.

West Bay is a small fishing village on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset. It is situated on the outskirts of Bridport, close to Abbotsbury, Burton Bradstock, West Bexington, Seatown and Lyme Regis.

There is plenty to see and do during a day trip to West Bay from one of our holiday parks. Enjoy a lazy beach day or a stroll around the working harbour.

The hit ITV drama, Broadchurch was filmed in multiple locations across West Dorset. Many iconic landmarks, towns and villages feature in the popular series, including West Bay, Bridport, Eype and Little Bredy.

Take a look at other TV and film locations across Dorset on our blog.

West Bay is not considered a surfing beach. It is sometimes possible to surf here in the right conditions, but these are rare.

The waters off of West Bay are better suited to watersports such as kayaking and stand up paddleboarding.

There are 2 main beaches at West Bay – East Beach (to the east of the harbour) and West Beach (to the west). Both beaches are very picturesque and great for a family day out.

East beach is flanked by dramatic sandstone cliffs that look golden when they are illuminated by the sun. The beach has a steep shingle bank and a life guard service during the peak season.

West beach has slightly larger pebbles, though these do turn to shingle as you get closer to the waters edge. This beach is not patrolled by lifeguards.

There is a third, smaller beach next to West Beach. It is separated by a rocky groyne.

All 3 beaches are dog friendly between 1st October and 30th April. There are some restrictions in place outside of this time.

There are a handful of shops to peruse during a day out at West Bay. You can buy gifts, antiques and clothes.

If you want to stock up on essentials there is a Spar Convenience on the outskirts of the village. There is also a Cornish Bakehouse and Harbour Gifts, which sells a selection of Dorset made produce such as Moore’s biscuits.

Next to the car park there is a small retail area, where you’ll find the Customs House Emporium and Slader’s Yard Gallery. Here you can buy antique furniture, artwork, ornaments and vintage clothes.

There are a couple of clothing stores including Finesse and Bayside.

West Bay Angling Centre sells a wide selection of fishing tackle and bait.

Throughout West Bay you’ll find a selection of kiosks selling food and drink. There’s also Samways fishmongers if you want to sample locally caught shellfish during your holiday.

West Bay has a host of options to eat and drink. There are wide selection of cafe’s, pubs and restaurants – some have won national acclaim.

If you’re looking for somewhere a bit different we highly recommend The Station Kitchen. This quirky restaurant is situated within a WW1 train carriage on a disused station. Dishes including steak and seafood are served from the old station house.  They always endeavour to use Dorset produce.

The Watch House Cafe is positioned on the beach and boasts views out to sea. The team offer relaxed dining and a varied menu comprising of home baked cakes, wood fired pizza and fresh sea food.

Rise is an informal cafe bar next to the River Brit. Here you can enjoy a wide variety of dishes – including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options while admiring the surrounding scenery.

If you fancy a pint with your meal you won’t be short of pubs to choose from. Bridport Arms Hotel is close to the harbour and popular with visitors and locals. The West Bay and The George Inn are also excellent options.

There are plenty of takeaway options at West Bay. Around the harbour there are wide selection of kiosks selling fish and chips, burgers, seafood and sweet treats. Baboo Gelato serve delicious ice cream in lots of unique flavours.

No, you cannot have a barbecue on West Bay Beach. BBQ’s are not permitted on any Bridport Town Council managed land. This includes public parks, gardens, beaches, allotments and woodlands.

This decision has been made to protect the local environment from the threat of wildflower and reduce hazardous litter, which could pose a danger to people and wildlife. We kindly ask visitors to respect these rules when visiting West Bay beach.

Yes, you can walk from Bridport to West Bay. It takes approximately 30-40 minutes at a leisurely pace.

There are a variety of routes you can take. Our favourite is along the old railway line. This popular walking and cycling route is level for the duration of the walk and is suitable for pushchairs.

You can join the cycle and footpath at the Crown roundabout.

No, there is not a beach in Bridport. The closest beach is in the fishing village of West Bay, which is situated around a mile away. You can easily walk from Bridport to West Bay.

Bridport is a traditional market town in Dorset. A variety of markets take place throughout the month and are extremely popular with visitors and locals. Bridport street market takes place across 3 streets every Wednesday and Saturday from 8am until mid afternoon. There are a wide variety of stalls where you’ll find a mix of local produce, crafts, homeware, clothing and antiques.

Many of the vendors are well established and have been coming to the town to sell their wares for many years.

Bridport Farmers Market – takes place every second Saturday of the month. The farmers market is run independently of the street market.

Bridport Vintage & Antiques Market – takes place on the last Sunday of every month from March – October on St Michaels Trading Estate.

Bridport Vegan & Craft Market – takes place third Saturday of the month. There are stalls on Barrack Street and in the Lyric Theatre.

It takes approximately 3 hours to drive to Bridport from London, making West Dorset the perfect place to enjoy a long weekend or extended break. West Dorset Leisure Holidays Parks offer the perfect escape from city life – relax and unwind in our luxury self-catering accommodation, including glamping units and deluxe caravan holiday homes for hire.

Many of our holiday home owners live in London and travel to our Dorset holiday parks for regular breaks throughout the season. We’re perfectly placed for exploring the South West and beauty spots along the world-renowned Jurassic Coast.

Yes, it is possible to walk from West Bay to Golden Cap. The route is approximately 4 miles and follows the famed South West Coast Path.

The walk is suitable for families with older children and is moderately challenging, with two very steep hills to contend with. A good level of fitness and mobility is required.

You’ll be treated to magnificent views along the Jurassic Coast for the duration of the walk. First you’ll scale Thorncombe Beacon, before tackling Golden Cap – the highest peak on the South Coast. From the elevated position you can see the Isle of Portland and Dartmoor in the distance on a clear day.

Along the way you’ll pass Highlands End Holiday Park and Golden Cap Holiday Park and experience a variety of scenery, including woodland and farmland. The walk from West Bay to Golden Cap is spectacular in the Spring when the forest is carpeted in bluebells.

The route is not suitable for pushchairs.

Bridport is situated just 1 mile from the sea. The nearest beach can be found at West Bay – a small fishing village with 3 beaches to choose from.

The main beach at West Bay is a mix of sand and shingle and popular with families. It is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer season and dog friendly for part of the year.

There is plenty of pay and display parking available at West Bay, or you can enjoy a scenic walk from Bridport town centre. West Bay is within walking distance of Highlands End Holiday Park.

There are plenty of shops to peruse in Bridport if you fancy indulging in some retail therapy during your stay at one of West Dorset Leisure Holidays Parks. There are a handful of high street stores to browse, including M&Co, Mountain Warehouse, Fat Face and Peacocks alongside a fantastic selection of independent shops.

The pretty town centre is ideal for souvenir shopping or picking up some gifts to take home. You’ll be able to find homeware, clothing, toys, pet supplies and artwork for sale.

Bridport market

Bridport is a market town and there are plenty of speciality markets to enjoy throughout the year, including farmers, vintage and antique markets. The weekly market offers visitors the chance to sample local artisan produce and browse local makers arts and crafts.

Food shops

If you need to stock up on essentials while in Bridport there are a couple of supermarkets to choose from, including Waitrose, Morrisons, Lidl, Co Op. If you’re staying at Highlands End Holiday Park and Golden Cap Holiday Park you can make use of the onsite SPAR shop.

There is a wide selection of cafes, pubs and restaurants to choose from in Bridport, so you’re bound to find something that takes your fancy. The historic market town has a variety of independently owned eateries, serving cuisine from around the world. We highly recommend stopping at The Ropemakers or The Market House Inn for pub grub and a well-earned drink. Both offer a varied menu and dishes for all the family.

If you’re in the mood for an asian inspired dish, stop by Dorshi or Rakhang Thai Cuisine should be top of your list. Soulshine, The Green Yard Cafe and Aroma are excellent choices if you’re looking for a light lunch or warming drink.

Of course, you should also take time to visit Martin’s Bar and restaurant, which is situated in the grounds of Highlands End Holiday Park. Our team of chefs use locally sourced produce and serve a variety of tasty meals. It is open to holiday park guests and non residents.

Yes, Bridport is near Lyme Regis – both towns are in West Dorset and within easy reach of our West Dorset Leisure Holidays Parks. They are 10 miles apart.

By car – It takes approximately 20 minutes to drive from Bridport to Lyme Regis depending on traffic. There may be delays in the peak summer months.

By bus – The bus journey from Bridport to Lyme Regis takes approximately 30 minutes. You will need to catch the X51 or X53 Jurassic Coaster from Bridport Bus Station. There is a regular service throughout the year. See the First Bus website for up to date time tables and journey planner.

By foot – it is possible to walk from Bridport to Lyme Regis, though it is quite a long walk and best suited to seasoned hikers. It takes at least 4 hours to walk the route in one direction, depending on fitness levels. The walk predominantly follows the South West Coast Path and is incredibly scenic. You’ll be treated to magnificent views along the Jurassic Coast as you pass West Bay, Eype, Seatown, Golden Cap and Charmouth.

Bridport is 20 miles from Weymouth. We highly recommend visiting Weymouth for a day trip during your stay at one of the West Dorset Leisure Holidays Parks.

By car – the drive from Bridport to Weymouth takes approximately 40 minutes, depending on traffic. We highly recommend taking the scenic Jurassic Coast Road (B3157), which boasts spectacular views over Chesil Beach, the Fleet Lagoon and the Isle of Portland as you drive. There are sea views for much of the journey and you’ll pas through picturesque villages such as Burton Bradstock, West Bexington and Abbotsbury as you head in land.

By bus – it is possible to travel from Bridport to Weymouth on public transport. The Jurassic Coaster Bus follows the Jurassic Coast Road and takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. The x51 or x53 services uses double decker buses, which means you’ll be able to take in the scenery without having to concentrate on driving. From the elevated position you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the Dorset coast and countryside.

You can pick up the bus from East Street in Bridport before alighting at the Kings Statue on Weymouth seafront. See the First Bus website for up to date timetables.

Dorchester is situated 15 miles from Bridport. If you are travelling from the north it is highly likely that you’ll pass through Dorchester on your way to one of West Dorset Leisure Holidays parks.

By car – it takes approximately 25 minutes to drive from Bridport to Dorchester, depending on traffic. The most direct is via the A35.

By bus – the route between Bridport and Dorchester is well served by public transport. It takes around 50 minutes to make the journey on the X51 Jurassic Coaster bus. You can also catch the C1, C2 or X53 service, however they take much longer (between 1 and 2 hours).

See the First Bus website for timetables and service updates.

There are lots of pubs to choose from in Bridport if you fancy some pub grub or a pint of local ale.

Bridport is home to Palmers Brewery – a family run brewery that have been based in the town for more than 200 years. There are 6 Palmers pubs in the town – The Ropemakers, Markethouse, George Hotel, White Lion, Lord Nelson and the Crown Inn. All have an excellent reputation and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

We also recommend a trip to our very own Martin’s Bar & Restaurant at Highlands End Holiday Park. We serve a wide selection of local beer and spirits alongside a varied menu of traditional pub food and chefs specials. Martin’s bar is open for holiday park guests and non residents.

Historically, Bridport played an important role in the twine, string and rope making industry. The town was responsible for making rope for the Navy – in fact Henry VIII ordered that all hemp grown in a 5 mile radius should be reserved for this use.

Today, the town is best known for its weekly market and strong arts community. Some people even refer to Bridport as ‘Notting Hill on Sea’!

Bridport and the surrounding towns and villages have featured heavily in the hit ITV drama, Broadchurch. This has helped put West Dorset on the map and attract holidaymakers to the area.

Bridport is a small town in Dorset – a picturesque county on the South West coast of England. It is situated close to the Jurassic Coast, in between Weymouth and Lyme Regis. It takes around 3 hours to travel to Bridport from London, making it a popular destination for holidaymakers looking to escape the city.

The bustling town is famed for its weekly market and involvement in the net making industry. Bridport and the surrounding villages featured heavily in hit ITV series – Broadchurch. Bridport is the perfect base for exploring the Dorset coast and countryside with plenty of attractions and iconic beauty spots within easy reach.

Towns near Bridport

West Bay – 1 mile

Eype – 2 miles

Seatown – 4 miles

Lyme Regis – 10 miles

West Bexington – 7 miles

Burton Bradstock – 3 miles

Abbotsbury – 10 miles

Weymouth – 20 miles

There’s no need to worry if it rains during your holiday in Bridport – there are plenty of wet weather activities to keep the whole family entertained. Here’s our pick of rainy day activities in Bridport:

Little Fire Station Soft Play – Fire engine soft play area for children aged 6 and under. It is situated next to Martin’s Bar and Restaurant at Highlands End Holiday Park.

Highlands End Leisure Club – Enjoy an indoor swim, sauna and steam room. Open to West Dorset Leisure Holidays guests and non residents.

Palmer’s Brewery Tours – Tour the historic family run Brewery that has been based in Bridport for more than 200 years. Learn more about the brewing process and sample local ales.

Bridport Museum – Learn more about local history and fossils.

Electric Palace – This popular venue hosts a variety of varied programme of comedy, live music performances and theatre shows from some of the UK’s best loved acts.

2020 Skate & Ride – Younger members of the family can hone their skateboarding and BMX skills at this indoor skatepark.

Durdle Door is 29 miles from West Bay. The journey takes around 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic. It can take longer in the school holidays when there are an increased number of cars on the road. As you approach Durdle Door the roads narrow and wind through pretty villages. Care should be taken to drive slowly through these residential areas.

There is pay and display car parking available just a short walk from Durdle Door beach. You can also park at neighbouring Lulworth Cove.

Durdle Door gets very busy, especially in the summer months. We highly recommend arriving early to beat the crowds.

4 of West Dorset Holidays parks are situated within easy reach of Bridport – some within walking distance. Our parks offer a wide selection of accommodation alongside modern and well maintained facilities. We’ve got so much to offer visitors looking for somewhere to stay in Bridport. Enjoy a picturesque setting next to the Jurassic Coast and convenient location for exploring towns and attractions nearby.

Holiday parks near Bridport

Highlands End Holiday Park (2 miles from Bridport)  – Highlands End occupies an unbeatable clifftop location overlooking the Jurassic Coast. There is a wide range of accommodation to choose from, including lodges, deluxe caravans, holiday homes, glamping, touring pitches, camping pitches, apartments and bungalows. Facilities include an on-site bar and restaurant, heated indoor swimming pool, soft play area, convenience store and nature trail. From Highlands End Holiday Park it is possible to walk to West Bay and Bridport.

Golden Cap (3.5 miles from Bridport) – Golden Cap Holiday Park is situated in a scenic location, close to Seatown Beach. There is beautiful glamping accommodation, camping pitches, touring pitches, caravan holiday homes and lodges. The site is dog friendly and there is a children’s play area, fishing lake, convenience store and takeaway food truck in high season.

Graston Copse (4 miles from Bridport) – Graston Copse is nestled in a quiet location in the Bride Valley, close to a river and woodland. Its just 1 miles walk to Hive Beach and a short drive or bus ride to Bridport and West Bay. There are pitches for tents, touring caravans and motorhomes.

Larkfield (3 miles from Bridport) – Larkfield is exclusively for holiday home and lodge owners. Buy a holiday home on the Jurassic Coast and enjoy regular breaks to West Dorset throughout the year.

Beaminster is 6.5 miles from Bridport. The route is served by public transport if you don’t want to drive. Catch the number 6 bus from East Street, opposite Natwest Bank. It should take between 20 and 30 minutes depending on traffic and time of day.

The bus leaves every 2/3 hours and the service operates Monday to Friday only – it does not run on weekends.

We recommend visiting the First Bus website for up to date timetables and route planner.

Lyme Regis is 11 miles from West Bay. It takes just over 20 minutes to make the journey by car, depending on traffic. It is also possible to travel by bus. There is a way marked route along the South West Coast Path.

By car – Follow the A35 from West Bay to Lyme Regis. The drive should take around 20 minutes and passes Chideock and Felicity’s Farm Shop.

By bus – If you want a break from driving you can travel from Bridport (just 1 mile from West Bay) to Lyme Regis by bus. Catch the x53 Jurassic Coaster from outside The George. The journey should take about 50 minutes, though it can take longer in the summer months. There is a regular service throughout the year – it is reduced during the winter and weekends. Visit the First Bus website for up to timetables and route planner.

By foot – Keen hikers can walk from West Bay to Lyme Regis along the South West Coast Path. The route is approximately 10 miles long and should take around 4 hours at a leisurely pace. The walk is best suited to families with older children because there are a few steep hills to contend with along the way. You’ll be treated to magnificent views along the Jurassic Coast as you pass through Eype, Seatown, Golden Cap and Charmouth. The route passes Highlands End Holiday Park and Golden Cap Holiday Park.

Dorchester is 15 miles from Bridport. When travelling by bus catch the x51 Jurassic Coaster from East Street in Bridport (opposite Natwest Bank). The journey should take about 45 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.

It is also possible to catch the C1 and C2 service, though these routes take considerably longer (around 1 to 2 hours).

We recommend visiting the First Bus website for up to date timetables and route planner.

Yes! We highly recommend visiting Bridport during your holiday at one of West Dorset Leisure Holidays parks. The historic town has much to offer visitors, including a weekly market, independent shops and excellent pubs, cafes and restaurants. There’s plenty to see and do during your visit with lots of events taking place throughout the year. Some of our favourite attractions include Bridport Museum, Electric Palace and Palmers Brewery.

Bridport is a fantastic starting point for exploring nearby towns and villages, such as West Bay. There are plenty of scenic walks to choose from which offer the chance to take in the surrounding countryside.

Bridport is a historic market town in the picturesque county of Dorset. It is situated in the South West of England close to the Jurassic Coast.

It is close to Weymouth, Lyme Regis and Dorchester – Dorset’s county town.

West Bay is situated 18 miles from Weymouth. It takes around 40 minutes to make the journey by car, depending on traffic. Public transport is also available.

By car – We highly recommend taking the B3157 Jurassic Coast Road if travelling from West Bay to Weymouth by car. This scenic road has been voted one of the best in the UK and offers excellent sea views for much of the drive. You will pass through quaint villages along the way, including Burton Bradstock, West Bexington and Abbotsbury.

By bus – You can also make the journey by bus, if you’d prefer to use public transport. The x53 Jurassic Coaster Bus has a regular service throughout the year. Take a look at the First bus website for more information and up to date timetables.

Lyme Regis is a popular destination with dog owners – there are plenty of dog friendly cafes, pubs and restaurants to visit and the majority of shops permit dogs inside too

There are a number of dog friendly beaches to choose from, including East Cliff Beach, Monmouth Beach and Church Cliff Beach. Town beach is dog friendly from October to April.

Lyme Regis is a picturesque seaside resort in Dorset. It is situated at the western end of the Jurassic Coast, close to Charmouth, Bridport and West Bay. It is a short drive from our West Dorset Holiday Parks and popular with visitors in the area. There is plenty to see and do during a day trip from our parks.

There is plenty of pay and display car parking in Lyme Regis, but we recommend arriving early as it can get busy, especially in the summer months. Car parks are well signposted.

Lyme Regis is popular with holidaymakers looking to enjoy a fun-filled day at the beach. There are four beaches to choose from, so you’re guaranteed to find somewhere that meets your needs. There is a mixture of sandy, shingle and pebble beaches.

• Front Beach – Front Beach, also known as Town Beach is a great choice for visitors with children. It is split into two sections by a stone jetty. The beach nearest the harbour is sandy, whilst the other half mostly consists of pebbles. RNLI lifeguards patrol the sandy part of the beach during the peak season. Front beach is dog friendly from October to April. Outside of this time dogs are not permitted.
• Monmouth Beach – Monmouth Beach is adjacent to the harbour wall. It is a pebbly beach and much quieter than its neighbour, Front Beach. The rocks are peppered with fossils dating back thousands of years. It’s dog friendly year-round. Always check the tide times before heading to Monmouth Beach. It can get cut off at high water.
• Church Cliff Beach – Church Cliff can be found at the Eastern End of Lyme Regis. The beach is a mix of shingle, sand and rocks at low tide. It’s popular with fossil hunters and families looking to try their hand at rockpooling. Much of the beach is inaccessible at high water, do it’s important to check the tide table before heading out. Church cliff beach is dog friendly year-round. Dogs are allowed off lead.
• East Cliff Beach – East Cliff Beach is a mix of sand and shingle. It is dog friendly year-round and popular with fossil hunters. The beach is prone to landslides, so we encourage visitors not to get too close to the cliffs. East Cliff gets cut off at high tide.

Lyme Regis is a haven for foodies holidaying in Dorset. There are a wide selection of pubs, cafes and restaurants to choose from, so you’re guaranteed to find somewhere that takes your fancy.

If you like seafood you’ll find a selection of award-winning restaurants serving locally caught fish. Traditional pub grub is available at a number of establishments set in fantastic locations with picturesque views.

Some of our favourite places to eat in Lyme Regis include: Harbour Inn, Millside, Swim, The Pilot Boat and The Oyster & Fish House.

Lyme Regis is one of the best places to visit on the Jurassic Coast. The popular seaside resort is known as the pearl of Dorset and has plenty to offer visitors looking to enjoy a day trip from our award-winning holiday parks.

There’s a bustling high street with an excellent selection of independent shops and galleries to peruse. There are four fantastic beaches, with watersports and boat trips available throughout the summer months.

Lyme Regis is a haven for foodies looking to sample dishes crafted from local produce. There’s also a fantastic live music scene and varied programme of events in the Marine Theatre.

Lyme Regis has earned an excellent reputation for its pretty harbour and magnificent views along the Jurassic Coast. It is widely considered one of the top seaside resorts in the area and a must visit during a beach holiday in Dorset.

The town is famous for being the birthplace of Mary Anning, a renowned Fossil Collector and Palaeontologist.

Lyme Regis is situated 28 miles from Weymouth. It takes just under an hour to drive the route, depending on traffic. If you’d prefer to use public transport you can jump on the X53 Jurassic Coaster. The double decker bus offers magnificent views along the scenic coast road as you travel.

Take a look at the First Wessex website for up-to-date timetables and prices.

Fossil hunting is one of the most popular activities in Lyme Regis. Every year visitors flock to this section of the Jurassic Coast in search of treasures dating back thousands of years. If you’d like to look for fossils during your day trip to Lyme Regis we recommend signing up to a guided walk. The experienced guide will teach you what to look out for and ensure you’re hunting responsibly.

The best beaches for fossil hunting in Lyme Regis are East Cliff Beach and Church Cliff Beach. Both are situated at the Eastern end of the town towards Charmouth. They can get cut off at high water, so always check the tide times before heading out.

There is plenty to see and do in Lyme Regis during a day trip from one of West Dorset Leisure Holidays award-winning parks. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a lazy beach day, adrenaline fuelled boat ride or spot of retail therapy you’ll find plenty of ways to spend your time.

We recommend a leisurely stroll along the promenade and Cobb to take in the views before stopping for a bite to eat and well-earned drink. Relax on the beach or head to Langmor and Lister Gardens to soak up the sun.

Popular attractions include Dinosaurland Fossil Museum, Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium, the Town Mill and Marine Theatre.

There are lots of events in Lyme Regis throughout the year – take a look at our events guide for up-to-date information. Annual events include:

• Lyme Regis Fossil Festival – April/May
• East Festival – May
• Jazz Jurassica – June
• Lyme Regis Folk Weekend – September
• Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week – July
• Lyme Regis Regatta and Carnival Week – August

Yes, there is a bus from Lyme Regis to Seaton in Devon. It takes just over 20 minutes, depending on traffic.

We recommend consulting the Stagecoach Bus website for up-to-date time tables and pricing.

Yes, it is possible to walk from Charmouth to Lyme Regis. The circular walk follows the South West Coast Path and is a little over 5 miles.

There is a slight inland diversion, to account for a landslide on the original route. Along the way you’ll pass through scenic woodland and enjoy far-reaching clifftop views. On the way back you can walk along the beach and search for fossils as you go.

No, there isn’t a train station in Lyme Regis. The nearest train station is in Axminster, around 6 miles away.

If the weather takes a turn for the worst during your day trip to Lyme Regis, there’s no need to worry – there are plenty of wet weather activities to enjoy. Here’s our pick of things to do on a rainy day in Lyme Regis.

• Lyme Regis Philpot Museum – Learn more about the Jurassic Coast and the fossils that have been found here over the years. The museum has an exhibition dedicated to Mary Anning – one of the early pioneers.
• Dinosaurland Fossil Museum – Discover how the Jurassic Coast was formed and learn about the dinosaurs that roamed the land thousands of years ago. Enjoy an up-close look at fossils, skeletons and taxidermy.
• Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium – Learn about the marine life that lives in the waters surrounding Lyme Regis. See crabs, starfish, bass, lobsters, sea urchins and more. You can even hand feed mullet.
• The Town Mill – See the working water mill and tour artisan workshops, selling artwork, pottery and beer. Enjoy a bite to eat and well-earned drink.
• The Marine Theatre – Watch a varied programme of live music performances, comedy nights and theatre shows throughout the year.

There are plenty of pubs to choose from if your visiting Lyme Regis for the day. You certainly won’t be short of somewhere to sit and enjoy a well-earned drink. Some of our favourites are situated right on the sea front and boast lovely views along the coastline.

We highly recommend the Cobb Arms, Ship Inn, The Pilot Boat and the Harbour Inn.

Lyme Regis has a bustling high street if you fancy indulging in a spot of retail therapy during your day trip from one of West Dorset Leisure Holidays Parks. There are lots of independent boutiques selling artwork, homeware, gifts, local produce and clothing.

There a couple of high street favourites including Joules, Seasalt, Saltrock and Fat Face. There’s also a Tesco Express if you need to stock up on any essentials.

It takes around 3.5 hours to drive from London to Lyme Regis, depending on traffic. The route is fairly straightforward – you’ll follow the M4 and M3 for much of the way.

Yes, Lyme Regis is a wonderful place to enjoy a dip in the sea. We highly recommend heading to Front Beach, also known as Town Beach if you plan on entering the water. There is lifeguard service here during the summer months and the safe swimming areas are designated by the red and yellow flags.

West Bay is a hive of activity, especially in the summer months. There’s always something interesting to see and do and there are plenty of events throughout the year. Below we list a selection of annual events that take place in West Bay.

• Pirates Day – May
• Vintage Rally – June
• RNLI Raft Race – July
• Summer Fun Fair – August
• West Bay Day  – August
• RNLI Fun Day – August
• Carnival Torchlight Procession – August
• Melplash Show – August
• Bonfire Night on the Beach – October
• Christmas Tree on the Green – December
• West Bay Wallow – December

Please take at our ‘local events‘ pages nearer the time for up to date event details.

It takes approximately 20 minutes to drive from Bridport to Beaminster, depending on traffic.

It is also possible to travel by public transport. It takes approximately 30 minutes – take a look at the First Bus website for timetables and pricing.

Yes, there is a bus from Bridport to Lyme Regis if you’d prefer to rely on public transport during your stay. There is a regular service on the X53 Jurassic Coaster and the journey takes around 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

We recommend consulting the First Bus website for up-to-date timetables and pricing.

Bridport is a bustling market town with an exciting programme of events throughout the year. Annual events include:

• Bridport Food Festival – June
• Bridport Carnival – August
• Bridport Hat Festival – September

We recommend looking at our ‘local events‘ page during your stay for details.

Bridport is situated 1 mile from West Bay, where you’ll find the western end of Chesil Beach. Chesil Beach is 18 miles long and extends to Portland to the east.

There is lots to see and do in Bridport during a day trip from one of West Dorset Leisure Holidays parks. We recommend spending the morning perusing the independent shops before stopping for a bite to eat in one of the delicious cafes, pubs or restaurants.

If you’re in the mood for visiting an attraction, Palmers Brewery Tours is an excellent option. Learn more about the brewing process and the history of the family run company. Bridport Museum is also an interesting place to learn about the towns past. There’s a selection of interesting exhibitions to discover.

Yes, there’s a lovely walk from West Bay to Seatown. The route follows the South West Coast Path and offers beautiful clifftop views along the Jurassic Coast and out to sea. Along the way there’s a steep climb up Thorncombe Beacon. It’s a little over 3 miles long and should take a couple of hours, depending on walking speed.

You can turn the walk into a circular route if you want to make a day of it, or you can take the x53 Jurassic Coaster bus if you’d prefer to rest your legs!

Yes, you can walk from West Bay to Charmouth. The route follows part of the South West Coast Path and is approximately 8 miles long. The walk is fairly arduous with some steep hills to contend with, including Golden Cap – the tallest peak on the South Coast. You’ll be treated to some magnificent views along the Jurassic Coast and out to sea. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you walk!

Swimming is widely discouraged in the Fleet Lagoon due to the strong and unpredictable tides. Water activities are only permitted in the East Fleet and Mid Fleet areas of the lagoon (Ferry Bridge to Langton Herring).

We recommend heading to a lifeguarded beach instead.

Much of the Fleet Lagoon shoreline is owned and managed by the Ilchester Estates.

The Feet Lagoon is a tidal body of brackish water in between Chesil Beach and the mainland. It is 13km long and stretches from Ferry Bridge to Abbotsbury. The area is of great scientific importance due to the wildlife that inhabits the water and shoreline. It is a designated Marine Protection Area and Site of Special Scientific Interest and Conservation. The water is very shallow in places and ranges from 2-5m in depth.

Yes, the Fleet Lagoon is tidal. Water floods into the lagoon from Portland Harbour.

Kayaking is permitted in the Fleet Lagoon, but only at the eastern end from Ferry Bridge to Langton Herring. Kayaking or canoeing is not permitted past Mid Fleet.

The Fleet is best suited to experienced paddlers who have an excellent understanding of the tides. A buoyancy aid should be worn at all times.

Paddleboarding is allowed in the Fleet Lagoon, but only from Ferry Bridge to Mid Fleet near Langton Herring. No watercraft are permitted beyond this point and it is an offence to enter any areas where there are restrictions in place to prevent the disturbance of wildlife.

The Fleet is best suited to experienced paddleboarders who have knowledge of the local tides. Extra care should be taken in the waters next to Ferry Bridge and a buoyancy aid should be worn at all times.

Rod and line fishing is permitted from the shore, but only next to Ferry Bridge and up to the Narrows. Angling is not permitted west of the Narrows (after the Army Bridging Camp). The Fleet Lagoon serves as an important bass nursery. Consequently, catching bass is formally discouraged.

Fishing from a watercraft is not permitted.

Yes, dogs are allowed at the Fleet Lagoon, though owners are kindly reminded to keep them on a lead or under close control. Dogs are not allowed on the intertidal areas where birds come to rest and feed.

There is no public slipping on the Fleet Lagoon. All boats and dinghies must be registered in advance with CBFNR or Ferry Bridge Marine Services. Motorised craft are not permitted past the Narrows (Army Bridging Camp).

Charmouth Beach is the most famous attraction in Charmouth. Many people travel from all over the UK to visit the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site to search for fossils.

There are a wide variety of independent shops in Charmouth. Many of the shops are fossil, crystal and gift shops owned by artists and locals. There is also a lovely Bakery where you can buy freshly baked bread, cakes and pastries.

Yes, absolutely! Charmouth is a lovely place to visit, especially to enjoy Charmouth Beach which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Here you can sunbathe, have a dip in the sea, or go fossil hunting.

Charmouth market takes place every Monday from the months of May to September. Here you can browse a wide variety of stalls which sell food, gifts, antiques, and other goods.

Yes, you can take fossils home that you find at Charmouth Beach – but if you find a dinosaur skeleton, it’s probably worth telling someone first!

 Fossils can be found at any point along Charmouth beach. We would recommend looking for fossils within the pebbles and sand on the beach itself, rather than the cliffs for safety reasons!

Yes, there are toilets available at Charmouth Beach. These toilets are attached to the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre building, however, if you wish to gain access to the disabled toilet, you must ask the office for the key.

Dogs are allowed to run around on East Beach all year round, whereas, on West Beach, dogs are restricted. Dogs are allowed on West Beach off lead from the 1^st of October to the 30^th of April, however, they are not permitted on the beach at any other time of year.

There are many pubs in and around Charmouth. Our favourite pubs in Charmouth include The George, Harbour Inn, River Cottage and Pilot Boat Inn.

The sea glass found at Charmouth beach has been smoothed out by the tide and rocks around the bay for decades, or even centuries. All the sea glass found at Charmouth Beach is very old. Many people visit Charmouth Beach to collect the sea glass found here, either for fun or for art and craft projects.

Yes, Charmouth Beach is safe to swim at low tide. The water here is particularly gentle and is very popular amongst families and sunbathers.

Charmouth Beach is two miles long and is divided into two beaches by the River Char – East Beach and West Beach.

The ammonites on Charmouh Beach are roughly 240 million years old. Did you know that ammonites are considered as being the first group of animals and are closely related to the modern-day squid?

The car parking charge at Charmouth Beach is £5 for a whole day and £3 for a stay of up to two hours. However, these prices may be subject to change.

The dinosaur that was found in Charmouth was the ‘Scelidosaurus’ (skel-eye-doh-sor-ous). Did you know that the Scelidosaurus is the best-preserved dinosaur to be found in the UK so far? It’s only ever been found in Charmouth and has never been found anywhere else in the whole world.

Charmouth Beach is a mixture of sand and small pebbles. The beach is also made up of fossils and sea glass too.

The cliffs at Charmouth Beach are made up of layers of mud, silt and clay. The layers built up over millions of years and are classified as sedimentary rocks. The layers turned to rock over millions of years of pressure from the layers above. This is one of the best places in the world for fossil hunting.

The South West Coast Path is 630 miles or 1,014km long. It starts at Minehead in Somerset and finishes at South Haven Point on the shores of Poole Harbour. It is the longest waymarked footpath in England.

It takes approximately 7-8 weeks to complete the whole route, depending on your walking speed. It is common for hikers to split the walk up into day walks, or enjoy short breaks to tackle various sections over the course of a couple of days. You might want to view it as a long term challenge – and tackle a couple areas of the path each year on your holidays or day-trips.

This is completely down to personal preference – we think it’s all great! The best section will depend on what you look for in a walk. The Jurassic Coast section in Dorset has something for everyone to enjoy including commanding clifftop views, quaint villages, wildlife, cultural and heritage attractions and excellent food and drink.

Some sections of the South West Coast Path are challenging and involve steep ascents and plenty of hills. Other sections are relatively flat and can be enjoyed by children or adults with limited mobility. We recommend taking a look at the South West Coast Path website before starting your walk. There you will find in depth guides detailing the terrain and required ability level. Routes are classified as easy, moderate or challenging.

The official stating point (or ending point) is at South Haven Point at Poole Harbour. It is marked by a commemorative sculpture, showcasing the different wildlife that can be seen along the route. You can join the route at any point and complete as much or as little of the path as you like.

The South West Coast Path Association has marked a number of Easy Access routes, selected because the paths are reasonably level (without steep gradients or significant cambers), relatively wide (at least 85cm wide) and mostly obstacle-free (without steps or stiles, but there may be some gates). These routes are designed to be usable by people with wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs. You can find out more about these routes on the official website.

Countryside Mobility South West have set up a number of locations in the South West where anybody with difficulty walking can hire an off-road mobility scooter to use on the path. We are pleased to have this scheme available at Highlands End Holiday Park, with hire available from the Park Reception.