West Bay, Dorset: Short Guide for a Day Away to the Jurassic Coast Gem
Tucked away on the stunning Jurassic Coast in the south of England, about an hour’s scenic drive west of Bournemouth, the charming harbour village of West Bay is a destination that captures the heart of every visitor. Famous as the dramatic backdrop for the TV series Broadchurch, its soaring golden cliffs and pebble beaches are even more breathtaking in person. This guide will help you plan your perfect visit to this iconic slice of the British coast.
Welcome to West Bay
Forget boring motorways. The journey here is an adventure in itself. You’ll weave through a dramatic landscape of rolling hills, where every crest offers a breathtaking glimpse of the English Channel sparkling on the horizon, teasing you with what’s to come.
West Bay is a delightful small resort, sitting just south of its parent town, Bridport, and about 15 miles from the bustling port of Weymouth. It packs a serious punch for its size, boasting a charming pier, a lively harbour, a modern marina, and a host of attractions perfect for visitors of all ages. You’ll find every type of accommodation imaginable, from cosy guest houses and hotels to self-catering cottages and well-equipped camping parks. Best of all, this beautiful spot is the gateway to the world-famous Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches for nearly 100 magnificent miles.
Its story as a tourist destination began in 1884 when the railway was extended from Bridport to what was then known as Bridport Harbour. The new station was christened ‘West Bay’, and soon, elegant villas began to spring up, laying the foundation for the lovely town we see today. While the age of steam travel ended here in the 1960s, the legacy of that Victorian holiday boom lives on.
A Breathtaking Walk on the Jurassic Coast
We began our adventure straight from the seafront car park in West Bay – incredibly convenient and an absolute bargain at just £2 for all-day parking on a Sunday! While it can get very busy in the summer, there are plenty of other parking options nearby, so you’ll never be stuck.
Faced with a choice between the golden sands of the beach or the lofty coastal path, we opted for the best of both worlds: out along the water’s edge and back via the clifftops. Be warned, the coastal path is a proper workout, with exhilarating uphill and downhill segments that take you to dizzying heights of over 50 metres (160 feet)! Our goal was the Freshwater Holiday Park, a scenic 1.5-kilometre stroll from the start, before looping back.
A word to the wise: always pay attention to the warning signs. The iconic, golden East Cliff is a dynamic landscape, constantly shaped by erosion. A stark reminder came in 2019 when a massive 1,000-tonne cliff fall buried the beach below – a powerful testament to the raw force of nature.
Although our round trip was only about two miles, we spent a glorious two hours completing it. Why? Because you simply have to stop every few paces to take it all in! We were constantly reaching for our cameras, captivated by the ever-changing, spectacular views from the clifftop path. Our dog was in his element, too, though it’s worth noting that some beaches have seasonal dog restrictions.
As we made our return close to sunset on a slightly cloudy evening, the panoramic view from above was nothing short of magical. The sky was painted in hues of orange and pink, casting a beautiful light over the harbour – a truly unforgettable sight.
Pier, Marina & The Perfect Fish Supper
After our invigorating walk, we had worked up a proper appetite. But before seeking out dinner, we took a leisurely stroll along the pier and around the marina. It was fascinating to watch the evening ritual of boaters returning after a day at sea, carefully winching their vessels onto trailers.
The air around the small fish & chips kiosks lining the harbour was filled with the irresistible aroma of vinegar and frying fish. In a place famed for its fishing fleet, the choice was obvious: traditional fish and chips. We opted for the classic cod and chips, a steal at £5.70, and it did not disappoint. It was freshly cooked, beautifully flaky, and deliciously tasty – the perfect, happy ending to a fantastic day out on the magnificent Jurassic Coast.
In fact, we’ve repeated this adventure quite a few times since, and it’s never the same experience twice. The landscape is constantly changing, offering a new drama with the weather and the seasons, which is precisely why we keep coming back.
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