Best time to visit England

Jurassic Coast in England

Check out this awesome geological time capsule and take a big step back in time!

Best time: April–October

Jurassic Coast
Jurassic Coast
Jurassic Coast
Jurassic Coast
Jurassic Coast

Part of Devon and Dorset is otherwise known as the Jurassic Coast. The area stretches from Exmouth in East Devon all the way to Studland Bay in Dorset, a distance of about 154 km. It became the first World Natural Heritage Site. The length of the "dinosaur beach" is about 150 km. A feature of these rocks is the multi-million-year-old stratification of sedimentary rock layers, which shows practically the entire history of the Earth.

Walking along the cliffs from west to east, you can easily make a "journey through time" through three geological periods: Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous. In other words, it is a "time capsule" which contains 185 million years of the history of our planet. Go along the trails to see the most outstanding geological objects in England, including Durdle Door—a large arch of limestone, similar to a head of a dinosaur.

Lulworth is also home to the Fossil Forest, the remains of a 145-million-year-old Jurassic swamp forest where dinosaurs once walked. By the way, the association with the ancient lizards is not at all accidental. It was on this coast that the fossils of the Mesozoic era were found. The most grandiose finds here include the first dinosaurs, pterosaurs, and giant marine reptiles even more terrifying than T-rexes!

Today, thousands of people come to the coast not just to observe, but to hunt for bones, teeth, or other remains of extinct creatures.

Practical info

What is the best time of year to visit the Jurassic Coast?

The ideal window to explore the Jurassic Coast is from April to October as the weather is most favorable during this period. The area experiences the highest numbers during the summer peaks; therefore, preference for the off-peak periods is recommended if you want to avoid the crowds. It's an excellent time to savor the exquisite coastline, which extends over an area of 154 kilometers. Show more

How long is the coastline of the Jurassic Coast?

Extending over 154 kilometers, the Jurassic Coast stretches from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset. The area comprises jagged cliffs, beaches, and an abundance of breathtaking landscapes that showcase 185 million years of the Earth's history. Visitors can explore the geological features of the sedimentary rock layers that exhibit practically the entire history of the Earth. Show more

What are some of the geological periods visible on the Jurassic Coast?

The Jurassic Coast provides a unique and fascinating glimpse into history. Visitors have the opportunity to explore geological objects from three periods: Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous, each with its distinct characteristics. Tourists can discover a wealth of geological sites such as Durdle Door, a massive and ancient limestone arch resembling the head of a dinosaur. The area encapsulates 185 million years of Earth's history, making it an attractive destination for enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. Show more

Can visitors hunt for fossils on the Jurassic Coast?

Fossil hunting is a popular activity on the Jurassic Coast, attracting thousands of visitors annually. Unearthing interesting fossils is as easy as walking along the beach. However, there are guidelines to follow, as fossil hunting is closely regulated. Visitors must be cautious, and refraining from using chisels or hammers on the cliff face is paramount as they can cause irreversible damage to the fragile geological formations. Show more

What are some of the most significant dinosaur fossils found on the Jurassic Coast?

Several significant dinosaur fossils remain on display at local museums on the Jurassic Coast. Lulworth hosts the remains of the first dinosaurs, pterosaurs, and giant marine reptiles that make T-rexes look minuscule. An additional attraction is the Fossil Forest, the remnants of a 145-million-year-old Jurassic swamp forest, providing a rare peek into what was once the habitat of those enchanting creatures. Visitors can dig up more enthralling relics while exploring the amazing coast. Show more

Ask a question

Find hotels and airbnbs near Jurassic Coast (Map)

Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin