Why you should walk the Jurassic Coast

Blog
Published: 20 June 2023
The Jurassic Coast is a beautiful stretch of the English coast and is hugely popular with beginner and experienced hikers alike.

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Phil Cottrell Digital Content Editor

Where is the Jurassic Coast?

The Jurassic Coast is a World Heritage Site that extends from Orcombe Point in Exmouth, Devon, and continues for 95 miles until Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage in Dorset. 

Why is it called the Jurassic Coast?

The Jurassic coast got its name from the amount of Jurassic rocks and fossils which can be found along the this stretch of the south coast of England. Despite being called the Jurassic Coast, the area is also known for Cretaceous and Triassic fossils too. 

Why is the Jurassic Coast so popular with walkers?

The many walking routes along the Jurassic Coast are a favourite with walkers for a number of reasons, from the opportunity to find fossils to the challenge of scaling challenge cliffs and from stunning views over the English Channel to exploring the pretty seaside towns that line this particular part of the south coast. 

Jurassic Coast highlights

View of Durdle Door from the top of the cliffs

Durdle Door

This magnificent, natural limestone arch near Lulworth which is one of the most iconic landmarks on the Jurassic Coast. 
View across a quiet Chesil beach with cliffs in the background and the sea

Chesil Beach

An incredible 18-mile-long shingle beach and natural sanctuary for thousands of birds and marine wildlife. The writer Ian McEwan was inspired to write a book bearing the beach’s name. 
Small boats in Lulworth Cove

Lulworth Cove

Lulworth Cove is world famous for its unique geology and landforms including the Lulworth Crumple and Stair Hole. 
View from the top of Golden Cap

The Golden Cap

At around 191 metres tall, these sheer cliffs are among the tallest on the south coast of England. Situated among Bridport and Charmouth, you can see miles out to sea on a clear day. Looking inland, you can see the rolling landscape of Lewesdon Hill.
View from the sea back to Lyme Regis

Lyme Regis

The quaint fishing town is an ideal spot for refreshment before scaling the cliff paths nearby. Popular as a holiday destination since before Victorian times, writers such as Thomas Hardy, John Fowles and Jane Austen have all been inspired to write about the place. The Cobb, a stone harbour wall, all helps add to the atmosphere of this historically significant town. 

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Interesting facts about the Jurassic Coast

The number one.

It was home to Mary Anning

The number two.

It is England’s first and only natural World Heritage Site

The number three.

It hasn’t always looked like it does now

The number four.

During World War II several sections of the Jurassic Coast became the property of the Ministry of War

The number five.

Things can get really hot!

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Phil Cottrell  

Digital Content Editor at Macmillan

Phil is an experienced writer who enjoys running, cycling, and hiking in the great outdoors. He is currently working on a range of fundraising content at Macmillan.