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.
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
Durdle Door
This magnificent, natural limestone arch near Lulworth which is one of the most iconic landmarks on the Jurassic Coast.
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.
Lulworth Cove
Lulworth Cove is world famous for its unique geology and landforms including the Lulworth Crumple and Stair Hole.
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.
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.
Top attractions to visit near the Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike
Both routes take in some of the most scenic and famous spots along the Dorset coast. Starting in the beautiful and historic seaside town of Weymouth, Team Macmillan hikers make their way along the stunning Dorset Coast, England's first natural World Heritage Site. Along the way sites include Ringstead Bay, Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.
The full marathon distance then moves further inland and takes in sites such as Clare Towers as the route snakes its way through the wonderful Dorset countryside before taking in Corfe Castle towards the end of the challenge.
For those who want to spend more time in Dorset and the Jurassic Coast there are a number of great attractions in the area that include coastal towns such as Bournemouth, Poole and Swanage, Abbotsbury Swannery, Monkey World in Wareham and The Tank Museum an Bovington Camp.
Interesting facts about the Jurassic Coast
It was home to Mary Anning
It is England’s first and only natural World Heritage Site
It hasn’t always looked like it does now
During World War II several sections of the Jurassic Coast became the property of the Ministry of War
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.