Walking the Jurassic Coast

Explore the Jurassic Coast’s breathtaking landscapes with 30 inspiring walks between Exmouth and Bournemouth, revealing the world-famous geology and timeless beauty of Dorset and East Devon. Discover sweeping sea cliffs, fossil-rich beaches, hidden coves, and green inland ridgeways, where ancient earth history is etched into every headland and valley. Trace the shoreline between Torbay and Swanage, venture onto the Dorset Downs, and pause to uncover ammonites, fossil forests, and the dramatic story of a coastline shaped over 185 million years. Ideal for both new and experienced walkers, this comprehensive Cicerone guidebook features 30 walks ranging from 5 to 24km (3–16 miles), each designed to be completed in 2–8 hours. Whether you’re seeking a gentle seaside stroll, an easy morning on the downs, or a strenuous coastal hike with sweeping sea views, these routes showcase the diverse wonders of the Jurassic Coast, accessible from Exmouth, Sidmouth, Lyme Regis, Weymouth, Swanage, and beyond. Experience the best of the Jurassic Coast on foot, from the fossil beaches of Lyme Regis and the striking cliffs of Golden Cap and Portland Bill, to the tranquil valleys of Cerne Abbas and the iconic sweep of Chesil Beach. Enjoy year-round walking along the Jurassic Coast, explore green ridgeways in spring, bask on hidden coves in summer, marvel at colourful cliffscapes in autumn, and enjoy the brisk sea air of winter, with seasonal tips for making the most of your visit. Choose from 30 walks, each with a route summary, start and finish points, estimated walking time, and information on local facilities in towns and villages, including Exmouth, Sidmouth, Lyme Regis, Weymouth, and Swanage. Discover the rich geology and local points of interest along every Jurassic Coast walk, with timelines, cross-sections, and non-technical explanations bringing the rocks, fossils, and landscape to life, all key sites clearly marked on 1:50,000 OS maps. Walks range from easy rambles along the shoreline to challenging cliff-top hikes and inland adventures, all with downloadable GPX files and practical advice on accommodation, transport, and exploring the Jurassic Coast’s highlights. Explore over 95 miles (155km) of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, pause to spot ammonites, visit the fossil forest at Lulworth Cove, and end your day with a swim in the sea or an ice cream at a seaside café. Plan your Jurassic Coast adventure with confidence and enjoy this celebrated stretch of England’s coastline, where every step reveals a new story written in stone. With the definitive Cicerone guidebook, discover the best of Dorset and East Devon’s walking country at your own pace, in every season.

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