The Jurassic Coast, located on the south coast of Great Britain, is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site in England, known for its impressive fossil hunting opportunities and breathtaking landscapes. This beautiful region includes must-see spots like Old Harry Rocks, Durdle Door, and dramatic cliffs, which you can explore without any entry fee—just remember there might be a charge for parking. It’s a fantastic place to visit whether you’re budgeting or indulging in a little splurge, and you’re sure to enjoy fossil hunting along the coast.
To start your adventure, head to the Jurassic Coast’s 96-mile stretch, which runs from Orcombe Point to Old Harry Rocks. This area is easily reachable, about a 2.5-hour drive from Central London or via direct train from London Waterloo Station. Trains from other UK towns and cities might require a transfer. However, having a car is often the best way to explore since it offers the freedom to visit more remote spots where public transport might fall short.
Charmouth Beach is one of the best places on the Jurassic Coast for fossil hunting, offering plenty of chances to find fossils that are millions of years old. The area is unique, showcasing layers from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods, and it provides a glimpse into almost 200 million years of history.
If you’re new to fossil hunting, like I was, it might be worth joining a guided tour. We went with Martin from Jurassic Coast Guides, who taught us how to correctly identify and find fossils on the beach. Without this guidance, I doubt I would have found anything on my own. After our lesson, we were able to spot a variety of fossils, including ammonites, belemnites, and crinoids—sometimes even rare dinosaur bones can be found, though that is quite uncommon.
To increase your chances of finding fossils, keep an eye out for unique shapes and give yourself plenty of time, as patience is crucial. While exploring places like Charmouth Beach, be aware of the tides as they can be dangerous. Always walk along the beach at safe times and avoid walking too close to the cliffs due to potential landslides and rockfalls.
Fossil hunting guidelines forbid digging or excavating on the beach or cliffs, but any fossils you find on the surface without digging are yours to keep, unless it’s a massive discovery like a T-Rex, which the government might have an interest in. While searching for fossils is free, remember to bring some change for parking. If you opt for a guided tour, the cost will depend on whether you choose a group or private walk. Contact Jurassic Coast Guides for the latest pricing details.
Aside from fossil hunting, the entire Jurassic Coast is a sight to behold. During your visit, be sure to check out iconic places like Old Harry Rocks, Corfe Castle, Durdle Door, and West Bay, famous for its towering cliffs. For accommodations, consider staying at HIX Townhouse in Lyme Regis, and don’t miss dining at The Pig On The Beach near Old Harry Rocks, known for its excellent food.
Discover more of England’s charm by exploring other stunning locations, and check out our list of the 19 prettiest and best places to visit in the country.
