The Isle of Portland is the Jurassic Coast’s most southerly point, and is joined to the mainland by just a thin strip at the southern end of the sweeping arc of Chesil Beach. Its isolated location and beautiful scenery make it a real explorer’s island, while the comparatively mild climate enables a wide variety of flora and fauna to thrive.
The best way to explore this fascinating island is on foot. The South West Coast Path loops around the island, and there is an excellent network of inland pathways giving superb access to a wide variety of features. The buildings on the island are rich in history, while Portland Bill at the southern tip features no fewer than three lighthouse structures. Only one of these remains operational, and includes a recently refurbished visitor centre.
Many parts of the island, including the whole of the coastline, are designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Chesil Beach and the Fleet lagoon are of international conservation importance and are home to nearly 300 species of bird, over 30 species of butterfly and 720 species of moth.
Chesil Beach itself has intrigued geologists for centuries and is one of the finest examples of a barrier beach anywhere in the world. The excellent Wild Chesil Centre tells the story of the region’s unique geology.
How to Get There
There are regular bus services from Weymouth to Portland. The nearest railway station is Weymouth, about four miles north of the island, which connects to Dorchester, stations in Purbeck, and runs directly to London Waterloo.
By road the island is reached via the A354 which runs south from Dorchester.
Things to See and Do
Wild Chesil Centre
At the Fine Foundation Wild Chesil Centre, you can learn more about the formation of this huge barrier beach and the rich wildlife and history associated with it. There is a bridge from the Centre across the Fleet Lagoon to the great beach. The Fleet Explorer runs daily boat trips on the Fleet Lagoon in the summer months, weather permitting.
Portland Bill Lighthouse
Portland Bill Lighthouse is open to the public for tours, and features a visitor centre in the former lighthouse keeper's quarters. Tours for visitors last around 45 minutes, and it is possible to climb the 153 steps to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy the spectacular view across the Jurassic Coast.
to add an item to your Itinerary basket.
Visit Portland Museum and find out about the history of quarrying on Portland, and the world renowned building stone which has been used in many iconic buildings around the world including St Paul’s Cathedral and the UN buildings in New York.
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