History & Heritage

Embark on a journey through time along the Jurassic Coast, where history and heritage are etched into the very landscape. Discover ancient castles standing guard over the rugged coastline, historic villages where time seems to stand still, and centuries-old landmarks that tell tales of days gone by.

Delve into the rich tapestry of the area's past at one of the many museums and heritage centers that dot the coastline. Learn about the Jurassic Coast's pivotal role in maritime history, its contributions to the world of science, and the people who have shaped this unique region. From the fossil hunters who uncovered the secrets of prehistoric life to the literary figures who were inspired by its beauty, the coast's history is as diverse as it is fascinating.

Explore the remnants of Roman forts, walk the ancient paths trodden by smugglers and sailors, and visit the grand estates that have been home to English nobility. Each site offers a unique glimpse into the past, allowing you to step back in time and experience the rich cultural heritage that makes the Jurassic Coast a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But history on the Jurassic Coast is not just about looking back. It's about engaging with the past in a way that enlightens the present. Participate in reenactments, join guided historical tours, and attend talks and workshops that bring the coast's history to life. Whether you're a history buff, a curious explorer, or a family looking for an educational adventure, the historical attractions of the Jurassic Coast offer something for everyone. So come and uncover the layers of history that make the Jurassic Coast a destination like no other. From the echoes of ancient battles to the whispers of geological marvels, a world of heritage awaits.

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Dorset Museum

Address

High West Street, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1XA

Telephone
01305 756827

enquiries@dorsetmuseum.org

Dorchester

Come and explore 250 million years of history at the Dorset Museum!
Located in the centre of Dorchester, this award-winning Museum is one of the cultural centres of Dorset with four themed galleries, special exhibitions area, a library and a café.
Orcombe Point

Address

Exmouth, Devon, EX8 2DH

Exmouth

The rocks exposed at Orcombe Point embody the opening paragraphs of the story contained within the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. The Geoneedle monument found here marks the official start (or end if you prefer) of the World Heritage Site.
The Fine Foundation Wild Chesil Centre

Address

Ferrybridge, Beach Road, Portland, Dorset, DT4 9XE

Telephone
01305 206191

Portland

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.
Lulworth Fossil Forest

Address

As the Jurassic Period drew to a close, sea levels were falling. Shallow tropical seas gave way to coastal plains and for a brief period - around 145 million years ago - a forest grew in the area now known as Purbeck. The evidence for the existence…
Studland Bay - South Beach

Address

S W Coast Path, Studland, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 3AN

Swanage

South Beach in Studland Bay is a sandy beach, and is fairly narrow compared to neighbouring Studland beaches. As with other Studland Beaches, South Beach is very popular, particularly during peak periods.
Fairlynch Museum

Address

27 Fore Street, Budleigh Salterton, Devon, EX9 6NP

Budleigh Salterton

At the Fairlynch Museum (one of only a few thatched museums in the UK), you can find out about the ancient red cliffs of Budleigh Salterton which bridge the Permian/Triassic boundary, when the greatest mass extinction ever happened!
The Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre

Address

Kimmeridge, Dorset, BH20 5PF

Telephone
01929 481044

kimmeridge@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk

Kimmeridge

Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Wild Seas Centre sits on the shoreline of beautiful Kimmeridge Bay in the Purbeck Coast Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ), created to protect the very special marine life here.
West Bay Discovery Centre

Address

West Bay Rd, West Bay, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4EN

Telephone
01308 427288

Bridport

West Bay Discovery Centre tells the story of West Bay past and present featuring information, static and interactive displays, oral history and walking trails. There is something of interest for all visitors and ages. It also aims to provide…
The Fine Foundation Heritage Centre, Beer

Address

Sea Hill, Beer, Devon, EX12 3EE

Beer

Come to the Fine Foundation Heritage Centre Beer to discover the story of the local geology, from the pebbles on the beach to the famous Beer Stone, used in buildings all over the country... and even for experiments in space.
Beaminster Museum

Address

Whitcombe Road, Beaminster, Dorset, DT8 3NB

Telephone
01308 863623

info@beaminstermuseum.co.uk

Beaminster

Beaminster Museum in West Dorset is a small museum of local history, which visitors from far and wide have declared "delightful" and "fascinating", with plenty to see and do for all ages.
Sidmouth Toy & Model Museum

Address

The Old Chapel, Chapel Street, Sidmouth, Devon, EX10 8ND

Telephone
07858 448444

Info@sidmouthtoymuseum.com

Sidmouth

The Sidmouth Toy & Model Museum first opened in August 2020. The museum contains the collection of vintage and modern toys and models collected by Ian and Rebecca Gregory over a period of 40 years.
Swanage Museum & Heritage Centre

Address

The Square, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2LJ

Telephone
01929 421427

Swanage

In the Swanage Museum and Heritage Centre, formerly the old seafront market building, you can see dinosaur footprints and discover more about the local stone industry, as well as the eminent Victorians from Swanage who all had their roots in the…
Tout Quarry

Address

Tout Quarry, Portland, Dorset, DT5 2LN

Portland

Discover over 60 hidden sculptures in Tout Quarry, one of only two remaining on Portland where the famous Portland Stone was quarried using old methods.
Lyme Regis Museum

Address

Bridge Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3QA

Telephone
01297 443370

Lyme Regis

Enjoying a stunning seafront location on the world-famous Jurassic Coast with fantastic views over Lyme Bay.
At Lyme Regis Museum you’ll find fossils galore in the new interactive geology gallery, a new learning centre (great fun for families),…
The Etches Collection

Address

Kimmeridge, Dorset, BH20 5PE

Telephone
01929 270000

Kimmeridge

The Etches Collection: Museum of Jurassic Marine Life opened in the village of Kimmeridge in October 2016. The museum houses the remarkable collection of one man’s passion, bringing to life the stories from deep time through an amazing collection of…
Lulworth Cove Visitor Centre

Address

Main Road, West Lulworth, Dorset, BH20 5RQ

Telephone
01929 400587

West Lulworth

The displays, animations and films in the Lulworth Cove Visitor Centre tell the story of Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, two of the most iconic geological features on the Jurassic Coast.
Spyway Dinosaur Footprints

Address

Langton Matravers, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 3HG

info@jurassiccoast.org

Swanage

Hidden away in Purbeck, within a stone's throw of the Jurassic Coast, is the Spyway Dinosaur Footprints. Nestled alongside a working quarry, and easily accessible from the Priest's Way walking path, these incredible footprints were made by Jurassic…
The Ammonite Pavement

Address

Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3RH

Lyme Regis

Taking a short walk west along Monmouth Beach at low tide will bring you to the Ammonite Pavement - a number of limestone ledges, washed clear by the sea.
Durlston Country Park

Address

Lighthouse Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2JL

Telephone
01929 424443

Swanage

Located one mile from Swanage, Durlston Country Park is a 280 acre countryside paradise with stunning views, hay meadows and coastal downland, the historic Great Globe and a wealth of bird and wildlife including regular sightings of dolphins.
Portland Museum

Address

217 Wakeham, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1HS

Telephone
01305 821804

Portland

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.