Weymouth has long been one of the most popular seaside resorts in Britain. Holidaymakers have been flocking to this corner of Dorset since King George III was a regular visitor more than 200 years ago. It isn’t hard to see why; the sheltered, shallow waters of its golden sandy beach are ideal for bathing, and Weymouth enjoys more sunshine than anywhere else in England, even in Winter. Weymouth’s central position also makes it a great base from which to visit the Jurassic Coast, with much of the coastline in both directions easily accessible.
How to Get There
Weymouth is easily accessible by bus, train and car. The Jurassic Coaster bus service stops at Weymouth, and there are also buses from Dorchester. Weymouth railway station has a direct line to London Waterloo, as well as connections to Bristol and Bath.
By road Weymouth is reached via the A354 which runs south from Dorchester. The A353 connects Weymouth with villages further east and the Isle of Purbeck.
Car Parking & Facilities
Weymouth offers a large choice of car parks both in town and on the harbourside. Visit Parkopedia for a full list and for information on charges.
There are numerous toilets available throughout Weymouth town and along the beachfront. Weymouth features a long promenade, and a flat sandy beach that is accessible by ramp, with matting available in some places.
Beach wheelchairs are free to hire with ID from beach control wardens located along the seafront. Accessible toilets are located throughout town and along the seafront.
There is a Changing Places Space toilet available at Kings Statue - DT4 7AN.
Beach Information & Dogs
Weymouth has a sheltered bay and sandy beaches. There are adjoining shingle beaches at Greenhill and Preston. Watersports are popular at Overcombe and Bowleaze Cove, further around the bay to the east of the town.
The gradual sloping seabed at Weymouth makes this one of the safest places to swim on the Jurassic Coast. Between May and September there are RNLI Lifeguards on patrol here, as well as First Aid, accessible facilities, Lost Children Services and Beach Attendants.
Dogs are not allowed on the main beach in Weymouth between Good Friday and 31 October. Dogs are permitted all year round within an allocated dog exercise area at the Pavilion end of the beach. There are no restrictions further East on the shingle beaches.
Things to See and Do
The fine Georgian Esplanade makes an impressive backdrop to the long arc of sand that is Weymouth Beach. The seafront houses a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, pubs, cafes, and small specialist shops. Weymouth is a great destination for a family day out, and there are always plenty of things to do, even on a rainy day.
Sailing
Weymouth is also one of the most popular sailing destinations on the south coast. Nearby Portland Harbour is home to the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, which was host to the sailing events of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Fleet Explorer
During the Summer months you can take a trip on the glass-bottomed Fleet Explorer from the Wild Chesil Centre, a great way to examine the marine life of the Fleet more closely.