West Bay Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Situated on the stunning Jurassic Coast in the county of Dorset, West Bay is a picturesque coastal town that offers visitors a delightful mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a rich history. With its towering cliffs, golden sandy beaches, and charming harbor, West Bay is a destination that captivates the senses and provides a truly memorable experience.

One of the main attractions of West Bay is its breathtaking coastline. The towering cliffs, formed over millions of years, offer magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can take leisurely walks along the cliff tops and marvel at the dramatic landscapes that have been featured in popular TV shows such as "Broadchurch". The golden sandy beaches provide the perfect spot for sunbathing, picnicking, or enjoying a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the English Channel.

For those seeking adventure, West Bay offers a wide range of outdoor activities. The town is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and even fishing. The harbor is a bustling hub of activity, with fishing boats coming and going, and visitors can try their hand at crabbing or simply watch the world go by from one of the charming waterfront cafes.

In addition to its natural beauty, West Bay also boasts a rich history. The town is steeped in maritime heritage, and visitors can explore the fascinating West Bay Discovery Centre to learn about the area's past. The iconic East Cliff, with its distinctive sandstone cliffs, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for history buffs.

After a day of exploring, visitors can indulge in the local culinary delights. West Bay is renowned for its seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants and pubs that offer fresh, locally caught fish and shellfish. Whether it's a traditional fish and chips by the harbor or a gourmet seafood feast, food lovers will be spoilt for choice.

Alternative names: Elevation: 3 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 50°42'40"N, 2°45'43"W

Location

EnglandUnited Kingdom

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West Bay Top Attractions

West Bay Attractions - What to See and Explore

West Bay offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: East Beach, Pier Terrace, Holy Trinity Old Church, Eype Mouth. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

50°42'33"N • 2°45'38"W
East Beach
Beach
50°42'37"N • 2°45'48"W
Pier Terrace
The Pier Terrace in West Bay, Dorset, was designed by the English Arts and Crafts architect Edward Schroeder Prior in 1884–85. It is a Grade II listed building. Pier Terrace is one of Prior's most important early buildings.
Church
Holy Trinity Old Church
Holy Trinity Old Church in Bothenhampton, Dorset, England was built in the 13th or 14th century. It is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade I listed building, and is now a redundant church in the care of the Churches Conservation Trust.

Day trips

West Bay – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of West Bay, it's worth seeing attractions such as: The Tank Museum (Bovington Camp), Stourhead, Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve.

23 milesE
History museum, Military museum, Museum
The Tank Museum, Bovington Camp
Nestled in the heart of Dorset, The Tank Museum in Bovington Camp stands as a formidable archive of armored warfare. This impressive establishment is not just a museum; it is a journey through the history of tanks and their impact on global conflicts.
34 milesNE
Scenic walking areas, Garden, History museum
Stourhead
Nestled in the verdant Wiltshire countryside, Stourhead is a stunning example of an 18th-century English landscape garden. This picturesque estate, with its classical architecture and tranquil lake, is often referred to as a living work of art.
30 milesW
Golf
Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve
Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve, located in the United Kingdom, is a site of remarkable natural beauty and biodiversity. This coastal haven stretches across 506 acres, encompassing a variety of habitats including sand dunes, grasslands, ponds, and marshes, which...
22 milesE
Natural limestone arch and iconic photo op
Durdle Door, Lulworth
Nestled on the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth in Dorset, United Kingdom, Durdle Door is a striking natural limestone arch that has become an iconic part of the British coastline. This geological wonder, sculpted by the relentless forces of the sea, is part of the...
17 milesSE
Sailing, Boat tours, Tours
Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, Isle of Portland
Nestled on the rugged coastline of the Isle of Portland in the United Kingdom, the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy is a premier event venue that has made a name for itself in the world of competitive sailing.