The Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast
The West Dorset area is renowned for it’s Jurassic coastline and much of it is designated as an outstanding area of natural beauty. Breathtaking views are provided by countless rolling hills including: Golden Cap (the highest point on England’s south coast), Thorncombe Beacon, Lambert’s Castle Hill, Pilsdon Pen, Eggardon Hill, Hardy’s Monument and Maiden Castle.
Chideock
Chideock is a delightful village, 3 miles west of Bridport, with pretty thatched cottages, two traditional pubs, a shop and a church. The village has narrow country lanes leading to the beach at Seatown where the coastal path takes you to the Golden Cap, the highest point on the Jurassic Coast.
Seatown
The hamlet of Seatown, with shingle beach, is a 20 minute walk from Greenwich Cottage via winding lanes with just a few houses and thatched cottages (image to the side by local photographer, James Loveridge). Lovely coastal walks can be started here across the cliffs to Golden Cap on one side of the beach and Eype and West Bay to the other. The recently refurbished Anchor Inn, situated right next to the beach, is always a welcome landmark for thirsty walkers! The Anchor was where Julie Bradbury finished her popular Dorset walk with a view on ITV.
Bridport
The bustling market town of Bridport is 3 miles away from Chideock with many small independent retailers, restaurants, pubs and cafes. As well as a number of supermarkets, it has a thriving street market on Saturdays and Wednesdays.
West Bay
West Bay (main image above) is a busy working harbour about a mile away from Bridport. The small resort is nestled between the spectacular East and West cliffs. There is plenty to do and see with numerous bars, retaurants and entertainment for all the family. The popular TV program, Broadchurch, was filmed here in West Bay.
Lyme Regis
Lyme Regis is a beautiful seaside town approximately 7 miles from Chideock. Walk along the famous Cobb harbour or visit the many small boutique shops each side of the steep main street that runs through the town. Recent renovations to the promenade and public gardens have made Lyme Regis a really lovely place to visit.
Charmouth
Charmouth, approximately 3 miles from Chideock, is world famous for its fossils formed within Jurassic rocks 200 million years ago. The best finds can be found around the cliffs but check out the small museum above the fossil shop for good advice and tips on fossil hunting.