Kimmeridge Bay

Address: The Toll Hut, Kimmeridge Approach Road, Kimmeridge, Wareham BH20 5PF

Location

Kimmeridge Bay is a part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, located in Dorset, a short drive from Swanage.

What's There?

The bay features a rocky beach overlooked by steep cliff faces. It is designated as a marine Special Area of Conservation and with rockpools and clear waters, it's a popular destination for divers and snorkelers. The large waves and high wind speeds also make the bay a hot spot for surfers and windsurfers.

Fossil Hunting

Kimmeridge Bay might be most well-known for its fossils, which can be found in the aptly named Kimmeridge clay that falls from the cliffs as they are eroded. The bedrock was formed during the Late Jurassic era. Visitors are advised not to chisel at the cliffs themselves but only to pick up rocks that have already fallen.

This location was visited by Sir David Attenborough during the filming of his BBC documentary Attenborough and the Giant Sea Monster.

Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre

The Wild Seas Centre features a small aquarium and interactive displays that share information about the wildlife found in the bay. It's suitable for all ages and provides a wonderful view over the bay.

The centre is closed for the winter from November to March.

Click here to learn more about the Wild Seas Centre and its accessibility.

Parking

The main car park is large and overlooks the bay, with level gravel surfaces.

There is also parking available next to the public toilets as well as the wildlife centre.

All car parks are accessed via a toll road, with the following prices:

• Motor Cycles: £1.20

• Cars: £6

• Minibuses & Motor Homes: £12

• Coaches / Over 15 Seater: £24

• Vehicle with Trailer: £18

• Vehicle with boat / Canoe on Roof: £12

Accessibility

View from the visitor centre car park

Both car parks offer views over the bay. There are benches near the visitor centre, but not at the main car park.

Visitors may find the uneven surfaces challenging. It's an approximately 40-50 metre walk down two flights of stairs from the main car park to the beach.

There are accessible toilets and showers located in the slipway car park. Dogs welcome all year, off lead.

Conclusion

Kimmeridge Bay features spectacular views and an inviting discovery centre. The abundance of easily found fossils makes this location stand out for families with young kids as well as nature and history enthusiasts alike.

The relatively short distance down to the beach may suit visitors who struggle to walk long distances, but unfortunately the steep slopes make the bay inaccessible to visitors who rely on wheelchairs.