Jordan Hill Roman Temple
Discover the faint foundations of a 4th-century Roman temple with breathtaking panoramic views of Weymouth Bay and the Dorset coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer visitors, peaceful exploration
Jordan Hill Roman Temple
Best Time
Fewer visitors, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the faint foundations of a 4th-century Roman temple with breathtaking panoramic views of Weymouth Bay and the Dorset coast.
"Small remains, but great views of the countryside and out to sea."
🎯 Finding the Temple
Look for the path between houses or the sign near Bowleaze Cove road. It's not well-signposted!
🚗 Parking Advice
Limited on-site parking. Use the Bowleaze Cove car park for more options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Roman Temple Foundations
Jordan Hill
Explore the faint outlines of a 4th-century Romano-Celtic temple, a quiet glimpse into ancient history.
Panoramic Coastal Views
Hilltop overlooking Bowleaze Cove
Breathtaking vistas of Weymouth Bay, the Dorset coastline, and beyond, including the distant White Horse.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Temple
What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Finding the Temple
Look for the path between houses or the sign near Bowleaze Cove road. It's not well-signposted!
🚗 Parking Advice
Limited on-site parking. Use the Bowleaze Cove car park for more options.
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk
Consider walking from Weymouth along the coast for beautiful scenery.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning views of Weymouth Bay and the surrounding countryside.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Finding the Temple
Look for the path between houses or the sign near Bowleaze Cove road. It's not well-signposted!
🚗 Parking Advice
Limited on-site parking. Use the Bowleaze Cove car park for more options.
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk
Consider walking from Weymouth along the coast for beautiful scenery.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning views of Weymouth Bay and the surrounding countryside.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Jordan Hill Roman Temple to be a quiet historical site with impressive coastal views. While the Roman remains are minimal, the panoramic scenery and the peaceful atmosphere are highly praised. Some note that it's not well signposted and parking can be an issue, but the historical significance and natural beauty make it a worthwhile stop for many.
"Very quiet when I visited, worth the walk up the hill if you're interested in history. Great views on the new way up there. You can see the white horse at Osmington too."
C H
"A little bit of Roman history hidden behind some modern housing. Not well sign posted at all. Find the path up between the houses to the fields at the back and you have found the place. They be a bin with a badly placed sign saying "Roman Temple this way" at the side of the path on the main road down to Bowleaze cove. Also a nice spot for views looking out to sea and over towards Weymouth and Portman. For years I have been passing here and I never even knew they was a Roman Temple hidden behind the houses. Just a little bit of history located near a lovely location. Parking is mainly a no. Unless you park down on the Bowleaze cove car park."
Joe Smith
"Not much there to see but some great views of the countryside"
Sally Chinery
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is discreetly located behind modern housing. Travelers suggest looking for a path between houses leading to fields, or a bin with a sign near the main road down to Bowleaze Cove. It's not always well-signposted.
On-site parking is very limited. It's recommended to use the car park at Bowleaze Cove and then walk up to the site.
Yes, many visitors enjoy walking from Weymouth along the coastline, passing Greenhill Gardens, to reach the temple. This offers a scenic route.
The most common approach is via the path from the main road towards Bowleaze Cove, or by navigating through the residential area to find the field paths.
While specific bus routes directly to the temple are not widely advertised, you can likely reach the Bowleaze Cove area by bus and then walk to the site. Check local Weymouth bus schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Jordan Hill Roman Temple site is free. It's an open historical site.
As an outdoor historical site, there are no set opening hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for the best experience and views.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Jordan Hill Roman Temple.
No, it is not a ticketed attraction. It's a historical site that is freely accessible to the public.
No booking is required to visit the Jordan Hill Roman Temple.
📸 📸 Photography
The hilltop offers fantastic panoramic views of Weymouth Bay and the coastline, making it ideal for landscape photography. The temple foundations themselves can also be photographed, especially with the surrounding countryside.
Yes, the elevated position provides excellent opportunities for sunset photos over the sea and the bay.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and any signage on-site regarding drone operation before flying.
A camera with good landscape capabilities would be ideal to capture the expansive views. A wide-angle lens can be beneficial.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of the site and any other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy with the views, and perhaps bring a small history book or app to share some facts about Roman Britain with your children. The nearby Bowleaze Cove also offers a beach for playtime, making it a good combined outing.
🚶♀️ History Enthusiasts
While the remains are minimal, the historical context and the quiet, contemplative atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop. It's a place to appreciate the subtle layers of history present in the landscape, rather than expecting grand ruins.
📸 Photographers
While the temple foundations themselves are subtle, they can be incorporated into compositions to add a historical element to your photographs. The surrounding countryside also provides varied backdrops.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Jordan Hill Roman Temple
Today, visitors can see the discernible outline of the temple's walls, a testament to its past. While the structure itself is no longer standing, the foundations provide a tangible connection to the area's Roman heritage. The site offers a quiet space for reflection and a chance to imagine life in Roman Britain.
Archaeological interest in the site has been present for many years, with efforts to preserve and interpret its historical significance. It serves as a reminder of the Roman presence in Dorset and the cultural exchanges that occurred during that period.
Experiencing the Views and Surroundings
The surrounding countryside is also a draw, with rolling hills and picturesque landscapes. This makes the walk up to the temple, whether from Bowleaze Cove or along the coastal path from Weymouth, a pleasant experience in itself. The proximity to Bowleaze Cove also means you can easily combine a visit to the temple with a trip to the beach or a stop at a nearby cafe.
Many visitors find the combination of historical interest and natural beauty to be a compelling reason to visit. The quiet atmosphere, especially during off-peak times, allows for a peaceful appreciation of both the ancient ruins and the stunning natural scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit