
Monmouth Beach
Discover ancient fossils on the stony shores of Monmouth Beach, a gem of the Jurassic Coast.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Reveals fossil treasures

Monmouth Beach
Best Time
Reveals fossil treasures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient fossils on the stony shores of Monmouth Beach, a gem of the Jurassic Coast.
"A true treasure trove for fossil hunters, Monmouth Beach offers a unique glimpse into prehistoric life."

🪨 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The beach is stony, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring.
⏰ Check Tide Times
Low tide is crucial for fossil hunting. Plan your visit accordingly!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Fossil Imprints
Stony shoreline
Discover countless ancient ammonites and belemnites embedded in the rocks. A true geological wonder!

Black Ven Beach Exploration
Adjacent to Monmouth Beach
Explore the rich fossil beds of Black Ven, known for its diverse finds like crinoid stacks and pyritised ammonites.

Coastal Scenery
Shoreline
Enjoy the rugged beauty of the Jurassic Coast, with dramatic cliffs and the vast expanse of the sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fossil Hunting Fun
Beach Access & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🪨 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The beach is stony, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring.
⏰ Check Tide Times
Low tide is crucial for fossil hunting. Plan your visit accordingly!
⛏️ Bring Fossil Hunting Tools
A small hammer and chisel can help uncover hidden gems. Be gentle!
🌊 Pack for the Weather
Coastal weather can change quickly. Layers and waterproofs are advisable.
Tips
from all over the internet
🪨 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The beach is stony, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring.
⏰ Check Tide Times
Low tide is crucial for fossil hunting. Plan your visit accordingly!
⛏️ Bring Fossil Hunting Tools
A small hammer and chisel can help uncover hidden gems. Be gentle!
🌊 Pack for the Weather
Coastal weather can change quickly. Layers and waterproofs are advisable.
📸 Capture the Views
The coastline offers stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunrise/sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Monmouth Beach for its incredible fossil hunting opportunities, calling it a 'treasure trove' for geology enthusiasts. The unique stony shoreline and the chance to discover ancient ammonites and belemnites are major draws. However, some find the lack of sandy areas and limited amenities a drawback, suggesting it's more suited for active exploration than traditional beach lounging.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Monmouth Beach is located in Lyme Regis, Dorset. You can reach Lyme Regis by car via the A3052. There are several car parks available in Lyme Regis, with varying walking distances to the beach. Public transport options include train to nearby stations like Axminster, followed by a bus service.
Parking in Lyme Regis can be challenging, especially during peak season. There are several pay-and-display car parks in the town, such as the Charmouth Road car park or the Cobb Gate car park. Be prepared for a walk to the beach from most parking areas.
No, you cannot drive directly onto Monmouth Beach. Access is typically on foot from the town of Lyme Regis. The terrain is stony, so consider this when planning your visit.
Many visitors find it easiest to park in Lyme Regis town and walk down to the beach. This allows for flexibility and avoids potential parking issues right at the beach.
Yes, you can take a train to Axminster station and then catch a local bus service (e.g., the X53) to Lyme Regis. From the bus stop in Lyme Regis, it's a walk to Monmouth Beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Monmouth Beach is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee. You are free to explore and enjoy the shoreline at your leisure.
Monmouth Beach is accessible at all times. However, for the best fossil hunting experience, it's recommended to visit during low tide.
There is no admission fee for fossil hunting at Monmouth Beach. The thrill of discovery is free!
While not directly managed by the beach, guided fossil hunting tours are often available in Lyme Regis. These tours can provide valuable insights and increase your chances of finding significant fossils.
To avoid crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially outside of school holidays. Visiting during low tide on a weekday is often ideal.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Monmouth Beach is a stony beach, not a sandy one. It's famous for its Jurassic Coast geology and the abundance of fossil imprints.
You can find a variety of Jurassic-era fossils, including ammonites, belemnites, and sometimes even fragments of marine reptiles. Black Ven Beach, adjacent to Monmouth Beach, is particularly rich in fossils.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes as the beach is stony. Layers of clothing are recommended as coastal weather can be unpredictable.
Facilities at Monmouth Beach itself are minimal. You'll find public toilets in Lyme Regis town, but it's best to bring your own food, drinks, and any other essentials.
Monmouth Beach is not ideal for swimming due to its stony nature and potential currents. It's primarily visited for fossil hunting and enjoying the coastal scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic Jurassic coastline, the intricate fossil imprints in the rocks, and the expansive sea views offer fantastic photographic subjects. Sunrise and sunset can create particularly stunning light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the coastal landscapes. If you're serious about fossils, a macro lens can help capture the details of your finds. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography at Monmouth Beach. However, always be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but can work for highlighting fossil details.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Lyme Regis Powerboat Club for any specific rules regarding drone operation in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear for the stony beach and supervise them closely, especially near the water. Visiting during low tide is crucial for maximizing fossil-finding opportunities and ensuring a safer experience.
💎 Fossil Enthusiasts & Geologists
Consider bringing specialized tools for careful extraction and documentation. Respecting the site's integrity and adhering to any local guidelines for fossil collection is paramount. Many enthusiasts find that guided tours led by local experts provide the most in-depth understanding and access to prime fossil-bearing locations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Fossil Hunting
Many visitors recommend exploring Black Ven Beach, which is adjacent to Monmouth Beach, as it's known for yielding even more diverse finds, including crinoid stacks and pyritised ammonites. While you can find fossils with your bare hands, a small hammer and chisel can be useful for carefully extracting specimens. Remember to be respectful of the environment and only take what you can legally and ethically collect.
For those new to fossil hunting, consider joining a guided tour. Local experts can share invaluable knowledge about identifying fossils and the best spots to search, making your experience more rewarding and educational.
Understanding Monmouth Beach's Unique Landscape
The landscape is shaped by the powerful forces of the sea, creating a dramatic coastal environment. The cliffs overlooking the beach are part of the impressive Jurassic Coast, offering breathtaking views. It's a place where the raw power of nature is on full display, from the crashing waves to the ancient rocks.
Due to its stony nature, sturdy, closed-toe footwear is essential for anyone planning to explore Monmouth Beach. This will ensure comfort and safety as you navigate the terrain.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit