West Bay Harbour and Cliffs
Iconic golden cliffs and a charming working harbour on the Jurassic Coast, famous for fossils and the 'Broadchurch' TV series.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
West Bay Harbour and Cliffs
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic golden cliffs and a charming working harbour on the Jurassic Coast, famous for fossils and the 'Broadchurch' TV series.
"Dramatic, constantly eroding golden sandstone cliffs forming one of the most recognisable views on the Dorset coastline."
⚠️ Respect Cliff Safety
Never climb unstable cliffs. Landslides are a real risk. Stay on marked paths. :warning:
🚗 Parking Tips
Paid parking available. Arrive early to avoid queues, especially in summer. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Sandstone Cliffs
West Bay
Towering, dramatic golden cliffs that are a signature of the Jurassic Coast. Rich with fossils!
Working Harbour
West Bay Harbour
A charming, active fishing harbour with boats and local charm. A step back in time.
Fossil Hunting
Beach below the cliffs
Hunt for ammonites and other ancient treasures on the beach, a true Jurassic Coast experience.
Broadchurch Filming Location
West Bay
Explore the iconic scenery that served as the backdrop for the popular TV drama 'Broadchurch'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cliff Safety First
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⚠️ Respect Cliff Safety
Never climb unstable cliffs. Landslides are a real risk. Stay on marked paths. :warning:
🚗 Parking Tips
Paid parking available. Arrive early to avoid queues, especially in summer. :car:
🌊 Check Tide Times
Be aware of tides to avoid getting cut off when beachcombing. :ocean:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Gravel beach and cliff paths require sturdy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
⚠️ Respect Cliff Safety
Never climb unstable cliffs. Landslides are a real risk. Stay on marked paths. :warning:
🚗 Parking Tips
Paid parking available. Arrive early to avoid queues, especially in summer. :car:
🌊 Check Tide Times
Be aware of tides to avoid getting cut off when beachcombing. :ocean:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Gravel beach and cliff paths require sturdy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Iconic Views
Capture the dramatic cliffs and harbour. Best light is often early morning or late afternoon. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the dramatic golden cliffs and the charming working harbour of West Bay. It's a popular spot for fossil hunting and offers iconic scenery, famously featured in 'Broadchurch'. While parking can be pricey and cliffs require caution, the overall experience is described as a charming, low-key English seaside adventure.
"This review is for the cliffs only.
They're currently dangerous with some risks of land slide. You're not allowed to walk up on them.
You can walk below them on the small grainy beach.
This part of the beach is accessible for dogs.
Parking is 2 minutes away.
Quite stunning to look at but caution is needed around the unstable lower parts of the cliffs."
R J
"Featuring an enormous gravel dune this is a lovely beach. The gravel is very small so not uncomfortable to sit on and easy to brush off. The cliffs are impressive. Quite a lot of people swimming on a hot day. Local rowing crews come out and row from the harbour which is a rather charming sight. West bay is a step back in time, a rather charming English experience in a low key way. Fish and chips, pubs, ice creams, camping, a river , beaches, a harbour and somewhat overpriced parking but well worth a visit."
James Macdonald
"Dramatic, constantly eroding golden sandstone cliffs forming one of the most recognisable views on the Dorset coastline.
The indented cliff face towers above the beach, and is rich with fossils as befits the Jurassic Coast. Long walks are possible along the beach or cliffs towards Burton Bradstock. Heading east you'll fairly quickly escape the crowds around West Bay beach.
Plenty of paid parking is available around West Bay, with reasonable short stay charges if you're just looking to see the iconic view along the coast. There's no shortage of cafés, restaurants and amusements in West Bay for families looking to spend longer here."
Andrew Thomas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
West Bay is easily accessible by car, with several paid parking lots near the harbour and beach. Public transport options include buses from Bridport. The nearest train station is in Dorchester, requiring a further bus or taxi journey.
Yes, there are multiple car parks around West Bay, including the Street Car Park and Harbour Car Park. Charges apply, and they can get busy during peak times.
Yes, you can enjoy a pleasant walk from Bridport to West Bay, which takes about 30-40 minutes. The route follows the River Brit and is relatively flat.
The harbour area and promenade are generally accessible. However, the gravel beach and cliff paths can be challenging for wheelchairs.
The nearest town is Bridport, located about 1.5 miles inland. Bridport offers additional amenities, shops, and accommodation options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to visit West Bay Harbour and Cliffs. Access to the beach and harbour area is free. Parking fees apply.
West Bay is a public area and is accessible at all times. However, facilities like shops and cafes have their own operating hours.
No, booking tickets is not required for general access to West Bay. Activities like boat trips or specific tours may require advance booking.
Yes, visitors are strongly advised not to climb on the cliffs due to the risk of landslides. Stick to designated paths and be aware of safety warnings.
While the area is accessible, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety, especially when navigating the beach and cliffs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy beachcombing, fossil hunting, walking along the beach or cliffs, swimming (weather permitting), and exploring the charming harbour.
Absolutely! Families love West Bay for its beach, fossil hunting opportunities, and the iconic Broadchurch connection. There are also amusements and cafes.
Yes, swimming is popular on sunny days, but be aware of currents and conditions. Always swim in designated safe areas if available.
Dogs are welcome on the beach below the cliffs, especially on the gravelly sections. Check local signage for any specific restrictions.
The beach is primarily a large gravel dune, which is easy to walk on and brush off. It's a distinctive feature of the Jurassic Coast.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
West Bay offers a variety of dining options, including fish and chip shops, pubs, cafes, and restaurants, many with harbour views.
Yes, West Bay is known for its excellent fish and chips, a must-try when visiting this seaside harbour town.
While seafood is prominent, many establishments offer vegetarian and vegan choices. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff.
Yes, the beach and harbour areas provide great spots for picnics. You can purchase supplies from local shops or bring your own.
Prices can vary, but expect typical seaside town costs. Fish and chips are generally reasonably priced, while some restaurants might be more upscale.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic golden cliffs, the harbour with its boats, and the iconic Broadchurch filming locations offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, provides the most stunning light on the sandstone cliffs. Midday can be harsh.
Seals are sometimes spotted in the waters around West Bay. Be respectful and maintain a safe distance if you're lucky enough to see them.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive cliffs and harbour. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant wildlife.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near the cliffs and harbour. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The harbour offers a chance to see fishing boats, and the 'Broadchurch' connection can add an extra layer of intrigue for older children. There are plenty of fish and chip shops and ice cream parlours to keep everyone happy, and the relatively flat harbour area is good for little legs. Just remember to keep a close eye on children near the water and be mindful of the cliff edges.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Be sure to wear appropriate footwear as the terrain can be uneven and gravelly. Always check tide times before setting off on longer beach walks, as some areas can become cut off.
📸 Photographers
The working harbour, with its colourful boats and reflections, provides endless composition opportunities. Don't forget to capture the iconic 'Broadchurch' scenery.
For those interested in geology, close-ups of the fossil-rich rocks can also make for fascinating shots. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the grand scale of the cliffs and coastline. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Jurassic Coast
+1Visitors can walk along the beach, keeping a close eye on the tide, or explore designated cliff-top paths for panoramic views. The unique geology means the landscape is ever-changing, offering a dynamic experience for repeat visitors. Remember that the cliffs are unstable, and safety should always be the top priority.
Beyond the fossils, the Jurassic Coast offers incredible opportunities for coastal walks. You can head east towards Burton Bradstock to escape the immediate crowds around West Bay, or explore further afield. The sheer scale and beauty of the coastline make it a must-visit for nature lovers and geology enthusiasts alike.
The Charm of West Bay Harbour
This area is also famous for being the primary filming location for the popular ITV crime drama Broadchurch. Fans of the show can easily recognize the distinctive harbour and cliffside views that formed the backdrop for the series.
The proximity of the harbour to the beach and cliffs makes it incredibly convenient for visitors, with plenty of cafes, pubs, and fish and chip shops lining the waterfront, perfect for a post-exploration refuel. The harbour is also a departure point for various boat trips, offering a different perspective of the coastline. Whether you're interested in the local fishing heritage, the allure of 'Broadchurch', or simply enjoying the seaside atmosphere, West Bay Harbour provides a focal point for your visit.
Fossil Hunting Adventures
+1To make the most of your fossil hunting expedition, it's crucial to check the tide times. Low tide reveals more of the beach and increases your chances of finding treasures. Wear sturdy footwear, as the beach is primarily gravel, and be prepared to spend time searching amongst the rocks and debris.
While finding a significant fossil is exciting, remember that the thrill is in the search itself. Even if you don't unearth a spectacular specimen, the experience of beachcombing along this historic coastline is incredibly rewarding. Always be mindful of the cliff safety warnings and avoid disturbing the natural environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit