Kimmeridge Bay

Kimmeridge Bay is part of the Jurassic Coast and its geology is world-renowned. Rocky shale and comentstone reefs make the area a key habitat and the bay is a designated Marine Nature Reserve.

Where is it? Take and B3075 south through Wareham and follow road signs to Kimmeridge.

Best features: Although there are no sandy beaches the sheltered bay is good for swimming, diving, surfing and windsurfing. Large ledges act as natural jetties for wandering along to explore marine wildlife. It is one of the best places in the country to go rock pooling. Dorset Wildlife Trust runs a marine centre which is open every day in summer – 01929 481044.

Local facilities and shops: Village shop approximately 20 minutes walk away. An ice cream van visits throughout the summer.

Great for the kids? The marine centre has displays showing the kind of wildlife to be found in the bay and organises children’s events.

How far are the loos? There is a disabled access toilet down at the Marine Centre.

Parking: Space for approximately 1,000 cars. The land is part of a privately owned estate and it costs £3 to access the bay via a toll road. There is very limited access for disabled drivers/passenger etc down by the Marine Centre. The gate is often locked and entry gained by phoning the Centre on 01929 481044

Public transport: There are no daily links. Other points of interest: The name Kimmeridgian is used around the world to describe rocks the same age as those at Kimmeridge (approximately 150 million years old).

Wet weather options:

The Margaret Green Foundation at Church Knowle Animal sanctuary and rehoming centre with cats, horses, pigs, sheep and more – open every day 10am to 4pm. 01929 480474.

Tyneham Village Evacuated to make way for military preparations for World War Two, this “ghost village” is open weekends 10am-4pm and every day July 24-September 3.