Dinosaur Coast

The Jurassic Coast is one of the most spectacular coastlines in England, and has recently been given World Heritage status in recognition of its geological importance.

The coast extends for 95 miles and takes in dramatic cliffs, spectacular arches and sea stacks.

This coastal scenery takes visitors on a 185 million year old journey. As the visitor moves along the coast from Exmouth to Stobden Bay, the dramatic story of the earth's formation unfolds. This is the finest record of the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods in the world.

East Devon is the oldest part of the Jurassic Coast, dating back to the Triassic period. Visitors to the whole area can enjoy fossil hunting in many of the beach locations.

Charmouth

Charmouth is one of the most famous Jurassic locations, renowned for its cliffs which are rich in fossils.

The cliffs are especially popular with fossil hunters. Fossils are largely found on the foreshore and at the base of scree slopes and slippages.

Most of the fossils are sea creatures and shellfish which date from a period when the coast was surrounded by a warm tropical sea. However, fossil detectives should check tide times and take care as the sea can cut off some locations.

Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre provides good facilities for geological and marine interpretation. Visitors can take a virtual dive beneath the waters of Lyme Bay and there are facilities for them to identify the fossils they have found.