If the Jurassic Coast’s globally-significant geology is what drew you to Dorset, Kimmeridge Bay is the place to visit.
Its dramatic cliffs, unique rock formations and abundance of fossils reveal the rich history of this special area of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
Kimmeridge Bay is the perfect spot to pick about in rock pools and take your family fossil-hunting.
With its calm, shallow waters, the bay is also a popular place for kayaking, snorkelling and other water sports.
Fossil museum
Combine your trip with a visit to the nearby museum and education centre to learn all there is to know about fossils, geology and just how important Kimmeridge Bay is to the story of the Jurassic Coast.
The Etches Collection Museum of Jurassic marine life is the first port of call for any fossil enthusiast. Curated by resident expert fossil hunter Dr Steve Etches the small but perfectly formed museum features an interactive exhibits, video guides and the chance to look around Dr Etches’ lab.
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- Step back in time at the fossil collection at the Etches Museum in Kimmeridge
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- Examine ammonites and other finds
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- Check out the displays showing dinosaurs brought to life
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- Learn about the dinosaurs that once lived here
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- The world’s first fossilised ammonite eggs were found in Kimmeridge Bay
The magic of this museum is that every fossil, ammonite and dinosaur tooth in the display was found in and around Kimmeridge Bay itself, making it a truly local ‘Deep Time’ adventure.
Visit the museum shop for some dinosaur and fossil-themed merchandise.
Interactive marine centre
The Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre at Kimmeridge is a great way to discover everything that the bay has to offer.
From interactive displays to underwater snorkel trails, there are plenty of ways to learn about Kimmeridge’s sea creatures and habitats.
The centre has a small shop and picnic area, as well as toilet (including disabled) facilities.
Opening hours
Wednesday – Sunday 11am – 4pm (closed for lunch 1-1.30pm)
Note that the the Wild Seas Centre is closed from November to March.
Safety advice
As with all areas of the UK coastline, it’s best to keep a sensible distance from the cliff edge.
If you have an adventurous dog who fancies himself as a rock climber, keep a close eye or a lead on hand as it can get quite uneven for little legs.
How to get to Kimmeridge Bay
For your SatNav: BH20 5PF
From Swanage
Follow the A351, turning left after Corfe Castle down the towards Church Knowle. Continue until you see signs for Kimmeridge.
From Wareham
There are two routes from Wareham: Via the A351 and Grange Road, or via the B3075 and Furzebrook Road.
There are currently no bus services that go to Kimmeridge.
Access and parking
Kimmeridge Bay is accessed via a toll road at £5.
Parking is then free for both the bay and the Wild Seas Centre.
Nearby points of interest
- Steeple – The church in this tiny hamlet and walking routes through the Purbeck Hills makes for a lovely, quiet explore
- Church Knowle – A pretty village with a pub, children’s play area and the Margaret Green Animal Rescue Centre
- Tyneham – A short drive from Kimmeridge is the ‘ghost village’ of Tyneham
- East Creech – The picture-postcard hamlet of East Creech is a wonderful way to wile away an hour with its pretty duck pond and tea room that serves freshly-baked scones. There are also good walking routes into the Purbeck hills from here
