The Jurassic Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline that spans 95 miles from East Devon to Dorset in England. It is a World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, its impressive geology, and its wealth of fossils. It is a popular destination for tourists, offering coastal walks, beaches, and a variety of attractions.
History of the Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast is a geological wonder, formed over millions of years. It is made up of a variety of rock strata from different periods of the Earth’s history. The rocks found here date from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods, thus giving the coast its name.
The coast is a rich source of fossils, with evidence of ancient marine life and land animals. The first fossils were discovered here in the 19th century, and since then, the area has become a popular destination for palaeontologists and fossil hunters.
Attractions at the Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast is a popular destination for tourists, offering a variety of attractions.
Coastal Walks
The Jurassic Coast is home to some of the most stunning coastal walks in the UK. The South West Coast Path runs along the entire length of the coast, offering spectacular views of the sea and cliffs. There are also a number of shorter walks, such as the Golden Cap walk, which offers stunning views of the coast.
Beaches
The Jurassic Coast is home to a number of stunning beaches. Lyme Regis is one of the most popular, with its iconic Cobb harbour and golden sands. Charmouth beach is also popular, with its fossil-rich cliffs and abundance of wildlife.
Fossils
The Jurassic Coast is a rich source of fossils, with evidence of ancient marine life and land animals. Fossil hunting is a popular activity on the coast, and there are a number of guided tours available for those interested in learning more about the fossils found here.
Geology
The Jurassic Coast is a geological wonder, with a variety of rock strata from different periods of the Earth’s history. There are a number of guided tours available for those interested in learning more about the geology of the coast.
Tips for Tourists Visiting the Jurassic Coast
- Wear suitable clothing and footwear for exploring the coast, as some of the walks can be steep and slippery.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch with a view of the coast.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
- Be aware of the tides when exploring the coast, as some areas can be cut off at high tide.
- Be aware of the wildlife, as the Jurassic Coast is home to a variety of birds and marine life.
- Be aware of the fossils, and take care not to disturb them or damage the cliffs.
- Check the weather before you visit, as some areas may be dangerous in bad weather.
Practical Information
The Jurassic Coast is open all year round, although some attractions may be closed during the winter months. There is no admission fee to visit the coast, however some attractions may require tickets. There are a number of guided tours available for those interested in learning more about the fossils, geology, and wildlife of the coast.
Conclusion
The Jurassic Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline that spans 95 miles from East Devon to Dorset in England. It is a World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, its impressive geology, and its wealth of fossils. It is a popular destination for tourists, offering coastal walks, beaches, and a variety of attractions. With its wealth of history, stunning views, and abundance of wildlife, the Jurassic Coast is a must-see destination for any visitor to England.
