Jurassic Coast Scenic Drive

Embark on a journey of a lifetime and explore the Jurassic Coast Scenic Drive. Starting in Dorchester, England, this 72-mile drive takes you through Weymouth and Wareham, offering breathtaking views of the English countryside. You'll have the chance to explore the rugged coastline, picturesque beaches, and quaint towns along the way. It's best to take your time and explore this route over two days, as there are plenty of sights to take in. The roads are in good condition, but parts of the route are curvy and narrow, so take extra care when driving. The best time to take this route is during the summer months, when you can enjoy the warm sunshine and mild temperatures. As you make your way along the route, you'll be amazed by the stunning landscapes and picturesque beaches. This road trip is perfect for all drivers, no matter your budget or experience level. You'll create memories that last a lifetime and there's no better way to explore the English countryside. So, start planning your Jurassic Coast Scenic Drive today!

Dorchester is the perfect starting point for a road trip along the stunning Jurassic Coast Scenic Drive. Located in the south of England, Dorchester is a charming market town with an array of attractions for visitors to explore. The town is home to a great selection of shops, eateries, and cultural sites. Highlights include the Tutankhamun: Wonder of the Age exhibition, which features a number of interesting artifacts from the tomb of the Pharaoh. The town is also home to a number of historic buildings, including the magnificent Dorchester Abbey and the Keep Military Museum. For those traveling to Dorchester by air, the closest international airport is Bristol Airport (BRS). From here, it's an easy drive to Dorchester, making it the perfect starting point for the Jurassic Coast Scenic Drive. Car rental services are available at the airport, allowing visitors to explore the region with ease. Whether you're looking to explore the region's stunning coastline, sample some of the area's delicious local cuisine, or simply enjoy the charming atmosphere of a traditional English market town, Dorchester is the perfect destination for your next road trip.

Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Starting in Dorchester, England, you will embark on a 19 mile journey that will take you less than an hour to complete. Along the way, you'll experience the rich history and stunning beauty of the countryside. As you travel, keep an eye out for the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. Don't forget that some sections of the road may be narrow! As you make your way to Abbotsbury, be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. When you arrive in Weymouth, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the coastline. The journey is sure to be an unforgettable experience! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Let's hit the road!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Weymouth to Wareham! Along the way, you will pass through Ringstead and West Lulworth, two charming English villages. The journey is only 36 miles and should take no more than two hours to complete. Enjoy the winding roads, with scenic views of the countryside, and keep an eye out for narrow sections of the road. There are plenty of attractions to explore in each of the three locations, so make sure to take advantage of the opportunity. In Ringstead, visit the old church and the historic manor. In West Lulworth, explore the stunning coastline of Lulworth Cove and the nearby Durdle Door. Finally, in Wareham, take a stroll around the ancient town walls and explore the quaint streets. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the ‘Itinerary’ of this stage.

Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing journey through Wareham, Corfe Castle, and Swanage. This 17mi route will take you less than two hours to complete, and is full of stunning sights and activities. Start your trip in Wareham, a historic town with a beautiful riverside setting. From there, take a short drive to Corfe Castle, an imposing ruin set in the rolling Purbeck Hills. Spend some time exploring the castle and its grounds, then head on to Swanage. This seaside resort is the perfect place to end your journey, with its picturesque harbour, sandy beaches, and plenty of shops, restaurants, and pubs. Along the way, keep an eye out for the narrow sections of road, and take in the scenic views. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

Swanage is a picturesque coastal town in the county of Dorset, England, located at the end of the Jurassic Coast Scenic Drive. This drive offers stunning views of the coastline, with its beautiful beaches, rugged cliffs and quaint villages. The town of Swanage is steeped in history and was once a thriving port. Today it is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, offering a wide range of attractions. The most popular include Swanage Pier, a Victorian-era pier, the Swanage Railway, a steam railway that operates from the pier, and Durlston Country Park, where visitors can explore the coastal walks and the wildlife that inhabits the area. Swanage also offers a range of activities, from sailing and diving to shopping, cycling and golf. There are also a number of cafes, restaurants and pubs in the town, perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy the local cuisine. For those travelling by car, the closest international airport is Bournemouth Airport (BOH), located approximately 30 miles away. Swanage is a must-see destination at the end of the Jurassic Coast Scenic Drive, offering a variety of attractions, activities and dining experiences to suit all tastes. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break, an exciting adventure or simply a chance to explore the town’s history and culture, Swanage is the perfect place to end your journey.

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating 72-mile journey along the Jurassic Coast Scenic Drive, commencing from the historic town of Dorchester, England, and meandering through the picturesque landscapes to Weymouth and Wareham. This route is a visual feast, featuring dramatic cliffs, fossil-strewn beaches, and idyllic towns steeped in centuries of history.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Dorchester: A town rich in heritage with the award-winning Dorset County Museum, the Roman Town House, and the birthplace of famed novelist Thomas Hardy.
• Weymouth: A Georgian seaside resort with its fine sandy beach, historic seafront, and the 17th-century Nothe Fort offering panoramic views.
• Wareham: A charming market town encircled by Saxon walls, featuring tranquil river walks and close proximity to the heathland and forests of the Purbeck Hills.
• Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove: Majestic natural wonders, the iconic limestone arch of Durdle Door and the picturesque, horseshoe-shaped Lulworth Cove invite awe and exploration.
• Charmouth and Lyme Regis: These coastal villages are a paleontologist's dream, offering some of the best locations for fossil hunting and insights into Earth's prehistoric past at the Lyme Regis Museum.

Best Time to Go:

The summer season, from June to August, is the ideal time for the Jurassic Coast Drive, offering balmy temperatures and extended daylight hours to savor the landscape's full splendor.

Potential Risks:

The coastal Roads can be challenging, with sharp bends and narrow lanes. Cautious driving is recommended. Additionally, tourist hotspots can become congested during high season, so planning ahead is advisable.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Jurassic Coast was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001 for its outstanding Earth science interest, spanning 185 million years of geological history.
• The coast has yielded incredible dinosaur fossils, including the first complete Ichthyosaur skeleton discovered in 1811 by Mary Anning in Lyme Regis.
• Accommodation options are diverse, ranging from eco-friendly campsites to boutique guesthouses and hotels, catering to diverse preferences and budgets.
• The South West Coast Path, England's longest waymarked long-distance footpath, runs along the Jurassic Coast, providing thrilling hiking opportunities.

A good choice for:

The Jurassic Coast Scenic Drive is a mesmerizing experience that appeals to nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. It offers a unique blend of stunning natural scenery, deep geological significance, and rich cultural heritage along the southern English coastline.