The Jurassic Coast

Nature’s Ultimate Playground

Why choose between a vibrant seaside resort and a UNESCO World Heritage wilderness? In Bournemouth, you get the Coast with the Most.

We are the perfect vibrant base camp for your Jurassic adventure. Wake up to our award-winning sandy beaches, spend your day hunting for history or hiking dramatic clifftops, and return to a thriving town of world-class dining, events, and entertainment.

Why Bournemouth is Your Base Camp

• The Best of Both Worlds: Combine the raw, prehistoric beauty of the Jurassic Coast with the fun, relaxed vibe of the UK’s leading beach destination.
• Effortless Access: You don't need a car to explore. Hop on the seasonal Purbeck Breezer open-top buses or catch a train to nearby gateways.
• Unrivalled Accommodation: From luxury sea-view hotels to family-friendly guest houses, we have the perfect pillow for every explorer.

Top Sights Within Reach

• Old Harry Rocks: Just across the bay! See these chalk giants standing guard. Perfect for a day trip via the Sandbanks Ferry.
• Durdle Door & Lulworth Cove: The icons of Dorset. A scenic drive or bus ride allows you to swim in crystal waters and marvel at the limestone arch.
• Swanage & Durlston Country Park: Victorian seaside charm meets rugged geology.

A Walk Through Time

You don't need a museum ticket to see the prehistoric world - you just need to look at the cliffs. The Jurassic Coast is a 95-mile "time walk" that records 185 million years of the Earth's history.

• 2026: A Special Year: This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the Jurassic Coast becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This designation ranks our local coastline alongside global natural icons like the Great Barrier Reef and the Grand Canyon.
• Dinosaur Country: While the famous fossils are found further west, the rocks you see from Bournemouth are from the Eocene period (50 million years ago), teeming with ancient tropical plant life.
• The Icon: Old Harry Rocks isn't just a photo opportunity; it marks the very end of the Jurassic Coast. These chalk stacks were formed 65 million years ago - about the same time the T-Rex went extinct!

Planning Your Visit

Can I visit the Jurassic Coast from Bournemouth without a car?‍

Absolutely. The open-top Purbeck Breezer bus routes offer spectacular views as they whisk you from Bournemouth Station directly to Swanage, Studland, and beyond.

How far is Durdle Door from Bournemouth?

‍It is approximately a 45-50 minute drive, or you can take a combination of train and bus for a scenic, eco-friendly journey.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes! You have excellent options starting right here in town. Guided coach tours depart daily from Bournemouth, taking you directly to icons like Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door with expert commentary. For a sea view, grab a "Bus & Boat" ticket - enjoy a scenic open-top ride from Bournemouth Pier to Poole Quay, where you transfer seamlessly for your Jurassic cruise.

Book Your Jurassic Base Camp