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Charmouth Beach - Feature Image

On a summer’s day, you will be forgiven for mistaking Charmouth Beach for some of Australia’s scenic coastline. The rolling green hills and clear blue water will give you a taste of paradise on the Jurassic Coast.

Whether fossil hunting or looking for somewhere to relax along the beach, Charmouth is an amazing destination full of picture-perfect areas. The town hosts a number of family-friendly activities and is close to some of the coast’s favourite landmarks. Take a break and enjoy the Charmouth Beach holiday with your friends, family and pets.

Read our Charmouth Beach guide and discover one of the UK’s most famous beaches…


Where is Charmouth Beach?

charmouth beach cabins

Along the South West of England, the coast is full of stunning family-friendly beaches that are some of the best in the UK. Not too far from Lyme Regis, Charmouth beach is one of the most popular spots to visit on the Jurassic Coast.

With the River Char running through Charmouth, the village is always bustling with activity. Whether you want to take to the waves or discover one of the charming local cafes, Charmouth is a stunning place to explore with your friends.

The beach stretches along the width of the town and eventually connects to Lyme Regis and Seatown. Heading back into the town, many family-friendly activities are perfect for keeping the little ones entertained. But the real magic of Charmouth is the surrounding beauty and the opportunity to distance yourself from busier towns and cities.

On your visit to Charmouth Beach, you can park at the local pay and display car park. The car park offers excellent access to the beach and town and allows plenty of room for parking cars and caravans of all sizes. You can find the Charmouth Beach long stay car park at:

Lower Sea Lane
Charmouth
Bridport
DT6 6LS


Family-Friendly Activities

fossil hunting on charmouth beach

The Jurassic Coast is a great place to visit if you are travelling with children and pets. The famous cliffs offer historical insight into the prehistoric era.

Heading back to the present day, Charmouth offers many activities to keep the whole family entertained. The Tunnel Tree Tops is a great day out to keep the kids active, and the beach is ideal if you are looking to soak in some of the rare British sun.

Not only does Charmouth offer many beach-related activities, but the town also has several small cafes and restaurants that are worth stopping at.

If you want to get out of Charmouth and explore the neighbouring towns, BridportWeymouth and Dorchester are close by. You can enjoy unique experiences, activities and places to stop along the way.


Fossil Hunting along Charmouth Beach

Charmouth Beach Fossils

One of the main attractions of the Jurassic Coast is the fossil hunting experience. Often led by expert guides, the beach walks take a look at the rich history of Charmouth Beach.

While you may be lucky to find a prehistoric bone, there are plenty of Ammonites and Belemnites to look out for. Your best chance of finding one of these fossils is by scouring the beach along the water’s edge at low tide. However, if you want an expert opinion and need some help, head up to the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre to discover more.

With the local fossil hunting walkon offer, The Heritage Coast Centre takes you on a trip along Charmouth Beach. Along the way, the warden will give you an expert talk about the fossils and how important they are to our history.

Heritage Coast Centre Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 10:30 – 16:00


Places to Eat Nearby

Charmouth Fish and Chips

During your journey of discovery, take a break at one of the local restaurants, cafes and pubs nearby. The town is a hive of activity and offers some of the freshest seafood the British waters have on offer. You can even try some of Dorset’s traditional food favourites.

The George is a great place to enjoy some traditional pub classics if you are travelling with kids or have the family dog with you. Serving a selection of hearty meals, you can rest up and re-energise, enjoying some of the region’s favourite ciders and real ales.

Alternatively, you can head to the Charmouth Fish Bar and enjoy a filling chippy dinner with sustainably sourced fish. The menu boasts several types of fish but also serves burgers, pizzas and churros. A perfect choice for the whole family.


Places to Stay in Charmouth

Seagull Cottage Kitchen

There are a variety of cottages, campsites and B&Bs in Charmouth. One of the best ways to enjoy the area is to stay in some of Charmouth’s self-catering accommodation. With Charmouth Beach so close, you can really get to explore the famous Jurassic Coast in a Charmouth Cottage.

Whether you are looking for dog-friendly accommodation or a cottage that will fit the whole family, you will find something unique in Charmouth.

Discover our range of Jurassic Coast Holiday Cottages online.


Events Near Charmouth

lyme regis waterfront

Throughout the year, Charmouth Beach and the surrounding areas host a range of events. The public fossil hunt walk runs all year, and the town takes part in the annual Great British Beach Clean.

If you want to head away from the town, the Beaminster Festival of Music & Arts is only a short drive away. Enjoy the open-air theatre and enjoy some of the region’s best classical and jazz artists, as well as a week packed full of literature, sculptors and artists on display.

The neighbouring town of Lyme Regis is home to comedy clubs, marine theatres and music venues. No matter what you are interested in, Charmouth and Dorset are sure to have something for you.


Protect Charmouth Beach

Each year Charmouth Beach host events to help protect the local environment and the surrounding marine life. The annual nurdle hunt takes place to collect many of the plastic pellets that enter the ocean each year.

You can also help with the local beach cleans. Or even take a bag and do some of your own cleaning along the coast throughout the day. As with every tourism spot across the globe, take only memories and leave only footprints.


Charmouth Beach is a beautiful spot for the whole family to explore. Whether you are on the hunt for prehistoric animals or want to see some of the stunning coastlines, Charmouth is a great place to start. Make the most of your visit by staying in a self-catering holiday cottage in Charmouth.


Image Credits – Alison Day – (CC BY-ND 2.0); Partonez – (CC BY-SA 4.0); LearningLark – (CC BY 2.0); Dorset Council – (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0); Eirian Evans – (CC BY-SA 2.0)