Southwest Coast Path Adventure - Walking the Jurassic Coast

The Southwest Coast Path is England’s longest waymarked footpath, which stretches an epic 1014km (630 miles) along the coastlines of Somerset, Devon, Cornwall, and Dorset. My husband and I sampled this spectacular route, selecting specific sections for their diverse landscapes, charming villages, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. We used a combination of section hiking and “hop on hop off” approaches that took full advantage of the UK’s excellent transit system. 

This guide focusses on the Jurassic Coast segment from Lyme Regis to Poole, UK. We thru hiked over 4 days. The landscape is varied and includes windswept cliffs, golden beaches, historic landmarks, and many cozy pubs along the way. 

The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its fossil-studded cliffs and dramatic landscapes. We used a luggage transfer service and loved the freedom of not worrying about our bags while we hiked to a new place every day. 

🥾 Day 1

This portion of our adventure started in Lyme Regis. We stayed at the friendly Lyme Townhouse and explored the charming coastal town. Can't beat a great pub dinner and beach stroll. This is the famed home of Mary Anning, an early archaeologist.

We hopped a bus to Charmouth - a smaller village along the coast to participate in a Fossil Hunt. 

The Fossil Hunt experience was excellent. Located on the beach, the Charmouth Heritage Centre has staff with expertise in geology, paleontology, marine and environmental protection. After a quick lesson on what to look for, the group was let loose on the beach beneath stunning cliffs striped with layers of geological history.
Read more of the incredible story of my fossil find on my blog! And book your own tour either in Charmouth or at the Lyme Regis museum.

If it's a brisk day (like the one we spent on the beach), warm yourself up with a fantastic pot of tea at the Bank House Cafe.

🥾 Day 2

The southwest coast path follows the coast. Walk all or parts of it. We often used the Jurassic Coaster bus, which essentially follows the path. On our first day, we made our way to West Bexington, a tiny neighbourhood on the coast, staying in a stately manor with a classic British pub.

🥾 Day 3

Today's itinerary included walking along cliffs, beaches, and across farmer's fields to the well-photographed Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. The iconic limestone arch and the tranquil cove are a true wonder of nature. Heads up that there is a significant hill to climb. A bus or a tour might be your best bet if hiking isn't your thing.

After our afternoon at Lulwith Cove we hopped a bus to arrive in Weymouth for our 3rd night. Full disclosure, I would not recommend the place we stayed. The location, however, was great. I'd look at another in the neighbourhood!

I highly recommend an outing to the Isle of Portland, and home to Portland stone (used to build St. Paul's Cathedral in London). We bussed it up (UP!) and explored the stone quarry that is filled with sculptures. The Wild Centre - a stunning bird reserve and nature education centre along Portland Beach Road backing onto Chesil Beach is also a fantastic nature stop! 

🥾 Day 4

Our final day of walking took us from Weymouth to the city of Poole. Our journey followed the final section of the Southwest Coast Path - a serene walk through sandy heathlands and along gently sloping beaches to the iron sails that mark the end of the Path. 

We hopped on the cable ferry into Sandbanks and bussed our way to downtown Poole, readying ourselves for a ferry across the English Channel to Normandy (more adventures en francais!)

Final Recommendation

Remember, meaningful travel starts with you. When you plan a trip around your own interests and motivations, the experience becomes more personal and fulfilling. Let recommendations inspire you—but don’t be afraid to follow what lights you up.
😃 Tracy
Founder of www.travelbugtonic.com