West Bay

Posted on October 8, 2020

by Cool Places Britain

A mile from the vibrant and quirky market town of Bridport is West Bay, Bridport’s Harbour set in Dorset AONB.

West Bay marks the start of Chesil Beach, a shingle bank which stretches 18 miles east to Portland and protects a natural lagoon known as The Fleet.

We have visited West Bay many times over the years and it always awe-inspiring.

Standing on the pier looking towards the golden sandstone cliffs is a must-do because the view is mesmerising.

West Dorset is gifted with one of the most enticing sections of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.

The Jurassic Coast stretches 95 miles from east Devon along the Dorset coastline to Old Harry Rocks on the Isle of Purbeck.

Here at West Bay you can experience 185 million years of the earth’s history.

You might recognise the view from the pier towards Portland because West Bay was used as a location for filming of the hugely popular television drama Broadchurch.

Walking

Dorset has no cities or motorways within its county borders and therefore it is an ideal county for walkers.

West Bay marks the start of the Brit Valley Way.

This route follows the path of the meandering River Brit to the Beaminster Downs, with both coastline and unspoilt countryside.

If you are up for a challenge, follow the South West Coast Path to the west where the path will take you to Eype, Seatown and Charmouth.

To the east of West Bay, the coastal path passes through Freshwater to Burton Bradstock, Abbotsbury and beyond.

We enjoyed a great 5-mile circular walk towards Burton Bradstock.

The path takes you up on the East cliffs where the view is spectacular.

But be careful and keep away from the cliffs edge!

Or head inland towards Eype.

You can stroll through the meadows bordering the river between Bridport and West Bay while enjoying great views along the high white and gold cliffs of the Jurassic Coast.