Kimmeridge Bay

About

*LATEST UPDATE* The car park, approach road and toilets at Kimmeridge Bay are currently open. Social distancing rules apply at all times.

For more information about planning ahead and enjoying summer safely, take a look at our page - Know Before You Go.

Kimmeridge Bay lies within a marine Special Area of Conservation and boasts the best rockpooling and safest snorkelling site in Dorset!

The Bay is also located on the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and along the South West Coast Path national walking trail.

The Wild Seas Centre beside the slipway encourages all ages to explore the bay, its ledges and rockpools. It is free to go inside and take a look at their exhibitions and small aquarium. They also run various events throughout the year which are great for children and families - try eco-friendly crabbing or a rockpool ramble. 

In summer a snorkel trail guides swimmers among colourful marine-life in the shallow waters of the Bay.

Above the Bay sits Clavell Tower. Built as a folly and now used for holiday accommodation, it has been the inspiration for both P.D. James and Enid Blyton. It's quite a steep walk up to the tower, but it is worth the effort as you are rewarded with spectacular views over the Bay.

The area is popular with surfers and windsurfers for the seabreezes and surf created by the rock ledges underneath the waves. There are toilets and showers located in the slip-way car park. The main car park overlooks the Bay. Both are accessed via a toll road and charges may apply.

Access on foot or by bike is free.

To get the most out of your day and visit to Kimmeridge, please check tide times before you visit.

A permit is required for coaches and mini-buses travelling to Kimmeridge. Visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/coachpermits to apply.

Fossil collecting with the use of hammers is prohibited at Kimmeridge.