Local Area

The glorious sweep of the West Dorset Coastline / Jurassic Coast provides a perfect setting for every kind of seaside adventure. Delightful seaside resorts like Charmouth, Lyme Regis and West Bay let you paddle or plunge into the sea, enjoy fishing trips, sailing regattas, or simply relax on the beach, please take the opportunity to view the Beach Safety Guide for details about the beaches in West Dorset. The dramatic heritage coastline offers spectacular views and with many walks and trails to follow, you're sure to find a perfect spot to unwind.

The towns of Bridport, Beaminster, Dorchester and Sherborne provide a contrast in experiences - bustling shopping areas, hand crafted delightful goods, there truly is something for everyone.

Bridport is a delightful West Dorset town, only 1½ miles from the sea at West Bay, which was formerly known as Bridport Harbour, or Haven. The town is 15 miles west of the County town of Dorchester and it is surrounded by many beautiful hills, with evidence of history back to Neolithic times. 

The main streets of Bridport are among the widest in the west of England and street markets have been held since Queen Elizabeth the First granted a Saturday market, since supplemented by another on Wednesdays. Bridport has over 1000 "listed" buildings of historic or architectural merit, the Town Hall built in 1786 stands at the junction of East/West and South Streets. East and West Street became in the 13th century, the focus for the rope industry and net-working industry which brought wealth and the long, narrow rope-walks. 

At the westerly end of the great shingle curve of Chesil Bank lies West Bay, once known as Bridport Harbour. The views are remarkable - to the west, Golden Cap and to the east the island of Portland.West Bay is within the Town boundary and is a busy harbour "village" with beaches, characteristic kiosks, fishing boats, pubs and restaurants. 

Please click here to find out 'What's On' in West Dorset also view our 'Picture Gallery' of the local area.