Dorset And East Devon: The Walks, The Rocks, The Fossils

The coastal region of Dorset and East Devon is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts and avid walkers. Nestled between the rolling countryside and the stunning Jurassic Coast, this area offers breathtaking landscapes, ancient rocks, and a rich diversity of fossils. In this article, we explore the hidden gems of Dorset and East Devon, highlighting the multitude of walks and the fascinating geological history they uncover.

The Jurassic Coast and its Geological Marvels

The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stretches for 95 miles along the southern coast of England, from East Devon to Dorset. It is renowned for its remarkable rock formations, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches. The unique geology of the area allows us to step back in time and witness the Earth's history unfold.

The famous triassic red rocks, jurassic limestone, and cretaceous chalk cliffs provide a glimpse into the ancient past. Fossil enthusiasts can discover a wide variety of marine fossils, including ammonites, belemnites, bivalves, and even dinosaur footprints. The Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre, located in Charmouth, is the perfect starting point for fossil hunting adventures, providing expert guidance and knowledge.

Walking the Jurassic Coast: Dorset and East Devon - The walks, the rocks, the fossils (Cicerone Walking Guides)

by Ronald Turnbull(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20118 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	348 pages

FREE

The Spectacular Walking Routes

The Dorset and East Devon region boasts numerous captivating walking routes that cater to all skill levels and interests. Whether you prefer coastal strolls, scenic woodland paths, or challenging hikes, there is something for everyone.

The South West Coast Path

Stretching for 630 miles, the South West Coast Path is England's longest waymarked long-distance footpath and offers breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast. From Lyme Regis to Poole Harbour, you can explore a series of impressive cliffs, peaceful bays, and picturesque fishing villages. This route is a paradise for birdwatchers, with various species of seabirds nesting along the coastline.

Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door

One of the most iconic spots along the Jurassic Coast, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, is a truly mesmerizing sight. With its beautifully carved limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural arch, this area attracts millions of visitors every year. A circular walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door allows you to experience the breathtaking panorama of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Golden Cap and West Bay

The highest point on the south coast of England, Golden Cap, offers panoramic views stretching from Lyme Bay to Portland. This challenging but rewarding walk takes you through beautiful countryside, past vibrant wildflowers, and along the cliff edge where you can soak in the magnificent vistas. The walk ends at the charming harbour of West Bay, known as the setting for the popular TV series "Broadchurch".

Using Cicerone Walking Guides

Planning your walking adventures in Dorset and East Devon has never been easier, thanks to Cicerone Walking Guides. Cicerone specializes in producing detailed guidebooks for a wide range of walks across the world. Their guides provide accurate route descriptions, detailed maps, and valuable insights into the local history and geology.

Their guides specifically tailored to Dorset and East Devon offer information about the best trails, points of interest, and facilities available along the way. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner exploring the region for the first time, Cicerone Walking Guides will ensure you have an unforgettable experience.

Dorset and East Devon offer a remarkable combination of natural wonders, rich geological history, and captivating walking routes. Whether you're an avid fossil hunter, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who loves exploring the great outdoors, this coastal region has something to offer. With the help of Cicerone Walking Guides, your next adventure awaits!

Walking the Jurassic Coast: Dorset and East Devon - The walks, the rocks, the fossils (Cicerone Walking Guides)

by Ronald Turnbull(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20118 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	348 pages

FREE

This guidebook describes 30 walking routes along the Devon-Dorset coast. The majority of the routes hug the shoreline between Torbay and Swanage, while others venture inland on the Dorset Downs. The walks range in length from 3 to 20 miles (5 to 33km) and are suitable for most walkers, with shorter routes alongside plenty of more challenging, full-day hikes. As well as detailed descriptions for every walk, accompanied by OS maps, there are details on available parking, points of interest along the way and advice on the terrain covered.

The guide has been divided into areas: Devon's Red Beds, the Lias, Chesil Beach, Chalk walks (Lulworth and inland) and the Isle of Purbeck. The geological descriptions are accompanied by strata diagrams, geological timelines, explanations of the creation of the various sedimentary rocks along the coast, and discussion of how and why the various formations formed millennia ago. The incredible - yet readable - detail brings these walks and the landscape alive.

The Jurassic Coast of Devon and Dorset, stretching between Exeter and Bournemouth, is a geological wonderland. Natural wonders like Chesil Beach, Durdle Door and fossils so numerous you'll be tripping over them, combine with southern England's rolling Downs, tiny villages, beaches and sunny summers to provide a stunning and awe-inspiring landscape to explore.