Charmouth can be found in Dorset along the Jurrasic Coast and is a charming seaside village known for its rich history and stunning landscapes.
It offers a mix of natural beauty and fascinating attractions that make it a perfect spot for a day out or staycation.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore historical sites, Charmouth has something for everyone.
Its coastal paths, local museums, and scenic views provide plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Here, you can read up on 12 things you can do in and near Charmouth.
Table of Contents
1. Visit Charmouth Beach
Nominated by BBC Countryfile Magazine as one of the UK’s 5 Best Beaches 2017, Charmouth Beach is a must-visit, known for its mix of sand, shingle, and pebbles.
The beach is divided into two parts by the River Char offering a unique beach experience.
Charmouth Beach is a great place to build sandcastles and swim in the clear, calm water.
However, one of the main attractions here is fossil hunting. The beach is part of the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site.
Many visitors come to find fossils, including ancient ammonites and other marine creatures.
A perfect beach for a day trip and something to keep everyone happy.
2. Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre
The Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre offers a deep dive into the area’s rich fossil history and marine life.
The centre has educational exhibits that make learning fun and engaging; children and families will love learning about dinosaurs and recent findings in the area.
There are lots of hands-on displays and marine tanks. You can even use a video microscope to get a closer look at the coastal wildlife.
It’s located near the beach, so you can easily combine a visit here with a day out by the sea.
There is also a gift shop for you to grab some souvenirs, books, toys and more.
📍 Lower Sea Ln, Charmouth, Bridport DT6 6LL, United Kingdom
3. Hogchester – Open Meadows
Hogchester, Open Meadows is a beautiful 60-acre site nestled in the Dorset countryside.
It’s known for its rolling hills, meadows, streams, and small woodland areas, which are a haven for wildlife.
From May 13th – July 31st 2024, visitors can explore the wildflower meadows, enjoy coffee mornings and visit the labyrinth walk.
Click here to find out more about the Open Meadows event for a great day out.
📍 Hogchester Farm, Charmouth, Bridport, DT6 6BY
4. Golden Cap Hike
Golden Cap is the highest cliff on the south coast of England, standing at 191 metres above sea level.
Making it a great spot for a hike.
On a clear day, you can see as far as Lyme Regis to the west and Chesil Beach to the east.
Starting from various points like Seatown, Langdon Hill, or Charmouth, the hike offers diverse routes.
The Golden Cap Walk from Seatown is about 4 miles long and can take roughly 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
Paths can be steep and have several sets of stairs, making it a bit challenging. It’s a good idea to wear sturdy walking shoes.
The walk is worth the effort for its beautiful landscapes and amazing coastal views.
Parking can be found at Beach Car Park in Charmouth, which is on the coastal path.
📍 Car park: 17 Lower Sea Ln, Charmouth, Bridport DT6 6LR, United Kingdom
5. St Andrew’s Church
St Andrew’s Church is a charming spot in Charmouth. Built in the 1830s, the church is located in the heart of the village, has a distinctive square tower, and is open every day, welcoming everyone who wants to visit.
Every week, they hold worship services at 9.30am.
On the last Sunday of each month, at 5pm, there’s an event called Soul Soak. It’s an hour of contemporary worship music, prayer, and cake – a great way to unwind.
St Andrew’s Church is also a base for the Charmouth Community. They run various events and activities that make it a vibrant part of village life.
📍 The Street Charmouth Bridport, DT6 6FN, United Kingdom
6. The Tunnel Tree Tops High Ropes
The Tunnel Tree Tops High Ropes is a thrilling adventure located just outside Charmouth in West Dorset.
This high ropes course features 11 different elements, such as rope bridges and zip wires. It’s perfect for an adrenaline rush and testing your balance.
Participants can climb up to 25 feet high and swing among the trees before zipping back down.
Designed for everyone aged 6 and up, the course is suitable for families and groups.
It requires a minimum height of 1.2 meters and a weight limit of 18 stone (115 kg).
Booking must be done online in advance; get it booked if you’re up for an adventure!
📍 Westover Hill, Axminster Road, Charmouth, Dorset, DT6 6BY
7. Stroll along the River Char
Walking along the River Char in Charmouth is a pleasant way to enjoy the local scenery.
The river winds its way through the countryside, offering serene views and the gentle sounds of flowing water.
It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, with footpaths that are easy to follow.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife; birds, small mammals, and even fish can be spotted along the riverbanks.
8. Try Paddleboarding
Charmouth offers great spots for paddleboarding. The water is usually calm, making it a fantastic place for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
There’s a great sense of achievement being able to stand up and paddle board, have that great feeling whilst taking in the amazing views and coastal wildlife and you’ve got a great day out.
For information on a paddle board route from Charmouth to Lyme Regis, visit here.
9. Join the Wobbly Fossiler Walk
James Carroll, also known as the Wobbly Fossiler, offers a delightful fossil-hunting experience along the Jurassic Coast in Charmouth.
With over a decade of experience, James provides personalised private walks that last about three hours.
A typical walk begins with a fascinating talk about the geological history of the area and examples of fossils you might find.
You’ll also learn the Fossil Code of Conduct and get safety tips to ensure a safe and fruitful outing.
James’s private tours allow for one-on-one guidance, making it easier to find unique fossils like ammonites, ichthyosaurs, and plesiosaurs.
Unlike group walks, you get individual attention, covering more ground and increasing your chances of discovering something special.
Participants should wear suitable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing.
Tools like hammers are optional, but safety goggles and gloves are recommended if you choose to use one.
10. Take a Boat Trip
Charmouth offers fantastic opportunities to explore its beautiful coastline and picturesque waterways.
A boat trip is a fun and relaxing way to see the area from a different perspective.
One popular option is to take a cruise along the Jurassic Coast. This stunning stretch of coastline offers breathtaking views.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, thrill-seeking options like RIB (rigid inflatable boat) rides are available.
These fast-paced trips offer an exciting way to experience the water.
Family-friendly tours are also available, including leisurely cruises that provide a peaceful way to enjoy the scenery.
To enjoy a boat cruise, you’ll have to head a short distance to Lyme Bay. For more information, click here.
11. Visit The Cannington Viaduct
The Cannington Viaduct is an old railway viaduct near Charmouth. It was part of the Lyme Regis branch line, connecting Lyme Regis with the main railway network at Axminster.
This structure opened in 1903 and is known for its impressive engineering. The viaduct is now disused but stands as a testament to the history of the area.
Visitors can enjoy walking around the viaduct and exploring the scenic views. Keen photographers will find plenty of picturesque spots.
The Cannington Viaduct is approx a 12-minute drive from Charmouth.
📍 Uplyme, Lyme Regis DT7 3SW, UK
12. Hike The Jurassic Coast
Anyone who visits Charmouth should hike the Jurassic Coast. The cliffs and beaches are famous for fossils and beautiful views.
Enjoy the unique shapes of the bay and the crystal-clear waters. Wherever you decide to walk or explore, you’re guaranteed to enjoy yourself and be blown away by the fantastic views.
Enjoy your time in and around Charmouth. I hope this guide will help you find somewhere new and exciting to explore. Thanks for reading.
