Chesil Beach is a renowned natural wonder along the Jurassic Coast of Dorset, England. As a beach enthusiast, you may be wondering about the accessibility of this iconic shingle bank. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the details of accessing Chesil Beach, ensuring you have all the information you need to plan your visit.
Accessing Chesil Beach: An Overview
Chesil Beach is a 18-mile stretch of shingle that runs from the Isle of Portland near Weymouth to West Bay near Bridport. The beach is a unique geological feature, with a height of up to 15 meters and a width of up to 200 meters in places. The central section of the beach, from the Wyke boundary stone to the Abbotsbury car park, is the most environmentally sensitive, with restricted access to protect the delicate ecosystem.
Car Parks and Parking Options
Accessing Chesil Beach by car is the most convenient option for many visitors. Here are the key car parks and parking areas along the beach:
| Location | Parking Details |
|---|---|
| Chesil Car Park | 8 accessible parking spaces, open from 9am to 5pm |
| Ferrybridge | Large car park adjacent to the Chesil Beach Visitors Centre |
| Weymouth | On-street parking available at Camp Road |
| Abbotsbury | Large car park at the end of the road to the tropical gardens |
| West Bexington | Car park right on the beach with footpaths in both directions |
| Cogden Beach | National Trust car park alongside the B3157 coast road |
| Burton Hive Beach | National Trust car park with a cafe and toilets |
| West Bay | Various car parks providing access to the northern end of Chesil Beach |
Pedestrian Access and Restrictions
While walking on Chesil Beach can be a rewarding experience, it’s important to be aware of the access restrictions in place to protect the delicate environment. The southern end of the beach, from Portland to the Wyke Regis boundary stone, is generally open for permitted activities throughout the year. However, the central section from the Wyke boundary stone to the Abbotsbury car park is owned by the Ilchester Estates and is closed to all access to preserve the sensitive ecosystem.
The beach beyond Abbotsbury towards West Bay is owned by the National Trust and Crown Estate, with access allowed all year round. It’s important to follow any signage and guidance on the beach to ensure compliance with any restrictions that may be in place.
Accessible Facilities and Amenities
Chesil Beach offers some accessible facilities and amenities for visitors. The Chesil Visitor Centre at Ferrybridge has accessible toilets open from 9am to 5pm. Additionally, the southern end of the beach, from Portland to the Wyke Regis boundary stone, is generally open for all permitted activities throughout the year, although some areas may be closed during sensitive periods to protect wildlife.
Exploring the Fleet Lagoon
The Fleet Lagoon, a shallow tidal lagoon that runs alongside Chesil Beach, is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and an important habitat for many species. The only vehicular access to the Fleet Lagoon is at Ferrybridge, where it joins Portland Harbour. Visitors can explore the lagoon and its surrounding areas, but it’s essential to follow any guidance and restrictions in place to protect the delicate ecosystem.
Conclusion
Chesil Beach is a unique and captivating natural wonder, but its accessibility can be a bit complex due to the environmental sensitivities of the area. By understanding the various car parks, parking options, and access restrictions, you can plan your visit to Chesil Beach and enjoy this stunning stretch of the Jurassic Coast. Remember to follow all signage and guidance to ensure you have a safe and responsible experience.
References:
– Chesil Beach – Visit Dorset. Retrieved from https://www.visit-dorset.com/listing/chesil-beach/130690301/
– Accessing the Reserve. Retrieved from http://www.fleetandchesilreserve.org/accessing-the-reserve/
– Access – ChesilBeach. Retrieved from http://chesilbeach.org/access.html
– Getting to Chesil Beach – Weymouth Forum – Tripadvisor. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g190817-i1540-k11329443-Getting_to_Chesil_Beach-Weymouth_Dorset_England.html
– Chesil Beach – Visitor Centre, cafe and car parking info – Dorset Guide. Retrieved from https://www.dorsetguide.com/chesil-beach/.