A Gateway to the Jurassic Coast
The Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the unique geology, fossils, and wildlife of the Jurassic Coast. It's a fantastic starting point for understanding why this coastline is world-renowned. Inside, you'll find informative displays, fascinating fossils, and interactive exhibits that bring the 185-million-year history of the area to life.
The Centre also offers expert-led fossil hunting walks, which are ideal for beginners and enthusiasts alike. These guided tours take you along Charmouth Beach, one of the best spots for finding fossils on the Jurassic Coast. Be sure to check out our guide to The Best Places to Fossil Hunt in West Dorset for more tips on fossil collecting.
David Attenborough Connection
Did you know the Centre has been featured in the work of Sir David Attenborough? The Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre collaborated on his acclaimed series, which highlighted the Jurassic Coast’s incredible significance as a geological treasure trove. One of the most notable discoveries that brought this stretch of coastline to the global spotlight is the Sea Dragon – a 200-million-year-old ichthyosaur fossil found in the cliffs near Charmouth. The discovery of this spectacular fossil was featured in Attenborough's Planet Earth II, cementing the area’s status as one of the world’s most important fossil sites.
Walking through the Centre's exhibits, you’ll learn more about the Sea Dragon and see replicas of this incredible fossil, alongside many other fascinating finds from the region. It's a reminder of how the coastline continues to surprise and capture the fascination of scientists and visitors alike.
Family-Friendly Fun
The Centre is designed with families in mind, making it a brilliant choice for a day out. Children will love the hands-on fossil activities, the interactive learning stations, and the chance to hunt for their very own Jurassic treasures on the beach. Pair your visit with a stroll through Charmouth’s charming high street or grab a bite to eat at one of the village’s great restaurants.
Fossil Finds and Code of Conduct
As you explore, you'll quickly see why Charmouth is one of the top fossil-hunting locations in the world. Ammonites, belemnites, and even ichthyosaur remains have been discovered here! Remember to follow the Fossil Collector’s Code of Conduct to preserve the coastline for future generations:
- Only collect fossils from beach material.
- Avoid digging into the cliffs.
- Leave some fossils for others to find.
- If you discover something special, the Centre encourages you to register it to contribute to ongoing scientific research.
For more fossil-hunting tips, explore our guide to The Best Places to Fossil Hunt in West Dorset.
Links to Lyme Regis and Beyond
Your visit to the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre pairs perfectly with a trip to Lyme Regis, just a short distance away. Lyme’s Ammonite Pavement and Dinosaurland Fossil Museum offer even more opportunities to immerse yourself in the Jurassic Coast’s wonders.
Check Out The Live Webcam
Curious about the current weather or tides at Charmouth Beach? Take a peek through the Charmouth Beach Webcam and plan your visit in real time. Whether you’re gearing up for a day of fossil hunting or simply daydreaming about the coast, the webcam is the next best thing to being there.
Plan Your Visit
The Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre is a free attraction, relying on donations to continue its incredible work. It’s open year-round, making it an excellent option no matter when you visit. Pair your trip with a stay at Newlands Holiday Park, where you’ll have easy access to Charmouth Beach, Lyme Regis, and the best fossil-hunting locations on the coast.