Overlooking the English Channel, Weymouth is a charming seaside town where the World Heritage-listed Jurassic Coast meets a rich literary history and bustling fishing harbour. Along with historic castles and coastal hiking routes, Weymouth dishes up a sandy beach, Victorian fort and family-friendly attractions.
Things to do in Weymouth
Most nature lovers head to Weymouth to enjoy the sand, surf and sun at Weymouth Beach, which is a popular spot for beach volleyball, donkey rides and sand sculptures. Overlooking the beach is The Esplanade, where you can play mini golf, shop at beach fashion retailers and dine at relaxed cafes. Duck into the Lazy Lizard and kick back with a glass of wine or grab fish and chips from The Fish Place.
Avid hikers will appreciate Weymouth’s prime location on the South West Coast Path, which stretches for more than 1,000 kilometres around southern England’s coastline. This immersive hiking route can be started at any point and captures some of the world’s most mesmerising coastal scenery.
Are you looking for a picturesque view? Visit the Jurassic Skyline, an observation tower on Weymouth Pier that offers panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast from 53 metres up. Weymouth Pier is also home to the Tudor House Museum, where you can see early-17th-century architecture and period furnishings.
Don’t miss Nothe Fort, which juts out into the sea and has a labyrinth of tunnels, dioramas showcasing Weymouth’s war history and films on the fort’s past. Afterwards, venture slightly south to Sandsfoot Castle, an artillery fort constructed by Henry VIII overlooking Portland Harbour. Combine history with retail therapy at Brewers Quay, a converted Victorian brewery that now features 20 specialty shops.
Getting around Weymouth
Weymouth is serviced by a local railway station and regular buses around town. You can explore the township on foot, but it’s best to have your own vehicle to venture further afield.