Charmouth

Settlement in Dorset

England

Charmouth

Charmouth is a picturesque village located on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, England. Situated between the towns of Lyme Regis and Bridport, it lies within the West Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The village is known for its stunning coastal scenery and fossil-rich cliffs, making it a popular destination for fossil hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

Charmouth boasts a long sandy beach, which stretches for approximately one mile and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and the English Channel. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking, and is also a great spot for rock pooling and fossil hunting. The area is renowned for its abundant fossils, with many visitors hoping to uncover ancient relics embedded in the rocks.

The village itself is charming, with a mix of traditional thatched cottages and more modern houses. It has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with a range of amenities including shops, cafes, and pubs. The Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre is a must-visit for those interested in the local geology and fossils, offering informative displays and guided fossil walks.

Outdoor activities are plentiful in Charmouth, with a variety of coastal walks and trails that showcase the area's natural beauty. The surrounding countryside provides ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and horse riding. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, there are also several gardens and parks to explore nearby.

Charmouth is a delightful destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, fascinating history, and warm hospitality. Whether you are interested in fossil hunting, enjoying the beach, or simply immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings, Charmouth has something for everyone.

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Charmouth Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.738903/-2.9010001 or Grid Reference SY3693. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The lower slope of Black Ven - Charmouth

The cliff face is black except for the topsoil and made up of layer upon layer of soft mud, silt and clay pressed together over millions of years. Landslides are frequent with the sea washing the silt away from them and exposing fossils which have been captured within. The landslide of 1958/9 was the largest coastal landslide in Europe.

Sarah Smith

Boulders on the beach - Charmouth

The boulders are lying on the solidified smooth black debris from the landslides of Black Ven (left). In the distance in another grid square is Golden Cap, the highest point on the South Coast of England. In circa 833 the Danes arrived in 35 ships and with thousands of men. They landed on this beach and a savage battle followed with the local inhabitants. Mary Anning was also another visitor in much later times and discovered the fossilised Ichthyosaur in these cliffs somewhere between Charmouth and Lyme Regis.

Sarah Smith