Travel Information:
Reaching the Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretches along the southern coast of England, offering stunning landscapes and rich geological history. Whether you’re traveling from London or other major UK cities, here’s how you can reach this remarkable destination.
Traveling from London
By Train:
To Weymouth: Depart from London Waterloo station on a South Western Railway service to Weymouth. The journey takes just under 3 hours. From Weymouth, local buses, including the Jurassic Coaster services, connect to various points along the coast.
To Axminster: Alternatively, take a train from London Waterloo to Axminster, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. Axminster serves as a gateway to the western parts of the Jurassic Coast.
By Car:
- Route: Drive southwest from London via the M3 and A31, leading into Dorset. The drive typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and your exact destination along the coast.
Traveling from Other Major UK Cities
From Birmingham:
By Train: Travel from Birmingham New Street to Exeter St Davids, with a journey time of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. From Exeter, trains run to Axminster and other coastal towns.
By Car: Head south on the M5 motorway towards Exeter, then follow signs to your chosen destination along the Jurassic Coast. The drive takes about 3.5 to 4 hours.
From Manchester:
By Train: Take a train from Manchester Piccadilly to Exeter St Davids, which takes around 4 to 5 hours. Continue by train or bus to coastal towns.
By Car: Drive south on the M6 and M5 motorways towards Exeter, then proceed to your chosen coastal destination. The journey typically takes around 5 to 6 hours.
From Bristol:
By Train: Trains from Bristol Temple Meads to Weymouth take approximately 2.5 hours, providing access to the central areas of the Jurassic Coast.
By Car: Drive south on the A37 or A350 roads, leading directly into Dorset. The drive usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.
Local Transportation
Once you’ve arrived in the region, several local transportation options can help you explore the Jurassic Coast:
Buses: The Jurassic Coaster bus service connects many coastal towns and attractions, allowing for convenient travel without a car.
Trains: Local train services run between key towns, with stations at Weymouth, Axminster, and other locations providing access to various parts of the coast.
Car Hire: Renting a car offers flexibility, especially if you plan to visit multiple sites or more remote areas.
Before traveling, it’s advisable to check the latest schedules and road conditions to ensure a smooth journey.
