You may be wondering: is Weymouth worth visiting?
Set along the stunning Jurassic Coast, Weymouth is a classic seaside town in South Dorset, sitting roughly halfway along this UNESCO World Heritage coastline. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer coastal holiday, there’s no shortage of things to do in Weymouth for all ages.
From sandy beaches and historic harbours to family attractions and coastal walks, Weymouth offers a relaxed mix of traditional seaside charm and modern days out. It’s a popular choice for visitors looking to explore Dorset’s coast while still enjoying plenty of places to eat, stay and explore.
Home to around 50,000 residents, Weymouth is the third-largest town in Dorset after Bournemouth and Poole. It also gained international attention in 2012 when it hosted the Olympic sailing events, held in the waters of Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour.
Weymouth’s links to British history run even deeper. King George III famously holidayed here, helping to popularise sea bathing in England. In 1809, a statue was erected in his honour on the Golden Jubilee of his reign — today, it still stands proudly on a small island in the middle of the seafront road.
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- Bowleaze Cove
- Outdoor Treasure Hunt
- Nothe Fort
- Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park
- Lodmoor Country Park
- Radipole Lake Nature Reserve
- Sandworld
- Weymouth Museum
- Enjoy Weymouth Beach
- Walk Along Weymouth Harbour
- Bennetts Water Gardens
- Jordan Hill Roman Temple
- Greenhill Gardens In Weymouth
- Sandsfoot Castle
- Chesil Beach
- Portland Bill Lighthouse
- Tout Quarry Sculpture Park
- Pirates Cove
- The Weymouth Kids Treasure Trail
- Weymouth Sculpture Trail
- Park Yoga In Weymouth
- Things To Do In Weymouth Frequently Asked Questions
Bowleaze Cove
Weymouth, DT3 6PL
Why visit:
Bowleaze Cove is a wide sand and shingle beach on the eastern edge of Weymouth, offering beautiful coastal views and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. It’s a great spot for families, coastal walkers and anyone looking to enjoy Dorset’s Jurassic Coast at a gentler pace.
What you’ll find:
- A sand and shingle beach with open views along the Jurassic Coast
- Direct access to the South West Coast Path
- Fantasy Island fun park, one of Weymouth’s popular family attractions
- Scenic walking routes, including the coastal walk towards Durdle Door
Good to know:
Bowleaze Cove is ideal if you’re combining a beach visit with a walk or family day out. Fantasy Island operates on a wristband system, offering unlimited rides for set time periods, making it a popular choice for families. There are also places nearby to grab food or a drink, perfect for relaxing in the sunshine while enjoying coastal views.
Best for: Families, walkers
Dog-friendly: Seasonal restrictions apply
Walking: South West Coast Path access
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Outdoor Treasure Hunt
Explore Weymouth with an outdoor treasure hunt. This is a unique sightseeing experience with 40 different clues which will be sent to you via email. You can choose your own date once you have purchased the treasure hunt and also choose your own start time.
Nothe Fort
Barrack Road, Weymouth, DT4 8UF
Why visit:
Nothe Fort is a fascinating historic sea fort overlooking Weymouth Harbour and Portland Harbour. Built in the 1860s to defend this important naval area, it now offers one of the best places in Weymouth to explore local history alongside coastal views.
What you’ll find:
- A well-preserved Victorian fort with interactive exhibitions
- Displays covering coastal defence, wartime history and local heritage
- Fort artillery firing demonstrations on alternate Sundays
- Regular events and family-friendly activities throughout the year
- Panoramic views across Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour
Good to know:
Nothe Fort is a great all-weather attraction and works well for families with children of all ages. Allow a few hours to explore properly, especially if you’re visiting on an event or firing day.
Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park
Lodmoor Country Park, Weymouth, DT4 7SX
Why visit:
Weymouth SEA LIFE Centre is one of the town’s most popular attractions, especially for families. Set within Lodmoor Country Park, it offers an engaging way to discover marine life from around the world alongside open green spaces and nearby beaches.
What you’ll find:
- A wide range of marine creatures, including penguins, seals, otters, rays and tropical fish
- Interactive exhibits designed for children and families
- Daily feeding times and animal talks throughout the day
- Indoor and outdoor areas, making it a good all-weather attraction
Good to know:
Feeding times and talks are a highlight of any visit, so it’s worth checking the schedule on arrival to plan your day. Allow at least a few hours to explore the centre at a relaxed pace, especially if you’re visiting with younger children. The surrounding parkland is ideal for a walk or picnic before or after your visit.
Read a full review of visiting Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park
Lodmoor Country Park
Weymouth, DT4 7SX
Why visit:
Lodmoor Country Park is a family-friendly green space in Weymouth, perfect for outdoor fun, gentle walks, and spotting wildlife. With plenty of facilities and attractions on-site, it makes an ideal destination for a day out by the coast.
What you’ll find:
- A children’s play park and outdoor gym equipment for all ages
- The RSPB nature reserve, with a flat 2.5km walking trail for birdwatching and spotting coastal wildlife
- Easy access to nearby attractions, including Weymouth SEA LIFE Centre, Pirate Crazy Golf, and Sandworld
- Cafés and family-friendly pubs on the edge of the park for refreshments
Good to know:
The park has a large car park, making it convenient for visiting the surrounding attractions. Paths are flat and accessible, making it suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. It’s a great spot to combine a bit of wildlife spotting with family fun and a coastal walk.
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Radipole Lake Nature Reserve
Weymouth, DT4 7TZ
Why visit:
RSPB Radipole Lake is a peaceful nature reserve in Weymouth, perfect for wildlife spotting and enjoying Dorset’s coastal landscapes. It’s a great destination for families, walkers, and dog owners looking for a free outdoor activity.
What you’ll find:
- A variety of wildlife, including kingfishers, otters, and many migratory birds
- Nature trails and guided walks suitable for all ages
- Picnic areas, play areas, and refreshments on-site
- Dog-friendly paths (dogs welcome on leads)
Good to know:
Entry to the reserve is free, but car parking charges apply. Paths are well-maintained and mostly flat, making it accessible for pushchairs and easy walking. Radipole Lake is ideal for a relaxed walk, spotting wildlife, and combining with other nearby attractions in Weymouth.
Sandworld
Lodmoor Country Park, Preston Beach Road, Weymouth, DT4 7SX
Why visit:
Sandworld is Weymouth’s original sand sculpture attraction and one of the few dedicated sand sculpture festivals in the UK. It’s a fun and creative day out for couples, families, or anyone who loves art and the beach.
What you’ll find:
- Stunning sand sculptures created by professional artists
- Hands-on opportunities to try sand sculpting yourself with provided tools
- A café on-site offering takeaway snacks and drinks
- Open daily from April to November
Good to know:
Sandworld is located within Lodmoor Country Park, making it easy to combine with other attractions like Weymouth SEA LIFE Centre, Pirate Crazy Golf, or a walk along the coastal paths. Ideal for a couple’s outing or a creative family day out
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Weymouth Museum
Brewers Quay, Hope Square, Weymouth, DT4 8TR
Why visit:
Weymouth Museum offers a fascinating journey through the town’s history, from its Victorian seaside heyday to modern times. Housed in a Grade II listed building and run entirely by volunteers, it’s a charming and educational spot for visitors of all ages.
What you’ll find:
- Exhibits showcasing Weymouth’s local history and heritage
- Artefacts, photographs, and displays curated by dedicated volunteers
- Nominal admission fee making it an affordable day out
- Open Tuesdays to Saturdays
Good to know:
The museum is located in Hope Square, making it easy to combine with nearby cafés, shops, and the harbour. It’s ideal for a quiet, indoor activity and is one of the budget-friendly things to do in Weymouth.
Enjoy Weymouth Beach
The Esplanade, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 7AN
Why visit:
Weymouth Beach is an award-winning, classic English seaside destination, perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy traditional coastal fun. Its wide sandy beach make it a favourite for both locals and holidaymakers.
What you’ll find:
- Traditional seaside attractions such as Punch and Judy shows, donkey rides, and beach games
- Toilets, cafés, restaurants, and arcades, making it easy to spend a full day on the beach
- Seafront hotels and accommodation within walking distance
- Safe, accessible areas for children and families
Good to know:
The beach is ideal for a relaxed day out or a longer stay, combining sun, sand, and traditional seaside entertainment. It’s a great starting point for exploring Weymouth’s harbour and nearby attractions.
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Walk Along Weymouth Harbour
13 Custom House Quay, Weymouth, DT4 8BG
Weymouth Harbour is the smaller harbour in central Weymouth. It covers the mouth of the river Wey. The harbour is home to pleasure boats and yachts but they are stunning to look at as you wander past.
Bennetts Water Gardens
Putton Lane, Chickerell, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 4AF
Why visit:
Bennetts Water Gardens is a beautiful 8-acre garden in Weymouth, perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking for a peaceful day out surrounded by water features and exotic plants.
What you’ll find:
- Stunning wetland plants, palms, trees, and water lilies
- Historical connection: water lilies planted by the Bennett family in 1959 were supplied to Claude Monet for his garden in France
- Tranquil walking paths and themed garden areas
- Perfect for photography, picnics, and gentle strolls
Good to know:
Bennetts Water Gardens is ideal for visitors of all ages and is a calm, scenic spot away from the busy seaside. Check out our full review for tips.
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Jordan Hill Roman Temple
Bowleaze Coveway, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 6PL
Why visit:
Jordan’s Hill Roman Temple is a small but fascinating English Heritage site in Weymouth, perfect for history enthusiasts or anyone looking for a peaceful walk with a dose of local heritage.
What you’ll find:
- Remains of a Roman temple with interpretive information
- Free entry and free roadside parking nearby
- A quiet location ideal for a short walk or leg stretch
- Scenic surroundings with views towards Bowleaze Cove
Good to know:
Visiting Jordan’s Hill Roman Temple is ideal if you’re combining a beach day or coastal walk with a little history. It’s an easy, free stop for all ages and requires only a short visit to appreciate the site.
Greenhill Gardens In Weymouth
Weymouth, DT4 7TH
Why visit:
Greenhill Gardens is a seaside park in Weymouth, perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing day by the coast. Its colourful gardens and wide-open spaces make it a favourite local destination.
What you’ll find:
- Beautifully maintained gardens with seasonal plants and flowers
- Tennis courts and a putting green for active visitors
- A café serving refreshments with views of the gardens and sea
- Open green spaces ideal for picnics, walks, and family fun
Good to know:
Greenhill Gardens is right on the seafront, making it easy to combine with nearby Weymouth Beach or other coastal attractions. It’s a flexible spot for both short visits and full days out.
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Sandsfoot Castle
84 Old Castle Road, Weymouth, DT4 8QE
Why visit:
Sandsfoot Castle is a historic coastal fort in Weymouth, originally built in the 1500s on the orders of Henry VIII as part of the coastal defence alongside Portland Castle. It’s a fascinating site for history enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys scenic seaside walks.
What you’ll find:
- Ruins of the Tudor-era castle with informative displays
- Stunning views over Weymouth Bay
- Historical information about its use as a royal fort and its Civil War history
- Free entry, making it an accessible and budget-friendly attraction
Good to know:
The castle has been carefully conserved thanks to renovations by the Friends of Sandsfoot Castle and Weymouth Council, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund. It’s an ideal stop for a short visit, combined with a walk along the seafront or nearby beaches.
Chesil Beach
Weymouth, DT6 4RJ
Why visit:
Chesil Beach is an iconic 18-mile shingle beach, perfect for walkers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to explore one of Dorset’s most famous coastal stretches. Its unique pebble structure and scenic views make it a must-visit for visitors to Weymouth.
What you’ll find:
- A long, flat beach ideal for walking, running, or cycling
- Popular spots for fishing and birdwatching
- Dog-friendly
- Stunning views of the Jurassic Coast and surrounding countryside
Good to know:
There is no shade along Chesil Beach, so come prepared with sun protection in summer. It’s a fantastic destination for an active day out or a peaceful coastal stroll, and it pairs well with visits to nearby Weymouth or Portland.
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Portland Bill Lighthouse
Bill Lighthouse, Old Coastguard Cottages, Portland, DT5 2JT
Why visit:
Portland Bill Lighthouse is one of the Isle of Portland’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit attraction near Weymouth. Its striking red and white tower and coastal location make it a favourite for photographers, walkers, and anyone looking to explore Dorset’s dramatic coastline.
What you’ll find:
- A 41-metre-tall lighthouse in operation since 1903
- Large adjacent car park with easy access
- Open green spaces and picnic areas
- The South West Coast Path passing nearby, ideal for scenic walks
- Stunning views across the Jurassic Coast
Good to know:
The lighthouse is part of the Isle of Portland, which has been classed as the same district as Weymouth since 1974. It’s an excellent stop for coastal walks or a relaxing visit with plenty of space for children and dogs.
Tout Quarry Sculpture Park
Tradecroft Industrial Estate, Portland, Dorset, DT5 2LN
Why visit:
Tout Quarry is a unique outdoor attraction where an abandoned stone quarry has been transformed into a sculpture park. It’s perfect for art lovers, walkers, and anyone looking for a peaceful spot with stunning coastal views near Weymouth.
What you’ll find:
- A wide variety of stone sculptures and creative shapes scattered throughout the quarry
- Walking paths leading to viewpoints overlooking Chesil Beach and Weymouth
- Free entry and a free car park at the entrance to the nature reserve
- Ideal for Autumn and Winter walks with fewer crowds
Good to know:
The car park is tucked away at the end of the industrial estate—follow the stony path to the top right corner to reach the quarry. Comfortable footwear is recommended, and the walk to the viewpoints rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the coast.
Pirates Cove
Wyke Regis, Weymouth, DT4 9GL
Why visit:
Pirates Cove is a hidden gem near Weymouth, popular for fossil hunting and exploring Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. It’s a fun outdoor adventure for families, walkers, and geology enthusiasts.
What you’ll find:
- Opportunities for fossil hunting along the shoreline
- Scenic coastal views and rock formations
- Quiet, less-crowded location compared to main beaches
- Great for nature walks and a short coastal exploration
Good to know:
Check tide times before visiting and be mindful of recent wet weather, as some areas can become muddy. Suitable footwear is recommended, and it’s ideal for a half-day visit or as part of a coastal walk.
The Weymouth Kids Treasure Trail
If you’re visiting Weymouth with kids, you may want something to keep them entertained. As you can see there is so much to see and do in Weymouth, it’s a good idea to keep the kids happy with an interactive treasure trail.
A Treasure Hunt themed walking Treasure Trail around Weymouth can be done in your own time at your own pace. The trail is approximately 2.5 miles long and takes 2 hours to complete on a circular loop.
Weymouth Sculpture Trail
The Weymouth Sculpture Trail links six commissioned artworks for you to discover as you explore Weymouth. The trail has been inspired by the town’s maritime history and waterside environment.
The theme of water is in each sculpture and they are places close by the water bottle refill units in town.
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Park Yoga In Weymouth
Between May and September you can take part in Park Yoga for FREE.
Weymouth Lodmoor Country Park – There is parking on site at Lodmoor Country Park for your weekend yoga sessions.
Weymouth Marsh Sports Ground – Find your Weymouth park yoga at The Marsh Sports Ground, Knightsdale Road, Weymouth, DT4.
Things To Do In Weymouth Frequently Asked Questions
Top suggestions for a wet day in Weymouth would be some pottery painting. Locations include Gone Potty on Thomas Street. Why not enjoy a nice roast dinner in Weymouth on a rainy day.
There are plenty of things to do in Weymouth for free including visiting one of the many beaches in Weymouth. Or go crabbing, rock pooling, or why not visit the Olympic Rings.
If you enjoy walking, then there are some great walks in and near Weymouth. You could attempt the mammoth 20 mile walk between Weymouth and Durdle Door if you like a challenge.
