Kimmeridge Bay forms part of the Dorset coast along the South West coastal path. The Jurassic Coast is an area of outstanding natural beauty and is known for great places to go rock pooling and snorkelling. Other attractions include paddle boarding, swimming, and kayaking.
Kimmeridge Bay Address: The Toll Hut, Kimmeridge Approach Road, Kimmeridge, Wareham, BH20 5PF
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The bay is around half a mile away from the village of Kimmeridge and is accessed via a toll road across the Smedmore Estate.
Kimmeridge Bay toll charges are currently £6 for a car, and this allows you access to the cliff top car park which can accommodate around 100 vehicles.
It’s worth noting that the roads that lead to Kimmeridge Bay are quite narrow and twisty in places as you climb and descend along the elevated roads.
The views from the Kimmeridge Bay car park are spectacular across this World Heritage site, and it’s a short walk down to the stony beach either side of the car park.
Kimmeridge Bay Facilities
Facilities at Kimmeridge are limited, however there is a toilet block which can be found to the left of the cliff top car park on the way down towards the slip road access to the beach.
During Summer months you may spot an ice cream van visiting, but this isn’t guaranteed. There is also a picnic area and refreshments area that is open in the Summer.
It’s very dog friendly at Kimmeridge Bay and there are plenty of places for them to explore and swim in the shallow waters.
Don’t forget to pop into the Wild Seas centre next to the slipway to discover the exhibitions and small aquarium. Entry is free and there are often family friendly activities scheduled throughout the year.
If snorkelling is your thing, you can take the Kimmeridge snorkel trail between May and September. Masks and snorkels are available to hire from the marine centre.
If you’re planning on swimming in Kimmeridge Bay, I would recommend water shoes. The waters are shallow especially at low tide, however the rocks and ledges in the water are slippery and can catch you off guard.
Related Post – Dog Friendly Days Out In Dorset
One of the famous sights at Kimmeridge is Clavell Tower. A Grade II Tuscan style tower built in 1830. You can see the tower in the distance from the car park, and it can be accessed by some long steep steps near the Marine centre.
Clavell Folly is currently used as a holiday let, which would be one of the most unusual places to stay in Dorset.
The tower was relocated in 2006 away from the edge of the cliff top that was starting to erode.
Clavell Tower is often opened for visitors during September as part of the Heritage Open Days.
Kimmeridge Bay Walks
If walking is your thing, you will find some great walks from Kimmeridge. The walks will be challenging in places due to inclines and uneven paths.
Being part of the South West Coastal path, you can expect elevations to reach up to 682 feet at Swyre Head which is close to Kimmeridge.
Some suggestions for walks from Kimmeridge can be found here
If you’re looking for gentle walks, I would suggest sticking to the bay area itself and enjoying the views across the water.
Kimmeridge Bay Fossils
Fossil hunting at Kimmeridge Bay is a popular location due to the soft sediment and clay rich ledges along the coastline. It’s worth noting that whilst fossil hunting is permitted at Kimmeridge, the use of hammers is prohibited.
Care needs to be taken if you are fossil hunting along the ledges as the ground is very uneven and the large rocks may move about under your feet. It’s not ideal to let your dog off the lead in this area as they could easily harm themselves.
Checking the Kimmeridge Bay tide times are a mist if you’re panning on fossil hunting at Kimmeridge Bay for fossil hunting. A visit to the Etches Collection in the village is also a must.
You are very likely to find plenty of ammonites, reptiles and shells at Kimmeridge.
Related Post – Where to go crabbing in Dorset
Attractions Near Kimmeridge Bay
If you’re holidaying in the area, then you may be wishing to visit some other attractions near Kimmeridge.
The Museum of Jurassic Marine Life. Address: Main Street, Kimmeridge England
Dorset Adventure Park. Address: Arfleet Mill Lakes Studland Road Arfleet Mill Lakes, Corfe Castle BH20 5JG
Dorset Mud Trail. Address: Arfleet Mill Lakes Studland Road Arfleet Mill Lakes, Corfe Castle BH20 5JG
The Tank Museum. Address: Linsay Road, Bovington, Wareham BH20 6JG
Corfe Castle. Address: The Square, Corfe Castle BH20 5EZ
Lulworth Cove. Address: West Lulworth, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5RQ
Swanage Railway. Address: Swanage BH19 2PH
Monkey World. Address: Tout Hill, Longthorns, Wareham BH20 6HH
Accommodation Near Kimmeridge Bay
If you’re looking to stay near Kimmeridge Bay then check out some of these nearby properties.
Castle Inn, West Lulworth ( 8.5 miles away)
Springfield Country Hotel, Leisure Club & Spa, Wareham (6 miles away)
The Bear Hotel, Wareham (7 miles away)
