The Chesil Beach Centre operated by the Fine Foundation explains the extraordinary geology and ecology of Chesil Beach – an 18-mile natural shingle barrier beach and The Fleet lagoon behind it. Interactive displays explore how this remarkable feature formed, its unique graduated pebble sizes increasing from west to east, and the rare habitats it creates. The center explains The Fleet’s importance for wildlife including breeding seabirds and rare plants, plus fishing heritage. Exhibits cover smuggling history, shipwrecks, and the beach’s role as a natural sea defense. Educational programs, guided walks, and rock pool rambles bring coastal ecology to life. The center provides essential context for understanding this World Heritage geomorphological feature. Located where Chesil meets Portland, visitors can immediately explore the beach. The center demonstrates successful environmental education about dynamic coastal systems and conservation challenges.
Photo by Rob Farrow from Geograph, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Chesil Beach Centre
Location
Photo Gallery
![SY6675 : Portland and Chesil Beach [8]](https://lovedorset.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/SY6675-Portland-and-Chesil-Beach-8.jpg)
![SY6675 : Portland and Chesil Beach [7]](https://lovedorset.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/SY6675-Portland-and-Chesil-Beach-7.jpg)
Gallery images from Geograph Britain and Ireland, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. Hover over images to see photographer credits.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more places within 10km
Chesil Beach Centre (Fine Foundation)
Environmental center interpreting Chesil Beach's extraordinary geology, Fleet lagoon ecology, and conservation.
Chesil Beach Centre (Fine Foundation)
Environmental center interpreting Chesil Beach's extraordinary geology, Fleet lagoon ecology, and conservation.
Portland Castle
Exceptionally preserved Henry VIII coastal fort from 1539, overlooking Portland Harbour.
Tout Quarry Sculpture Park
Unique outdoor sculpture park in disused quarry featuring 60+ contemporary stone artworks.
Fossil Forest (Penn's Weare, Portland)
Remarkable 145-million-year-old in-situ fossil tree stumps from Jurassic period forest on Portland.
Portland Museum
Charming museum in 17th-century cottages showcasing fossils, maritime history, and island heritage.