Charmouth Beach

Charmouth Beach is Britain’s premier fossil hunting destination, where Mary Anning made many of her greatest discoveries. The beach and surrounding cliffs expose Jurassic period rocks rich in fossils including ammonites, belemnites, ichthyosaur vertebrae, and occasionally complete skeletons. The Heritage Coast Centre provides expert guidance, fossil identification, and guided walks. The beach itself offers traditional seaside activities – swimming, rock pooling, and walking – while the fossil hunting adds unique educational dimension. The black cliffs constantly erode exposing new fossils, making each visit potentially yield discoveries. The beach demonstrates how geological heritage can be experienced hands-on rather than just observed. Charmouth successfully balances tourism with fossil preservation through responsible collecting guidance. The beach exemplifies the Jurassic Coast’s significance as a World Heritage Site. Essential for families seeking educational seaside experiences and anyone fascinated by paleontology and Earth’s history.