Chesil Beach & The Fleet Lagoon

Chesil Beach is one of Britain’s most extraordinary natural features – an 18-mile long shingle barrier beach stretching from Portland to West Bay, protecting the Fleet Lagoon behind. This remarkable geological formation consists of billions of pebbles naturally graded by size from west (small) to east (large), with such precision that local fishermen traditionally knew their location by pebble size. The beach shifts constantly with storms, creating dynamic, ever-changing coastline. Behind Chesil Beach lies the Fleet – Britain’s largest tidal lagoon, a haven for wildlife including mute swans at Abbotsbury Swannery, wading birds, and rare plants. The Fleet’s shallow, sheltered waters support exceptional biodiversity. Chesil Beach is world-famous for shore fishing, attracting anglers seeking bass, mackerel, and other species. The dramatic exposed coastline experiences wild weather creating spectacular storm-watching. The South West Coast Path runs along Chesil offering exhilarating clifftop walking with views of this unique landform. Combined natural and cultural significance makes Chesil exceptional.