Cycling the Jurassic Coast: A Pub-to-Pub Adventure
Attractions | Beach | Coastal Pubs | Countryside | Cycling | Family | Outdoor Activities | Pub | Pub Accommodation | Walking | Water Sports | Posted 2024.07.09
The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a beautiful 95 mile coastline, along the southern shore of England. Located in South West England, the Jurassic Coast starts from Poole and ends in Exmouth. The coastline features many great cycle routes with lots to explore along the way, including tall rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, charming towns and peaceful coves.
The history of the Jurassic Coast spans over 200 million years and the beaches and cliffs are abundant with fossils and ancient footprints, revealing stories from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods. This coastline’s significance in the field of paleontology has earned it a place as England’s only natural World Heritage Site.
Pubs to stop at along the way
If you enjoy taking your time on a cycling route, consider staying in a pub with accommodation along the way. Use these pub stops as your route to follow, providing excellent bases while having somewhere to eat a delicious meal, grab a refreshing drink, and even a place to stay.
Here is the Cycling Map Route from The Canford to Mill on the Exe.
The Canford
Start your cycling journey at The Canford in Poole Dorset. The pub is next to Bournemouth, so before you start your journey you can explore the city and attractions like Brownsea Island. The pub is a great base with plenty of cosy rooms.
Find out more information and book The Canford.
Lulworth Cove Inn
Just a short walk from Lulworth Cove you can find this beautiful pub. The Lulworth Cove inn has beautiful costal views of the ocean and is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal outdoors in the sun.
Find out more information and book the The Lulworth Cove Inn.
The Smugglers Inn
The next pub stop isn’t that far away. The Smugglers Inn sits on the clifftops in the seaside hamlet of Osmington Mills with views of the Isle of Portland and English Channel. Make sure to try their delicious pub classics and award-winning pies.
Find out more information and book The Smugglers Inn.
The King’s Arms
Head north to Dorchester and find The King’s Arms, a beautifully refurbished Georgian inn featuring 28 stylish en-suite bedrooms. Be sure to book one of the gorgeous pub rooms for a peaceful retreat to relax in after a day of cycling.
Find out more information and book The King’s Arms.
The Bull Hotel
Next, head to the coastal market town of Bridport, home to the popular Bull Hotel. This vibrant and charming 16th-century inn offers a delicious meal and a cosy place to stay.
Find out more information and book The Bull Hotel.
The Rock Point Inn
The Rock Point Inn is the next pub to stop at during your journey. This pub sits in the heart of Lyme Regis and overlooks the ocean. Choose from a variety of bedrooms, several with ocean views. During the day, you can enjoy a refreshing pint on their outdoor patio.
Find out more information and book The Rock Point Inn.
The Mason Arms
In Branscombe is The Mason Arms, a beautifully refurbished pub. This pub is enjoyable all year-round, in winter enjoy sitting in cosy spots by the open fire and in summer sit outside on the front patio and enjoy al fresco drinks in the sunshine.
Find out more information and book The Mason arms.
Mill on the Exe
The final destination is just beyond Exmouth, in Exeter. The Mill on the Exe sits in the city centre and is a great final stop for your journey. You can explore the beautiful city and have somewhere peaceful to come back to after your journey.
Find out more information and book The Mill on the Exe.
Cycling Map Route from The Canford to Mill on the Exe.
Key Sights to Explore Along the Way
Cycling the Jurassic Coast offers a mix of natural and cultural experiences. Here are some key sights to look out for:
Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove
Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch, is perhaps the most famous landmark on the Jurassic Coast. Over thousands of years, the relentless sea waves have eroded a hole through the headland, creating the arch. Near Durdle Door is Lulworth Cove, a beautiful circular bay with crystal-clear waters.
Old Harry Rocks
At the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast are the Old Harry Rocks, a set of chalk cliff formations. They were originally two limestone pillars, but Old Harry’s “wife” crumbled into the sea in the 19th century. The origin of the name “Old Harry” is not definitively known, but one legend suggests it was named after the infamous pirate Harry Paye, who used to patrol these waters.
Weymouth
Weymouth is a traditional British seaside town. The town is known for its historic harbour, Weymouth Carnival and sandy beach, it is the ideal destination for families.
Chesil Beach, The Fleet Lagoon and Isle of Portland
Next to Weymouth is Chesil Beach, an 18-mile long shingle barrier beach going from West Bay to the Isle of Portland.
Behind Chesil Beach lies the Fleet Lagoon, a partially enclosed, shallow lagoon, with a mix of saltwater and freshwater. The Lagoon is home to lots of wildlife, including wading birds, wildfowl, and marine plants.
Chesil Beach also connects the Isle of Portland to the mainland. The Isle of Portland is a rugged limestone peninsula, featuring dramatic cliffs and a famous lighthouse located at the southern tip.
Lyme Regis
Lyme Regis is a picturesque town along the Jurassic coast. The beachfront of Lyme Regis is lined with colourful huts and charming houses. The town has a quaint, old-world charm with narrow streets, independent shops, and a vibrant arts scene. The Cobb harbour in Lyme Regis has featured in literature and films.
Sidmouth and Beer
Make sure you stop off at Sidmouth and Beer. Sidmouth is home to the red cliffs, this cliff face dates back over 240 million years. They are a striking backdrop to the town and are a great place for discovering fossils. Next to Sidmouth is Beer, a picturesque fishing village, where you can explore caves and swim in the ocean.