The dramatically names Jurassic Coast runs for 150 kilometres in southern England, following much of the Dorset coast and also part of the coast of east Devon.

It is a very popular and scenic destination, offering something for everyone and is a highly recommended if you are visiting southern England.

The Jurassic Coast is named after the extensive stretches of cliffs that run along the sea front, dating back up to 250 million years and providing a great insight into what the earth was like millions of years ago. The cliffs are also a renowned source of fossils and attract many fossil hunters – indeed it was at Lyme regis on the Jurassic Coast that ‘fossil hunting’ first became popular, when an intrepid 19th century lady first discovered important dinosaur remains here.

Not everyone is interested in fossils, but we all love great scenery. The entire length of the cliff backed beaches on the Jurassic Coast are followed by a long distance footpath called the ‘South-West Coast Path’ and just following a short part of this walk will introduce you to some magnificent sights. If time permits, a vacation spent following the whole length provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the region.

For those attracted by beaches the Jurassic Coast also has plenty to offer. There are large well known resorts such as Lyme Regis and Weymouth and many smaller beaches where you can avoid the crowds, typically developed in the Victorian era around traditional seaside harbours.

One of the most picturesque beaches is at Lulworth Cove, where a circular beach looks out on a dramatic archway in the cliffs. Some of the beaches here are pebble and shingle while others are fine white sandy beaches, and many have rockpools for the children to explore, so there is something ideal for everyone.

Although the coast is, of course, the highlight of the Jurassic Coast, don’t forget to spend some time travelling a little way inland. Within a few miles of the sea there are lots of small villages to discover where rows of small whitewashed thatched cottages stand in beautifully maintained gardens looking much as they must have done 400 years ago. Abbotsbury is among our favourites, while Corfe Castle is also highly recommended because of the impressive ruins of a Norman castle that stand above the village.

Learn more about the places to discover along the Jurassic Coast and lots of other fascinating destinations at visit England, our guide to some of the many highlights of this beautiful country.