Travel the Jurassic Coastline – Best UK Road Trip 2022

Based on a recent 2022 survey by Moneybarn, the Jurassic Coast made the number one spot for the Best UK Road Trip! Of course, we knew that all along, but it’s nice to hear that those visiting agree.

Jurassic Coastline

Here in Sidmouth, we are very proud of our Jurassic coastline. In 2001, it was designated as England’s only Unesco natural World Heritage site (alongside the Great Barrier Reef and the Grand Canyon). Our beautiful Regency seaside resort is well and truly on the map! Whether you’re staying or just passing through, be sure to head to the beaches, hills and cliffs. You’ll be rewarded with amazing views of sea and land stretching 95 miles. From Orcombe Point in Exmouth, East Devon to Old Harry Rocks off Studland, Dorset. The Jurassic coastline offers stunning scenery whether you’re on foot or driving and, what’s more, you’ll be following in the footsteps of dinosaurs.

Mesozoic Era

The Jurassic Coast covers three geological periods: the Triassic (gave us the majestic red cliffs of Peak and Salcombe Hills), Jurassic and Cretaceous. The three together are known as the Mesozoic Era. It all began around 252 million years ago. Deserts formed as the earth’s crust was sinking into what became layer upon layer of rock. The Jurassic period fell between 200 and 145 million years ago as sea levels rose and fell. This reshaped these rocks preserving its history, much of it now under water. Today, we have inherited a remarkable and beautiful coastline that gives visitors a real insight into lost worlds and strange creatures.

Sidmouth Museum

Sidmouth is a great base to explore the Jurassic coastline. It gives an opportunity to visit the fantastic Sidmouth Museum. Here you can learn the history of the town from its prehistoric period to the present day. Guided geological walks are available from April to October.

185-million-year coastline

If you want to get even closer to the surrounding rocks, trips on Stuart Line Cruises start from the beach throughout the Summer travelling around the coastline to Exmouth and back. A lovely way to see the wonderful 185 million-year-old coastline.