Find Ancient History in a Road Trip Through Jurassic Coast
Read Time: About 14 minutes
Jurassic Coast. Simaron
And we’re back with a brand new Cornish adventure. So far, our guide wound from the greenery of Sherborne to the vibrant market town of Shaftesbury, and the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs AONB, which is the 6th largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Next, we pottered around Poole, went down to the Isle of Purbeck, and explored Lulworth Cove and other stunning attractions in West Lulworth.
Campervan and Motorhome from £30
Woodlands is a Caravan and Motorhome Club Certificated Location in a peaceful and scenic location. The site rests on a gently undulating sloping valley on the Mendip Hills fringes and is close to Britain’s smallest city – Wells.
Pack your things, bundle into your campervan, and let’s explore more fine spots along the Cornish coastline. Hop on the A353 and take around 30 minutes from West Lulworth to the Jurassic Coast. Experience the stunning Jurassic Coast landscapes with convenient campervan hire Dorset services that put you right at the heart of this prehistoric wonderland. Use our comprehensive guide to plan your holiday, find some of the best campsites on the Jurassic Coast, and enjoy a stress-free campervan road trip to this gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located along the southern coast of Cornwall, the Jurassic Coast is a spectacularly diverse and beautiful landscape. Inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 2001, it is one of Britain's most popular holiday destinations, drawing millions of visitors each year.
- What is the Jurassic Coast Famous for?
- Jurassic Coast Road Trip Itinerary
- Which Part of Jurassic Coast is The Best?
- How Many Days do You Need to See The Jurassic Coast?
- Can You Camp on The Jurassic Coast?
- Can You Drive Along The Jurassic Coast?
- Camping in and around Jurassic Coast
- Campsites Near in Jurassic Coast
- Campervan Hire Towns in Jurassic Coast
- Concluding Paragraph - Concluding Our Jaunt in The Jurassic Coast
What is the Jurassic Coast Famous for?
Lulworth. Richard Szwejkowski
Stretching some 95 miles, the Jurassic Coast is England’s sole natural World Heritage Site and the only place on the planet where one can explore 185 million years of Earth’s rich history, often exposed in the rugged hills, quiet coves, barrier beaches, and coastal stacks, stretching from Orcombe Point near Exmouth to Old Harry Rocks near Swanage. Visitors can walk through time as they head eastwards, marvelling at the unique geological formations transporting guests through the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. Uncover some of the most varied coastal features anywhere in the world on our Jurassic Coast campervan road trip. After a day of geological wonder, you can unwind at one of the many welcoming campsites in Dorset that dot this remarkable coastline.
The coastline of East Devon is characterised by cliffs made of Triassic red stone, while the beach at Budleigh Salterton is famous for its Budleigh pebbles, which fall out of the cliffs. Further along the coast is Ladram Bay, with its eroding cliffs and sandstone stacks home to a range of nesting birds. Landslips and cliff falls are aplenty along the coastline between Lyme Regis and Charmouth. Further eastward, Chesil Beach, regarded as one of the finest barrier beaches in the world, extends from 29 km (18 miles) from Burton Bradstock to Portland.
Jurassic Coast Road Trip Itinerary
Fossil hunting is a 200-year-old activity along the Jurassic Coast. Charmouth and Lyme Regis are the best spots to hunt for fossils, with the rapidly eroding, slumping cliffs offering visitors the opportunity to make extraordinary discoveries. Can you keep a fossil if you find one? If you find a fossil of Charmouth, you are permitted to take it home. This is because fossils falling out of the cliffs are considered abandoned and open to collection. Fossils embedded in the cliffs are under the landowner's ownership, like the National Trust, and it is illegal to carve into the cliffs and remove them without prior permission.
Which Part of Jurassic Coast is The Best?
The best part of the Jurassic Coast depends entirely on personal preference. For iconic sceneries, head to Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door and marvel at the limestone arch plus the beautiful circular bay (Lulworth Cove), making it one of the most photographed spots on the coastline. It is ideal for viewsome hiking and quiet picnics. Don’t miss the fossil-rich Stair Hole and climb the Man O’ War Beach viewpoint. For more breathtaking vistas, take short walks around the stunning Old Harry Rocks, an enchanting chalk formation at the easternmost point of the Jurassic Coast. If you can muster up the energy, take a relaxing stroll to Studland bay from Old Harry Rocks - you won’t be disappointed.
The towering golden cliffs of West Bay in Bridport, featured in the TV series Broadchurch, have plenty of walks along the cliffs and sweeping views. The area also brims with several beachside cafes ideal for post-exertion meals. Portland Bill is a gorgeous spot for holidaymakers who prefer quieter settings to the bustle and buzz of the holiday crowds. Explore the coastline with a historic lighthouse and visit the unusual rock formation of Pulpit Rock, a short walk from Portland Bill Lighthouse. Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast of England, is a distinctive yellow sandstone cliff boasting stunning 360-degree views and a wonderful spot for a quiet picnic.
Campervan, Motorhome and Tent from £37
Andrewshayes Caravan Park is an award-winning site, nestled in the lush Devon countryside, looking out over emerald valleys, and rolling hills that cluster around the picturesque village of Dalwood.
History buffs can explore beautiful ruins, like Corfe Castle, an 11th-century fortress, where visitors can listen to tales of battles, sieges, and civil wars. The Gothic-style architecture beautifully blends with the natural landscape, with lovely panoramas from the English Channel to Poole Harbour.
For stunning golden sand beaches and family-friendly activities, rumble to West Bay, a quiet harbour at the base of towering cliffs. The shoreline has shimmering rock pools, a lovely harbour for strolls and plenty of wildlife like peregrine falcons and kestrels. The laidback town of Sidmouth is famed for its geological Triassic cliffs, which are rich in fossils. Take a guided walk with the Sidmouth Museum, or sunbathe on the sand and shingle beach, enclosed by awe-inspiring cliffs. Sidmouth town is a great place to unwind with restaurants, cafes, and shops. Beer, a charming village on the East Devon coast, is home to one of the region’s oldest breweries and a lovely beach with unusual geological features. Admire the technicoloured pebbles, their colours influenced by the minerals in the coastal cliffs, and rent a kayak to explore the area on the water.
Plenty of beautiful walks wind from the countryside, along the coastline, to the windswept summits of the cliffs. Follow the river along the Brit Valley walk, or hop on the South West Coast Path and explore the stretch from Burton Bradstock to West Bay. Other popular routes include the Chesil Bank Beach Walks and Abbotsbury Walks.
How Many Days do You Need to See The Jurassic Coast?
Kimmeridge Bay. Pedro
The time needed to explore the Jurassic Coast on a campervan road trip will depend on the length of your holiday. If your time is limited, explore the highlights like Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, and Lyme Regis. For a short holiday at a more leisurely pace, spend between 3 - 4 nights visiting the big hitters and hiking up Golden Cap. If you want to fully immerse in the Jurassic Coast's splendour, we suggest spending anywhere between 5 - 7 days or more. Many travelers also choose to base themselves at the comfortable campsites in Bournemouth, which offer easy access to both the coast's eastern treasures and the vibrant seaside town itself. Driving around in a campervan helps cover more ground and eliminates the hassle of unpacking and packing your bags at each hotel. Walkers should add extra time to explore rugged trails like the South West Coast Path. Visit in summer for the best weather, or come by in spring and summer for a less crowded atmosphere.
Can You Camp on The Jurassic Coast?
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, there are plenty of beautiful campsites in Jurassic Coast. Wild camping is not permitted in England and Wales, including magnificent spots like Durdle Door. There are wild camping options close to Durdle Door, but there are rules in place. If you are fortunate enough to find a land owner who will allow wild camping on their premises, leave no trace of your stay and respect any houses or establishments nearby. Visit our campsites page for more campsites in UK.
Can You Drive Along The Jurassic Coast?
Yes, you can undoubtedly drive along the Jurassic Coastline. Access to a motorhome or campervan is ideal for accessing lesser-known spots that would be difficult to access via public transport. While the road may venture further inland at some spots, driving the length of this gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site is a popular Cornwall road trip, with some of the most scenic drives in England. Take it slow if time permits, make as many stops as you can or need, and don’t forget to refuel at a cosy pub. If you would like to leave your campervan at a campsite, the area is well-serviced by public transport.
Camping, glamping and fun-filled escapes on the Jurassic Coast are a given when you kick back at Shrubbery Campsite, a well-drained, well-maintained camping space close to the Devon, Dorset and Somerset borders.
Next, we explore the best places to camp on the Jurassic Coast and the best campervan hire options in and around this gorgeous landscape. Read on. Visit our main page for more campervan hire in UK.
Camping in and around Jurassic Coast
If you want to twiddle your toes in the sand, wake up to the relaxing sound of the waves crashing on the shoreline, and breathe in the bracing sea air, book a holiday at one of our campsites in Cornwall. If you’re wondering where to set up camp near the Jurassic Coast, look at our Arne, Ridge and Sandford campsites. Arne and Sandford are under a 30-minute drive from the Jurassic Coastline, and the quiet village of Ridge is perfect for escaping the crowds while enjoying the beauty and attractions of this stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll explore the attractions in each of these recommended campsite locations below.
Andrew Bone. Lulworth Cove
Campsites in Arne are perfect for idyllic escapes while enjoying quick access to captivating attractions on the Dorset Coast. The village is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, from ancient woodlands and heathlands to estuaries and the coastland nearby. Wake up to the trills of birdsong, fresh coastal air, and stunning views over Poole Harbour. The RSPB Arne Nature Reserve, a haven for nature lovers, is nearby and a fantastic spot for spotting rare species like Dartford warblers, sika deer, and avocets. Arne is also ideally located for exploring the world-famous Jurassic Coastline. If you would like to find more spots near Arne, check out our campsites in Wareham, campsites in Corfe Castle, campsites in Upton, campsites in Poole, campsites in Winfrith Newburgh and campsites in Bere Regis. We list 431 campsites within 40 miles of Arne, so feel free to browse our excellent campsites for a relaxing holiday.
Staying at a campsite in Ridge is a fantastic option, especially if you like to blend the charm of the countryside and have quick access to some of Dorset’s most popular attractions. Reconnect with nature as you wake up in the beautiful countryside and access local amenities like shops and pubs in the nearby town of Wareham. Ridge is near the Jurassic coastline, which ensures access to stunning coastal views and geological wonders. Drive to attractions like Corfe Castle and Studland Bay, all under 10 miles away. Take a nostalgic steam train ride on the Swanage Railway, 4 miles away, or head over to the iconic Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, just 12 miles away. Browse 449 campsites within 40 miles of ridge, or explore more campsites in Steeple, campsites in Sturminster Marshall and campsites in Wool.
Monkton Wyld Farm is where one can escape the hurly-burly of the coastline without staying too far from the seaside and its pretty coastal villages.
Our campsites in Sandford blend convenience, comfort, and access to a wealth of attractions. Sandford offers a peaceful, semi-rural setting, making it a fantastic base for a camping holiday, and rests near Poole and Wareham. The village is ideal for getting acquainted with the countryside and Dorset's coastline. It rests close to top attractions like Wareham Forest, a sprawling woodland ideal for walking, cycling and wildlife watching. Visit Poole Harbour for boat tours and strolls along the bustling quayside. Family-friendly attractions like Monkey World are perfect for educational days out. History enthusiasts can potter around Sandford Orcas Manor, a beautiful Tudor manor, or head over to the Tank Museum to discover the history of armoured warfare. We list 431 campsites within 40 miles of Ridge, and suggest looking at campsites in Harman's Cross, campsites in lytchett matravers and campsites in Corfe Mullen.
Campsites Near in Jurassic Coast
From giant rock formations to golden sandy beaches and magnificent sunsets, the Dorset coastline is a haven for beach lovers of all ages. Hunt for fossils, walk along the wind-swept cliffs and admire world-famous landmarks like the arch of Durdle Door. If this is your first time camping on the southern English coastline, one of our recommended campsites is a wonderful base for adventuring and relaxing. Birchwood Tourist Park is a sprawling family-run campsite just 2-miles from Wareham. Steeple Leaze Farm Campsite rests in the heart of Purbecks and on a peaceful working farm. At the same time, Woodyhyde Campsite enjoys a stunning location in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just 20 minutes from Corfe Castle. These campsites will have you packing up for a campervan road trip in no time.
Birchwood Tourist Park in Wareham
Birchwood Tourist Park, Wareham
Birchwood Tourist Park is a cosy camping and touring site just 3 miles from Wareham and an excellent base for exploring Poole, Bournemouth, the Isle of Purbeck, Dorchester, Weymouth and the stunning Jurassic Coast. Wake up to a relaxing rural atmosphere with big skies and sprawling countryside scenery, and listen to the sounds of nature from the surrounding Wareham Forest. There are plenty of scenic walks, cycling routes, attractions and beautiful beaches a short drive away, and the local bus service visits the campsite during summer, making it easy to leave your camper behind if needed. Families share access to a large playing field and a well-equipped play area. Pitches are primarily on grass; however, there are plenty of hardstanding bases and electric connections if required. A handy, well-stocked shop is available for campers, and takeaway meal trailers often visit during the summer.
Steeple Leaze Farm Campsite in Wareham
Steeple Leaze Farm Campsite, Wareham
Steeple Leaze Farm Campsite is a large and beautifully located camping space on a beef and sheep farm. If you enjoy making friends with farm animals and waking up to the sounds of a working farm, this might be the perfect base for your road trip. The site is only 2 miles from the abandoned village of Tyneham, an easy 4 miles from Corfe Castle and five from Wareham. Enjoy a no-frills approach to camping and blend your coastal capers with the rich history and natural beauty of the Purbeck Hills. Campers can enjoy the comfort of open fires, which pair beautifully with the vast open night sky. Rumble through the gates, pick your pitch and settle down for a relaxing break from the modern world. The site is best suited for tents, with some areas set aside for small campervans.
Woodyhyde Campsite in Wareham
Woodyhyde Campsite, Wareham
Woodyhyde Campsite is a peaceful, family-friendly site on the Isle of Purbeck, which falls within the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The campsite rests on 15 acres of lush, open countryside, with attractions like the seaside town of Swanage and Corfe Castle a short drive away. Free-spirited campers will enjoy the freedom to pick a pitch of choice on two well-maintained fields with 160 marked plots ideal for tents, campervans and motorhomes. Glampers can kick back in a shepherd’s hut or enjoy the comforts of five beautifully furnished yurts with bedding and linen. Sort food and drinks at the village pubs of Langton Matravers, a 20-minute walk from the gates.
Campervan Hire Towns in Jurassic Coast
If you want to savour the unrivalled beauty of the Dorset Coast with your own eyes, why not hire a campervan on the Jurassic Coast? With a campervan hire in Jurassic Coast, you can explore the coastline at your pace, stopping for picnics on the cliffside, lounging on breathtaking beaches, and chasing spellbinding sunsets without worries about fixed itineraries or check-out timings. We recommend searching for campervans in Lytchett Matravers, Corfe Mullen and Stoborough Green. For those starting their journey from the east, campervan hire Bournemouth provides another excellent gateway to begin your coastal adventure. Not only are these settlements well-located for experiencing the thrill of the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, but they are also close to an array of attractions and activities for all ages and tastes.
Andrew Bone. Jurassic Coast
The charming village of Lytchett Matravers is a fantastic base for a campervan escape. Start with a drive around the settlement, exploring the beautiful St Mary’s Church, which dates back to the 13th century. Hire a campervan in Lytchett Matravers with a bike rack and walk or cycle through Dorset’s rolling countryside, hills and fields. Stop for a drink and a light snack at a local pub before exploring many local attractions. Upton Country Park, 10 minutes away, is perfect for readers who enjoy walking through beautiful gardens, woodlands, and a Grade II* listed Georgian mansion. Nearby, Poole Harbour brims with exciting water-based activities like boat trips, paddleboarding and kayaking. For family-friendly days out, drive to Dorset Adventure Park, 25 minutes away, and divide your time between the inflatable water park or the muddy assault course. Talk to private campervan owners by browsing through 91 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Lytchett Matravers. For more hire options, check out our campervans for hire in Sturminster Marshall, campervans for hire in Upton, campervans for hire in Wimborne, campervans for hire in Poole, campervans for hire in Wareham, campervans for hire in Bere Regis, campervans for hire in Blandford, campervans for hire in Blandford Forum and campervans for hire in Corfe Castle.
Age: 25-75
Travel: Local Area Only
Gearbox: Manual
NOTE. Prices are based on a 3-night booking for lower prices on 4 or 7 nights, please request a quote. IMPORTANT. We only accept bookings from renters with a full UK licence, held for a minimum of 2 years. Monty is our stunning 4 berth, 1979 T2 bay campervan with a spacious full length Moonraker roof.
Hire a campervan in Corfe Mullen, a sleepy village, an easy 40-minute drive from the Jurassic Coast, and discover a quiet retreat with plenty of activities and attractions in the area. Kick off your holiday in true outdoorsy style, exploring scenic walking trails and abundant wildlife at Happy Bottom Nature Reserve, or head out for a family day out at the Corfe Mullen Recreation Ground, a fantastic spot for families with open spaces for picnics and children's play areas. Visit the historic church of St. Hubert's, a stunning 13th-century construction with picturesque architecture. For more historic buildings, rumble into Kingston Lacy, 15 minutes away, and explore the sprawling National Trust property with woodland trails. Camperbug offers a range of campervan models, from the classy VW T2 and VW T3 Brazilian models to sleek modern conversions. With 92 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Corfe Mullen, you’re certain to find the perfect camper for your holiday. We also list campervans in Ferndown, campervans in Ringwood, campervans in Mannington and campervans in Three Legged Cross.
Age: 25-70
Travel: Local Area Only
Gearbox: Manual
NOTE. Prices are based on a 3-night booking for lower prices on 4 or 7 nights, please request a quote. IMPORTANT - We only accept bookings from renters with a full UK licence, held for a minimum of 2 years. Known as Campo in the CBeebies series Grandpa in my Pocket, Campo the Celebrity Campervan is a firm favourite. Campo has been refurbished to a high standard and is available to rent for your VW experience.
Savour a blend of natural beauty, historical attractions, and proximity to some of the most iconic attractions on the Jurassic coastline when you hire a campervan in Stoborough Green. Get out into the great outdoors at Stoborough Heath Nature Reserve, a spectacular heathland and haven for wildlife like Dartford warblers, nightjars, and rare reptiles. Take relaxing strolls along the River Frome, stopping to drink in peaceful water views and the enclosing countryside. Stop to chat with locals over a pint and sample hearty homemade fare at pubs like The Kings Arms in Stoborough, or head to nearby Wareham for a cosy village atmosphere. Stoborough is the gateway to the Purbeck Cycleway, so find a campervan with ample space for your gear and nifty racks to bring your bikes along. Rumble over to Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, arguably the most famous attractions on the Jurassic Coast, an easy 25-minute drive away. Our campsites in Stoborough Green start at £50 and we list 84 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Stoborough Green. We also recommend searching for campervans in Steeple, campervans in Harman's Cross, campervans in lytchett matravers, campervans in Wool and campsites in Winfrith Newburgh.
Concluding Paragraph - Concluding Our Jaunt in The Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast landscape lends itself to adventure, which makes it a hit with holidaymakers of all ages, tastes and nationalities. Both kids and adults can embark on various activities ranging from surfing and walking to sunbathing and some good old-fashioned lazing. With our in-depth guide, you’ll have a wealth of information at your fingertips - campsites, campervan hire locations and must-see attractions - making it easy to craft a campervan road trip that works for you. Whether you want to explore land-based attractions or coves and beaches, our guide has all the essential information to plan your well-deserved escape - make sure to get your campervan and campsite bookings in time for the holiday! Our eight-stop in Itinerary For A Campervan Road Trip Through Dorset takes us to the West Dorset Heritage Coast - another great location to add to your Dorset campervan road trip.
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