Season: autumn
West Bay is the beach for the historic town of Bridport. Protected by its piers, the beach and harbour are fringed by old cottages and a Customs House. The town was once well known for rope making. Local art galleries showcase the natural beauty in this part of the Jurassic Coast and fossils are abundant hereabouts, often collected below the awesome East Cliff.
Dave’s perspective on a changing coastline.
The beach and East Cliff at West Bay.
Season: spring
The beach was bathed in morning sunshine for this seasonal visit. There was a steep shingle shelf down to the water’s edge and the shingle turned relentlessly under the push and pull of the tide. East Cliff and its fossils dominate the beach, towering above the sand. The soft sandstone yields its ancient historical bounty all year round, well worth a visit.
Jo’s enjoyment of this beach and village, now showcased in a TV drama.
By the water on the shingle beach at West Bay.
For us, it’s about being there with the children. The waves wash away any cares or concerns and return you to your own childhood.
West Bay means Dorset, it means home, and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
I have lived in West Dorset all my life and how lucky am I! With clean sea air to breathe, glorious skies to enjoy and the stunning Jurassic coastline shaping our lives and constantly changing.
Eype beach has a special charm of its own, quiet and unspoilt and just over the cliff from West Bay. The beach takes on a new appearance with each visit and each season, the sea is in charge and we must always respect its mighty strength.
In the summer, especially in the evenings, Eype beach is littered with fisher folk casting for a mackerel supper, friendly groups having BBQ’s, people just talking or taking a late, chilly dip and soaking up the golden sunset as it slips magically away before your eyes.
In the winter it may be just me and the dogs and some driftwood to find! Oh, happy days.
The beach gives you a real sense of being a part of a much bigger world. Standing on the shoreline looking out to sea – there is so much more to be explored. It gives you a sense of place, encourages contemplation and a breath of sea air cleanses the soul like meditation in a liquid form. The cathartic massage of sand under the soles of your feet, the stark contrast from the built environment, the sound of nothing but the sea all combine to make a magical medicine that can cure all ills. I love being on the beach.