The Jurassic Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline anywhere in the UK. Running from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset, it’s famous for its dramatic cliffs, fossil-filled beaches, coastal walks and charming seaside towns.
But when people start planning a trip here, one question always comes up: where is the best place to stay on the Jurassic Coast?
The coastline is over 95 miles long and every area feels slightly different. Some towns are lively and busy, others are quiet and tucked away. After spending a lot of time exploring this part of Devon and Dorset ourselves, we’ve found that choosing the right base can completely change the feel of your trip.
Here are some of the best places to stay along the Jurassic Coast and what makes each one special.
Beer – a hidden gem on the Jurassic Coast (Our Pick)
If you’re looking for somewhere that feels like a true coastal village rather than a busy resort town, Beer is one of the most special places you can stay.
Beer is a traditional fishing village tucked between dramatic white cliffs on the East Devon coast. Fishing boats are still launched straight from the pebble beach, the village centre is full of small independent cafés and pubs, and the coastal scenery here is incredible.
One of the things we love most about Beer is that it has somehow stayed quietly under the radar. Nearby Lyme Regis attracts huge numbers of visitors, but Beer still feels calm and authentic even during the summer months.
The village is also perfectly placed for exploring the surrounding coastline. Some of the most beautiful walking routes on the entire Jurassic Coast start right here, including the coastal path towards Branscombe and the clifftop route towards Seaton.
If you're planning a visit, our guides here can help you explore the area:
• Things to Do in Beer, Devon: A Local Guide https://explorebeerdevon.com/f/things-to-do-in-beer-devon-a-local-guide
• The Best Jurassic Coast Walks from Beer, Devon https://explorebeerdevon.com/f/the-best-jurassic-coast-walks-from-beer-devon
• Best Beaches Near Beer, Devon https://explorebeerdevon.com/f/best-beaches-near-beer-devon
Beer is also known for its friendly pubs and relaxed village atmosphere. If food and local pubs are part of your trip, this guide is a great place to start:
• Where to Eat and Drink in Beer, Devon https://explorebeerdevon.com/f/where-to-eat-and-drink-in-beer-devon
Over time we completely fell in love with the village and ended up buying a house here overlooking the sea.
Lyme Regis – the famous fossil town
Lyme Regis is one of the best-known towns on the Jurassic Coast and is famous for fossil hunting and its historic harbour, known as The Cobb.
The town has a lively atmosphere with lots of restaurants, shops and cafés. Families especially enjoy Lyme Regis because there’s plenty to do, including fossil hunting on the beaches and exploring the seafront.
Lyme Regis is only a short drive from Beer, which makes it a great day trip if you’re staying nearby.
If fossil hunting is on your list, this guide explains everything you need to know:
• Fossil Hunting on the Jurassic Coast: A Local Guide from Beer
And if you’re planning a visit while staying in Beer, this day trip guide will help you plan the day:
• Lyme Regis – A Classic Jurassic Coast Day Trip from Beer
Sidmouth – elegant and relaxed
Sidmouth sits at the western edge of the Jurassic Coast and has a very different feel from some of the smaller villages.
It’s a beautiful Regency seaside town with wide promenades, gardens along the seafront and a relaxed atmosphere. Sidmouth has a great selection of cafés, restaurants and independent shops, making it a lovely place for a slower-paced coastal stay.
The surrounding countryside is also beautiful, with plenty of coastal and countryside walks nearby.
Branscombe – peaceful countryside by the sea
Just along the coast from Beer is Branscombe, one of the most picturesque villages in Devon.
Branscombe feels incredibly peaceful, with a long pebble beach backed by dramatic cliffs and rolling green countryside. It’s perfect for anyone looking to escape busy towns and enjoy a quieter part of the Jurassic Coast.
The coastal walk between Beer and Branscombe is one of our absolute favourites and gives you some of the best views anywhere along this stretch of coast.
There’s also a unique experience here if you’re feeling adventurous:
• The Jurassic Sauna at Branscombe Beach – A Wild Experience
West Bay – dramatic cliffs and big views
West Bay in Dorset is famous for its towering golden cliffs, which were featured in the TV series Broadchurch.
The harbour area is lively, with seafood restaurants and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the views. The beaches here are wide and dramatic, making it a great spot for photography and coastal walks.
It’s a busier destination than some of the smaller villages, but the scenery is spectacular.
So where is the best place to stay on the Jurassic Coast?
Every part of the Jurassic Coast has something different to offer.
If you’re looking for a lively seaside town with plenty going on, Lyme Regis or Sidmouth are great choices.
But if you want somewhere that feels more like a traditional coastal village — with beautiful scenery, friendly pubs and incredible walks right on your doorstep — Beer is hard to beat.
It’s one of those places that people often discover by chance and then keep coming back to.
You can see availability for Sea Holly House and other places to stay here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Staying on the Jurassic Coast
What is the best place to stay on the Jurassic Coast?
Many visitors choose towns like Lyme Regis or Sidmouth because they are well known, but smaller villages often provide a more authentic experience. Beer in East Devon is one of the best places to stay if you want a quieter coastal village with incredible scenery, coastal walks and traditional pubs.
Is Beer, Devon a good base for exploring the Jurassic Coast?
Yes, Beer is one of the best bases for exploring the Jurassic Coast. It sits right in the middle of some of the most beautiful parts of the coastline and is close to Lyme Regis, Branscombe, Seaton and Sidmouth. Many of the best coastal walks start directly from the village.
Which part of the Jurassic Coast is the most beautiful?
The stretch between Beer, Branscombe and Lyme Regis is often considered one of the most scenic parts of the Jurassic Coast. The dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and coastal walking routes here offer some of the most spectacular views along the entire coastline.
Is Beer quieter than Lyme Regis?
Yes. Lyme Regis is a larger and more popular tourist town, especially during the summer. Beer tends to be quieter and feels more like a traditional fishing village, which many visitors prefer if they are looking for a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
What is the best time of year to visit the Jurassic Coast?
Spring, early summer and early autumn are some of the best times to visit. The weather is often mild, coastal walks are beautiful, and the villages are less crowded than during the peak summer holidays.
