Kimmeridge Bay

Kimmeridge Bay

Kimmeridge Bay’s sheltered position and rich marine life make it one of Dorset’s hidden gems. The shale ledges and rock pools are perfect for snorkelling, fossil hunting, and simply enjoying the quiet – it rarely gets as crowded as bigger beaches on the Jurassic Coast.

Fascinating for fossil hunters and geologists alike, the bay’s rocks hold ammonites, belemnites, and other ancient remains. It’s also a top spot for surfing when conditions are right, thanks to the reef break.

Where is Kimmeridge Bay?

Kimmeridge Bay lies on the Jurassic Coast, about 7 miles from Tyneham village. The postcode is BH20 5PF.

Kimmeridge Village

Before reaching the bay, you pass through the tiny village of Kimmeridge – home to just a couple of hundred people. It’s full of character with old stone cottages and a real sense of stepping back in time.

A Village Steeped in History

The village dates back to the Domesday Book (recorded as “Chinewerce”) and has kept much of its traditional feel. The church of St Nicholas has Norman origins, and the village square is a peaceful spot to pause.

Local Traditions

Kimmeridge still celebrates old customs, like the annual Wassail for the apple harvest – complete with singing, dancing, and toasting the orchards.

The Kimmeridge Experience

Life here is slow-paced and friendly – visitors are always welcome. Stop at the village pub or take a quiet stroll along the lanes.

Take a Walk Through Kimmeridge Village

Kimmeridge Bay Tide Times 2026

Tides play a big part in enjoying Kimmeridge Bay – low tide reveals the best rock pools and fossil-hunting spots, while high tide is great for swimming and surfing over the reef.

Tide times vary daily and throughout the year. For accurate 2026 predictions, check reliable sources like tidetime.org, dorset-tides.com, or the BBC weather tides page closer to your visit – they update annually with precise local data.

Camping in Kimmeridge

Camping directly at Kimmeridge Bay is not allowed – the area is protected as part of the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve and Jurassic Coast.

There are, however, excellent campsites nearby offering everything from basic pitches to full facilities – perfect bases for exploring the bay and wider Jurassic Coast.

Campsites Near Kimmeridge

• Steeple Leaze Farm Campsite
  East Creech, Wareham BH20 5NY – peaceful farm site with great views.
• Burnbake Campsite
  Rempstone, Corfe Castle BH20 5JH – woodland setting with modern facilities.
• Norden Farm Campsite
  Corfe Castle BH20 5DS – countryside pitches near Corfe Castle.
• East Creech Farm Campsite
  East Creech BH20 5AP – family-friendly and close to the coast.
• Wareham Forest Tourist Park
  North Trigon BH20 7NZ – wooded site with good amenities.

Check each site’s website for 2026 availability and booking – popular spots fill quickly in summer.