West Bay

Description:

West Bay is a busy village with a wide sandy beach split by the harbour entrance. The location is a mile south of Bridport. Take the West Bay Road from A35 Bridport bypass, or the B3157 from Weymouth.  There are various places to park; two on the seafront, three harbourside and two long stay pay-and-display.

There is plenty to see and do in this quaint little bay. Boats to see in the harbour, pubs, restaurants, and plenty of kiosks with freshly cooked food served in a clean and effecient way.  Fresh fish can be purchased along the front and there are some interesting gift shops too. The beach is sandy and clean although the sea can get rough in windy conditions. Crabbing for the children is popular off the quay and there are several very good shops for purchasing fishing tackle and bait.

There are public conveniences next to the beach.

Dogs are not allowed immediately in front of the houses, but can be walked under the cliffs on the east and west sides of the bay.

Buses run from Bridport.

The BBC series Harbour Lights, starring Nick Berry and Martin Clunes was filmed here.

Places to visit on a rainy day are:-

Palmers Brewery Bridport. Take a tour of one of the few traditional breweries left in Britain and sample the ales (Monday to Friday, from April), booking necessary.  Tel: 01308 427500.

Mangerton Mill,  Mangerton. A 17th century working watermill and Museum and Rural Bygones. There is a tea room, local crafts, and trout fishing.  Tel: 01308 485224.