Introduction to Top 10 Things to Do in Weymouth
Weymouth, tucked along the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, is a timeless British seaside town that perfectly blends natural beauty, historical charm, and family-friendly attractions. With its golden sands, Georgian esplanade, historic harbour, and easygoing atmosphere, it’s no surprise Weymouth remains one of the UK’s top holiday destinations.
Whether you’re a couple seeking coastal walks, a family looking for beachside fun, or a solo traveller chasing some sea air, Weymouth offers a classic British escape with something for everyone. This guide dives into the best experiences in Weymouth, practical travel tips, recommended places to eat and stay, and a few themed itinerary ideas to make the most of your visit.
Why Visit Weymouth?
Weymouth has been a holiday favourite since King George III popularised it in the 18th century by regularly taking sea baths here for his health. Today, it still feels quintessentially British — colourful beach huts, donkey rides, and fish and chips on the prom — but with modern amenities and year-round events.
The town is also part of the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast, making it a top spot for fossil hunting, coastal walks, and geology fans. Recent tourism data shows a steady rise in domestic visitors, especially among multigenerational families and couples over 40, drawn by its safe beach, heritage attractions, and relaxed pace of life.
Top 10 Things to Do in Weymouth
1. Relax on Weymouth Beach
Weymouth Beach is consistently ranked among the best in the UK — and for good reason. The gently sloping sands and calm waters make it ideal for families with children, while couples can enjoy romantic strolls along the esplanade. Traditional seaside entertainment like Punch and Judy shows, pedalos, and donkey rides still charm visitors today.
Travel Tip: Arrive early in summer to claim a good spot. The beach is free to access and patrolled by lifeguards from May to September.
2. Stroll Along the Historic Harbour
The working harbour is the heart of Weymouth. You’ll see fishing boats docking, crab lines dangling, and pastel-painted buildings housing quaint cafés and pubs. It’s the perfect place for fish and chips or a harbourfront pint.
Don’t Miss: The lifting Town Bridge opens for boats roughly every two hours — kids especially love watching it in action.
3. Discover the Jurassic Coast at Nothe Gardens and Fort
Overlooking the harbour and bay, Nothe Gardens is a beautiful green space for picnics and panoramic views. Nestled within it is Nothe Fort, a Victorian-era coastal defence turned museum with tunnels, cannons, and World War artefacts.
Family Tip: Kids love the scavenger hunts and the ghost tunnel experience.
4. Explore SEA LIFE Weymouth
This popular marine park is home to penguins, otters, rays, and an impressive ocean tunnel where sharks and turtles glide overhead. With themed zones, an outdoor splash pad, and interactive talks, it’s great for a rainy day or a break from the beach.
Opening Times: Daily from 10 am (check for seasonal variations). Booking online in advance often saves money.
5. Ride the Jurassic Skyline Tower (Closed – The tower faced a decline in visitors and ultimately closed, with the decision made to remove it from the landscape. )
Although currently under review, this rotating observation tower offered 360-degree views over Weymouth Bay and Portland. Check for reopening updates, as it may return as a top-tier attraction in the near future.
6. Take a Day Trip to Portland Bill Lighthouse
Just a 20-minute drive from Weymouth, Portland offers dramatic cliffs, a rugged coastline, and the striking Portland Bill Lighthouse. You can climb the tower for incredible views or explore the visitor centre.
Solo Traveller Tip: Early morning or sunset visits offer magical photography moments without the crowds.
7. Hop on a Boat Tour
Several companies offer boat trips from Weymouth Harbour — from calm harbour cruises to Jurassic Coast sightseeing tours and even mackerel fishing trips. Great for couples or families wanting a different view of the coastline.
Booking Info: Book online or at the quayside kiosks. Tours vary by weather and season.
8. Visit Sandworld Sculpture Park
An underrated gem, Sandworld features massive, detailed sand sculptures made by international artists. The themes change annually — from fantasy worlds to famous faces.
Accessibility Note: Mostly flat terrain and suitable for wheelchairs and buggies.
9. Walk the Rodwell Trail
This peaceful walking and cycling path follows a former railway line between Weymouth and Portland. It offers scenic views, shady woods, and birdwatching opportunities.
Active Tip: Bring your own bikes or hire locally for a relaxed pedal along the coast.
10. Browse Weymouth Museum and Brewers Quay
Step back into local history with exhibits about Weymouth’s maritime past, Georgian heyday, and wartime contributions. Housed in the charming Brewers Quay building, the museum is ideal for a cultural stop.
Opening Hours: Limited hours during off-peak seasons; check in advance.
Seasonal Events and Experiences
Weymouth’s event calendar is packed with family fun and cultural highlights:
- Weymouth Carnival (August) – Colourful parade, fireworks, and live entertainment.
- Beach Motocross (October) – High-energy motorbike races on the sand.
- Dorset Seafood Festival (September) – Celebrates local produce, with cooking demos and seafood tastings.
- Fireworks Nights (Summer Wednesdays) – Free fireworks from the beach after sunset.
Suggested Itineraries and Travel Routes
Family Weekend Getaway (3 Days)
Day 1: Weymouth Beach + Harbour walk
Day 2: SEA LIFE Centre + Sandworld
Day 3: Nothe Fort + Rodwell Trail Picnic
Couples’ Seaside Escape (2 Days)
Day 1: Harbour stroll + boat tour + romantic dinner
Day 2: Portland Bill Lighthouse + Nothe Gardens
Solo Explorer’s Jurassic Route (4 Days)
Day 1: Weymouth town + museum
Day 2: Coastal walk on the Rodwell Trail
Day 3: Day trip to Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door
Day 4: Portland cliffs + café-hop along the harbour
Where to Eat
- The Crab House Café – High-end seafood near Chesil Beach; book in advance.
- Fish ‘n’ Fritz – Classic takeaway with award-winning fish and chips.
- Rossi’s Ice Cream Parlour – Perfect stop for a seaside scoop.
- Al Molo – Italian cuisine in a beautiful converted pier theatre.
- Lazy Lizard Lounge Bar – Quirky, casual café with vegan options.
Where to Stay
- The Cumberland Hotel – A sea-facing, family-run B&B on the Esplanade.
- Premier Inn Weymouth Seafront – Budget-friendly, reliable chain hotel.
- The Roundhouse – Adults-only boutique hotel right by the harbour.
- Waterside Holiday Park & Spa – Excellent for families wanting facilities and entertainment.
- Airbnb options – Plenty of charming cottages and harbour-view apartments.
Travel Tips and Practical Information
- Getting There: Weymouth has direct train connections to London Waterloo (approx. 3 hours) and good road access via the A354.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September offers the best weather. July and August are the busiest.
- Parking: Several car parks near the beach and harbour; use the Park & Ride in peak season.
- Accessibility: The beach has accessible ramps and beach wheelchair hire available.
- Dogs on the Beach: Restricted during summer months, but nearby Bowleaze Cove is dog-friendly year-round.
Extend Your Dorset Adventure
Weymouth makes an excellent base for exploring wider Dorset. Consider a day trip to:
- Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door – Iconic coastal formations
- Abbotsbury Swannery and Subtropical Gardens
- Dorchester – Thomas Hardy’s historic market town
- Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre
Final Thoughts
Weymouth’s charm lies in its versatility, a place where kids can build sandcastles while history buffs tour a Napoleonic fort, couples sip wine by the harbour, and solo travellers lose themselves along coastal paths. Whether you come for the sunshine or stay for the seafood, Weymouth is the kind of place that invites you back again and again.
If you’re planning a trip to Dorset or the South West, make sure Weymouth is firmly on your list. You’ll find more than just a beach — you’ll discover a slice of seaside magic.
