Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon
18 miles and 180 billion pebbles
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Beach Safety
Visiting for the first time
If you are visiting Chesil Beach for the first time you may like to note the following hints for your own safety and convenience.
- The seaward side of the beach is a wave-swept environment that changes at every storm. The pebbles are generally very unstable and whilst it is easy to go down the beach to the shore, getting back up can be a physical challenge
- The actual beach has no facilities at all, it is an open pebble environment. All facilities are located in the car parks at Chiswell, Ferrybridge, Abbotsbury, West Bexington or West Bay
- Do not venture close to the shore line. Even in calm conditions large waves can suddenly appear.
- The shoreline of the beach is very steep and this can result in a very strong undertow under some wave conditions. We strongly recommend that you do not swim off the beach
| Access to the Beach at Abbotsbury car park |
Beyond Ferrybridge Users leaving the Fleet and entering Portland Harbour should consult the latest rules and safety information leaflet issued by the Portland Harbour Authority. It can be downloaded by clicking here |
Storm conditions
Under storm conditions the waves on Chesil Beach can be a spectacular sight and sound. However, we would urge caution when visiting the beach under these conditions. In recent years there have been a number of unfortunate incidents when visitors have underestimated the power of the sea.
- As you climb the beach the wind will not feel too strong, but as you reach the top you will feel the full force of the wind. Be prepared for the change of conditions
- Do not go beyond the top of the beach. The wave patterns can change very quickly and the waves come much further up the beach than you may expect.
- Under storm conditions the air is full of salt spray. Be aware of the effect that this can have on delicate electronic equipment such as cameras.
- Storms can bring a huge amount and variety of flotsam and jetsam onto the beach. Some of this can be dangerous, such as oil, chemical drums, and decomposing animals. If you have any doubts, do not touch!
We hope you enjoy your visit to Chesil Beach
Please do not remove any pebbles, we need them to ensure the survival of Weymouth. The beach is no longer being replenished from natural sources
Please take your litter home
Last updated 19/11/2007
Copyright © 2007 Chickerell BioAcoustics