The Jurassic Coast

Your Maritime Gateway

Welcome to the Coast of Contrasts. Poole is not just a destination; it is the natural gateway to the Jurassic Coast. Home to Europe’s largest natural harbour, Poole offers a unique vantage point: the chance to see this UNESCO World Heritage Site as it was meant to be seen - from the water.

Sail Into History

Forget the traffic. From Poole Quay, you can embark on a voyage past 185 million years of geological history.

• City Cruises & Boat Trips: Daily sailings take you past the shimmering chalk face of Old Harry Rocks, the official start of the Jurassic Coast.
• The Jurassic Circular: Experience the full sweep of the bay, spotting birdlife, marine creatures, and the dramatic transition from white chalk to golden sandstone.

185 Million Years in One Day

Poole Harbour offers a unique front-row seat to the Earth's history. As you look out from the quay or the deck of a boat, you are looking at the only place on the planet where 185 million years of geological history are displayed in unbroken sequence.

• A Global Icon: This geological walk through time is exactly why the coast was awarded World Heritage Status in 2001, ranking it alongside the Great Barrier Reef and the Grand Canyon.
• Celebrating 25 Years: 2026 marks the Silver Anniversary of this prestigious status. Join us in celebrating a quarter-century of global recognition for our stunning local landscape.
• Reading the Rocks: The coast is a time machine. As you travel west from Old Harry Rocks (the youngest chalk rocks from the Cretaceous period), you travel back in time through the Jurassic period and into the Triassic red cliffs of East Devon.

Explore by Land and Sea

Poole is perfectly positioned for the nature lover and culture seeker.

• The Sandbanks Ferry: A short hop across the harbour mouth lands you in Studland, the gateway to the Isle of Purbeck and the South West Coast Path.
• Brownsea Island: While sitting in the harbour, this nature reserve offers red squirrel spotting and unparalleled views back towards the Jurassic cliffs.

Visitor Essentials

Where does the Jurassic Coast start in Poole?

‍Geologically, the coast begins at Old Harry Rocks, which mark the easternmost point of the UNESCO site. You can view them clearly from Sandbanks Beach or take a boat from Poole Quay for a close-up.

Is Poole a good base for walking the South West Coast Path?

‍Yes. You can take the ferry to Shell Bay to begin the famous walk towards Swanage, passing spectacular cliff formations and rare wildflowers.

Can I see fossils near Poole?

‍While the best fossil hunting is further west, the cliffs near Poole reveal the fascinating Cretaceous period. Pop into Poole Museum to learn about the area's rich prehistoric and maritime heritage before you set out.

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