Local attractions

Weymouth Beach and Esplanade

Weymouth’s long sandy beach and sheltered bathing waters have been attracting tourists since the 18th century, when King George III was a regular visitor to the resort. The beach is just a short walk from Weymouth Marina - look out for the King’s Statue and replica bathing machine on the seafront.

The Rodwell Trail

Following the route of an old railway line, the Rodwell Trail is a flat footpath/cyclepath linking Weymouth Town Centre and Portland Harbour. The names of the old stations are marked along the way and there are great views across the harbour. To get started, cross Westham Bridge and take the subway under Westwey Road then follow the signs (see map section, right).

Old Harbour, Hope Square and Brewer’s Quay

Explore the cobbled streets of Weymouth’s old harbourside and discover a great choice of pubs and restaurants for all tastes, from fantastic fresh seafood to traditional fish ’n’ chips! Hope Square is a great place to soak up the atmosphere on a warm summer’s evening – and the shops and museums of Brewer’s Quay provide a welcome distraction on a rainy day.

The Nothe Gardens and Fort

Escape the bustle of the town centre in the peaceful Nothe Gardens and enjoy stunning views of the Jurassic Coast. Also in the gardens is the historic Nothe Fort, which tells the story of garrison life for Victorian and World War II soldiers (Open daily May – September; Sundays only out of season. Admission charges apply).

RSPB Reserves

Weymouth is unusual in having two bird reserves in walking distance of the town centre: Radipole Lake (just north of the marina) and Lodmoor. Both are free to visit and have marked nature trails and bird hides, with the chance to spot rare species such as Cetti’s warblers and bitterns. Find out more at the RSPB Visitor Centre in the Swannery Car Park.

Weymouth Sealife Centre

Otter and seal sanctuaries, a resident colony of penguins, a tropical shark nursery and a spectacular turtle sanctuary with a walkthrough underwater tunnel are among the attractions at Weymouth Sealife Centre. (Open daily. Admission charges apply).

Abbotsbury Swannery and Subtropical Gardens

Just ten miles west of Weymouth, the beautiful village of Abbotsbury is home to some of Dorset’s most popular tourist attractions. Open from 21^st March to the end of October, Abbotsbury Swannery is the only place in the world where you are able to walk through a colony of nesting Mute Swans. From Mid May to late June you can also see hundreds of fluffy cygnets hatching.The Subtropical Gardens are open all year round (except 20 Dec - 1 Jan). To get there catch the X53 bus from Weymouth seafront.

Useful links

Weymouth & Portland Borough Council - visitor information