The Dorset and East Devon coastline of England, where countless fossils have been found over hundreds of years, has been given World Heritage Site Status.

This puts the coast, which includes the beautiful cliffs of Golden Cap in Charmouth and the historic resort of Lyme Regis, on a par with the Taj Mahal, the Pyramids, the Grand Canyon and the Great Barrier Reef. The Jurassic coast is the first natural site to win the ultimate accolade in England.

 

UNESCO have agreed to inscribe the Jurassic Coast as an outstanding example representing a major stage of earth's history and the record of life.

 

 

 

 

Above, part (jaws) of the recently discovered 180 million year old, whole, ichthyosaur fossil, found in this unspoiled area of outstanding natural beauty.

 

 

The Dorset and East Devon coast was proposed because of its beauty and importance for fossils. The area is already one of the most popular sites for fossil hunters in Europe.

The rocks of Dorset and East Devon cover 180 million years of the earth's history.

 

The Jurassic Coast stretches from Exmouth, Devon to the West and Swanage, Dorset on the Isle of Purbeck to the East and includes the unique Isle of Portland.

 

It represents a walk through time and shows the evolution of species from fish to dinosaurs to mammals.

 

The Jurassic Coast has become the most popular area for school and university field trips, possibly in Europe. The rock formations are unique and straddle the entire Mesozoic time, which is divided into the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.

 

 

Many people plan to retire here, selling up wherever they are and investing in a

property in Dorset.

 

Also, click on the link for more info on the Jurassic Coast.

 

This website is built and operated by Westcountry Online who are accredited as a Jurassic Coast Quality Business.

This award is given for successfully completing the Jurassic Coast Quality Business Scheme and demonstrating high standards of operation and a commitment to the values of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.