There’s always something new to discover at West Bay Discovery Centre! Alongside our fascinating permanent displays, we host free exhibitions, guided walks, talks, and family-friendly events — so every visit is a new adventure.

Current Exhibition: Pier Terrace Through Time

Step back in time and uncover the story of Pier Terrace, West Bay’s most iconic building, celebrating its 140th anniversary in 2025. Built as part of a Victorian vision to transform Bridport Harbour into a seaside destination, Pier Terrace has a fascinating history — from the families who lived there to the visitors who came to stay.

This exhibition explores life in the building from the Victorian era to today, with a special focus on the influential women connected to it. Women are often missing from our historical narratives. Pier Terrace Through Time highlights the remarkable women who lived or worked in West Bay’s most iconic building over its 140-year history.

A bespoke doll’s house recreates Pier Terrace in the 1900s and 1950s, and visitors can discover the Arts and Crafts design of architect Edward Prior, inspired by William Morris.

Two New Exhibitions Coming in 2026

Find out more here.

New Exhibition opening Tuesday 17th March 2026

Discover how the Jurassic Coast has changed through time.

Our Changing Landscapes exhibition celebrates 25 years of the Jurassic Coast as a World Heritage Site. Explore fossils including ammonites, see a model Jurassic seabed, watch short films about coastal change, and try the fossil touch table.

A great visit for curious minds of all ages.

Permanent Exhibition

Learn about West Bay’s history, geology, and wildlife through engaging hands-on and audio-visual displays. Great for all ages, it’s the perfect place to start your Jurassic Coast adventure!

Other Events

Easter Egg-stravaganza 🐣

Join us this spring for our Easter Egg-stravaganza, packed with fun family activities throughout the Easter holidays.

Dates: Saturday 28 March – 12 April
Time: 11:00am – 4:00pm daily

Drop in and enjoy a range of activities for children and families, including:

• 🐥 Easter Chick Hunt – explore and see how many chicks you can find
• 🧩 New Exhibition Quiz – test your knowledge as you explore
• 🎨 Colouring Activities – creative fun for younger visitors
• ✂️ Easter Crafts – make your own Easter creations to take home

Visitor Information

• All activities are drop-in – no booking required
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Everyone is welcome
• Free admission – donations are warmly welcomed
• Come along with family and friends for a fun day of discovery, creativity, and Easter excitement!

Great Dorset Beach Clean – Join Us!

The annual Great Dorset Beach Clean (GDBC) is taking place from 1st April to 12th April.

On 2nd April, we will be hosting a beach clean with Clean Jurassic Coast.
📍 Meet outside the Discovery Centre at 10:30am.

Everyone is welcome to take part! Litter pickers and bags will be provided, but please bring:

• Your own gloves
• Appropriate clothing and footwear for the conditions

There are lots of beach cleans happening throughout the GDBC. You can see the full list of events via Litter Free Dorset. Come along and help keep our coastline clean!