West Bay Discovery Centre has a range of visitor information leaflets situated just inside our Centre that give tourists and local visitors additional information on places of interest to visit.

Our glass board inside the Centre is regularly updated with listings of events in West Bay and Bridport. Our friendly volunteers can also provide you with help and advice.

We have free access to WIFI so you can upload your holiday shots to friends to show them what they are missing!

For more detailed queries we suggest you contact our local award-winning Tourist Information Centre in Bridport.

West Bay – frequently asked questions

What is West Bay like?

The village of West Bay formerly known as Bridport Harbour is a picturesque harbour settlement, situated on the mouth of the River Brit one and a half miles south of the market town of Bridport. The coastline plunges away in great cliffs of gold and green.

What is the beach like at West Bay?

There are three beaches in West Bay, East Beach and two at West Beach. The beaches are a mixture of fine shingle and sand, which can vary depending on tidal movement.

East Beach slopes quite steeply into the sea and has a lifeguard service operating during the summer months. West Beach is popular with young families. West Beach is split into two by a protective rock groyne. The furthest beach to the West allows dogs on the beach all year round.

East Beach and West Beach have dog restrictions in place from May-September. The water quality is considered good by the Good Beach Guide. Visitors should keep a safe distance away from the cliffs as there are frequent cliff falls. Please take note of the warning signs.

What is there to do at West Bay?

• Visit the award-winning West Bay Discovery Centre – find out about historical and current life in West Bay with our child-friendly interactive displays, pop-up exhibitions and guided trail leaflets.
• Wander around the harbour and enjoy the spectacular scenery and the nearby coast and countryside walks.
• Take to the water on a rowing boat, canoe, rib boat, fishing trip or paddleboard.
• Enjoy a fantastic selection of food and drink choices from our popular beach kiosks, cafes, pub and restaurants.

What was filmed at West Bay?

West Bay was the setting for the hit ITV drama Broadchurch written by local crime drama creator Chris Chibnall. The coastal scenery of West Bay played at starring role alongside actors David Tennant and Olivia Coleman. Broadchurch had a wide appeal and has been shown in many countries around the world. Why not walk in the footsteps of the stars around the Bay by following the popular Broadchurch Trail?

West Bay has featured in other TV Series/films including Harbour Lights and the Navy Lark.

Get a bird’s eye view of West Bay’s Harbour and changing seascape. What will you see?