Think of the great British seaside, and you’ll probably think of Weymouth and its beautiful Blue Flag beach. This is where old-school beach fun reigns supreme, with Punch and Judy shows, helter-skelters, donkey rides, and deckchairs—and a scent of fish and chips that lingers in the air. A summer hotspot since its Georgian days, the town still draws crowds today, and not just for its kitschy vibe. Weymouth is one of the main towns on the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast, where fossil hunting and hiking are among the things to do.
Weymouth is all about summer, when the beach is a mass of deckchairs, kids jostling for sandcastle space, and firework displays offering nighttime fun. But, if you prefer to skip the crowds, the spring months are ideal for coastal hikes when wildflowers spring into bloom over the headlands. Fall is also pleasant: In September, the award-winning Dorset Seafood Festival takes place, celebrating seafood with live music, food stalls, and cooking classes for kids.
Out-of-town visitors can use the park-and-ride service from Mt. Pleasant, which is the best way to avoid the seafront traffic. In town, everything can be reached on foot. For Jurassic Coast explorers, the best car-free options are by foot or bus. The South West Coastal Path offers calf-burning routes around Weymouth, worth it for the sweeping sea views. Otherwise, the Jurassic Coaster bus service links Weymouth to Pool on weekdays.
A staple of English seaside culture, Punch and Judy shows have entertained British families on the beach since the late 1800s, with pantomime-style slapstick humor played out by the eponymous puppets. Weymouth shows last around 20 minutes, and you need to bring cash for a collection box to pay the “professor” (the puppeteer). By watching and contributing, you’re supporting one of England’s last remaining Punch and Judy shows, right on Weymouth Beach.
