Weymouth

Snuggled into the Southern shingles of Dorset, Weymouth is a cosy, picturesque part of the world. It’s a great place for yachties and families, or those simply wishing to escape the rat race. There is no through-road so it’s utterly tranquil. Don’t expect bright lights and dancing girls – Weymouth is ideal for getting away from it all, for a quiet, relaxing week on the beach with your feet up.

Attractions

Weymouth’s beaches are sandy, beautiful and have barely changed in a hundred years. There’s still the traditional Punch and Judy shows, donkey rides, Victorian swing-boats and red-faced fishermen selling jellied-eels and whelks.

The architecture reflects the deeply antiquated heritage; the quayside crowded with jaunty Georgian cottages, the quaint pubs, the restored Victorian Fort and the famous Jurassic Coastline gives the visitor a distinct impression of stepping back in time.

But as well as the historical gems, there’s plenty of state of-the-art entertainment like ten-pin bowling, the nine screen multiplex cinema and an abundance of water sports and beach activities.

Weymouth is big on sailing, and the marina is one of the best around. Also try windsurfing, diving, fishing from the pier, not to mention beach volleyball and trampolining. And look out for Weymouth’s famous Sand Modeller!

Later check out The Time Walk and Brewery Days Show in the renovated Victorian Brewers Quay. This live outdoor spectacular will take you on a journey through six centuries of Weymouth history, featuring pirates, smugglers and hidden booty. Visitors will also have the opportunity to sample local Weymouth ale at the end of the trip.

For a day out for all the family visit The Sea Life Park – adults can take in the Titanic exhibition upstairs while the little darlings jump, swing, slide and climb through Sharky’s and The Deep Sea Adventure.

On a fine day visit Weymouth’s Swannery and the RSPB Nature Reserve just a few hundred metres from town centre. Or take in the floral phenomenons at Bennet’s Water Lily Farm.

A definite must is a trip over to Portland Island, to see the famous Portland Bill Lighthouse and the three ruined castles. Portland is joined to Weymouth by Chesil Beach, a narrow pebble strip.

Shopping

The brand new shopping complex, Brewer’s Quay, has loads of high street names and boutiques, you’ll find everything you need there plus several specialist shops. A large Debenhams and Woolworths are situated on New Bond Street; St Mary and St Thomas Streets are also good for shops. There is a market on Thursday mornings along the quay.

During November Weymouth is transformed for the town’s Victorian Shopping Evening. All staff dress in Victorian costume and there is a seasonal market, carol singers and festive entertainment.

Nightlife and Eating Out

Weymouth has a young, boisterous nightlife, mainly centred around the various pubs. There are three nightclubs, but the clubbing scene can be pretty quiet especially during the winter months.

In regards local eateries there is a wide selection to choose from. Naturally Weymouth specialises in fish restaurants, but there are Indian, Italian, Chinese restaurants, a Greek taverna, bistros, pubs and even a tapas bar.

Tourist Information

Weymouth Tourist Information CentreKings StatueThe EsplanadeWeymouthDT48EDtel: 01305 785747FAX: 01305 788092tourism@weymouth.gov.uk

Airport

To access Weymouth by car, you can approach either from Poole or Dorchester. There is also a well sign-posted railway station, and a National Express coach terminus. The nearest airport is Exeter International Airport.