Seatown is a small coastal settlement on the Dorset section of the Jurassic Coast, located between Charmouth and West Bay. It sits at the base of Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast of England. The area is limited in size and functions mainly as a beach access point rather than a developed town.
About Seatown
Seatown consists of a small cluster of buildings set just behind the beach, including a pub, café and a limited number of properties. There is no formal town centre, with most activity focused around the seafront and parking area. The surrounding landscape is dominated by steep hills and cliffs, particularly the rise towards Golden Cap immediately to the west.
The location is known for its natural setting and direct access to one of the most prominent sections of the Jurassic Coast. The coastline here is less developed, with open views and fewer facilities than nearby towns. Nearby locations include Charmouth to the west and West Bay to the east, both accessible via the South West Coast Path.
Beaches in Seatown
Seatown’s coastline is primarily a shingle beach with open exposure and limited facilities, typical of this section of the Jurassic Coast.
Seatown Beach – Shingle beach backed by cliffs, exposed to open sea, commonly used for walking, fishing and access to coastal paths.
Golden Cap Beach – Section of coastline beneath Golden Cap, with similar shingle terrain and views of the surrounding cliffs.
Chideock Beach – Less defined stretch of coastline east of Seatown, quieter and more remote with limited access points.
West Bay West Beach – Mixed sand and shingle beach further east, wider and more accessible at low tide.
Things to Do in Seatown
Activities in Seatown are centred on coastal walking and accessing nearby natural features along the Jurassic Coast.
Golden Cap Walk – Steep but well-defined climb to the highest point on the south coast, offering wide views across the coastline.
South West Coast Path – Walking route passing through Seatown, linking Charmouth and West Bay with varied terrain.
Seatown Beach – Starting point for coastal walks and a location for fishing and general seaside use.
Clifftop Walking Routes – Network of paths leading inland and along the coast, providing access to quieter sections of countryside.
Fishing from the Shore – Common activity along the shingle beach, particularly during calmer conditions.
Visiting Seatown
Seatown is accessed by a narrow road from the nearby village of Chideock, leading down to a small car park near the beach. Parking is limited and can fill quickly during peak periods. Public transport options are minimal, with bus services running along the main road above the village.
Facilities are limited to a small number of cafés and a pub near the seafront. The terrain is uneven, with steep climbs required to access coastal paths and Golden Cap. The best time to visit is between late spring and early autumn when conditions are more stable. Summer can be busy due to limited parking, while off-season visits are quieter but more exposed to weather.