Watchet’s Beaches

Watchet is home to two fascinating beaches, each offering something a little different.

West Street Beach, just west of the marina, is a family favourite. It’s known for its Victorian tidal paddling pool, rock pools brimming with marine life, and excellent fossil hunting. The cliffs here are packed with ancient fossils, like ammonites and crinoids, dating back over 200 million years. There’s even a stretch of sand and alabaster cliffs at low tide, perfect for a scenic stroll – but do check tide times to avoid getting cut off.

To the east, Helwell Bay – often called Fossil Beach – is wilder and more rugged. It’s mainly rocky and muddy, but a dream for fossil enthusiasts. The exposed cliffs reveal some of the youngest Jurassic rocks in Somerset, and you can often find ammonites and Devil’s Toenails (gryphaea) just lying on the shore.

Both beaches offer a slice of Somerset’s deep geological past – bring sturdy shoes, check the tide, and don’t forget your fossil-hunting bucket!