West Bay Discovery Centre - Image 1

West Bay Discovery Centre

West Bay, United Kingdom•4.8(50)•Heritage Site, Museum

Explore West Bay's rich history and coastal heritage through interactive displays, exhibitions and guided walks in a historic Methodist Church by the beach.

West Bay Discovery Centre is a multi-award-winning visitor centre housed in a historic Methodist Church that featured in the television series Broadchurch. Located by the beach in this special coastal community, the Centre brings West Bay's history to life through interactive displays, themed exhibitions, guided walks and fascinating local stories. Visitors can explore the lives of people who lived and worked in West Bay, discover how the community has changed over time, and learn about its wildlife, geology and the spectacular Jurassic Coast. The Centre hosts free exhibitions and family-friendly events alongside its permanent displays, ensuring there is always something new to discover. Guided walks around West Bay and the South West Coast Path are also available. The Centre is completely free to visit with no booking required, open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm. It is fully accessible for buggies and wheelchairs, dog-friendly, and suitable for all ages. A small gift shop showcases products from local producers. The venue welcomes families and community groups, with friendly volunteers on hand to assist visitors.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11:00 – 16:00
Wednesday: 11:00 – 16:00
Thursday: 11:00 – 16:00
Friday: 11:00 – 16:00
Saturday: 11:00 – 16:00
Sunday: 11:00 – 16:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.8(50 reviews)
R
ricardo favaretto

ricardo favaretto

a month ago

Lovely welcoming pub, Shame they have to shut early because of grumpy neighbours, maybe they will want the seagulls to be quiet too 🤣

S
Stefanie Bowyer

Stefanie Bowyer

2 months ago

Free and very informative on geological formations and wildlife. Very interactive for children. One room so nice for an wander but only takes minimal time.

B
becci27

becci27

3 months ago

The West Bay Discovery Centre is a fantastic, free museum that perfectly captures the history of the Jurassic Coast. It is exceptionally child-friendly, with an emphasis on interaction that kept my two and three-year-old granddaughters fully engaged. There is an impressive variety of activities, including videos, toys, and colouring pages that children can even put on display. We particularly enjoyed the more tactile elements, such as the magnet information boards, 4D block jigsaws, and the video magnifying glass for inspecting stones. Beyond the exhibits, the centre features a lovely shop and is staffed by two wonderfully friendly ladies who made us feel very welcome. It is just as educational and enjoyable for adults as it is for children. A must-visit if you are in the area.

S
Sarah Broadberry

Sarah Broadberry

a year ago

Nice little visitor centre lots of interaction for little people and free. Though donations keep these places open.

M
Malcolm Petfield

Malcolm Petfield

2 years ago

Definitely worth coming into. Staff very helpful and friendly. Pop up Exhibition ‘West Bay in the War’ Bridport and West Bay like all towns was hugely affected by the impact of the Second World War, both from a civilian and military perspective. In this exhibition we aim to highlight some events that took place here which played an important role in achieving eventual peace in Europe in 1945.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at West Bay Discovery Centre

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about West Bay Discovery Centre

Is West Bay Discovery Centre free to visit?

Entry to West Bay Discovery Centre is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is West Bay Discovery Centre suitable for?

West Bay Discovery Centre is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is West Bay Discovery Centre dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at West Bay Discovery Centre.

Is there parking at West Bay Discovery Centre?

Yes — West Bay Discovery Centre has on-site parking, plus additional parking nearby.

Is there food at West Bay Discovery Centre?

West Bay Discovery Centre doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is West Bay Discovery Centre pushchair-friendly?

Yes, West Bay Discovery Centre is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at West Bay Discovery Centre?

West Bay Discovery Centre is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to West Bay Discovery Centre by public transport?

West Bay Discovery Centre is well-served by public transport.
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