Just a short drive from Weymouth you’ll find the pretty village of Osmington Mills. Nestled within the stunning Dorset countryside, this coastal hamlet is well worth a visit during your stay at South Lytchett Manor.

From the car park there is a steep walk down a set up steps to the beach. The beach itself uneven underfoot and care should be taken when negotiating the rocks and boulders as they can get slippery when wet. At low water plenty of rockpools are uncovered, providing opportunity to search for fish, crabs and other marine creatures.

Fossil hunting

Thanks to its location on the Jurassic Coast, Osmington Mills is a popular place for fossil hunting. A number of impressive fossils have been discovered here, including the skull of a Pliosaur, which is now on display in Dorset County Museum.

The moss-covered cliff face also boasts another treasure – a beautiful waterfall that showers down onto the rocks beneath.

Watch the sunset

Osmington Mills benefits from beautiful views across Weymouth Bay. On a clear day the Isle of Portland is visible in the distance. It’s a great spot to watch Weymouth’s popular firework displays without having to venture into the busy town.

Fantastic coastal pub

A visit to Osmington Mills wouldn’t be the same without a pit stop at the Smugglers Inn. The area was once an important landing place for smugglers and the pub served as the headquarters for French smuggler, Pierre Latour. Now serving an extensive menu with a large seating area, this pretty thatched pub is the ideal place to rest and refuel after tackling one of the popular walks or a section of the South West Coast Path.

Getting to Osmington Mills

It’s best to combine a trip to Osmington Mills with a visit to the nearby town of Weymouth, if only to see the white horse that has been carved into the hillside. The figure depicts King George III who was said to frequent the area.

There is a car park at Osmington Mills which can be used during your visit. Patrons of the Smugglers Inn can park for free.

Header image credit: Derek Winterburn, Flickr