X52 / X53 Jurassic Coaster

Journey Overview

From Weymouth in the east to Lyme Regis and Axminster in the west via West Bay and Bridport, the Jurassic Coaster is the bus that provides unrivalled, stunning, spell-binding panoramic views over this spectacular coastline. What’s more, from 23 July 2023, the X52 Jurassic Coaster is an open top bus service between Weymouth, Abbotsbury and Bridport, so folk can breeze along, enjoying fresh air and sun rays bouncing off the sea! For an enclosed experience, the X53 takes the same route but winds its way through deepest Dorset countryside as it continues further to Axminster.

Watching the sun go down or setting is one of the most memorable of atmospheric views on this incredible journey, a trip that isn’t just scenery but also provides a vital connection with charming and beautiful Dorset villages and towns, offering opportunities to hop-on and off for fabulous exploration, no more so than the historic seaside town of Lyme Regis, nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty at the point where the rugged West Dorset and East Devon coastlines meet, at the heart of the Jurassic Coast.

Gateway to the Jurassic Coaster: By train to Weymouth or to Axminster. www.nationalrail.co.uk

A Fab Day Out!

A fab day out starts in Weymouth, catching the scenic Jurassic Coaster X53 bus—or the open-top X52 for the first leg. Before boarding, grab a proper all-day breakfast at the eclectic and cosy Nautico Lounge, a popular brunch spot housed in the former Post Office building. Afterwards, soak up the seaside charm by strolling along the Esplanade to admire the Jubilee Clock Tower, or delve into history at the imposing Nothe Fort for panoramic views across the Jurassic Coast and Portland Harbour.

Hop on the bus heading west, enjoying the unparalleled views of the coastline. Your first stop, the picturesque village of Abbotsbury, is well worth the visit. You can walk among a colony of nesting Mute Swans at Abbotsbury Swannery, especially magical if visiting between May and June when the cygnets are hatching. Alternatively, explore the exotic species thriving in the unique microclimate of the 20-acre Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens. For stunning vistas, take the short twenty-minute stroll up to the 14th-century St Catherine’s Chapel.

Next, travel to the bustling market town of Bridport. If your day out falls on a Wednesday or Saturday, you can peruse the famous street market, which takes over three main streets with over 100 stalls. For a different kind of refreshment, consider a tour of Palmers, England’s only thatched brewery. Just a mile south, visit the charming fishing village of West Bay, instantly recognisable as the backdrop for the TV drama Broadchurch, and take in the dramatic coastal cliffs.

The adventure continues on the X53 to Lyme Regis, famously known as ‘The Pearl of Dorset’. A must-do is a walk along the historic Cobb harbour wall for stunning views back across the bay. Lyme Regis is a mecca for fossil enthusiasts; try your hand at fossil hunting on the beach or visit the Lyme Regis Museum to learn about pioneering palaeontologist Mary Anning. You can also see local marine life up close at the Marine Aquarium.

Finally, the bus meanders inland to the market town of Axminster. Here, you can immerse yourself in local history at the Axminster Heritage Centre, which celebrates the town’s world-renowned carpet-making legacy. Foodies should explore River Cottage HQ nearby, founded by celebrity chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, which offers cooking classes and dining events. Before catching your journey home, enjoy a quiet riverside stroll along the River Axe or explore the vibrant Thursday market.