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

Alternatively, by Megabus to Poole and then train to Weymouth. Alternatively, by Megabus from London Heathrow and Gatwick Airport and Southampton to Bournemouth and then by train to Weymouth.

A Fab Day Out!

Starting from the colourful Weymouth seafront, the bus meanders its way to Abbotsbury where the sub-tropical park is well worth a visit.

Back on board and the bus cruises past Brownsea Island and the shining Golden Cap before nestling at West Bay and the chance for a bite to eat at the George Hotel. The beach is overlooked by the dramatic, golden form of the towering East Cliff. The cliffs, town and surrounding area were used as the filming location for the British drama series Broadchurch. The Bay is the nearest thing to paradise on earth but you’ve a bus to catch quite soon and a trip up the cliff to Bridport and if it is Wednesday or Saturday, a peruse round the famous market, which takes over three main streets and over 100 stalls, including antiques and bric-a-brac on Saturdays!  Bridport Museum or a tour round Palmers Brewery or a peruse of the independent art galleries are also fab to check out if you fancy a bit more time in this lovely market town.

At Bridport, you can either stay on the X53 or get off the open top X52 to continue your adventure on the X53 to Lyme Regis, known as ‘The Pearl of Dorset’, where a walk on the promenade is an absolute ‘must’, maybe some shellfish if you’ve still an appetite after lunch. There are cafes, shops, pubs, inns and restaurants at both ends of the seafront. Boat and fishing trips run from the harbour. A walk along the famous Cobb is a must, and of course, a trip to Lyme Regis would not be complete without trying your hand at some fossil hunting!

Hold a starfish, get a kiss from a grey mullet, watch the cute blennies or get up close and personal with a crab or lobster at the Lyme Regis Aquarium. Suitable for the entire family, this fascinating attraction showcases local fish and marine life across the Jurassic Coast.

This hands on experience will give the whole family an opportunity to interact with a variety of sea creatures and natural artifacts, a fantastic place to visit regardless of the weather outside!

After exploring Lyme Regis, the bus finds its way inland to Axminster. The journey now traverses the heart of sleepy Dorset, of pretty gardens, tree-lined roads, thatched rooves above lovely traditional cottages. Axminster has a charm of its own and with plenty to do, such as an insight into Dorset history and life at the Heritage Centre or a 1 mile walk away, a visit to the interactive, Axe Valley Wildlife Park – a great place to captivate children and adults alike!

By train to Weymouth. Alternatively, by Megabus to Poole and then train to Weymouth. Alternatively, by Megabus from London Heathrow and Gatwick Airport and Southampton to Bournemouth and then by train to Weymouth.