SAFE AND RESPONSIBLE COLLECTING

The coast around Charmouth and Lyme Regis is famous for fossils. The reason? The cliffs are eroding very rapidly, providing an inexhaustible and plentiful supply of fossils to the beaches. Furthermore many of the specimens are beautifully preserved and some are of great scientific importance. This is the richest source of Lower Jurassic (200 to 180 million year old) fossil reptiles, fish and insects ANYWHERE in the world!

People can collect here because the fossils are always being uncovered by natural erosion and, unless collected, they would simply be destroyed by the sea. However, it is very important that people collect responsibly in order to protect the scientific interest and themselves.

Cliff falls and mudflows are a constant hazard, especially in the winter and it is essential that people stay on the beach and away from the cliffs. Besides, the beach is the best place to find fossils because the sea has done all the hard work, washing away the soft mud to leave the fossils scattered amongst the sand and boulders. You do not need a hammer to find fossils but if you do, it is important that you hammer rocks sparingly (only a few types are worth breaking) and please DO NOT chip away at the cliffs.

The Visitors’ Code provides the best advice for people new to fossil collecting. The Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre contains informative displays and runs regular guided walks which provide the beginner with the best way to get started. The full Code is of more relevance to the more experienced collectors but anyone could find an important fossil; that is part of the fun!