Dive into National Marine Week this summer at Kimmeridge and Durlston with the Dorset Wildlife Trust
Discover dolphins, rockpool wildlife, seaweed art and family adventures on Dorset's spectacular Jurassic Coast.
There’s no better place to celebrate National Marine Week than Dorset’s incredible coastline, and this summer the Dorset Wildlife Trust is inviting families and wildlife lovers to discover the amazing marine world right on our doorstep.
Running from 26 July to 10 August, National Marine Week is the UK’s annual celebration of our seas. This year’s theme, “Secrets of our Seabeds”, shines a spotlight on the fascinating habitats hidden beneath the waves, from seagrass meadows and chalk reefs to rockpools bursting with life.
To mark the occasion, the Wild Seas Centre at Kimmeridge and Durlston Country Park are hosting a fantastic programme of hands-on events that are perfect for children, families and anyone with a love of the coast.
🐬 Go Dolphin Spotting at Durlston
Have you ever seen a dolphin in the wild?
Join wildlife experts on Monday 27 July for the National Whale and Dolphin Watch, where you’ll scan the sea from Durlston’s spectacular clifftops in search of dolphins, porpoises and even whales. Along the way you’ll learn how to spot marine mammals and contribute to a nationwide wildlife survey.
🦀 Take the Kimmeridge Seashore Challenge
Young explorers can put their wildlife skills to the test on Saturday 1 August with the Kimmeridge Seashore Challenge.
Hire a Seashore Explorer Pack and complete a series of fun activities to earn your Crab, Starfish or Octopus Award while discovering the fascinating creatures that live around Kimmeridge Bay.
🌿 Join the Big Seaweed Search
Become a citizen scientist and help protect our coastline by taking part in the Big Seaweed Search.
Learn how to identify different species of seaweed before joining a simple survey that contributes to national research into climate change and the health of our seas. No experience is needed, making it a great activity for beginners.
🎨 Create Beautiful Seaweed Art
If you’re feeling creative, don’t miss the Seaweed Cyanotype Printing Workshop.
Using pressed seaweed and sunlight, you’ll create your own unique blue-and-white artwork to take home while learning about one of photography’s oldest printing techniques. Suitable for adults and children aged 8 and over.
A brilliant way to discover Dorset's marine world
Whether you’re hoping to spot dolphins, hunt for fascinating rockpool creatures or create your own coastal-inspired artwork, National Marine Week offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the Jurassic Coast in a whole new way.
Many activities require advance booking, so it’s worth planning ahead.
Visit the Dorset Wildlife Trust website for full event details and booking information, and don’t forget to browse the Love It Local Events guide for even more fantastic events taking place across Dorset this summer.
