Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Chesil & The Fleet SSSI stretches along the south coast of Dorset, England, comprising the iconic Chesil Beach, an extensive shingle barrier beach nearly 18 miles (29 km) long, and The Fleet, a shallow tidal lagoon located between the shingle beach and the mainland. This protected area is distinguished by its rare geomorphology and diverse habitats, including marine, intertidal, salt marsh, reedbed, and terrestrial ecosystems. Chesil Beach plays a crucial role as a natural coastal defense, sheltering The Fleet lagoon and surrounding lowland areas from the full force of the English Channel. Historically, the area has been important for fishing and salt extraction, with some settlements tracing back to Roman times. Today, it draws nature enthusiasts, walkers, and birdwatchers who come to experience its rich biodiversity, including numerous breeding and migratory bird species such as avocets, oystercatchers, and little terns. The Fleet lagoon is particularly valued for its extensive reedbeds and aquatic vegetation, supporting a wide range of waterfowl and rare aquatic invertebrates. Recreational activities include guided coastal walks, wildlife watching, photography, and angling. The site is accessed from various points along the coast, including the villages of Weymouth and Portland to the east and Abbotsbury to the west. Chesil & The Fleet SSSI remains an important conservation area with management efforts focusing on habitat preservation and balancing visitor access with environmental protection.
