Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Chesil Beach & The Fleet SSSI is located on the southwest coast of England in Dorset and is renowned for its geological and ecological significance. The site comprises Chesil Beach, a 18-mile long natural shingle barrier beach, and the Fleet Lagoon, a shallow saltwater lagoon lying between the beach and the mainland. This combination forms a rare coastal habitat that supports diverse wildlife, including many rare and protected species. The area is internationally designated as a Ramsar wetland site and forms part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, highlighting both its environmental and heritage value. Chesil Beach itself is an impressive geomorphological feature formed by longshore drift and storm activity, displaying a distinctive size grading of pebbles from larger stones at the Portland end to smaller ones near West Bay. The Fleet Lagoon provides vital shelter for breeding, wintering, and migratory waterfowl, while the surrounding saltmarsh and low-lying lands host several specialised plant communities. Outdoor enthusiasts come to Chesil Beach for walking along the expansive shingle shoreline with stunning coastal views, wildlife watching including seals and a variety of bird species, as well as engaging in photography and beachcombing. The Fleet is popular for sailing and kayaking, offering sheltered waters and unique perspectives of the beach and surrounding countryside. Local villages and towns such as Portland, Weymouth, and Abbotsbury provide access points and interpretive information to visitors. The site also carries cultural and historical importance linked to its traditional fisheries and maritime heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect and protect the delicate habitats through responsible recreation.
