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Discover the Isle of Portland

Portland is popular for adventure sports.

© Arran Witheford and Brady Gee

Chesil Beach stretches for 18 miles from Portland to West Bay

Visit the isle of portland wild, natural and beautiful.

Portland is a part of Dorset like no other; wild, natural and ruggedly beautiful.

This unique, tied island marks the southernmost point on the Jurassic Coast and is joined to the mainland by  Chesil Beach . Its isolated location, quaint villages and rocky, coastal scenery give the island its own special atmosphere, perfect for exploring.

An Island of Discovery

Just four miles long by a mile-and-a-half wide at its broadest point, you’d be forgiven for thinking that there wasn’t much to see here on this tiny isle – but you’d be wrong!

Steeped in maritime history and heritage, there are museums, castles and not one but three lighthouses to explore, not to mention the folklore and tales of pirates and smugglers to discover.

Outdoor Pursuits

Portland’s coastline is a mecca for the sporty. And thank to the reliable winds, adventure seekers flock here to enjoy the many activities on offer including renowned  rock-climbing , abseiling, diving and excellent sailing and kite surfing.

Walkers delight in the Portland loop of the  South West Coast Path , which circles around the island mapping out an unmissable 9.5 mile trail of dramatic, rugged cliffs, nationally rare plants, hidden coves and stunning views.

Portland Bill and Pulpit Rock

The distinctive red and white striped  Portland Bill Lighthouse  and visitor centre is one of the island’s main draw. It is open in the peak season and if you're feeling energetic, you can climb the 153 steps to the top of the tower for some exceptional views of the coastline.

If you’re not a fan of heights, there’s still plenty to see from land level. Looking out to sea from Portland Bill fills you with a feeling of exhilaration, especially on a stormy day where the waves crash powerfully against the craggy shore and across the Portland Race. The local landmark Pulpit Rock is an easy walk from the lighthouse and nearby cafe. 

A Paradise for Wildlife

Portland’s unique geology and position makes it home to an extraordinarily rich variety of birds, animals and plant life.

The Bill is the first point of landing for thousands of migrating birds and the Portland Bill Observatory is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Take a  wander inland  and you’ll discover butterfly havens, wildflowers and even the odd grazing goat! Did you know that there are 57 species of butterfly that occur in the British Isles and half of these can be seen on Portland?!

Corner Stone of History

Portland stone has been quarried on the island for many years and is used in prestigious buildings all around the world including London’s St Paul’s Cathedral and the United Nations HQ in New York.

Quarrying still continues on the island although many of the disused quarries have now been reclaimed by nature.  Tout Quarry  is one particularly well worth a visit; this reserve has been transformed into a stone sculpture park and over 60 works of art can be seen here for free, including designs by Antony Gormley.

Olympic Sailing Waters

Portland is known world-wide for its sailing waters - the  National Sailing Academy  is based here which was the host venue for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic sailing events.

As well as catering for skilled sailors the academy run lessons for beginners, so why not give it a go yourself and skim across the waters that saw Ben Ainslie become the most decorated sailor in Olympic history!

A short trip up to the north of the island near The Heights Hotel will take you to the Olympic rings, one of the best viewpoints on the island. Wait until the sun is setting and the rings become the foreground to the most spectacular view of Chesil Beach. If you’re looking for your next Instagram snap, it’s here!

Portland's Food and Drink

Fancy enjoying something to eat or drink with views over the water?  Billy Winter's is a fantastic location for watching the sailing action out on the water or if you want to enjoy a few sundowners overlooking Chesil Beach, head over to The Crab House .

Plan you break to Portland

With so much to explore, you’ll have a fantastic break in Portland! You might like to download our  Portland town map  for some more information and inspiration, or head over to our  Things to Do on Portland  page for even more ideas.

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Portland castle.

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The Official Test Centre Ltd

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Situated on the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site coast. Clifftops luxury lodges are within the grounds of Portland’s Pennsylvania Castle and have uninterrupted sea views. Unique and...

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Pennsylvania Castle is an exclusive wedding, events and private rental venue overlooking the charming Church Ope Cove and UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coastline. The neo-gothic design of the Castle...

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A collection of 20 luxurious holiday homes situated on the cliff edge of The Estate. The Front Rows provide an ideal base for those who wish to explore The Isle of Portland and experience everything...

The Heights Hotel

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Discover Portland

Places to stay.

There’s a great range of accommodation in Portland, holiday cottages, hotels, B&B's and fantastic holiday parks.

Lots of places to try the catch of the day whilst enjoying the amazing views.

Things to do

Castles, quarries, lighthouse and one of the best watersports locations in the UK.

Plan Your Visit

We to explore, the enchanting isle of portland.

Interested in seeing a different side to the Isle of Portland? Keep reading!

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Events & Festivals

From music festivals and carnivals to country fairs and outdoor cinemas - you are spoilt for choice!

On Chesil Beach

On Chesil Beach is a film adaptation of novel by Ian McEwan and stars Dorset's beautiful coast.

Share your Dorset

Visiting Portland And Portland Bill In Dorset

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Portland Bill is on the southern most point in Dorset on the Isle of Portland and Jurassic Coast . It definitely attracts visitors wanting to see Portland Bill lighthouse, one of more than 60 functioning lighthouses in the UK.

The lighthouse has been in operation since 1903 and stands at around 41 metres tall, showing off its vibrant red and white colours.

How To Get To Portland Bill

Address: Bill Lighthouse, Old Coastguard Cottages, Portland, DT5 2JT

To get to Portland, your drive will take you through Weymouth, following the A354 towards Portland. As you reach the Isle of Portland, you will notice you are crossing Chesil Beach.

This is the longest beach in the UK at 18 miles in length connecting Portland and West Bay in Dorset.

Related Post – Things to do in Weymouth

The roads to Portland Bill lighthouse through Portland are hilly and can twist and turn in places, but the views once you arrive are worth it. 

Many of the houses on the Isle of Portland were built using Portland stone, and driving through the streets, you can appreciate just how pretty everything is.

There is a large car park right next to Portland Bill which is chargeable at a very reasonable cost.

Portland Bill Lighthouse Visitor Centre

Attached to the lighthouse is a visitor centre, owned and run by Trinity House. The visitor centre opens daily and is currently open for tours of the lighthouse on selected days.

The visitor centre opened in 2015 in the place of what were once the lighthouse keepers houses. Inside you can learn about the lighthouse, the keepers, and the history of Portland Bill.

If you are wishing to visit the visitors centre and not climb the lighthouse, there is currently a charge of £3 for adults and children are £1.50 for up to four children. To climb the lighthouse, the charge is currently £8.50 per adult, £6.50 for children, £7.50 concession and £25 for a family ticket.

There is a minimum height of 1.1 metres to be able to climb Portland Bill lighthouse which has 153 steps to the top.

Things To Do At Portland Bill

Whilst you may be visiting Portland Bill to see the lighthouse, there are plenty of other things to do whilst you’re there.

Next door to Portland Bill lighthouse, you will spot the Lobster Pot restaurant and takeaway. There is plenty of outdoor seating as well as indoor to enjoy a snack or meal looking out across the water.

The Lobster Pot restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Dorset with a great view .

You’ll find pulpit rock at the Southern tip of the Isle of Portland. Pulpit rock represents an open bible leaning on a pulpit. It was formed when a natural arch was cut away by quarrymen in the 1870’s.

A little further up the road before you reach the car park, there is The Pulpit Inn pub, a dog friendly pub with rooms and free WIFI.

There is plenty of wildlife to be spotted at Portland Bill, and even whilst we were there, we spotted a large crowd of bird watchers with their cameras hoping to spot a rare bird.

I would suggest wearing sensible footwear if you’re visiting Portland Bill as the ground can be rocky and loose underfoot in places. If you are looking for an easy walk, you can pick up the South West Coast path from the North West corner of the car park and explore along the cliffs towards the MOD buildings nearby.

Nearby places to visit include, 

Chesil Beach

Weymouth, DT6 4RJ

Chesil beach is made up of shingle and doesn’t provide any shade along it’s long stretch. The beach is a very popular fishing location, especially mackerel. It’s not recommended to swim at Chesil beach due to the strong currents.

Portland Castle

Liberty Rd, Castletown, Portland DT5 1AZ

Portland Castle is an English Heritage property built by Henry VIII to defend England. Admission to the castle is currently charged at £7.60 for adults, £4.60 children, £6.90 concession or free for English Heritage members.

Currently you need to pre-book a slot to visit Portland castle.

Related Post – Castles to visit in Dorset

Why not shop your very own Portland Bill mug

Church Ope Cove

Pennsylvania Rd, Isle of Portland, Portland DT5 1HT

Church Ope Cove is a small secluded beach on the eastside of Portland. You can access the stony beach from either the road past Portland Museum. An alternative access point is through the ruins of St Andrew’s Church. The beach is south facing so can be very warm in the midday sun. 

Tout Quarry sculpture park and nature reserve

Tradecroft Industrial Estate, Portland, Dorset, DT5 2LN

Tout Quarry is an abandoned stone quarry which has been turned into a stone sculpture park. It’s a great place to explore with a free car park area at the entrance to the nature reserve. The car park is quite hidden from view, look to your right at the end of the industrial site. You’ll spot a stony path that leads to the car park.

Portland Museum

217 Wakeham, Easton, Portland DT5 1HS

Portland Museum is a great place to discover what Portland was like in historic times. The museum is very close to Church Ope Cove. A great chance to combine the two locations on your visit to Portland.

The current admission prices are £4.50 for adults, £1 for children and £3.50 for concessions. You can expect to see plenty of fossil collections. There’s also plenty of maritime history including items recovered from the Earl of Abergavenny and the Royal Adelaide.

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Portland Bill Lighthouse visitor centre

Image by Jordan Cormack

Image by Jean Hurlock

The former lighthouse keepers' dwellings feature fun and informative maritime displays and interactives

With the help of a generous grant from its Maritime Charity, Trinity House has renovated the Visitor Centre at Portland Bill Lighthouse. Opened to the public on 29 March 2015, the impressive main exhibit allows you to learn about the lighthouse and its keepers and find out about Trinity House, the organisation that operates the lighthouse and has safeguard the mariner for over 500 years. The exhibition contains a number of interactive displays and historical artefacts and offers the opportunity to encounter a stormy sea journey in the exhilarating zone ‘Into The Dark’.

In 2019, Portland Bill Lighthouse underwent a modernisation project and the character and range of the main navigation light were changed, decreasing from 25 to 18 Nautical Miles. New LED lanterns were installed and the rotating optic was relocated and placed on display at the base of the tower.

For opening days and times please visit www.portlandbilllighthouse.co.uk . If you are planning to arrive at the centre towards the end of the day we would advise calling the lighthouse on 01305 821050 prior to arrival to confirm the final tour time and remaining availability.

Admission prices - Visitor Centre only

Admission prices - visitor centre and lighthouse.

Portland Bill Lighthouse Visitor Centre accepts both cash and card payments.

Please note, Trinity House reserves the right to close for operational reasons at short notice.

Portland Bill Lighthouse is located on the Southerly tip of the Isle of Portland, 1.2 miles south of the village of Easton.

There are a number of car parks very close to the lighthouse.

Public Transport

Frequent bus service from Weymouth - Route 1A

Health & Safety

There are a few rules to ensure you have a safe visit. These include:

• Children are very welcome, but they must be at least 1.1 metres in height and physically capable of ascending and descending the staircases by themselves unaided
• wear sensible footwear (eg not flip flops)
• all visitors (including children) must be able to ascend and descend the stairs unaided

Please read the Health and Safety guidelines before you set off.

The Coast with the Most

Portland Bill Lighthouse

Details and information, portland bill lighthouse: guiding the way on dorset’s coastline.

Welcome to Portland Bill Lighthouse, an iconic landmark perched on the rugged cliffs of the Isle of Portland in Dorset, UK. With its rich maritime history and breath-taking coastal views, Portland Bill Lighthouse offers visitors a unique experience filled with adventure, history, and natural beauty. Discover the fascinating world of lighthouses, soak in the stunning vistas, and immerse yourself in the charm of this captivating destination.

Lighthouse Tours:

Embark on a guided tour of the lighthouse and delve into its intriguing history. Learn about its construction, the lives of the keepers who tended to the light, and the vital role it played in guiding ships safely along the coastline. Climb the tower and experience the thrill of standing at the top, where panoramic views of the English Channel and the rugged Jurassic Coastline await.

Interpretive Centre:

Visit the Interpretive Centre adjacent to the lighthouse and delve deeper into the world of lighthouses and maritime history. Explore interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and informative displays that bring the stories of Portland Bill Lighthouse to life. Gain insights into the challenges faced by lighthouse keepers and the technological advancements that have shaped navigation over the years.

Coastal Walks:

Immerse yourself in the dramatic beauty of the coastline surrounding Portland Bill Lighthouse. Take a leisurely stroll along the coastal paths, breathing in the fresh sea air and marveling at the rugged cliffs and stunning vistas. Capture panoramic views of the English Channel and observe the powerful tides as they crash against the rocks. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including seabirds and occasionally even dolphins or seals.

Birdwatching:

Portland Bill is a haven for birdwatchers, attracting a variety of bird species throughout the year. Set up your binoculars and spot seabirds such as guillemots, razorbills, and gannets as they soar above the waves. The area is also known for its migratory birds, so you may be lucky enough to spot rare visitors during the appropriate seasons.

Photography Opportunities:

For photography enthusiasts, Portland Bill Lighthouse provides a wealth of stunning subjects and captivating landscapes. Capture the dramatic coastal scenery, the lighthouse against the backdrop of the crashing waves, or the colorful sky during sunrise or sunset. Whether you’re a professional or an amateur photographer, the rugged beauty of this location will inspire you to create breath-taking images.

Refreshments and Souvenirs:

After exploring the lighthouse and enjoying the coastal surroundings, take a moment to relax and refuel at the on-site café. Indulge in freshly brewed coffee, delicious snacks, and a selection of local treats while taking in the magnificent views. Don’t forget to browse the gift shop, where you’ll find souvenirs, books, and maritime-themed items to commemorate your visit.

Guided Walks and Events:

Join guided walks led by knowledgeable experts who will further enhance your understanding of the area’s natural and cultural heritage. Learn about the unique geology, flora, and fauna that make Portland Bill a significant ecological site. Additionally, keep an eye out for special events that take place throughout the year, such as open days, art exhibitions, and maritime festivals.

Accessibility and Facilities:

Portland Bill Lighthouse aims to provide a welcoming experience for all visitors. The site offers accessible paths, disabled parking, and facilities to ensure everyone can enjoy the beauty and history of the lighthouse. Assistance dogs are also welcome.

Plan your visit to Portland Bill Lighthouse and immerse yourself in the maritime history and natural beauty of this iconic location. From lighthouse tours and coastal walks to birdwatching and breath-taking photography opportunities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Portland Bill Lighthouse in Dorset.

Author: Glynn Clarke

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Portland and Portland Bill

Portland, dorset – rich in history and natural beauty.

Portland is situated on the southern point of Dorset, England. It is a “tied island” which means it is not truly an island but is attached to the mainland by a strip of land called Chesil Beach. For all practical purposes, Portland has the look and feel of an island. It is 4.5 miles long by 1.5 miles wide and rises 400 feet above sea level.

Portland is noted for its quarries which have supplied limestone to some of the most famous buildings in the world like Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the United Nations Building. Over 6 million tons of stones were taken from Portland to rebuild London after the Great Fire. And Portland stone was also used to make thousands of headstones for fallen soldiers of WWII.

Portland Bill is a narrow stretch of stone on the southern tip of the Isle of Portland. It is home to three lighthouses which warn ships of the shallow reefs and strong tides that race in the area. The newest lighthouse is called the Portland Bill Lighthouse. It was built in 1906 and is in full working order although it runs automatically today. The Portland Bill Lighthouse is also a tourist attraction and educational centre which offers guided tours during the summer months. Take in the various displays about the lighthouses, wildlife, Portland stone industry and shipwrecks. A visit to the Pulpit Rock, a fantastic rock formation next to the lighthouse, is well advised.

Portland Castle is another point of interest on the island. It was originally constructed by Henry VIII in 1539 to protect England from Spanish and French invasion. The castle is rich with history and contains many interesting war relics. The castle is open for touring from April through October.

Portland and the surrounding coastline is a haven for dive enthusiasts. Chesil Cove is one of Dorset’s popular diving destinations that are not to be missed. The cove itself is fairly shallow and calm which makes it ideal for young and beginning divers. There is a diverse population of sea creatures to be seen such as spider crabs, lobsters, dogfish, cuttle fish and pipefish. Chesil Cove is also popular with fishermen and birdwatchers that are drawn there to view the many wading birds. The beach is clean and accessible which makes it a good place to spend the day sunning and taking part in water activities.

Chesil Cove is also part of the Jurassic Coast which has been called one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. The coast spans a distance of 95 miles and is part of the South West Coast Path. You can’t leave Portland out if you are following the Coast Path’s full route, but the walk up to the top is pretty strenuous. On a clear sunny day the scenery is simply stunning and you can see right along the South Coast towards Bridport and Lyme Regis beyond.

Portland is an ideal destination for nature lovers or anyone looking for a fun weekend getaway. There are plenty of sites to see both natural and manmade. You will also find quaint shops and restaurants as well as cozy pubs for lodging.

Portland is home to the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy . The academy is situated on the northern end of the island on Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour. Many important sailing events are held at the academy on both a national and international level. The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy will host the sailing and windsurfing competitions for the 2012 Olympics. The academy was chosen because the harbour and bay are known to be among the best sailing waters in the world and the academy offers superior facilities. Sailing athletes from all around the world will compete in the Weymouth 2012 Olympics and Paralympic Games.

Why not visit Portland as part of your visit to Dorchester and Dorset.

Google route to Portland Bill

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