Chapman's Pool

Chapman's Pool is a protected cove on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset with limestone cliffs forming a horseshoe-shaped bay. The rocky shoreline drops steeply and reveals rock layers that represent millions of years of geological history.

A lifeboat rescue station operated here from 1867 until it closed in 1880 due to a shortage of volunteers. The station buildings were later transformed into fishing huts that remain in use by the local fishing community.

The beach draws fossil hunters who search the rock layers for preserved sea creatures from ancient times. This activity connects visitors with the distant past and makes the geological story tangible during a visit.

Park at Renscombe car park and walk through farmland for about a mile before descending steep slopes to reach the beach. The paths are rocky and require sturdy footwear and care on the steeper sections of the route.

The fishing huts on the site are converted buildings from the former lifeboat station, showing how communities adapted old structures for new purposes. Some remain in active use today, providing a physical link to the area's working heritage.