Abbotsbury

This very old village, settled amongst the hills behind the great Chesil Bank, is world famous for its swannery.

The bird sanctuary is 600 years old, home to over 600 flying swans and is the only place in the world where you can literally walk among the breeding, nesting and hatching swans.

The picturesque medieval village of stone and thatch is steeped in history going back some 6,000 years. It has been influenced by early man from the Neolithic Age and is overlooked by an Iron Age hill fort. High above the village on a hill is the 14^th century St Catherine's Chapel, with fantastic views over Dorset and the English Channel. Abbotsbury also has the world's largest thatched Tithe Barn, which is now home to a host of friendly farm animals and the smuggler's barn, an interactive adventure for children.

The village also offers interesting shops, cafes, various accommodation and the famous sub-tropical gardens. Abbotsbury is most definitely a village to explore.

Getting There

By Bus: The Jurassic Coast Bus Service, CoastlinX53, stops at Abbotsbury.
Find out more about the Jurassic Coast Bus Service

By Train: The nearest station is Weymouth, which is 9 miles away. tel 08457 484950 or visit National Rail Enquiries

By Road: Abbotsbury is located on the B3157 coastal road, off the A35 in Dorset, halfway between Weymouth and Bridport