The Jurassic Coast | Unpack an Adventure

Unpack an Adventure | The Jurassic Coast

I've lived on the Jurassic coast of Dorset all my life, on and off, for about 25 years.

I love the sound of the pebble beaches under foot, and how the forests are sprinkled around on the top of the hills. The hills themselves are magnificent too: the way they meet the ocean, and how the setting sun in summer turns the Jurassic cliffs a beautiful bright orange.

We left West Bay, a small fishing village, and went to sea in a very rustic, very charming wooden boat. My friend, a fisherman in the bay, took us out on the water in time to see the sun go down.

We packed delicious things, with one eye on what would be easy to hold and pass around as the boat bobbed along. That was important because in my experience, it’s not just people who like to dive into the water; things like mobile phones have a tendency to go overboard too.

You have to be prepared on a boat. The last thing anyone wants is to find yourself all at sea without a bottle opener or enough plates. But between the Fortnum’s hamper, the Cooler wicker and the wonderful backpack, we had all bases covered. 

Mouthwatering food, every al fresco essential and accessory we could ever need, and something to keep our bottles nice and ice cold: what more could anyone want?

I couldn't do without the cooler basket now. It's sturdy and elegant and easy to carry too. Next time, I think we’ll pack a few bottles of the local cider and apple juice inside it. If you’re ever in town, they’re two tipples you’re sure to enjoy.

As the sea breeze picked up, we ate and drank and made our way back to the harbour while the light was still golden. However often I see it, the sight of the Jurassic coastline from out at sea is always such a memorable experience. It’s a chance to see a familiar place from a unique, beautiful, ever-evolving perspective. 

My advice? Try it for yourself, sometime.