Venue Description

Nestled right on the edge of West Bay's beach, the multi award-winning West Bay Discovery Centre tells the story of West Bay past and present. Located inside the former historic Methodist Chapel in West Bay, which you might recognise the building from the first series of the TV drama Broadchurch. Inside there's a treasure trove of fascinating information, interactive displays and oral history, with something for all ages to discover. The displays include details about the former shipbuilding industry, commercial fishing, the development of tourism and the surrounding environment of the Jurassic Coast. Delve into the interesting photography exhibit and learn what makes West Bay so special for people who live, work or visit West Bay. Please visit our website www.westbaydiscoverycentre.org.uk for further details!

Accessibility

West Bay Discovery Centre is accessible to most wheelchair users. The Grade II listing of this historic building does mean there are some narrow doorways and one step. There is a portable ramp, if you need it please ask us when you visit. Our website http://www.westbaydiscoverycentre.org.uk/facilities has a virtual tour and there is also a downloadable Accessibility Guide that gives detailed measurements and images. There are accessible public toilets and baby changing facilities located next door to us behind the Centre.

Accessibility Guide

Accessibility Guide Link: http://www.westbaydiscoverycentre.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Accessibility-guide.pdf

Awards List

Visit England Awards for Excellence 2022 - Bronze Ethical, Responsible & Sustainable South West Tourism Excellence Award 2021 - Gold Ethical, Responsible & Sustainable Dorset Tourism Award 2021 - Gold Ethical, Responsible & Sustainable Dorset Tourism Award 2021 - Silver Small Visitor Attraction Dorset Tourism Award 2021- Gold Visitor Information Services Dorset Tourism Award 2020 - Silver Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Dorset Tourism Awards 2019 - Gold Award New Business Category South West Tourism Excellence Award 2019/20 -Silver New Business Category Dorset Best Villages Award 2019 - Community Heritage Award

Toilets

Next door to the Centre the council have public toilets but these are not run or controlled by the centre.

Staff

The centre is run by a manager with a team of volunteers who help staff the centre.

Assistance dog facilities

Other assistance dog facilities

Water bowls are available outside the Centre or on request.