Portland - Local Info
The Isle and Royal Manor of Portland has a diverse history so a visit to Portland Castle and Portland Museum is a must.
It is famous for the creamy stone quarried to build St Paul's Catheral and the new fascia on the British Museum and the old quarries now provide good walking. Make a point to see Tout Quarry Sculpture Park.
As part of the Jurasssic Coast it benefits from 360 degrees of glorious views and a history streching back 185 million years there are many local opportunities to join a Fossil Forage.
Nearby Weymouth host events from April to August on safe and clean beaches; see www.weymouth.gov.uk
Portland has stunning scenery, a wealth of wildlife, a dramatic coastline plus superb watersports facilities.
Watersports
With the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy www.wpnsa.org.uk being the official venue for the 2012 Olympic sailing events, Portland harbour is a mecca for windsurfers, kitesurfers, divers & sailors.
Diving
With over 100 wrecks in and around the harbour & Chesil Beach, Portland is a major attraction for both beginners & the more experienced. Local dive sites include the Royal Adelaide, Chesil Cove & The Landing Craft.
Wildlife
Of the 57 species of butterfly found in the British Isles over half can be seen on Portland. Visit the Broadcroft Reserve or Perryfields Reserve.
Birdwatching
Migrating birds use Portland as a stopping off point when travelling South and as a landing spot on thir return in Spring. The Portland Bird Observatory (RSPB members only) is open from March - November and keeps records of all migratory action www.portlandbirdobs.org.uk
Chesil Beach
Is a stunning 18 mile long shingle bank running between West Bay & Portland. Without the bank the sea would be much further inland.
Protected behind the bank is The Fleet Lagoon, a nationally important area which is home to a variety of fish, sea anemones, sea grasses and numerous types of seaweed. To view the seabed of the Fleet you can take a trip on the glass bottomed boat "The Fleet Observer"
The Fleet Nature Reserve
Is a sanctuary for migratory birds and an important breeding ground for the Little Tern. Visit The Chesil Beach Centre for information www.chesilbeach.org
Read YHA Portland's access statement