Contact & Booking

Private Guided Fossil Walks

Join me for a private, guided fossil hunting walk along the Jurassic Coast in Dorset. This 95-mile stretch of coast is world famous for its fossils, but much of the coastline is quieter than people expect, and that is where most these walks focus. The aim is to give people time and space to explore properly, without the crowds that often dominate the better known locations.

These walks are not just about learning how to look for fossils, we also take time to understand the rocks underfoot, how the coastline changes, and what makes a fossil stand out once you know what you are seeing. I work as an active field researcher on the Jurassic Coast, and the walks grow out of that experience rather than a fixed script. There is no rushing, no pressure to find something specific, and plenty of room for questions, curiosity, and simply enjoying being on the shore.

Private Fossil Walks
Price £190 per group
Duration 3 to 4 hours
Group size up to 8 people

The walks work well for families, couples, individuals, and education groups. Pace and route are adjusted on the day to suit the group, the conditions, and the tide. The focus is on helping people recognise and understand fossils in their geological setting, rather than just collecting.

Please keep in mind
Participants must be physically capable of walking over uneven and sometimes slippery rocks and shingle for extended periods
Suitable footwear is required, such as sturdy walking boots or well fitting trainers with good grip
No baby carriers, pushchairs, prams, or child harnesses
No unaccompanied under 16s. Children must remain with their responsible adult at all times
No cliff climbing or digging into the cliffs will take place under any circumstances
Weather appropriate clothing is required, including waterproofs and warm layers
Dogs are permitted but must be kept under close control at all times
Participants must be comfortable with tidal environments and understand that access routes can change
Anyone with a serious medical condition should disclose this before booking to ensure your guide can quickly pass this info on in case of an emergency
The walk is not suitable for anyone with a fear of open coastal terrain
The guide may alter the route or finish early if conditions change

Some additional info;

Duration

Private fossil walks typically last approximately 3 to 4 hours. Around one hour of this time is usually spent walking to and from the search area. While many walks are scheduled as 3 hours, part of that time may be taken up by travel on foot to reach a suitable location.

Accordingly, please expect that after approximately 2½/ to 3 hours, we will begin making our way back to the meeting point.

Travel and Parking

Parking and access vary by location along the Jurassic Coast. Please allow sufficient time for travel, parking, and meeting arrangements. Specific instructions where necessary will be provided in advance of your walk.

Weather

Private fossil walks take place in most weather conditions, including heavy rain. Please wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven ground. Open toed sandals or flip flops are not appropriate. Coastal conditions can change quickly and it may be cold, windy, wet, or hot and sunny. Hats, waterproofs, and sun cream are advisable.

Weather and sea conditions can influence fossil visibility. Extended calm periods may reduce the number of freshly exposed finds, while recent rough seas often help reveal new material.

If conditions are considered unsuitable or unsafe, you will be contacted to discuss rearrangement or a refund.

Equipment

The most important fossil hunting tool is careful observation. There is no need to bring tools.

Please bring a sturdy bag or bucket for carrying any finds.

Dogs

Dogs are very welcome on our private fossil walks. Please ensure they are well behaved and kept under close control, particularly around cliffs and uneven terrain.

Payment and Deposit

A £50 deposit is required to secure your booking. Deposits are non refundable if the walk is cancelled by the booking party but refunded if the guide needs to cancel.

If the guide needs to cancel the walk, the deposit will be refunded within 7 working days if alternative dates are not suitable for your group.

The remaining balance to be paid no later than one day before the walk takes place. Please let me know when any payments are made. This just helps me match the deposit and payment to your booking date.