Lilstock Beach

Lilstock Beach is a remote stretch of pebble, shingle and exposed rock on the Quantock coast of Somerset, notable for its striking blue lias rock formations and rich fossil deposits. The layered rock pavements create geometric patterns across the foreshore, and ammonites are regularly found among the loose material, though extracting fossils from the bedrock is prohibited as the area forms part of the Blue Anchor to Lilstock Coast Site of Special Scientific Interest. The remains of old wooden groynes along the beach have become atmospheric features in their own right, popular with photographers. Views extend across Bridgwater Bay toward the island of Steep Holm.

Dogs are welcome year-round on this dog friendly beach with no restrictions, and the remote, quiet setting means encounters with other visitors are infrequent. The terrain is challenging, with large pebbles making for slow walking, and the rock pavements can be slippery when wet. This is not a beach for swimming due to poor water quality and murky conditions. A free parking area sits at the end of a track from Lilstock village, roughly 200 yards from the beach. There are no facilities whatsoever, so bring everything you need. The isolation and geological interest make Lilstock rewarding for those willing to accept its rawness.