Resort Dorset on FacebookResort Dorset on TwitterResort Dorset on Instagram

Church Ope Cove

Church Ope Cove

Church Ope Cove is a secluded beach situated near Easton on the isle of Portland, and is part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO world heritage site.

The beach is usually very quiet and peaceful which can certainly work in your favour.

It is believed that a Viking invasion was attempted around 780AD which later forced the erection of Rufus Castle. The remains of Rufus Castle offer a picturesque addition to visiting Church Ope Cove as the castle overlooks the beach.

Being surrounded three-ways by cliffs, this often shelters the strong winds that tend to blow over Portland. You’ll also notice an array of vintage-style beach huts on the hill.

Unlike its neighbour Chesil beach, Church Ope Cove used to be made up of finer sand, until rock from Portland’s quarries made its way to the beach, wearing its way into round pebbles.

A day at Church Ope Cove is a unique and peaceful way of exploring Portland and its position on the Jurassic Coast. It is something to be enjoyed by all - relax and embrace the view. There is also an array of rocky areas at the beach, so a spot of rockpooling could be on the cards!

How to get there

Whilst you cannot drive down to Church Ope Cove, Cheyne Weares car park (DT5 2EG) is an approximate 10 minute walk away. From here, you can take the coast path situated next to the car park.

Map

Please share or leave a comment

More Places of Interest

More Places of Interest...

Places to Go

Find places to go and things to do in Dorset using the options below.

Dorset Events

16 April 2025
Rude Science
Weymouth
Weymouth
17 April 2025
Sonic 3
Weymouth
17 April 2025
The Substance
Weymouth
18 April 2025
Absolute Bowie
Weymouth

Latest Dorset Features

7 Apr 2025
Easter Events in Dorset Dorset’s Egg-stravaganza of Easter Activities! The Easter holidays are upon us! Whether you’re visiting Dorset for a holiday or live here and want to explore more of your county, there’s never a shortage of places to go and activities for the kids – and big kids! – to get involved in. But what’s on? Dorset is chock full of family-friendly attractions, and many will be hosting Easter Egg Hunts or other fun activities for kids to enjoy over ... Read more...
3 Apr 2025
Stampede by the Sea A Trunkload of Fun! Have you ‘herd’ about the trunkload of fun that's stampeded to West Dorset this spring? To support the brilliant Weldmar Hospicecare, local businesses have kindly sponsored an exciting and eye-catching art sculpture trail of 59 beautifully decorated elephants, individually and uniquely designed by local & national artists. Small and giant elephant sculptures can be found at coastal locations and in historic towns until 27th May in West ... Read more...
18 Mar 2025
100 Years of Sand Sculpting Heritage in Weymouth A Century of Sand Sculpting For over a century, Weymouth's golden sands have been transformed into breathtaking works of art. Fred Darrington began his sand sculpting journey in the 1920s and spent 70 incredible years perfecting his craft, captivating visitors with his lifelike creations. His sculptures ranged from pyramids and sphinxes to The Last Supper and even a Loch Ness Monster. Renowned for his unique ability to add colour and intricate detail, Fred's work became a ... Read more...

More articles available in the features section.

Sign up for Resort Dorset offers, events and news by email
Your data will only be used to send relevant information relating to Resort Dorset magazine and digital platforms. We will not share your data with any third parties, and you can of course unsubscribe at any time. Please see our full privacy policy here.