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
Places to Go
Find places to go and things to do in Dorset using the options below.
Attractions
Activities
Pubs & Restaurants
Holiday Parks
Shops & Services
Vouchers & OffersDorset Events
Latest Dorset Features
Portland & Weymouth Revealed!
Reveal - Portland & Weymouth Towns of Culture 2025 is a celebration of the vibrant cultural scene in Portland and Weymouth. Showcasing the rich tapestry of artistic expression, local talent, and diverse events that define the two towns. Join in, exploring the unique stories, traditions, and creativity that make Portland and Weymouth the cultural gems of 2025.
What to expect!
Thanks to funding from the Arts Development Company, Portland ... Read more...
Bridport's Historic Street Market
One of our favourite weekend treats is a visit to the fabulous year-round Bridport Market, which runs on Wednesday and Saturdays, the latter being the busier of the two days.
Stalls offer a mix of everything and anything, with furniture, antiques, collectables, toys, chocolate brownies, vinyl records, local prints, vintage fashion, socks, walking sticks, organic fruit and vegetables, macramé, rugs, hand-made goods, cheese, local ... Read more...
We’ve been talking to Fiona Elliott from Dorsetmums. When her children were quite young, Fiona started up her own website, social media and blog to share her family's experiences visiting Dorset attractions and businesses. Fiona’s children are now 8 and 12 years old, and have visited many of the area’s tourist attractions and activity centres, so as a family they know what makes for a good day out! Last summer they visited the Nothe Fort in Weymouth: check out how ... Read more...