Overview

This is a lovely spot for catching magnificent views of Kimmeridge bay and Corfe Castle en route not to mention the rolling Purbeck Hills and Jurrasic coastline. – a world heritage site. The museum itself is Disabled friendly in every way. The Scientifically important Etches collection is housed in a museum opposite Clavellys restaurant – also a great place to eat lunch before you start your adventure in the museum. A state of the Art museum with interactive hot spots, and tales of the local history. Opened in 2016. The majority of fossils are locally found from Kimmeridge Bay and Ridge, over a lifetime by this one man Mr. Steve Etches. It takes the word boring out of museum for any sceptics. A wonderful place for all ages and abilities. When we were there a child had come in with a fossil he had found on the beach and there was great excitement. It brings history and nature to life in a great way. No-one could fail to enjoy this great modern museum and centre for learning. The on-site shop is good and they have a hot drink and snack service within the museum. Clavellys' restaurant opposite does good food and excellent service if you want a meal. Our group included people with dementia and it was great to see them actively responding when they may not have been animated in many weeks or years even.

Transport & Parking

There are limited disabled parking spaces, but the whole car park is close to the venue. If busy the restaurant opposite allows overflow parking. A car or transport is a must as it is not easily accessible by public transport. It is country roads and in some places single lane with passing places. Parking from the restaurant, it is a very small slope and uneven in places but in a wheelchair is no problem. It is still only across the road - perhaps 50yards.

Access

There is step free access and a lift to the first floor with accessible toilets on both levels. There is a detailed access statement available from the museum if you need more information. Also a lift to the first floor. Accessibilty is to all parts of the museum. Plenty of opportunities to rest and see film clips or listen to talks. The museum overall is sparkling clean, and tidy and spacious. The locals are so proud of their museum they have an interest in keeping it friendly attractive and accessible for visitors.

Toilets

Opened only in 2016 the disabled facilities are modern . Accessible toilets were more than adequate. Space for a carer if needed.

Staff

Staff are friendly and go out of their way to help. Everyone is so proud of their museum and the local connection. It's like they all own a piece and want to share its greatness.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

Definitely worth a visit. £8.00 entry and £4.00 for a child but this lasts a whole year so return visits are free within the year. Carers go free with proof of disability. There is a group booking rate and free room hire for groups if booked in advance. There are also family ticket options Occasionally there are road closures due to local Army firing ranges. It's worth checking before you leave, there are alternative routes. Kimmeridge Bay is a little further round and has stunning views. Parking is £5.00 but you can just drive round to see the views before going to the museum. There is a very small artefacts museum in the Bay which may be of interest but it is not 100% accessible.