The Etches Collection – Kimmeridge
01929 270000
theetchescollection.org
Open every day, 10am – 5pm (last admission 4.15pm).
Kimmeridge, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5PE.
The Museum of Jurassic Marine Life in Kimmeridge is the finest collection of Late Jurassic age fossils in Britain, all collected by just one man, Dr Steve Etches MBE.
Found scattered along the coast of Kimmeridge, The Etches Collection boasts over 2,800 fossils dating back millions of years. Dr Steve Etches discovered his first fossil, a sea urchin at the age of 5, going on to become a self-taught expert on fossils.
The Museum of Jurassic Marine Life is the perfect day out for fossil, prehistoric and history lovers, showcasing fossils from ammonites to fish and ancient reptiles. A true testament to Dorset’s history, the museum houses unique fossils that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
The Sea-Rex exhibition is not to be missed, with the discovery of a Pliosaur skull featured on the BBC documentary “Attenborough and the Giant Sea Monster”. The best example of this skull in the world, guests can learn about how this awe-inspiring beast lived and hunted 150 million years ago.
So much more than a museum, the Museum of Jurassic Marine Life creates an immersive experience through the use of interactive exhibits and displays, taking visitors on a journey to prehistoric times, with authentic projections of sea monsters swimming over the museum walls using CGI.
The museum also offers visitors the chance to use microscopes and enjoy fossil handling activities, perfect for explorers and history lovers.
The gift shop features a selection of unique items including branded merchandise, fossils and jewellery as well as dinosaur themed gifts. Looking for refreshments? Visit Clavell’s café and restaurant, opposite the museum. Alternatively, bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the picnic areas near the museum.
The Museum of Jurassic Marine Life is fully accessible for all visitors with a lift between floors and a dedicated bathroom. Disabled guests can also receive a free carers ticket.
Latest News
Children’s Fossil Competition 2022 – The Etches Collection
The Inaugural Children's Fossil Competition by The Etches Collection is open for entries! Have you ever found a fossil? Maybe you have a collection of fossils? Have you ever wondered…
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