Newtons Cove Weymouth: Nothe Gardens Walk, Views and Coastal Guide

Newtons Cove and the Nothe Gardens: A Peaceful Coastal Escape in Weymouth

Newtons Cove is a charming, secluded cove in Weymouth, offering spectacular views across Portland Harbour, the Portland Breakwater, and the iconic Isle of Portland. Unlike the busy main Weymouth beach, Newtons Cove provides a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the Dorset coastline.

The cove is ideal for leisurely walks along the coastline. Its rockpools are teeming with wildlife, providing an engaging experience, perfect for nature enthusiasts. The nearby Nothe Gardens run alongside the cove and are a serene oasis with beautifully landscaped paths and grassy areas perfect for a picnic or relaxing in the sun.

Walking the Newtons Cove & Nothe Gardens Trail

The walk along Newtons Cove offers stunning coastal views before winding into the Nothe Gardens. This scenic route skirts the edge of the historic Nothe Fort, combining natural beauty with a touch of history.

• A quiet stroll along the shingle beach and coastline of Newtons Cove
• Exploring rockpools filled with crabs, starfish, and other marine life
• Walking through Nothe Gardens with its colourful flower displays, mature trees, and peaceful paths
• Climbing steps to viewpoints around Nothe Fort for panoramic harbour views
• Extending the walk to Weymouth Harbour or along the stone pier for more coastal scenery

The Nothe Gardens Today

Standing in the Nothe Gardens today, it's easy to forget that this area was once closely linked to the bustling activity of the Nothe Fort. Watching squirrels dart among the trees and birds flit through the garden, you can feel the peace and quiet settle over the space.

In the Victorian era, these gardens were originally designed as ornamental and recreational grounds for the fort's officers and local residents. During Ministry of Defence times, much of the area remained functional, supporting the fort with training grounds, storage, and access paths, while still offering pockets of greenery for soldiers and their families. Today, the gardens preserve that sense of calm, offering visitors a rare chance to connect with both nature and history.

Why Visit Newtons Cove and Nothe Gardens?

Unlike the busy Weymouth beach, this area offers peace and quiet, wildlife encounters, and stunning coastal views. Visitors can explore rockpools full of marine life, take photographs of dramatic coastal scenery, or simply sit in the Nothe Gardens and enjoy the tranquility. The nearby historic Nothe Fort adds an educational and historical dimension, creating a visit that is both scenic and culturally rich.

Whether you are planning a short walk, a picnic, or a full day exploring the fort and harbour area, Newtons Cove and Nothe Gardens are a must-visit when exploring Weymouth and the Dorset coast.

Tips for Visiting

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the rocky cove and garden paths
• Check the tide if you plan to explore rockpools
• Bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens or on the shingle beach
• Photography enthusiasts should visit at sunrise or sunset for dramatic coastal views
• Combine your visit with a trip to the Nothe Fort for a complete historical and scenic experience

Updated: 2026