Keates Quarry Dinosaur Footprints
Walk in the footsteps of giants! Discover ancient sauropod dinosaur footprints preserved in the Jurassic Coast's Portland Stone.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking
Keates Quarry Dinosaur Footprints
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk in the footsteps of giants! Discover ancient sauropod dinosaur footprints preserved in the Jurassic Coast's Portland Stone.
"Amazing to walk in the footsteps of such incredible beasts over 120m years later. "
👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential
Wear good walking boots; the path can be muddy and uneven through fields.
🐶 Keep Dogs on Lead
Livestock graze in the fields, so dogs must be leashed at all times. 🐕
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.2 · 193 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sauropod Trackways
Walk in the ancient footsteps of giant sauropods, marveling at these 120-million-year-old impressions.
Priest's Way Walk
Enjoy a scenic trek along The Priest's Way, connecting to the quarry and offering stunning coastal views.
Dancing Ledge Detour
Combine your visit with a clamber down to Dancing Ledge for breathtaking sea views and unique rock formations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Key
Manage Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential
Wear good walking boots; the path can be muddy and uneven through fields.
🐶 Keep Dogs on Lead
Livestock graze in the fields, so dogs must be leashed at all times. 🐕
🗺️ Combine with Dancing Ledge
Make the most of your trip by adding a visit to Dancing Ledge on your return. :hiking_boot:
🤔 Manage Expectations
These are geological impressions, not perfectly formed footprints.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential
Wear good walking boots; the path can be muddy and uneven through fields.
🐶 Keep Dogs on Lead
Livestock graze in the fields, so dogs must be leashed at all times. 🐕
🗺️ Combine with Dancing Ledge
Make the most of your trip by adding a visit to Dancing Ledge on your return. :hiking_boot:
🤔 Manage Expectations
These are geological impressions, not perfectly formed footprints.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Keates Quarry for its unique geological significance and the scenic walks to reach the site, particularly along The Priest's Way. The opportunity to see ancient dinosaur footprints is a major draw, though some note the impressions are subtle. Combining the visit with Dancing Ledge is a popular recommendation.
"A fantastic spot, easily accessible for confident able walkers from Worth Matravers or Swanage. Access for those with limited mobility is obviously more complex. Nestled between cattle and sheep fields with friendly locals. Keep dogs on leads of course.
Beautiful preservation of these sauropod trackways!
I recommend for all fellow fossil fans and casuals alike :)"
Andy Yeoman
"Amazing to walk in the footsteps of such incredible beasts over 120m years later. A bit of a walk but very worth it if you have any interest in dinosaurs, fossils, or interesting geological oddities."
Adam Humphrey
"If this is real… wow! If it’s fake, it’s still interesting. If you’re in the area, you’d be silly not to stop by. It’s a very small area, in the middle of some paddocks, with some info to explain the dents in the ground."
Some Guy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access is via a walk along The Priest's Way. You can start from the National Trust Spyway car park near Langton Matravers or walk from Worth Matravers or Swanage. Be prepared for a moderate walk through fields.
The nearest official parking is the National Trust Spyway car park. From there, it's a walk to the footprints. Parking in Worth Matravers or Swanage is also an option, but involves a longer trek. 🚗
While cycling is possible on some paths, the final approach through fields might be challenging. Walking is generally recommended for the best experience. 🚲
Access is difficult for those with limited mobility. The walk involves uneven terrain and fields, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs or prams.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission fees. The site is freely accessible as it's located within agricultural land. 🆓
As it's an outdoor natural site, there are no set opening hours. You can visit anytime, but daylight hours are recommended for safety and visibility. :clock1:
There is no entrance fee. Access to the dinosaur footprints at Keates Quarry is free for all visitors. :moneywithwings:
While technically possible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, lack of lighting, and potential disturbance to wildlife and livestock. 🌙
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find large impressions in the rock, believed to be sauropod dinosaur footprints. There are also informational signs explaining the geology.
The time spent depends on your walk to the site and how long you linger. Seeing the footprints themselves is relatively quick, but the walk can take an hour or more each way. :stopwatch:
No, there are no facilities directly at the dinosaur footprints. You'll need to use facilities in nearby villages like Worth Matravers or Swanage before or after your visit. 🚽
The area is generally safe, but be mindful of uneven ground and livestock. Always supervise children and keep dogs on leads.
It's best to observe the footprints without touching them to help preserve them for future visitors. :handwithfingers_splayed:
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the scale of the footprints by including a person for reference. The surrounding coastal landscape and the walk along Priest's Way also offer great shots. 📷
Drone usage may be restricted due to proximity to livestock and potential disturbance. Always check local regulations before flying. :aerial_drone:
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows, highlighting the texture of the footprints. Golden hour is particularly beautiful. :sunriseovermountains:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit