Visit Spyway Dinosaur Footprints near Langton Matravers to discover sauropod tracks, Early Cretaceous geology and the story of their discovery at the former Keates Quarry site. An outdoor National Trust attraction for viewing fossils in place; no collecting. Cretaceous, Visitor attraction — no fossil collecting
The entire section of coast along Compton Bay provides a worthwhile day out, with opportunities to find pieces of dinosaur bone (mostly rolled) and possibly teeth; and to see the large number of dinosaur footprints scattered along the coast. This section is famous for the remains and footprints of dinosaurs, for which the Isle of Wight is famous. Both commonly occur on the foreshore. Cretaceous, Cliffs and Foreshore, Rating: ♦♦♦♦♦
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Yaverland is one of the most famous fossil collecting locations on the Isle of Wight, renowned for its dinosaur remains, vertebrate fossils and classic Wealden exposures. However, despite its reputation, success here depends heavily on conditions. The site can often appear unproductive, particularly during the summer months when the foreshore is covered, but after winter storms and spring tides, fresh material is exposed and excellent finds can be made. Due to its popularity, the site is also heavily collected, meaning patience and persistence are essential. Cretaceous, Cliffs and Foreshore, Rating: ♦♦♦♦
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The shore from Glyne Gap towards Galley Hill exposes Early Cretaceous sediments when beach scour removes the covering sand and shingle. The original guide records dinosaur footprints after the November 2000 storms. Fossils and traces are intermittent, and the fossiliferous beds belong to the Tunbridge Wells Sand Formation. Cretaceous, Cliffs and Foreshore, Rating: ♦♦
Cooden’s Early Cretaceous foreshore exposes fault-separated Tunbridge Wells Sand and Weald Clay when tides and beach scour permit. Plant material and ironstone-hosted fossils are characteristic interests, with important insect records and occasional vertebrate remains. Loose finds do not always reveal which formation they came from. Cretaceous, Cliffs and Foreshore, Rating: ♦♦♦
