The first part of the fossil walk is a talk and look at fossils, followed by a walk along the seafront where I chat about Mary Anning and point out some geology visible in the cliffs. This should be suitable for most people, although remember in summer it can be hot so a bottle of water might be an idea. I do try to engage everyone, but very young children might need some additional quiet entertainment.

 

The maximum group size on a public walk is small and I’m fairly loud (a fact often commented on!), so hearing shouldn’t be a problem. I get many visitors for whom English is not their first language and I’m quite used to people translating for children. I assume no previous knowledge but if you’ve read a bit about local fossils and Mary Anning it will make the learning process easier and more enjoyable. Many children will have done both topics at school.

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I often get emails about children with ADHD and autism. My first comment is that neither is uncommon among the fossil collecting community! You are probably the best judge of whether your child would cope with a group fossil walk. If not, there is always the possibility of doing a private walk, perhaps with another family or friend.

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The fossil collecting on the beach can be more of an issue for people with low mobility, but it isn’t super strenuous! I’ve had many people in their eighties on walks in the past. The beach is uneven and can be slippery with algae. We go at a steady pace, but you will need decent balance and good footwear. Exactly what conditions are like varies with storms and weather generally, and also if there have been rock falls or mud flows. None of these can be predicted. If you are worried send me an email and I can tell you what conditions are currently like.

 

If you feel the fossil collecting part might be a bit difficult for you there are two options. Some visitors do the first part of the walk with their families and then stay on the first part of the beach to await the return of the rest of their group. This might be a wait of over an hour so you could bring a good book!

 

Alternatively you might be better booking a fossil handling session. This has all the content of a walk (and a bit more) but without the rough beach walk. This session is also ideal for when you’ve not checked the tides and find the tide is in. 

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If you are doubt about the suitability of the walk for your group, just send me an email and I’ll see what I can do. In the past, I have adapted sessions for visitors with visual impairments, learning difficulties and a wide range of access needs.​

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You can find more general FAQs about my walks linked here.

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