History of Weymouth Harbour

Weymouth Harbour’s history begins with the Roman conquest of Britain. The Romans valued the natural protection offered by the harbour, using it as a convenient stop for galleys transporting goods inland to the nearby Roman settlement of Durnovaria, known today as our county town, Dorchester.

Some historians believe that the River Wey—which flows into the harbour—played a vital role in early Roman supply chains. Roman vessels likely travelled inland via the river, where they unloaded goods at Radipole Lake before continuing by land to Dorchester. Artifacts such as Roman pottery and coins have been discovered along the riverbanks, hinting at the harbour’s importance to trade and communication.

Archaeological evidence from Radipole Lake suggests that the Romans also used this area for fish farming and salt production, key commodities of the time. These early activities laid the foundation for Weymouth’s future as a bustling maritime hub.

During the Hundred Years’ War between England and France (1337–1453), Weymouth played a critical role in supporting the English war effort. In 1347, the town contributed 15 ships and over 260 mariners to the English fleet besieging Calais. This was a significant contribution for a town of Weymouth’s size, highlighting the harbour’s growing prominence in national affairs.

As a coastal port, Weymouth was vulnerable to raids by French privateers during this period. The town frequently fortified its defences, building watchtowers and strengthening its harbour walls to protect against invasion.

Since the post-war era, Weymouth Harbour has transformed into a vibrant hub for leisure, tourism, and maritime life. Today, the harbour is a lively center for fishing, yachting, and sightseeing, offering visitors a blend of history and modern attractions.

One of the highlights is Weymouth’s annual events calendar. Seafood lovers can indulge at the Weymouth Seafood Festival, a celebration of local seafood featuring market stalls, live cooking demonstrations, and entertainment. The harbour also hosts regattas and historical reenactments, bringing to life Weymouth’s storied maritime past.

To preserve its rich history, Weymouth has also invested in heritage walking trails and guided tours. These experiences take visitors through key historical landmarks, sharing captivating stories of smuggling, naval battles, and royal visits.