The collection contains over 2,000 unique specimens meticulously curated from the local Kimmeridge Bay coastline.
The fossils are curated to museum-grade standards, often preserving delicate soft-tissue structures rarely found in the fossil record.
The building was specifically designed to mirror the geological strata of the surrounding cliffs.
Many fossils on display were extracted from the sea using specialized diving equipment.
The collection includes the remains of Pliosaurs, which were the apex predators of the Jurassic seas.
Several specimens in the collection are globally unique, representing species discovered by Steve Etches himself.
The museum uses 'interactive' lighting to demonstrate how light reflects off fossils in situ.
The Etches Collection houses a world-class assemblage of Kimmeridgian-age marine fossils collected by Steve Etches over 40 years. Located in the village of Kimmeridge, it specifically showcases creatures that inhabited the shallow tropical sea covering the region 150 million years ago. The museum features high-definition digital displays and tactile exhibits that illustrate the life cycles and predatory behaviors of marine reptiles. Many specimens are holotypes, meaning they are the primary examples used to define their respective species. The collection focuses on the diversity of the Kimmeridge Clay formation, including ammonites, crustaceans, and marine vertebrates. It acts as both a public exhibition space and a center for ongoing paleontological research.
The central display area featuring the large marine reptile skeletons, captured from the elevated walkway.
Combine your visit with a walk down to Kimmeridge Bay to see the geological layers exposed in the cliffs.
Allow time to watch the short documentary film provided, which explains the discovery process.
Use the magnifying stations provided in the galleries to view the intricate details of smaller specimens.
Assuming you can collect your own fossils from the nearby beach; the site is protected and digging into the cliffs is strictly prohibited.
Closed on Mondays during the winter season.
