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Weymouth Harbour
Two towns were formed where Radipole Lake disgorges into the sea and the harbour laid in between the both. There was an intense rivalry and bickering between the two sides for many centuries.

harbour

The south side was called Weymouth which has picturesque harbourside buildings that provide a backdrop to a sometimes quiet stroll towards the pier. Just behind the facade is Hope Square, home to the old Brewery and further along towards the entrance of the harbour is the Nothe Fort and its surrounding gardens.

The north side was called Melcombe Regis. When there was a rivalry between the two parts of Old Weymouth the fashion of going to the seaside for your health was not heard of, so Melcombe Regis was barely more than the Quay area and a Friary.

1348
Melcombe Regis was the port through which the dreaded Black Death plague entered the country.

1640s
The Civil War proved destructive for both sides of the harbour.
Civil War

Late 18th century
Ope Cove was filled in to form part of Hope Square, Cove Row and Cove Street.
harbour

1794
The first packet steamer service from Weymouth to the Channel Islands.
harbour

1836
The Weymouth side of the harbour had no church of its own so Holy Trinity was built.
Holy Trinity

1872
The Nothe Fort at the entrance to the harbour was completed.
Nothe Fort

Late 19th century
The Quay railway which ran along Commercial Road and Custom House Quay was constructed.
harbour

1930
The modern Town Bridge opened.
harbour

1970s
Tudor buildings on the old High Street were demolished for the council offices.

21st Century
Modern developments have included new housing on the harbourside and a marina in the inner harbour.
harbour

Click on thumbnails for descriptions and bigger pictures.