Weymouth developed around its harbour on the Dorset coast. What was originally two towns – Weymouth and Melcombe Regis – became a popular seaside resort in the Georgian era. By this time Portland Harbour had become an established naval base, extending from Weymouth to the Isle of Portland which was also famous for its quarried stone. Secret Weymouth and Portland reveals the history beneath the surface of the area from what many believe was the Vikings’ first landing spot in Britain in AD 787 at Church Ope Cove on Portland, the arrival of the Black Death in England at Melcombe Regis harbour in 1348, the stories behind the four castles built within Weymouth and Portland, how Weymouth was taken by both sides in the Civil War, the patronage by King George III, the importance of the town as a departure point for Allied troops undertaking the D-Day landings during the Second World War, and much more.

With tales of remarkable characters, unusual events and tucked away or disappeared historical buildings and locations, Secret Weymouth and Portland will appeal to all those with an interest in the history of this corner of the Dorset coast.

Andrew Jackson lives in Dorset and has been interested in the local history of the area for many years. He has written several books for Amberley previously including Poole Pubs, Historic England: Dorset, Secret Bournemouth, Secret Dorchester and Around, Secret Swanage and Around, Secret Christchurch and A-Z of Poole.