Dorset is blessed with an incredible coastline and some of the premiere beaches in the UK. Whilst the classic seaside resort towns of Bournemouth, Swanage, Weymouth and Lyme Regis offer the most famous soft sandy beaches; there are many alternatives that will reward visitors with relaxing beaches and stunning coastal scenery, far from the madding crowds.
Gundimore Beach, Mudeford
Offering splendid views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight, Gundimore has a mixed sand and shingle beach that is easily accessible from Mudeford Quay and nearby Highcliffe.
Steamer Point Nature Reserve towards Highcliffe provides a delightful walk taking in the magnificent 17th-century castle and gardens.
South Beach, Studland
This sheltered beach offers a quieter alternative to the popular Studland beaches of Shell Bay and Knoll, with an outlook across the bay towards bustling Bournemouth.
Access the beach from the village of Studland following the iconic South West Coast Path towards the imposing chalk cliffs at Handfast Point.
For adventurous visitors, stay on the path for a rewarding hike to Handfast Point and take in the spectacular Old Harry Rocks, a series of three chalk pinnacles that mark the most easterly point of the Jurassic Coast.
Chapman’s Pool
A beautiful wild beach in a natural secluded bay is the reward for those who are prepared for a moderately challenging walk from the nearby village of Worth Matravers. The path can be steep and sometimes slippery, so exercise caution as you descend down to the beach or simply take in the view from the South West Coast Path. Those who do venture down are treated to some of the very best coastal scenery to be found along Dorset’s coast.
A pleasant 5 mile circular walk taking in the enchanting old quarries at Winspit makes for a great day out; topped off with refreshments at the Tea Rooms and a nosey around the fossil museum at the unique Square and Compass pub in Worth Matravers.
Worbarrow Bay
Worbarrow Bay welcomes visitors with an expansive shingle beach and an interesting story at nearby Tyneham. The village was requisitioned for military training ahead of WW2 and the remnants of the village now remain within the MOD firing ranges, therefore access is limited at certain times of the year.
Park up and explore the remains of Tyneham village, before making the pleasant stroll for a mile and a half down to the beach.
The ranges are accessible most weekends and holiday periods, but do be sure double check opening days before visiting.
Church Ope Cove
A genuine smugglers cove that is believed to be the landing site of the first ever Viking raids on the British Isles, Church Ope is situated beneath the ruins of Rufus Castle on the sheltered eastern side of Portland.
Offering sanctuary from the prevailing wind and opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and fishing; the beach is accessed from steps that lead down from Rufus Castle, a short walk from Portland Museum.
Cogden Beach
A lesser known stretch of the epic 18 mile Chesil beach that on a clear day, affords dazzling views east towards Portland and west towards Golden Cap and on to Lyme Bay.
The fine shingle beach is owned by the National Trust, who provide parking (free to members), and is also served by the amazing X53 Jurassic Coaster bus service, which stops near to the footpath leading down the beach.
We hope that we’ve given you an insight into the lesser known gems along our breath taking coastline. Don’t forget to share your experiences with us on social media. Maybe it’s time to get out and explore?
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