If you’re lucky enough to be spending time in Dorset this summer, you might be planning a trip to the beach or two, so keep these hidden beaches under your hat – these are some of the best-kept secrets in the whole county!
Ringstead Bay
Located near Osmington Mills, this quiet beach has scenic views across Weymouth Bay and Portland, plus there is a National Trust Car Park nearby for easy access. The beach is overlooked by unspoiled farmland and cliffs, with lots of cliff top walking routes and there are rockpools and an offshore reef to explore too!
Should you get peckish while on your visit, there are lots of places around Osmington Mills to stop off for a bite to eat, including the Smugglers Inn.
Mupe Bay
You’ll find this beautiful bay at Lulworth, yes, near the ever popular Durdle Door. The bay is accessible while the Lulworth Range Walks are open by following the walk from West Lulworth Church and take the lane opposite the road down from the church and past the shop. There is a gate that will take you right down to the bay.
It is a lovely little walk down to the bay and there are some amazing views once you get there.
If you want a bite to eat, you’ll find plenty of options in Lulworth, make sure to sample the ice cream – it’s amazing!
Worbarrow Bay
This one is a bit of a trek to get to, but it is worth it once you’re there! Its near Tyneham, the village that was closed off after WW2. If you want to visit, walk down a track alongside Tyneham Gwyle, from the car park next to the village. Because it isn’t that easy to get to, this one is often much quieter than the other beaches and coves in the region, it is also only accessible when the Lulworth Ranges are open to the public – so make sure to check the opening dates before you visit.
Cogden Beach
This one is a bit of a cheat, as it is the lesser-known part of Chesil Beach near Burton Bradstock. There are some amazing views towards Portland, Golden Cap and even Lyme Regis on a clear day.
However, because this is the lesser-known section of the beach, you’ll find less people at this end than you will on Chesil Beach proper, so it’s a nice place to stop off if you want to spend some time by the sea.
There are loads of lovely little eateries around Chesil Beach and Burton Bradstock, including the Hive Beach Café.
Eype
Located not that far from West Bay, this beach has lovely views, but isn’t well attended, so it’s a great choice for a quiet day out and its dog friendly, which is always a plus! There is parking at Eype House Car Park or Eype’s Mouth Car Park and several nearby places for refreshments, including Martin’s Bar and Restaurant and the Watch House Café.
Looking for more places to dine while in Dorset? Click here for a whole host of suggestions.
