subject: Dorset's best beaches for 2011 [print this page] Dorset's best beaches for 2011 Dorset's best beaches for 2011
One of the few benefits of the economic downturn was that it opened the eyes of many Brits to the great holiday opportunities at home in the British Isles, which can easily rival those of far-flung destinations for a fraction of the price. One area that's benefited from the 'staycation' trend is the south-west coast, particularly the county of Dorset which is home to some of Britain's best beaches.
Some of Dorset's beaches are protected by the National Trust, but that doesn't mean they're off limits to visitors - far from it, with Studland Bay being a popular destination for families and other holidaymakers. This beach, voted the fourth best in the UK, is also notable for featuring the only naturist beach officially designated by the Trust, at Knoll Bay.
There are more family-friendly beaches to be found near the popular tourist towns of Weymouth and Charmouth, including Chesil Beach which should also be of interest to history buffs and nature enthusiasts, as it provides a gateway to the Jurassic Coast - Britain's first recognised World Heritage Site. Here, you'll be able to see fossils and rock formations stretching back through history, from the time when dinosaurs walked the earth. Chesil Beach is also home to the Fleet Lagoon, where children can check out a wide range of marine species.
The Jurassic Coast stretches for more than 100 miles, and also takes in other popular beach spots like Lyme Regis and Bridport in the west and natural formations such as Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, great for photos or relaxing coastal walks. If you're after some of the best surfing in the UK, you can also find that in Dorset - at Southborne and Kimmeridge - or heading further west to the beaches of Cornwall will bring you to the best waves in the country, suitable for surfers of all skill levels.
One of the most enduringly popular holiday destinations in east Dorset is Bournemouth, which boasts its own excellent beaches that capture the essence of the great British seaside holiday, alongside distinctly modern tourist attractions, restaurants and hotels. Nearby Christchurch offers a more idyllic alternative if you're looking to escape the noise of family holidays, with its abbey and other historical areas providing a break from the beach. Regular trains to Bournemouth ensure you're only a short trip away from a fantastic beach break in the south-west of England this summer.
