Experience Unique Glamping
Dorset’s Best Activities: Coastal Walks, Dining, & More
Dorset offers diverse experiences from stunning coastal walks to exciting watersports and award-winning dining, perfect for any holiday adventure.
Book your unique Dorset glamping adventure today & start creating memories
Top Things to Do in Dorset summary:
• Heritage Coastline: Enjoy stunning coastal walks to Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, Old Harry Rocks, Portland, and West Bay
• World-Class Watersports: As the official sailing venue for the 2012 Olympic Games and an active training centre for the British Sailing team, the Weymouth and Portland area is a premier hub for activities. Local venues offer kayaks, paddleboards, windsurfing equipment, and wing-foiling gear rental, as well as professional sailing lessons
• Outdoor Adventures: Portland and Swanage are highly popular for adrenaline-pumping activities; coastal coasteering, rock climbing, and abseiling
• Award-Winning Food: Weymouth boasts two of the UK’s most highly decorated seafood restaurants Catch at the Old Fish Market and The Crab House. Both institutions hold impressive national accolades, including awards for their culinary excellence, sustainability, and front-of-house hospitality.
Where can I get the best fish and chips?
If you fancy something more casual, Weymouth Harbour is home to 2 of the best family-owned Fish and Chip shops in Bennett’s Fish & Chips and The Marlboro. Have your say on the towns most debated subject
• On site restaurant / bar “Far Badger” with panoramic sea views and occasional live music during busier periods
Distance to nearby Attraction (approx. driving time)
• Chesil Beach – 5 minutes
• Isle of Portland – 10 minutes
• Weymouth Beach – 10 minutes
• Durdle Door – 35 minutes
• West Bay – 35 minutes
• Lulworth Cove – 45 minutes
• Swanage – 60 minutes
• Old Harry Rocks – 60 minutes
Local Attractions
Explore nearby destinations and activities for unforgettable experiences.
Durdle Door
Durdle Door, located on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, is one of the world’s most famous natural limestone arches. The stunning location offers clifftop walks, swimming, and beach lounging. Because the site is somewhat remote and requires a steep walk, it is best enjoyed by preparing for a full half-day outing.
It is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site formed entirely by waves eroding a hole through near-vertical bands of rock.
Lulworth Cove
Lulworth Cove is a breathtakingly beautiful natural cove and is one of the world’s finest examples of this type of geological formation. It is known
Nestled on the Jurassic Coast Dorset Guide, Lulworth Cove is a world-famous, arc-shaped bay known for its striking white cliffs and calm waters Dorset Travel Guide. It’s a perfect base for outdoor adventures, scenic hikes, and geology explorations
Weymouth Harbour
Weymouth Harbour is a picturesque, historic working port on the Dorset coast, nestled on the edge of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. It serves as a bustling hub for fishing boats, yachts, and ferries, blending centuries of maritime history with vibrant alfresco dining, pubs, and family-friendly attractions
Looking to keep the kids entertained for hours?
Try crabbing, a Weymouth Harbour tradition! The main harbour walls offer plenty of safe spots to drop a line. Just grab a bucket, a handline with a bait net, and some smelly bait like raw bacon or fish off-cuts to get started.
Crabbing code: https://www.weymouth-harbour.co.uk/news/1330/crabbing+with+kindness/
Chesil Beach
Chesil Beach is an extraordinary 18-mile (28 km) shingle barrier on the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, linking the Isle of Portland to the Weymouth, Dorset mainland and continuing to West Bay, Bridport.
The beach is famous for spectacular west-facing sunsets with nothing between you and the setting sun but sea. Bring a picnic, BBQ, or drinks and relax. Blankets, cushions, or camping chairs for comfort are recommended
On calm evenings Chesil is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, snorkeling, or diving thanks to its clear water. Because the shoreline is pebbly, water shoes or good footwear is strongly recommended for walking on Chesil.
Nearby takeaway options:
- Chinese: http://www.oceanbay.co.uk/
- Fish & chips: https://www.chesilchippie.co.uk/
- Pizza: https://www.portland-pizza.hungrrr.co.uk/
In summer, Quiddles Beach Cafe at the far end of Chesil is a popular spot. Booking is advised. Thursdays are often Paella nights and some evenings feature live music; if you can’t get a table, takeaway paella on the beach is a great alternative. Check their social pages for times: https://www.facebook.com/Quiddlesbeachcafe16/?locale=en_GB
The Cove House Inn is another excellent option for a pint, wine, or a meal with outdoor seating: https://www.thecovehouseinn.co.uk/
Please respect the beach: take your rubbish home or use a bin.
Best beaches in Weymouth
Weymouth Beach is an award-winning Dorset destination famous for its large stretch of golden sand and shallow, safe waters packed with features for locals and visitors. Although the best beach, it becomes highly crowded during peak summer periods.
Other Family-friendly spots;
*Greenhill Gardens Beach
*Overcombe Beach.
If your staying in the Amercian school bus why not check out quieter, smaller hidden gems like *Smallmouth Bay
*Castle Cove
*Newton’s Cove
*or the beach next to Billy Winters, Ferrybridge.
Every beach in Dorset is completely unique, offering a variety of distinct terrains and facilities. Because local details can change, we recommend asking AI, running an internet search the for latest information
A good place to start is:
https://www.thebeachguide.co.uk/south-west-england/dorset/
Isle of Portland
The Isle of Portland is a rugged, tied island connected to mainland Dorset via the iconic Chesil Beach. Famous for its world-class limestone, dramatic sea cliffs, and rich maritime history, it served as the sailing venue for the 2012 Olympics
Top Things to Do
Portland Bill Lighthouse: Explore the visitor center or climb the 153 steps to the top of this iconic red-and-white striped beacon. Afterward, take a short walk to see the striking Pulpit Rock formation.
Tout Quarry Sculpture Park and Nature Reserve: Roam through this abandoned limestone quarry to discover dozens of hand-carved stone sculptures scattered among nature.
Church Ope Cove: Hike down a set of winding steps to this secluded, pebbly smuggler’s cove, perfect for paddling and exploring nearby ruins like Rufus Castle.
Portland Castle: Discover one of Henry VIII’s finest coastal forts, built in the 1540s to protect against French and Spanish invasions.
Castletown D-Day Centre: Step into an interactive World War II museum dedicated to the US military personnel who departed from Dorset for the beaches of
Adventure Experiences
Activities and outings around Dorset.
Coastal Hiking
The top 5 coastal walks in Dorset
Dorset offers spectacular coastal walking along the Jurassic coast.
1) Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door: A 1.5-mile each way linear walk Dorset Travel Guide starting at Lulworth Cove Car Park (BH20 5RS). It features iconic geological formations and dramatic sea views.
2) Old Harry Rocks: A 3.5-mile circular route Dorset Travel Guide departing from South Beach Car Park in Studland (BH19 3AE). It takes you to stunning white chalk sea stacks with views across to the Isle of Wight.
3) Portland Bill: A 3.9-mile circular walk Dorset Travel Guide starting at Portland Bill Car Park (DT5 2JT) LiveWell Dorset. It offers panoramic sea vistas, historic lighthouses, and a view of the rugged limestone peninsula.
4) West Bay to Hive Beach: A 2.5-mile linear walk each way Dorset Travel Guide starting at West Bay Road Car Park (DT6 4EL). It offers striking views of the towering golden sandstone cliffs.
5) Tyneham to Worbarrow Bay: A 1-mile each-way walk Dorset Travel Guide beginning at Tyneham Car Park (BH20 5DE). This trail combines a walk through the famous “ghost village” with a path down to an unspoilt, sweeping bay.
6) Kimmeridge Bay and Clavell Tower:5) A 1.5-mile linear route each way Dorset Travel Guide from Quarry Car Park in Kimmeridge (BH20 5PH). It overlooks rugged shale ledges and features the distinct Clavell Tower.
Watersports Fun
Isle of Portland has excellent watersports hire facilities. Because Portland Harbour is heavily sheltered by Chesil Beach, it provides a safe, world-class arena perfect for everything from beginner paddleboarding to advanced windsurfing.
The Official Test Centre (OTC): Located right on the water’s edge at Osprey Quay. They offer equipment hire, tuition, and a unique “try before you buy” setup for windsurfing, kitesurfing, wing-foiling, and e-foiling
Weymouth Watersports
Based at Ferrybridge right on Portland Beach Road. You can hire out fully pumped paddleboards (£15/hr) and single or double kayaks (£15–£30/hr) between April and October. They also hire wetsuits https://www.onetenkitesurfing.com/rental
Jet Ski tours
Jurassic JetSki Tours is a highly rated water sports operator based in Weymouth Harbour, Dorset, offering the unique experience of exploring England’s first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site on a personal watercraft. They cater to all skill levels, meaning no prior jet ski experience is required to join a tour
Total Duration: Expect to allow 2 hours in total.
Water Time: You get 1 full hour out on the open sea.
The Route: Leaving from Weymouth Harbour, tours typical travel past Ringstead Bay, Durdle Door, Man Of War Bay, and Lulworth Cove before returning. Alternative routes include heading towards Church Ope Cove in Portland.
Watercraft Sharing: Up to two people can share a jet ski. If you share, you will swap drivers halfway so both participants can drive and passenger.
Golf on the Jurassic Coast
Tee off on one of the South Coast’s most scenic courses! Bridport & West Dorset Golf Club offers an exceptional 18-hole pay-and-play experience, featuring unforgettable coastal views and dramatic seaside cliffs.
https://www.bridportgolfclub.co.uk/greenfees
Closer 18 hole golf courses
Weymouth https://www.weymouthgolfclub.co.uk/
https://www.camedowngolfclub.co.uk/
Interesting Fact: Came Down Golf Club holds a legendary place in golf history as the actual birthplace of the Ryder.
The Spark: In the early 1920s, seed merchant Samuel Ryder spent his summers holidaying in Weymouth. He regularly played at Came Down, where he became close friends with club professionals—the Whitcombe brothers (Ernest, Charles, and Reg) https://golftoday.co.uk/the-origin-of-the-ryder-cup/
Dorset Adventure Park, Corfe Castle
Dorset’s wildest family Attraction! A wet and wild outdoor Water park and a fun challenging muddy obstacle assault course.
https://dorsetadventurepark.com/
Just 1 minute away in the car is:
Corfe Castle: A 1,000-year-old royal fortress and ruin in Dorset. Corfe Castle is a National Trust treasure originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and very popular family attraction.
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/corfe-castle
Swanage Railway: Corfe Castle is also a stop on the historic Swanage Railway, a 5.5-mile heritage line operating full-sized steam and diesel passenger trains to Swanage.
https://www.swanagerailway.co.uk/
Rib boat rides
Weymouth Bay RIB Charters is the primary provider of high-speed rigid inflatable boat (RIB) experiences in Weymouth. They offer a mix of fast-paced adrenaline rides and scenic coastal cruises along the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast
Available Boat Ride Options
Weymouth Bay Ride / “Bay Blast” (20 Minutes): A fast, adrenaline-fuelled trip around Weymouth Bay reaching speeds of over 40 mph. It features twists, turns, and waves. Ponchos are typically provided for the splash.
Weymouth Bay Cruise (60 Minutes): A more leisurely, guided sightseeing tour around the bay. Skippers share historical facts and point out local landmarks and wildlife.
Durdle Door & Lulworth Cove Cruise: A longer coastal explorer route that travels down the Jurassic Coast to showcase iconic limestone formations, rock arches, and geological history from the water
Portland from the Waves: Historic Island & Portland Bill Cruise
https://weymouthbayribcharters.co.uk/
Discover Weymouth’s best eats:
The Crab House
The Crab House Cafe is an award-winning, rustic seafood restaurant perched on the edge of the Fleet lagoon, Wyke Regis, Weymouth, which overlooks Chesil Beach. This family-run gem operates its own proprietary Portland Oyster beds just metres from the tables. The establishment is widely acclaimed for its “crack-your-own” local crabs served with wooden mallets.
The menu features other standout treasures. The cooked oysters, available by the half-dozen, are an exceptional starter option, featuring two incredibly delicious varieties: Italiano, comprising a twist of pesto and parmesan, or a Country-style blend of bacon, thyme, and cream.
https://www.crabhousecafe.co.uk/book-online/
Catch at The Old Fish Market
Catch at the Old Fish Market is an highly culinary-acclaimed seafood restaurant located on the historic quayside of Weymouth Harbour, Dorset.
Led by award-winning Chef Patron Ben Champkin, it is situated on the first floor of a Grade II-listed former fish market built from Portland stone. Directly underneath sits Weyfish, the traditional artisan fishmonger that supplies the restaurant with day-boat seafood landed literally feet from the kitchen door.
https://catchattheoldfishmarket.com/
Bennetts Fish & Chips
Where can I get the best fish and chips?
Bennett’s Fish and Chips is an award-winning, family-run business that has been serving traditional fish and chips in Weymouth since 1989. They operate two popular locations across the town.
Their Weymouth harbour location is a firm family favourite, offering both dine-in and takeaway services. Pre-ordering online is highly recommended. If the restaurant is full and there is no space on the harbour benches or walls, you can take your food into the Kings Arms pub next door, provided you purchase a drink.
https://bennettsfishandchips.co.uk/
Sandara
Sandara is your Mediterranean escape—vibrant shared plates, golden hour cocktails, and unforgettable nights await
https://share.google/hO8bMf39OhpUlAnjj
Rona Bar & Grill Turkish Restaurant
Rona brings the authentic flavours of Turkey and Mediterranean food to Weymouth served in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
https://www.ronabarandgrill.co.uk/
The Fat Badger
The Fat Badger is a highly-rated pub and restaurant located at Pebblebank Holiday Park in Wyke Regis. It is open to both park guests and the public, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with stunning, panoramic views of the Fleet Lagoon, Chesil Beach, and Portland
They host specialty nights, such as authentic midweek Thai food, and regularly feature live music and pizza in the beer garden. Check social media pages for details.
https://fatbadgerweymouth.co.uk/
OR