The latest edition of Postcards from Harth is an ode to Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. There are so many wonderful beaches to choose from, but we’ve picked Ringstead Bay as our base and gathered a few of our favourite spots nearby, from sea-view bunkers and beach cafés to wild swimming, sauna sessions and surf.
Where to stay
The Transmitter Bunker and Standby Generator Bunker, are two decommissioned WWII radar bunkers, converted into holiday lets, both with incredible sea views. Dog friendly, and maybe the most unusual place you’ll ever stay!
Where to eat
We love the family-run Reef Cafe just behind the beach at Ringstead, for everything from great bacon sandwiches after your morning swim, to homemade cakes and woodfired pizzas.
For great fish, head to Shell Bay restaurant at Studland (45 min drive from Ringstead). Park in the National Trust car park at Knoll Beach and walk along the beach towards the chain ferry to find Shell Bay. Enjoy amazing scallops and incredible fish, looking out at Brownsea Island. Dog friendly.
Where to sauna
Lulworth Cove can get (very) busy over the summer and at weekends, but in the evening when the tourists and field trips have cleared, it’s heavenly. Book a session in The Saltwater Sauna for a Nordic bathing experience.
Where to swim
Worbarrow Bay feels like a well-kept secret. Wind your way through the MOD Lulworth Ranges and park up at the "ghost village" of Tyneham (evacuated in 1943 for military training). Take a picnic, and it’s a 15 minute walk down to the beach and breathtaking views of the bay. Crystal clear water for swimming, and exceptional sunsets. Just keep an eye on the time, as the car park closes at dusk.
(26 min drive from Ringstead)
Where to surf
Keep an eye on the surf forecast at Kimmeridge Bay - good for intermediate and advanced surfers. And book a stay in Clavell tower above the beach, a four storey circular tower that stands high on the cliff overlooking the bay, to witness the changing light, weather and sea.
(40 minute drive from Ringstead)
What to do
Ringstead (and the whole jurassic coast) is a great spot for Fossil hunting. Pick them up along the shore, or ease them out of the clay at the cliff base.
Visit the thousand year old Corfe Castle.
Pick up the South West Coastal Path, and follow the cliff path east from Ringstead toward White Nothe and onwards to Durdle Door, for dramatic coastal views.
