West Dorset Leisure Holidays

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Exploring Portland

Portland is a tombolo, an island connected to the mainland by a thin strip of land. It’s one of the many rare geological features than make the Jurassic Coastline unique! When visiting Portland, be sure to stop at the Portland Olympic Rings Viewpoint, which commemorates the many water sports which were held here when the UK hosted the Olympics in 2012. The viewpoint is a great photo opportunity and allows you to look all along the coast on a clear day. Nearby you’ll find the Tout Quarry Sculpture Park, where multiple artists have created sculptures out of Portland stone, a limestone famous for being used in many famous buildings like St Paul’s Cathedral and Buckingham Palace. At the other end of the Island you’ll find Portland Bill, another great photo opportunity, and even more so if you climb the 152 steps to the top of the lighthouse. It’s possible to walk a circuit of the island in around 4 hours, depending on your walking speed, but you can also drive from one end to the other. Portland is known for being a great spot for climbing and birdwatching, so if you’re into either of those, it’s the place to be. Dogs are welcome at all points on the path, but not in the lighthouse at Portland Bill.

Find out more about the places we've suggested

Portland Bill
Iconic lighthouse perched high above the cliff with impressive views of the coastline and English Channel.
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Portland Bill Lighthouse, Portland DT5 2JT
18.4 miles from Sandyholme Holiday Park

Portland Castle
This 16th century fort overlooks Portland Harbour.
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Portland Castle, Liberty Road, Castletown, Portland, UK
14.3 miles from Sandyholme Holiday Park

Tout Quarry Sculpture Park
A sculpture park and nature reserve in an old abandoned quarry - a great free place to visit
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Tradecroft Industrial Estate, Portland, Dorset, DT5 2LN
15.5 miles from Sandyholme Holiday Park

Church Ope Cove
Church Ope Cove is a secluded south-facing beach on the Isle of Portland, sheltered and safe for swimming, snorkelling and diving.
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Pennsylvania Rd, Isle of Portland, Portland DT5 1HT
16.7 miles from Sandyholme Holiday Park

More suggested days out from near Sandyholme

Staying Local to Sandyholme

Places to visit include Kate’s Farm Shop, among others

A Rainy Day

Places to visit include The Tank Museum, Brewery Square, among others

A Trip to Swanage
A Day Without Kids

Places to visit include Athelhampton House & Gardens, Langham Wine Estate, Brewery Square, among others

A Relaxing Day of Gentle Strolls

Places to visit include Sculpture By The Lakes, Hardy’s Cottage, Puddletown Forest, among others

A Family-Friendly Day Out

Places to visit include Wareham, Monkey World, among others

A Short Hike Between Two Landmarks

Places to visit include Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, among others

A Trip to Weymouth

Places to visit include Weymouth, Nothe Fort, among others