Eype Beach

Eype is a quaint village and secluded beach in Dorset, just a couple of hundred metres from our Eype Beach Holiday Park and a 5 to 10 minute walk from our Highlands End Holiday Park, situated on the clifftop above.

Visiting Eype and its beach offers a serene escape, blending coastal beauty with rural charm. The village, pronounced “Eep,” is a cluster of thatched cottages and stone houses, exuding a timeless English countryside vibe. Its name, derived from the Old English for “steep place,” hints at the dramatic landscape that awaits.

Eype Beach, a short walk down hill from the village, is a shingle stretch framed by towering cliffs, including Thorncombe Beacon, one of the highest points on the south coast of England. The beach’s rugged allure lies in its untamed nature—there are no bustling cafes or arcades, just the rhythmic crash of waves and the crunch of pebbles underfoot. It’s a haven for fossil hunters, as the cliffs reveal layers of Jurassic history, though caution is needed due to occasional rockfalls. The South West Coast Path runs past the beach, offering breathtaking views and a chance to explore the wider coastline to Thorncombe Beacon to the west, West Bay to the East and beyond.

The village itself is a peaceful retreat. St. Peter’s Church, a 19th-century gem, hosts art exhibitions, theatrical events, concerts and literary festivals, as well as maintaining its weekly service.

For dining, the Eype’s Mouth Country Hotel serves hearty meals with coastal views, while The New Inn is a traditional pub with lovely terraced garden and countryside views. The pub is dog friendly and a Palmer’s Brewery pub, which is the oldest thatched brewery in the UK and located a couple of miles away in Bridport, a market town that offers eclectic eateries and weekly markets for fresh local produce. Martin’s Bar & Restaurant at our Highlands End Holiday Park is open to the public and a 15-20 minute walk from Eype Beach, with its unique fire engine memorabilia display, spacious beer garden, popular Sunday carvery and a range of local food and drink.

Visiting in spring or summer brings colourful sea thrift and buttercups to the cliffsides and mild weather, ideal for hiking or beachcombing. Autumn and winter offer dramatic skies and quieter shores, though the weather can be brisk. Practical tips: wear sturdy shoes for the shingle beach, check tide times, and bring binoculars for birdwatching—peregrine falcons are often spotted.

Parking is limited – there is a small car park on the cliffside overlooking the beach with ANPR and charges in place. The beach is dog friendly all-year-round. There are no life guards on duty at Eype, therefore care must be taken when entering the water. Whilst many visitors choose to swim here, the sea gets deep very quickly so children should be supervised when paddling or playing in the water.

Eype and Eype Beach are for those seeking solace over crowds, nature over noise. The area’s raw beauty and geological significance make it a must-visit, whether you’re a hiker, a history buff, or simply craving a coastal retreat.