Studland Bay

The four mile stretch of pristine golden sands which make up the beaches surrounding Studland Bay are simply beautiful. This section of coastline is actually split into three beaches; Middle Beach, Knoll Beach and Shell Bay. There is also a naturist section which is located towards Shell Bay which is well sign posted.

To get to Studland you can either arrive on roads from Corfe Castle, Swanage or for added adventure via the chain ferry from Sandbanks in Poole. Most family groups will head to areas which are close to the car parks at Middle and Knoll Beach. These are managed by The National Trust so if you are members ensure you take your membership cards with you. There also is a cafe and toilets at both these locations.

Fun beach activities

Once you’ve found your spot for the day there are a number of fun activities to enjoy. On the shoreline all the usual games such as beach cricket, sand castle building and digging can keep kids of all ages entertained for hours. The beach gently slopes into the sea so it is safe for swimming and playing games in the water. At Middle Beach you can hire water craft including kayaks and take a paddle around the bay. If you’re feeling energetic and the sea conditions are still, you can paddle all the way to Old Harry Rocks.

Eating out in Studland Bay

If you want eat out in the area for lunch or dinner then Studland has some great places to go. The Bankes Arms is lovely country pub serving good quality food and local Purbeck Brewery ales which are brewed next door to the pub. There is also a fabulous beer garden which has great views over the bay.

If you want to go more up market then just down the road from the Bankes is the Pig on the Beach hotel and restaurant. They locally source everything on their menu from a small area and grow all their own vegetables so you will only be eating seasonal food. Be sure to book a table here though as they are very popular throughout the year.

Finally for seafood lovers there is Shell Bay Restaurant which is a casual dining venue near the chain ferry. It has outside tables with sea views which are the perfect place to watch the sun go down over a drink in the summer.