Eype, Bridport, Dorset
Eype isn’t one of the widely known beaches on the West Dorset Coast so it doesn’t get so busy as some; time it right and you’ll probably find hardly anyone else there. It’s all rather Enid Blyton getting to Eype beach, narrow high hedged lanes wind their way past charming old cottages almost all the way down to the car park. The backdrop is golden cliffs and if you wander up the South West Coast Path you’re guaranteed some pretty spectacular sunsets over Lyme Bay.
There’s a pub just along the road, a local shop and a tea room, but hey, take a picnic and have it on the beach, like a proper holiday. Hunt for fossils, have a paddle or a swim but a word of warning – the beach shelves quite steeply not far into the water, which can make currents, so the general advice is only to swim if you’re strong at it and confident.
Dogs are welcome on the beach all year.
All information correct at the time of writing