Bournemouth Beaches: Hengistbury Head

Hengistbury Head beach is a south-facing pebble beach below imposing clay and ironstone cliffs. Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve separates Poole Bay and Christchurch Bay. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Where is it? From the A338, follow the A3060 sign for Tuckton Bridge. There are pathways at Southbourne promenade, from the grassed areas to the beach.

Best features: The wild, unspoilt environment and views.

Local facilities and shops: Toilets are available and there is a beach café. The Hengistbury Head Centre offers environmental education and sailing courses.

How far are the loos? Toilets and baby change facilities are available.

Parking: There are 500 pay-and-display spaces.

Public transport: Hengistbury Head is served by Yellow Buses’ summer open-topped number 12, linking it with Christchurch, Hengistbury Head, the piers, the Chines and Sandbanks. Harbour Road, a little over half a mile away, is on the number 22 route to Bournemouth, Southbourne and Somerford.

Other points of interest: Discoveries in the 1970s revealed the full importance of Hengistbury Head. It is an ancient monument and believed to have been home to one of Britain’s first Iron Age communities.

Information signs interpret the history and wildlife of the area and there are nature trails. Picnics are permitted but not barbecues or fires.

Wet weather options:

Highcliffe Castle This Grade-1 listed building is a must, with cliff-top grounds and spectacular sea views. With a permanent exhibition of its history and owners, it's a perfect romantic getaway.