Highcliffe Castle beach is reached via a wheelchair friendly slope from the grounds of Highcliffe Castle.

Where is it? Between Christchurch and Highcliffe, signposted from the A337 Lymington Road.

Best features: Sandy and shingle beach with safe, clean bathing water and views to the Isle of Wight.

Local facilities and shops: Tea rooms in Highcliffe Castle; the nearest shops are in the
village of Highcliffe.

Great for the kids? Designated as a swimming beach.

How far are the loos? There are public toilets in the car park at Highcliffe Castle.

Parking: Limited pay-and-display parking spaces in the woodland setting of Highcliffe Castle quickly fills up at peak times; overspill parking is available at nearby Highcliffe Cliff Top (Warncliffe/Waterford Road).

Public transport: Wilts and Dorset bus services between Bournemouth and Lymington with stops adjacent to Highcliffe Castle. The Wilts and Dorset routes 121 and 123 serving Mudeford, Friars Cliff and Highcliffe run half hourly from Christchurch High Street.

How about pets? Dogs allowed on the beach all year round.

Other points of interest: Council-owned Highcliffe Castle, former 18th-century mansion home of the Earl of Bute.

Wet weather options:

Highcliffe Castle Restored Victorian mansion, plus visitor centre and gift shop, tea rooms, exhibitions and events. Open 11am-5pm daily in summer. 01425 278807.

Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre, Stony Lane South,Christchurch Wide range of sports and activities for all ages and abilities. Special children’s activities throughout the week. 01202 477987.