Shell Bay, Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach are all popular sandy beaches at Studland owned by the National Trust. A marked section is reserved for nudists.

Where is it? Catch the Sandbanks to Studland ferry and follow Ferry Road along to the car parks or follow the B3351 from Corfe Castle and look out for the road signs.

Best features: Wide sweeping sandy beaches great for swimming, watersports, sailing and diving. Water quality is good.

Local facilities and shops: There is a shop and café at Knoll Beach and Middle Beach. Shell Bay and South Beach both have a café.

Great for the kids? Fine sand is great for sand castles. Sand dunes can be explored via a signposted National Trust trail and there is a woodland nature trail. Studland Study Centre at Knoll car park is open for pre-bookable events and visits all year round.

How far are the loos? Public toilets with disabled access and baby changing facilities are available at Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and Shell Bay. There are also toilets at South Beach.

Parking: There are approximately 2,500 parking places at four National Trust car parks.

Public transport: Wilts and Dorset bus number 150 open top service runs daily from Bournemouth and Sandbanks to Studland and Swanage between late May and mid-September, hourly from 9am to 7pm. It is open top during the summer.

How about pets? Dog ban at Knoll and Middle Beach during summer. Shell Bay and South Beach allow dogs on leads all year.

Wet weather options:

St Nicholas Church, Studland. See the grave of Sergeant Lawrence who fought at Waterloo and later became landlord of the Bankes’ Armes.

Corfe Castle One of Britain’s most majestic ruins, the castle was an important stronghold from the time of William the Conqueror. It is owned by the National Trust. Open all year round. 01929 481294.