Around 700 yards of shingle beach with uncovered sand once the tide goes out.

There are also rock pools at the western end and an offshore reef that is uncovered by the tide.

The beach is overlooked by unspoilt farmland and cliffs.

Where is it? Around five miles east of Weymouth. It is reached by a narrow lane off the A353 near the village of Poxwell

Best features: It has superb views of Weymouth and Portland and has easy access.

Local facilities & shops: There is a shop and café in the car park 50m from the beach.

Great for the kids: Swimming is safe and there is plenty of grass above the beach for them to run around on.

How far are the loos? Attached to the cafe in the car park.

Parking: There is a fairly expensive pay car park just up from the beach plus free parking at Southdown, the National Trust’s land at the top of the cliff, a long, steep walk from the beach.

Public transport: None.

How about pets: Dogs are allowed but there are no dog bins.

Other points of interest: The beach is a great place to look for fossils and coral.

Fancy that: Ringstead also has a nudist beach 20 minutes’ walk east of the main beach.

Wet weather options:

Dorset County Museum in Dorchester. World-famous collections in 14 fascinating display rooms with the award-winning Dorset writers’ gallery. Open Mon-Sat (plus Suns July-Sept) 10am-5pm. 01305 262735.

Tolpuddle Martyrs Museum in Tolpuddle village. Tells the story of the six agricultural workers transported to Australia in 1834 after forming a trade union. Tues-Sat, 10am-5.30pm, Sunday 11am-5.30pm, admission free. 01929 848237.

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