West Bay is a busy village with a wide sandy beach split by the harbour entrance.

Where is it? A mile south of Bridport. Take West Bay Road from A35 Bridport bypass, or B3157 from Weymouth.

Best features: Boats, pubs and restaurants make West Bay more than a day on the beach.

Local facilities & shops: Plenty of eating places, around the harbour and beach.

Great for the kids? Sandy and safe, although the sea can get rough in windy conditions.

How far are the loos? Next to east beach.

Parking: Two seafront, three harbourside and two long-stay pay-and-display.

Public transport: Buses from Bridport.

How about pets? Dogs are not allowed on the beach immediately in front of the houses, but can be walked under the cliffs on the east and west sides of the bay.

Other points of interest: Climb East or West Cliff for stunning views or stroll around the harbour.

Fancy that! The BBC TV series Harbour Lights, starring Nick Berry, was filmed here.

Wet weather options:

Palmers Brewery, Bridport Take a tour of one of the few traditional breweries left in Britain and sample the ales (Mon-Fri, from April), booking necessary. 01308 427500.

Mangerton Mill, Mangerton A 17th century working watermill and Museum of Rural Bygones. Tea room, local crafts, trout fishing. Contact 01308 485224.

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