For those who enjoy a good stroll, there’s a 2.5-mile walk along the beach leading to Mudeford Quay. From here, you can hop on a ferry to Mudeford Sandbank, or continue your journey to Hengistbury Head, and then follow the promenade all the way to Bournemouth Pier.
While dogs are welcome at this beach, Visit South East England advises that our four-legged friends are not permitted between groynes H8 and H11 from May 1 to September 30. However, dogs on leads are allowed throughout the year, reports the Express.
Previous visitors to the shoreline have hailed it as a “wonderful stretch of coastline” boasting “incredible views”. ECC remarked on Tripadvisor: “Wonderful stretch of coastline. Incredible views. No roads in sight once down by the sea. Nice cliff top cafe/restaurant. Public toilets. No showers. Beach is a lovely mix of sand, stones, small boulders. Paddle boarders, surfers, swimmers even in freezing weather! Dog heaven.”
Anna concurred: “A very lovely place. We were able to walk even with our daughter who is a wheelchair user. Amazing view, great parking (accepts only coins) and lovely cafe and ice cream van on the right side it’s rocky beach and on the left side sandy beach (dogs friendly) so everyone can find something lovely.”
Tracey observed: “An absolutely stunning beach with soft silky sand making it perfect to gently stroll along, or to just sit peacefully with your family for a great day of fun with or without a tasty picnic.”
Nestled just past the coastal dunes lies Highcliffe Castle. Constructed during the 1830s, this magnificent structure stands as one of the most significant and final remaining examples of Romantic and Picturesque architectural design.
Lord Stuart de Rothesay followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, the third Earl of Bute, who’d previously built on the site of the castle. The castle has played host to many famous names over the years, including Kaiser Wilhelm, four-time prime minister William Gladstone, and author and socialite Nancy Mitford, of the infamous Mitford family.
In more recent decades, Highcliffe served as a children’s home, and as a training centre for the Claretian Fathers, an order of the Catholic Church, before suffering two fires and falling into ruin.
Since then, the castle has been restored to its former glory, hosting weddings, productions, fairs, and exhibitions.
