Breathtaking coastal views, soft white sandy beaches, seriously good food and watersports galore, holidays in East Dorset are truly hard to beat. Stretching from the sea stacks and fossil-filled shores of the Isle of Purbeck to the bustling beaches of Bournemouth, this corner of the county is filled with contrasts. You’ll find ancient castles and Jurassic cliff faces, plus contemporary beach bars, exclusive events and maybe even some famous faces.
Holidays in East Dorset are perfect for those happiest by the water. Whether you base yourself on Sandbanks, the Isle of Purbeck or prefer the bustle of Poole or Bournemouth, you’ll have the famous waters of Poole Harbour on your doorstep. The largest natural harbour in Europe, it’s loved by seasoned sailors, with yacht clubs, marinas and chandlers lining the shore, but is also great for sunset stand up paddles, kayak adventures or heart-thumping boat trips.
If you haven’t found your sea legs, there’s plenty to keep you occupied on dry land. There are miles of beautiful beaches in East Dorset. Head to the iconic clam-shaped Lulworth Cove for an obligatory photo, or opt for the unspoiled sand dunes of Studland Bay. And a day spent lazing on Sandbanks Beach is bound to be the highlight of your holiday in East Dorset - one of the most famous strips of sand in the UK!
For sightseeing, tick off Durdle Door, Old Harry Rocks and Corfe Castle - all must-dos on your Dorset bucket list. Nature lovers shouldn’t skip a trip to Brownsea Island. The largest of the islands in Poole Harbour and only accessible by ferry, the island is managed by the National Trust and is famed for its resident red squirrels. Plus the stunning woodland trails, flower-filled heaths and free-roaming ponies, donkey and cattle of the majestic New Forest National Park are only a short drive away and well worth exploring on foot, by bike or on horseback.
Speaking of horses, if you time your holiday in East Dorset for the summer months, you’ll be treated to the exclusive annual Sandpolo event on Sandbanks beach. The British Beach Polo Championships sees beach parties, good food and a glamorous atmosphere, plus the polo too, of course.
For your culture fix, wander around Poole’s Old Town and historic quayside, picturing the sea captains and pirates of time gone by. You’ll also find a myriad of market stalls, independent shops, high street names, shopping centres and all-weather attractions in both Poole and Bournemouth.
And to fuel all of these adventures, you’ll be spoilt with places to eat and drink in East Dorset. Pick up morning pastries from the many independent local bakeries, enjoy relaxed lunches in beachside cafes and spend the evening in the outstanding bistros and restaurants. Being so close to the water, seafood fills many menus - head to Shell Bay, Rick Stein’s Sandbanks restaurant or The Pig on the Beach.
Whether you’re dreaming of a balmy summer holiday setting sail on Poole’s buzzing waters, or a wintery weekend away strolling Sandbanks’ empty sands, holidays in East Dorset have so much to offer.
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Things to do
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Beaches
