25–45 minutes from the house
Dorset beaches
Forest View Retreat is inland at Colehill, which keeps evenings quiet while leaving a genuine choice of beaches within half an hour or so.
Branksome Chine
A sheltered, sandy beach reached down a wooded chine, with a café at the bottom. One of the easier options with children.
Canford Cliffs and Sandbanks
Clean sand and calm, shallow water at the mouth of Poole Harbour. Sandbanks is popular in high summer, so arrive early for parking.
Bournemouth
Miles of sand with the widest range of facilities, and the best choice if you want a full day with food, deckchairs and a pier.
Studland
Across the harbour by chain ferry, backed by heathland and dunes, with views to Old Harry Rocks and the start of the Jurassic Coast.