Things to do inStudland

Boasting four miles of beaches backed by sand dunes and a vast National Nature Reserve, Studland is a rather special place. Managed by the National Trust, much of the area is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest or is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

With views over the entrance to Poole Harbour, Shell Bay’s beach is perfect for a lazy summer’s day spent in the sunshine. From here you could take the chain ferry across the harbour to Sandbanks and admire the stylish properties that can only be afforded by the super-rich.

Knoll Beach has a designated area for naturists, whilst Middle Beach is backed by low cliffs. The smaller South Beach is the favoured spot by local residents. 

There are some excellent walking routes to follow, offering views as far as the Isle of Wight. You can’t fail to spot Old Harry Rocks, the white chalk stacks that stand in the sea at Handfast Point, which also marks the eastern end of the 95-mile-long World Heritage Jurassic Coastline. At one time ‘Old Harry’, the stack standing furthermost in the sea, had a ‘wife’ but that stack fell victim to erosion back in the late 1800s.

Take the lovely 1-mile Studland Beach Sand Dunes Trail which starts at Knoll Beach car park – follow the coloured markers and the walk will take you through the sand dunes of the National Nature Reserve; from the viewing platform at the highest point you’ll also have views of the Purbeck hills, Bournemouth and the Isle of Wight.

The large expanse of Studland and Godlingston Heath is home to all six species of our native British reptiles so keep your eyes peeled for the smooth snake or the more elusive sand lizard. The yellow gorse and purple heather carpet the landscape during the summer months so don’t forget to take a camera or take a few shots with a smartphone.

After all that exploring you’ll need to stop for a drink or a bite to eat: the café/restaurant at Knoll House situated at the beach; the Bankes Arms, which is just a short walk for Old Harry Rocks; and the bistro and restaurant at Knoll House offer some very tempting menus throughout the day.