Shell Bay and Studland

Panoramic views; a pristine, sandy beach; and a National Nature Reserve

Studland - the beach, 4 miles of glorious coastline

Shell Bay and Studland, Isle of Purbeck
Distance from Lyndhurst - 25 miles (40 kilometres) to Sandbanks

Lying immediately to the south of Poole Harbour, Shell Bay is at the north-eastern tip of Dorset's glorious Isle of Purbeck. The wide sweep of Studland Bay is immediately to the south; Swanage, a popular seaside resort, is a little further to the south; and Corfe Castle, with its wealth of history and scenery, lies a short distance away to the west.

Fine beaches and good walking
Fringed by 4 miles of fine sandy beaches, the two bays are popular with visitors throughout the year. In the warmer months, those seeking a relaxing day by the sea are rarely disappointed, whilst atmospheric winter walks along the beach offer peace, quiet, tranquility and ever-present views across to the Isle of Wight. Indeed, walkers are particularly well-catered for by the South West Coast Path that here completes its 630 mile journey from Minehead, on the edge of the Exmoor National Park.

Beach huts are available for hire, and so are boats. Windsurfing and kayaking are popular, whilst what is reputedly the largest naturist beach in Britain is also present.

Studland - the Purbeck Hills, close to Studland Bay

Shell Bay and Studland wildlife
Managed by the National Trust, Studland Heath National Nature Reserve lies behind the beach and adjacent sand dunes, and is home to all six of Britain's native reptile species and other heathland speciality species. Little Sea, an extensive freshwater lake, supports large numbers of wildfowl, particularly in winter; whilst twenty species of dragonflies and damselflies occur locally. Offshore, summer terns and winter waders and wildfowl can often be seen.

Studland village
Studland village, set amidst beautiful countryside at the southern end of the bay, has a fine Norman church, a shop and post office, and a pub. (The walk from the village to Handfast Point, 2 kilometres (1 1/4 miles) away, to view at close quarters the chalk stacks of Old Harry Rocks is well worth the effort).

Getting there
A vehicle ferry operates from Sandbanks, a short distance away across the entrance to Poole Harbour, although at the height of the season queues to board can be lengthy. Alternatively, drive via Poole, Wareham and Corfe Castle. Parking is available close to the beaches.