If we tell you there’s a homegrown version of the Med what springs to mind? Long sandy beaches? Lush cliffs bursting from the surf?
Well, you’d be right â but just where is this coastal paradise?
First prize to whoever guessed Weymouth in Dorset.
Weymouth Bay remains relatively unspoilt by high rises and high street chains. Luckily for visitors in the know, it’s surrounded by rolling hills and glorious beaches.
And the harbour town is only an hour’s drive or train ride from Bournemouth headed west. So a day trip along the coast is a top way to pack more fun into your outdoor family holiday.
Why not get the gang together, check out a Travelodge near Weymouth and plan a trip to remember? Hopefully, if you need any more convincing this guide will do just that!
The beautiful beach
Where better place to start than Weymouth’s stunning beach? Grab your bucket and spade and head down to the Bay, which is sheltered from the elements and boasts soft, golden sand as far as the eye can see.
Renowned for having one of the best sunshine records in England, it’s the perfect antidote to the dodgy British summer. What with the warmth and the space, this coastal treasure is sure to be a hit with the more laidback members of the family. While sporty types can work their arms on the kayaks, be plain silly while paddle boarding and show off their skills at beach volleyball.
If you’re lucky, you may catch one of the sports events in Weymouth’s impressive calendar. Look out for the International Beach Kite Festival in May, RAF Volleyball Championships in July/August, and even Beach Motocross in October.
Hunt for treasure and discover Weymouth at the same time
The Weymouth Seafront 4 Kids themed treasure trail is a parent’s dream way to entertain the younger kids while roving the area’s glorious coastline.
Solve clues, follow the map and find out about key landmarks and monuments, like the gold-leafed Kings Statue, as you go.
At 2.5 miles it should take you about two hours to complete â just in time to finish with an ice cream and a well-earned sit down!
Enjoy art with a difference at SandWorld
SandWorld International Sand Sculpture Park showcases the world’s greatest sand sculptors and is sure to make jaws drop. It may even inspire the little ones to get into school art activities.
Using the just-right sand that Weymouth’s renowned for, talented sand artists have created masterpieces of all shapes and sizes. You’ve got to see it to believe it, but some of them are as big as a double decker bus!
Under cover to protect it from the elements, SandWorld is the ideal place to wow the kids on those rare cloudy days.
Turquoise waters and crazy cliffs (for older kids)
Did we mention that you’ve got the rest of the World Heritage Coast to roam too? Film-set worthy Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are about 12 miles from Weymouth (shorter than the 18 miles from Bournemouth). So if your kids are old enough you should take one day out for a coastal walk along clifftops with pub stopovers and plenty of photos.
But don’t forget your swimsuits – you won’t be able to resist diving into the turquoise waters. And guess which ’90s music videos were shot here! (Hint: Tears for Fears’ Shout was one.)
What are you waiting for? Book a room in a Travelodge near Weymouth and start planning your trip today.
