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It’s arguably Lulworth Cove that gets the kudos for ‘best beach in Dorset’. But when debating where to holiday in the county, why not carry on down the A35 from London, and head for Chesil Beach in Weymouth, one of the many outstanding natural attractions along this stretch of the Jurassic Coast.

Day trips are a must on holiday. Perfect for exploring and finding hidden paths and pastures new. Take the number one bus from Weymouth (final destination Portland) to Chesil Beach. It’s an impressive 18 mile long (and 220 yard wide) shingle beach stretching from Burton Bradstock through the swannery at Abbostsbury to the Isle of Portland. You may already have heard of Chesil Beach as a UNESCO World Heritage site, or if you’re more of a bookworm, it formed the title of Ian McEwans novel ‘On Chesil Beach’. Head into Portland at the end of the day and perhaps enjoy a pint of Jurassic Dark before catching the bus back from whence you came.

Of course if a pebbly beach is absolute anathema to you then you’re in luck as Weymouth Beach is a perfectly shaped long arc of fine golden sand and shallow waters. Buckets and spades at the ready as there are plenty of seaside attractions on offer. At the height of the summer season take part in sandcastle competitions, ride on the donkeys (real ones!) and indulge in a bit of good-natured heckling at the Punch & Judy show. That’s the way to do it was never a more apt phrase. You can’t beat a nostalgic seaside experience.

With the pretty coloured townhouses colouring the harbour it’d be madness not to spend at least one night on a bench overlooking the water eating fish and chips from the paper, liberally doused with salt and vinegar. It might not be classy (pah!) but the memories you make’ll ensure that Weymouth never becomes yesterday’s news.

While away your precious time in a Weymouth holiday cottage, you won’t regret it!