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Weston Super Mare
Distance: 1 hour 18 minutes (33 miles) by car, or by train approx. 1 hour (changing at Bristol TM)
About: Weston Super Mare is a popular seaside town located to the South West of Bristol. With miles and miles of sandy beach, the huge pier, arcades and lots more, there really is something for everyone here. Weston is ideal for families, and with fish and chip shops and ice cream parlours around every corner, you’re not likely to go hungry either!
Dogs: Not allowed on the main beach, but are at Sandy Bay and quieter areas of Weston
Beach Type and Rating: Sandy, 3.5/5
Parking: There are various car parks near Weston Super Mare beachfront. Click here for more information. Alternatively, Barnes Coaches run coach day trips for just £17!
Durdle Door
Distance: 1 hour 58 mins (63 miles) by car.
About: Perhaps one of the most popular and well-known beaches on the south coast and within two hours of Bath is the stunning Durdle Door. This gorgeous pebbly beach has bags of history and is also a lovely secluded coastal destination to spend the day, with plenty of space to spread out although be mindful that it does become very busy in the summer months. The historic Corfe Castle is also nearby, so you could make a day of it!
Dogs: Allowed on the left side of the beach (not the main beach with the arch).
Beach Type and Rating: Pebbly, 4/5
Parking: There is a big car park which can be accessed via Durdle Door Holiday Park and is a 15-minute walk from the beach. Please note that the walk is steep and suitable footwear should be worn.
Bournemouth Beach
Distance: 1 hour 54 mins (65 miles) by car, or by train approx. 2 hours 20 mins (changing at Southampton Central)
About: Bournemouth Beach is a stunning beach that we all know and love, with beautiful golden sand and shallow water, perfect for paddling in! The town also has a popular pier, cliffside walks and plenty of entertainment, food and drink for families, couples and solo travellers alike. Bournemouth is an all-round great beach destination to spend the day, but make sure you get there early as it does get busy quickly!
Dogs: Welcome everywhere from October – April, but between May and September they are only allowed in certain areas. Please check before you visit if you are bringing a dog.
Beach Type and Rating: Sandy, 5/5
Parking: Click here for more information.
Lyme Regis
Distance: 1 hour 56 mins (60 miles) by car
About: If you're looking for somewhere a little quieter to spend the day, then Lyme Regis is a great option and takes just under two hours to get to from Bath. It boasts breathtaking scenery and is sometimes dubbed the 'Pearl of Dorset'. Like Durdle Door, this beach is full of history too being situated on the Jurassic Coast, so there is plenty to see and do for families, couples and walkers alike.
Dogs: Only allowed on Town Beach from October to April however they are allowed on nearby beaches such as East Cliff Beach, Church Cliff Beach and Monmouth Beach all year round.
Beach Type and Rating: Mixture of sand and pebbles, 4/5
Parking: There are various car parks close to the beaches in Lyme Regis. Click here to find out more.