Beaches – Canford Cliffs and Branksome Chine

Dorset has some of the most beautiful beaches in England, two of which are practically on our doorstep.

Just a three-minute walk away, Canford Cliffs is one of Poole’s more tranquil beaches, with a wide stretch of fine golden sand and a gradual slope into the sea. It is backed by a steep sandy cliff face, which not only makes for a stunning backdrop but is also the perfect home for local wildlife. Within a conservation area, the beach also houses some of Poole’s oldest beach huts dating back to 1927.

A blue flag beach, Canford Cliffs has safe, clean bathing water, a safe swimzone, and is patrolled by RNLI lifeguards from July to September. There are also toilets, an ice cream kiosk and beach huts for hire. Budding footballers will love the beach’s soccer pitch, which is used by the England Beach Soccer team as their training pitch. Balls, nets and corner flags can be borrowed from the Canford Cliffs beach office. Access to the beach is via the chine, down some steps, or walk along the promenade from one of the nearby beaches.

The next closest beach to us, Branksome Chine, is a 14-minute walk away. Also a blue flag beach, Branksome Chine is a wide sandy beach with lovely views of the Isle of Wight and Ballard Downs. Off-season, take a peaceful stroll along the wide sand and shingle beach or along the lovely promenade. In summer, though, be prepared to search around for a space on the fine golden sand as the beach can get quite busy. There are plenty of facilities available including toilets, a shop and a restaurant and terrace bar. There is also good disabled access, a safe swim zone, and lifeguard cover during the summer months from May to September.