Castle Cove
Castle Cove is one of Weymouth’s true hidden gems. A small, sandy cove that still feels like a local secret. Tucked beneath the ruins of Sandsfoot Castle, it’s sheltered and surprisingly peaceful, given how close it is to town. The beach is sandy rather than shingle, with shallow, calm water that makes it ideal for relaxed swimming and snorkelling. It’s easy to see why this cove was once privately owned; even today, it feels secluded and protected, overlooked by elegant homes set high above the bay. In 2013, local residents successfully campaigned to reopen the cove to the public, and it remains a place Weymouth locals and visitors quietly treasure.
Why We Love It Here
Castle Cove holds many memories for us. When our children were toddlers, this was where we came. The sea is gentle and shallow. It felt like the perfect place for them to gain confidence in swimming, without the waves or the crowds of bigger beaches. Because the cove is tucked in and sheltered, it can become a real sun trap on warm days. We loved that it was never hectic. There isn’t much to distract you here, and that’s exactly the point. Even now, we still visit year-round, often combining a beach stop with a walk up to the café by the castle, something we enjoy just as much on crisp winter days as on summer afternoons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. However, there is only limited on-road parking near the cove and Sandsfoot Castle. Spaces are limited, so this beach is best visited early in the summer months. Although there are spots to park on surrounding roads.
Yes. Dogs are allowed all year round, making Castle Cove a lovely option for a quiet dog walk or a gentle seaside day with four-legged companions.
Yes. Swimming here is excellent in calm conditions, particularly for families with young children, thanks to the shallow entry. Snorkelling can be fun along the edges of the cove, where young explorers often spot small fish and marine life. There is no lifeguard service, so sensible supervision and calm conditions are essential.
Facilities are intentionally minimal to help keep the cove feeling peaceful. A small café, Sandsfoot Café, is located near the Castle and the gardens. It’s a beautiful spot to grab a drink and a snack, with wonderful views of the castle ruins. Toilets are located here, next to the café, since there are none directly on the beach.
Sandsfoot Castle is close by, which is a Tudor fort built by Henry VIII to protect Portland Harbour, and a wonderfully atmospheric place to explore. From here, you can follow coastal paths that trace the edge of Weymouth or link up with the South West Coast Path for bigger views and quieter stretches. Weymouth town and the Harbour are only a short walk or quick drive away, with cafés, harbour views, Brewer’s Quay, and all the classic seaside touches. If you head the other way, Portland Marina is easy to reach too — once home to the 2012 Olympic sailing teams — and just beyond it you’ll find Portland Castle and the historic streets of Castletown, both well worth exploring.