Greenhill Beach
Greenhill Beach lies just east of Weymouth Beach and offers a quieter alternative to the town’s famous sandy bay. Alongside the elegant Georgian Esplanade, it features a mix of sand and fine shingle, clear water and ample open space.
For us, Greenhill has always felt like somewhere many locals quietly keep to themselves. It’s less crowded, wonderfully peaceful, and ideal if you’re looking to enjoy the sea without the bustle of the town centre.
Behind the beach, the beautifully maintained Greenhill Gardens add another layer of charm. With colourful flower beds, mature planting and carefully tended lawns, they’re a lovely place to sit with an ice cream, a picnic or simply take in the views across Weymouth Bay. They’re not immaculate by accident; years of dedication from local volunteers and community groups have helped make them one of the most attractive green spaces along the seafront.
For anyone seeking a more relaxed beach experience while still within walking distance of Weymouth’s attractions, Greenhill Beach is an excellent choice.
Why We Love Greenhill Beach
Greenhill is one of those beaches we return to year-round.
If we’re looking for a swim with fewer people around, this is usually where we head. It’s close enough to walk into Weymouth Harbour or along the Esplanade, yet it always feels calmer than the main beach.
Over the years, we’ve enjoyed countless swims here, from warm summer afternoons to bright winter mornings, when the sea feels invigorating and the promenade is shared mainly by local dog walkers, runners and people simply enjoying the fresh sea air.
One of the things we appreciate most is how Greenhill changes with the seasons. In summer, the gardens occasionally host small community events and local gatherings, giving the area a lovely neighbourhood feel that’s quite different from the busier parts of Weymouth. Outside the holiday season, it’s somewhere we often recommend to friends seeking a peaceful walk by the sea before stopping for coffee nearby. With often combine a visit with a dog walk through nearby Lodmoor Country Park.
Explore More of Weymouth and Dorset
One of the reasons we enjoy Greenhill Beach so much is that it offers the best of both worlds. You can spend a peaceful morning by the sea before strolling into the heart of Weymouth for lunch, explore the harbour or visit one of the town’s many attractions. If you’re looking to discover more of Dorset’s coastline, Bowleaze Cove, Ringstead Bay and Castle Cove are all just a short drive away.
Many of our Weymouth holiday cottages are within easy reach of Greenhill Beach, too. While guests staying in our Dorchester holiday cottages can reach this quieter stretch of coastline in around 20 minutes by car.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury holiday cottage in Dorset, travelling with your four-legged friend and need dog-friendly accommodation, or plan to unwind in a cottage with a private hot tub, we’ve carefully chosen properties that let you experience the very best of Dorset.
To help you explore even more during your stay, our Concierge Service includes bicycle and e-bike hire delivered directly to your holiday cottage, making it easy to cycle along the seafront, discover Dorset’s quiet country lanes, or explore nearby villages at your own pace. We can also arrange private chefs, paddleboard and kayak hire, and unforgettable sunset cruises aboard a privately chartered boat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The easiest place to park is Lodmoor Car Park, which is only a short walk from Greenhill Beach. It also offers easy access to many of the attractions around Lodmoor Country Park, such as SEA LIFE Weymouth, pirate mini-golf, Sandworld and The Front Skatepark.
Yes. Dogs are welcome outside the seasonal restrictions.
Between 1 May and 31 October, dogs are not permitted on the main section of Greenhill Beach.
If you’re staying in one of our dog-friendly holiday cottages in Dorset, nearby beaches such as Ringstead Bay and Bowleaze Cove offer excellent year-round alternatives.
Yes. Greenhill Beach is an excellent place for swimming, particularly when conditions are calm. The clear water and quieter surroundings make it a popular choice for families and regular sea swimmers looking to avoid the busier parts of Weymouth.
As with many beaches along this stretch of the coastline, there are no lifeguards, so it’s always important to assess the conditions before entering the water.
Everything you need is close by. Public toilets are nearby, together with cafés, ice-cream kiosks and places to stop for lunch or refreshments. Our favourites include Seascape Café, overlooking the beach, and the Top Cat Kiosk, a great place to enjoy a meal while taking in the sea views.
One of the things we love about Greenhill Beach is how much there is to do nearby. It’s perfectly placed for a family day out, with SEA LIFE Weymouth, Lodmoor Country Park, Sandworld, Pirate Adventure Mini Golf, Weymouth Bay Miniature Railway, Lodmoor Nature Reserve and The Front Skatepark all within easy walking distance. If you fancy stretching your legs, it’s also a pleasant stroll along the Esplanade to Weymouth Beach, Weymouth Harbour and the town centre. There you’ll find plenty of cafés, restaurants and independent shops. Greenhill also makes an excellent starting point for exploring some of Weymouth’s other beautiful beaches. Weymouth Beach, Overcombe Beach and Bowleaze Cove, each offering its own unique character and coastal views.