Castle Cove, Dorset
Castle Cove is one of Weymouth’s true hidden gems. Tucked beneath the historic ruins of Sandsfoot Castle, this small sandy cove feels quiet, despite being only a few minutes from Weymouth Harbour and the town centre.
Unlike the wide expanse of Weymouth Beach, Castle Cove offers something much quieter. The sheltered bay, soft sand and calm, clear water create a peaceful setting ideal for swimming, paddling and simply escaping the busier beaches in summer.
It’s easy to understand why this beautiful cove was once privately owned. Even today, with elegant houses overlooking the bay, it still feels secluded and protected. Thankfully, following a successful community campaign, Castle Cove reopened to the public in 2013 and has remained one of those special places that locals quietly recommend to those seeking a different side of Weymouth.
For anyone seeking a quieter beach with plenty of character, Castle Cove is a wonderful place to discover.
Why We Love Castle Cove
Castle Cove holds some very special family memories for us.
When our children were toddlers, this was one of the beaches we returned to time and again. The sheltered water always felt reassuring, giving them the confidence to paddle, splash and gradually become comfortable in the sea, without the larger waves or busier atmosphere. Another benefit is it becomes a real sun trap on warm days, making it a great place for a relaxed afternoon. There aren’t rows of attractions or amusements competing for attention. Instead, it’s a place to enjoy the sea, the scenery and the simple pleasure of being beside the water.
Even now, we still find ourselves coming back throughout the year. We’ll often begin with a walk around Sandsfoot Castle Gardens, stop for coffee or lunch at Sandsfoot Café, then head down to the beach. It’s just as enjoyable on a bright winter morning as it is in the height of summer.
For us, Castle Cove is one of those places that’s easy to miss yet impossible to forget. Every time we visit, we’re reminded that some of Dorset’s most memorable places aren’t the biggest or the busiest; they’re the ones that let the coastline speak for itself.
Our Curated Tip: Be aware that many maps still show a coastal path from Castle Cove to Newton Cove, Nothe Gardens and Weymouth Harbour. However, due to a landslide, this stretch of the coastal path from the beach to Newton Cove is impassable, and we speak from personal experience!
Explore More of Weymouth and Dorset
Many of our Weymouth holiday cottages are only a short drive from Castle Cove, while guests staying in our Dorchester holiday cottages can reach the beach in about 25 minutes, making it an ideal escape from the county town for a peaceful day by the sea.
Whether you’re searching for a luxury holiday cottage in Dorset, a dog-friendly cottage near wonderful coastal walks, or accommodation with a private hot tub to relax after a day of exploring, we’ve carefully chosen places to stay that let you experience the very best of Dorset.
To help you enjoy even more of the area, our Concierge service includes bicycle and e-bike hire delivered directly to your holiday cottage, making it easy to explore the Rodwell Trail and the coastlines of Portland and Weymouth on two wheels. We can also arrange private chefs, paddle board and kayak hire, and unforgettable sunset cruises aboard a privately chartered boat, offering a unique view of the Jurassic Coast from the water. And after a day exploring Weymouth’s beautiful beaches, there’s no better way to round off your visit than with something good to eat overlooking the harbour. From Michelin Guide dining and fresh local seafood to cosy pubs, cafés and hidden gems, we’ve shared all of our favourite local recommendations in our guide to the Best Places to Eat in Weymouth Harbour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. There is limited roadside parking near Castle Cove and Sandsfoot Castle, so arriving earlier in the day is advisable during the summer months.
Additional parking is usually available on nearby residential roads within a short walk of the beach.
Yes. Dogs are welcome year-round, making Castle Cove one of our favourite quieter beaches for guests staying in our dog-friendly holiday cottages in Dorset.
Yes. The sheltered location and gently shelving shoreline make Castle Cove an ideal place for paddling and swimming, particularly when the sea is calm. It’s also a lovely spot for snorkelling around the cove’s edges, where children and adults alike often enjoy spotting small fish and other marine life.
As there are no lifeguards, it’s always important to check the conditions before entering the water.
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 Sandsfoot 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, Weymouth town and the Harbour are only a short walk or quick drive away, with cafés, harbour views, Brewer’s Quay, and Nothe Forte. If you head the other way, Portland Marina is easy to reach too, which was once home to the 2012 Olympic sailing teams. Just beyond it you’ll find Portland Castle and the historic streets of Castletown, both well worth exploring.
For more options explore our guides to nearby Sandsfoot Beach, Weymouth Beach and the best beaches in Weymouth.