Ringstead Bay

Ringstead Bay is one of those beaches that feels quietly special from the moment you arrive. Unspoilt and low-key. It’s a long sweep of shingle and pebbles with beautifully clear water. The beach stretches for nearly half a mile, so even on warmer days there’s usually room to spread out and settle in without feeling hemmed in.

What really sets Ringstead apart is its setting. On one side, the striking white chalk cliffs of White Nothe rise steeply from the sea; look the other way and your eye follows the curve of the bay to Portland. At low tide, a reef close to shore reveals itself, creating rock pools that are worth exploring.

There’s a rich history here too. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Ringstead’s secluded shoreline made it a favourite landing spot for smugglers, many of whom operated from the nearby Smugglers Inn at Osmington Mills. During the Second World War, the cliffs above were also used for coastal defence, and remnants of a radar bunker can still be found on the coast path towards Osmington. 

Why We Love Ringstead Bay

Ringstead Bay is a beach we return to again and again, in every season. In spring and winter, it’s one of our favourite coastal walks, especially the stretch along the South West Coast Path between Ringstead and Osmington Mills. Our children have walked this route since they were very young and still love it today, as do grandparents and friends who join us. It’s one of those walks that suits all ages: and just the right length to feel you’ve earned a drink or a bite to eat at the fabulous Smugglers Inn. 

In summer, Ringstead comes into its own as a full beach day. It’s often noticeably quieter than the main resort beaches. Although on hot days it can still get busy. We love swimming here when the conditions are right, and on warm evenings we sometimes arrive later in the day, swim, and stay for an early-evening barbecue on the beach. Or often having spent a day on the beach we finish the day with an ice cream or drink at the excellent Reef Café.

We also tend to wander west along the shoreline towards Bran Point, where a smaller, more secluded cove can be reached. It’s about a ten minute walk along the coast path from Ringstead and feels secretly tucked away. Wooden steps lead down to the shingle, and it’s often much quieter than the main bay. The cliffs here have a distinctive reddish tone. Surfers also use this stretch of beach during says when the waves pick up. 

Explore More of Weymouth and Dorset

One of the things we love about Ringstead Bay is how easily it can be combined with other days out along the Dorset coast. You might spend one day enjoying Ringstead Bay’s peaceful surroundings before heading to Weymouth Beach the next, or continue exploring the Jurassic Coast with visits to Bowleaze Cove, Lulworth Cove or Durdle Door.

Many of our Weymouth holiday cottages are within easy reach of Ringstead Bay, while guests staying in our Dorchester holiday cottages can reach the beach in about 20 minutes.

Whether you’re looking for a luxury holiday cottage in Dorset, need dog-friendly accommodation, or want to relax in a cottage with a private hot tub, we’ve handpicked properties that put the very best of Dorset within easy reach.

To help you make the most of your holiday, our Concierge Service includes bicycle and e-bike hire delivered directly to your cottage. We can also arrange private chefs, paddleboard and kayak hire, and unforgettable sunset cruises aboard a privately chartered boat. 

Frequently Asked Questions