What to see

Vast area of sandy beaches and heathland. Fine beaches stretch continuously for 3 miles from South Haven Point to the chalk cliffs of Handfast Point and Old Harry Rocks, and include Shell Bay and a designated naturist area. The heathland behind the beach is a National Nature Reserve, a haven for many rare birds and other forms of wildlife. There are several footpaths, two nature trails and bird hides at Little Sea. Studland Beach is just one highlight of the 3200ha (8000-acre) Purbeck Estate cared for by the National Trust.

Please do not park on the Ferry Road overnight.

What’s new in 2004
Bird hide at Brands Bay, Poole Harbour. Walks leaflets: Purbeck Estate and South Purbeck Coast

Studland Beach & Nature Reserve, 3 miles of fine sandy beaches. South Haven Point, Handfast Point and Old Harry Rocks, Shell Bay and a designated naturist area. There is a heathland behind the beach which is a National Nature Reserve, it has many rare birds and other wildlife. There are several public paths, two nature trails and bird hides at Little Sea. Countryside Office,Studland,Swanage,BH19 3AX
Tel. 01929 450259 or 01929 480609 (Learning) or 01929 450500 (Shop)

Shell Bay Sailing Centre, by the chain ferry at Shell Bay, Studland. RYA recognised. Dingy tuition and hire. Open April to September inclusive. Tel. 01929 450340

Studland Water Sports, Knoll Beach Car Park, Studland Bay. Sailing dinghies, hobie cats, windsurfers, canoes and banana rides.

Cool Cats Leisure, Sandbanks, Poole. Catamaran & Windsurfing hire. Tel. 01202 701100

Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour. Red Squirrells & Peacocks. No Dogs. Tel. 01202 707744

The Cycle Station Bike Hire, Manor Farm, Studland. Quality bikes including helmets, bumbag, pump, toolkit, repair kit and map. Tel. 07971 929598

Studland Riding Stables, Studland. Tel. 01929 450273

Isle Of Purbeck Golf Club, Corfe Road, Studland. Purbeck course, 18 holes, Dene course 9 holes. Tel. 01929 450361 - 450354

Where to eat

Bankes Arms Hotel
Tel: 01929 450225

Knoll House Hotel
Tel: 01929 450450

Knoll Beach Visitor Centre and Cafe NT
Tel: 01929 450305

Manor Farm Dairy Cream
Tel: 01929 450538

Middle Beach Cafe
Tel: 01929 450411

Shell Bay Cafe and Seafood Restaurant
Tel: 01929 450363

Manor House Hotel
Tel: 01929 450288