Knoll Beach Studland
Golden sands, dunes, and heritage naturism on Dorset's most celebrated beach.
Knoll Beach is a stunning four-mile stretch of golden sand backed by dunes and woodland in Studland Bay, Dorset. This National Trust-managed beach offers shallow, sheltered waters ideal for families, with excellent facilities including a café, shop, and watersports hire. The beach is famous for its official naturist section and spectacular views across Poole Bay to Old Harry Rocks. Dogs are welcome year-round, and accessible facilities cater to all visitors.
A brief summary to Knoll Beach Studland
- GB
- Duration: 2 to 8 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit outside peak summer months (June to August) to avoid crowds and enjoy more parking availability. Winter and early spring offer quieter beach time with equally stunning scenery.
- Book beach wheelchairs and all-terrain electric wheelchairs in advance by calling 01929 450500 to ensure availability, particularly during busy periods.
- Bring cash or use the PayByPhone app (location code 803385) for parking payment. National Trust members and Blue Badge holders park free.
- Explore the South West Coast Path to Old Harry Rocks for spectacular views and a rewarding two-mile coastal walk; allow 40 minutes each way from the beach.
- Check tide times before visiting if planning water sports; the shallow waters are safest at mid to high tide for swimming and paddling activities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car from Swanage
From Swanage town centre, drive north via Ulwell Road and continue to the B3351 Swanage Road. Turn right to enter Studland village and proceed onto Ferry Road. Knoll Beach car park entrance is on your right immediately after passing Knoll House Hotel. Journey time is approximately 15 minutes under normal conditions, though summer traffic and school holidays can extend this. Use postcode BH19 3AH for satellite navigation.
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By Car from Sandbanks
From Sandbanks, head south on Ferry Road towards Studland village. Knoll Beach car park entrance is clearly signposted on your left as you approach. Journey time is approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Parking charges apply for non-members: £5 for up to 2 hours, £8 for up to 4 hours, or £12 for all day. National Trust members and Blue Badge holders park free.
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By Public Transport
Local bus services operate from Swanage and surrounding towns to Studland village. From the village, the beach is accessible via a 10–15 minute walk or short taxi ride. Check local transport schedules as frequency varies seasonally. This option avoids parking fees and is environmentally friendly.
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By Bicycle
Studland is accessible via local cycling routes from Swanage and surrounding areas. Ferry Road and Hardy's Road can accommodate cyclists, though roads may be busy in summer. Secure bike parking is available at the car park. Journey time from Swanage is approximately 20–30 minutes depending on route and fitness level.
Knoll Beach Studland location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Knoll Beach Studland
A Timeless Stretch of Dorset Coastline
Knoll Beach forms part of Studland Bay's celebrated four-mile expanse of golden sand, one of Dorset's most distinctive coastal landscapes. Backed by protective sand dunes and framed by native woodland, this National Trust-managed beach has been a cherished destination since the early twentieth century. The gently shelving waters and natural amphitheatre of dunes create an unusually safe and welcoming environment, while the broader landscape reveals the geological drama of the Jurassic Coast and the Isle of Purbeck.Naturism and Cultural Heritage
Knoll Beach holds a unique place in British seaside culture as home to the nation's most established official naturist beach. Nearly one kilometre of the beach is designated and clearly marked with green-topped posts and signage, where clothing is optional. This tradition stretches back nearly a century, and the National Trust actively welcomes naturists while maintaining clear boundaries to respect all visitors. Those preferring textile beaches can easily access alternative sections or explore the Heather Walk trail through the dunes.Water Sports and Recreational Activities
The sheltered bay is a haven for water enthusiasts. A dedicated watersports centre offers hire of stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, pedaloes, windsurfers, and sailing dinghies. Powerboat rides and banana rides can also be arranged for those seeking more adventurous pursuits. The shallow waters make swimming safe for families, while experienced water sports enthusiasts find excellent conditions for diving, sailing, and paddling. Beach wheelchairs and all-terrain electric wheelchairs are available for free hire, ensuring inclusive access to the water's edge.Facilities and Visitor Amenities
The car park area serves as the hub for visitor services. A licensed café with extensive outdoor seating offers refreshments throughout the day, while the National Trust shop stocks seasonal beach equipment, accessories, and gifts. Modern toilet facilities, including a heated Changing Places facility with adult-sized changing bench and hoist, ensure comfort for all visitors. Accessible parking spaces with level access connect directly to the café, shop, and facilities. Dogs have access to dedicated water stations, and the beach welcomes canine companions year-round, subject to summer restrictions in certain areas.Vistas and Nearby Exploration
On clear days, views from Knoll Beach extend across Poole Bay to Bournemouth and the Needles on the Isle of Wight. Old Harry Rocks, the iconic chalk formations marking the eastern boundary of Studland Bay, are nearly always visible and accessible via a scenic two-mile coastal walk along the South West Coast Path. The route passes Middle Beach and takes approximately forty minutes each way. Inland, Studland village offers the historic Bankes Arms Inn with sea views and a beer garden, located a fifteen-minute walk from the beach, alongside a pretty parish church.Natural Heritage and Wildlife
The special heathland behind the beach represents a haven for native wildlife, hosting all six British reptile species alongside butterflies, deer, insects, and wildflowers. Designated trails through sand dunes and woodlands allow visitors to explore this rich ecosystem at their own pace. The area's ecological significance is reflected in its status as part of the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the National Trust actively manages the landscape to preserve its natural character. Beavers released into the wild at nearby Little Sea demonstrate the Trust's commitment to rewilding and habitat restoration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King Alfred the Great Statue
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Nunney Castle
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Sham Castle
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SouthGate Bath
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The Forum
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St John The Evangelist's Church
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Bath Quays Waterside
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Old Theatre Royal
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Bath Masonic Hall
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Bath Pavilion
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Chapel Arts Centre
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North Parade Bridge
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City Sightseeing Bath Hop On Hop Off
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North Parade, Bath
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Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sandbanks Beach
2.1 km
Britain's Blue Flag beacon—golden sands, sheltered waters, and three decades of coastal excellence.
Brownsea Island
3.2 km
Explore Brownsea Island’s rich wildlife, historic castle, and scenic trails in Poole Harbour’s largest nature sanctuary.
Agglestone Rock
3.3 km
Discover the legendary Agglestone Rock on Studland Heath, a natural sandstone marvel steeped in myth and surrounded by tranquil Dorset heathland.
RNLI Poole Old Lifeboat Museum
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Discover the heroic history of Poole’s lifeboat service at the RNLI Old Lifeboat Museum, nestled in the historic 1882 station on Fisherman's Dock.
Coastal Cruises Poole
5.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Poole's coastline with Coastal Cruises, offering unforgettable boat tours for every traveler.
Scaplen's Court Museum and Garden
5.7 km
Explore a beautifully preserved medieval merchant’s house and tranquil garden in Poole’s historic Old Town, blending heritage with vibrant community life.
Poole Park
5.8 km
Discover Poole Park’s vast saltwater lake, vibrant gardens, and family-friendly activities in the heart of Dorset’s coastal town.
Poole Park Pavilion
6.0 km
A vibrant community pavilion nestled in Poole Park, offering diverse recreational activities and a scenic setting for all ages.
Alexandra Park, Poole
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A beautifully restored Victorian park in Poole offering family-friendly play areas, a community café, and vibrant green spaces for all to enjoy.
Parkstone
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Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
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Old Sarum
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Stonehenge Rd
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West Bay
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Woodhenge
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Explore Woodhenge, a Neolithic timber circle near Stonehenge, revealing ancient ceremonial mysteries through its aligned wooden posts and sacred landscape.
Essential places to dine
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83.8 km
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Sign of the Angel
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Step into history at Sign of the Angel, a 15th-century coaching inn in Lacock offering cozy charm, excellent food, and timeless English hospitality.
Tapas Revolution.
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Lively Spanish tapas and cocktails in central Bath – perfect for sharing, socialising and a taste of Iberian flair.
The Elder Restaurant
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Yak Yeti Yak
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Opa Bath
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Experience authentic Greek meze and vibrant nightlife in atmospheric vaulted cellars by Bath’s River Avon.
Sotto Sotto
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Discover authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic vaulted cellar setting beneath Bath’s historic streets.
La Perla
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Noya's Kitchen
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Experience authentic Vietnamese home cooking in a charming Grade II listed Georgian setting in the heart of Bath.
Tagine Zhor
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Experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality of Morocco in the heart of Bath at Tagine Zhor, a vibrant and authentic Moroccan dining destination.
OAK Restaurant
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Discover OAK Restaurant in Bath: exquisite vegetarian small plates crafted with local, seasonal ingredients in a cozy, historic setting.
Browns Bath
84.3 km
Classic British brasserie dining in Bath’s historic Old Police Station with seasonal menus and handcrafted cocktails.
Bill's Bath Restaurant
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A vibrant British restaurant in central Bath, perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner near the Theatre Royal and Bath Abbey.
Bar + Block Steakhouse Bath
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The Restaurant at The Bird
84.3 km
Stylish, sustainable dining in Bathwick with modern British dishes, festive charm, and stunning views of Bath Abbey.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Natural Treats Wiltshire - Raw Dog Food Store
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Premium raw dog food and natural treats in Melksham, serving conscious pet owners with expert nutrition guidance.
Luca & Fig
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Discover unique gifts and stylish home furnishings in Bath’s charming Luca & Fig boutique, where creativity meets quality.
National Trust Gift Shop
83.7 km
Discover unique, eco-friendly gifts and local artisan treasures in a historic Lacock High Street setting.
CoCo Chemistry Chocolates
83.8 km
Handcrafted luxury chocolates in the historic village of Lacock, blending tradition, quality, and charm for a truly sweet experience.
Quintessentially English
83.8 km
A charming Wiltshire gift shop in Lacock, specializing in handmade soaps, candles, and artisanal beauty products with a distinctly English character.
O L I V
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Discover artisan candles, homewares, and unique gifts at O L I V, a charming boutique nestled in historic Lacock village.
My Small World Toy Store
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A charming boutique toy store in Bath offering handcrafted wooden toys, unique books, and exceptional personal service for all ages.
Urban Outfitters
84.0 km
A vibrant lifestyle store in Bath offering on‑trend fashion, accessories, and quirky homewares in a creative, youth‑oriented space.
Hidden Store Bath
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Bath Retro Store
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Discover quirky gifts and nostalgic treasures in Bath Retro Store, a charming independent shop nestled in historic Abbey Green.
Hauslife
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Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath
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A beloved independent bookshop in Bath offering rich literary selections, live author events, and a welcoming atmosphere daily until late evening.
Pinkart
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Nām
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The Roman baths shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Westbrook Inn
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The Ivy Inn
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The George Inn
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Waggon & Horses
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Be At One - Bath
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Juno Bar and Kitchen
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ArtBar
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The Hideout
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The Crystal Palace, Bath
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Sleight Magic Bar
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All Bar One Bath
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The Grapes
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The Dark Horse
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Coeur De Lion
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Vino Vino
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Tub
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Second Bridge
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Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
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Komedia
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Zero / Zero
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Sub 13
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Lomah
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E11evn's Nightclub
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A lively late-night hotspot in Chippenham offering weekend clubbing with a spirited local vibe and energetic dance floors.
Venue Five-0 Night Club
97.1 km
Energetic weekend nights and diverse music await at Venue Five-0 Night Club, Royal Wootton Bassett’s lively nightlife hotspot.
Motion
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The Loco Klub
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Dare to Club
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Thekla
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PRYZM
98.1 km
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Popworld - Bristol
98.3 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Adventurous
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Scenic Backdrops
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Eco-Friendly
- Wildlife Habitat
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly