Weymouth has everything you could want for a classic seaside break (Image: Getty Images)
Oh, I do like to be beside the seaside, and Weymouth Bay in Dorset is about as authentic as you can get for a classic British break.
Our base for the weekend was the Harbour Vista apartment just a stone’s throw from the busy quay and award-winning beaches, with a location that was perfect for watching fishermen loading up their boats, or families hunting for crabs.
The apartment itself is well equipped leaving you to focus on the most important thing – enjoying your holiday. There are two bedrooms – one double with an en-suite bathroom and one twin – with beds so comfortable that I feel like I may need to look at replacing my own mattress at home.
The open-plan kitchen and lounge had everything we needed for cooking at home (although we only used it once because of the sheer quantity of brilliant restaurants in the area), as well as board games, a PlayStation and TVs to keep the kids busy if the British weather acted up.
If you visit on a Friday or Saturday, I’d recommend getting yourself to the nearby Duke of Cornwall for some brilliant live music where you’ll get a very intimate and cosy atmosphere – but arrive early to get a spot! If you’re after something with a slower pace, I cannot recommend the T-Shop more.
Callum on Weymouth Beach (Image: Callum Hoare)
Just a two-minute walk from your room, this café does an incredible (and well priced) cream tea. They also have tons of unorthodox adaptations if you are feeling adventurous – such as their chilli cheese cream tea.
Just another 10-minute walk away is the Jurassic Coast’s legendary sea defence, Nothe Fort.
Designed to protect Portland Harbour, which held strategic military and naval importance, it features strong architecture, including thick stone walls, underground magazines, and gun emplacements for heavy artillery. During both World Wars, it served as a key defence point, with updated weaponry and radar systems added over time.
Today, Nothe Fort is a heritage site and museum. It offers visitors the chance to explore military tunnels, gun decks, and displays on wartime history, coastal defence, and the technological advancements in warfare. The fort also provides panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once you have visited, I would recommend walking through the Nothe Gardens for the incredible views of Newton’s Cove and its two piers. Pack some binoculars as there are plenty of birdwatching opportunities too.
Inside the Harbour Vista apartment (Image: DHCottages)
Also on the doorstep were a host of boat trips offering everything from mackerel fishing to sightseeing. We decided to take on the Weymouth Bay RIB Charter trip to Durdle Door, a high-speed boat tour that combines the thrill of a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) ride with breathtaking scenery.
Once out of the harbour, the boat picks up speed, offering an exhilarating ride across the bay with salty sea spray and stunning views all around. I’d highly recommend donning the poncho they provide but you definitely won’t be getting soaked.
The journey along the coast is nothing short of spectacular. You’ll pass famous landmarks such as Portland Harbour, Weymouth Beach, and Ringstead Bay, before arriving at the iconic Durdle Door — a massive natural limestone arch carved out by the sea.
The boat slows here to allow plenty of time for photos and to take in the view. The skipper will also share fascinating facts about the area’s geology and history including the origin of the famous She Sells Sea Shells song!
Summer Day at Weymouth’s Seaside Resort, England (Image: Getty)
What sets this trip apart is the perfect mix of adrenaline and natural beauty. The ride is smooth yet exciting, suitable for families, couples, or solo travellers. Lasting between 1-2 hours, it felt like excellent value for money.
The apartment is surrounded by pubs and restaurants. We did our best to visit them all but simply ran out of time. However, make sure you leave space for a trip to Bennett’s Fish & Chips which serves the best battered cod I’ve ever had.
For dinner we headed to Rockfish which prides itself on serving locally caught seafood, often landed the very same day. We ate a delicious mix of oysters, mackerel, sardines, tuna and monkfish – all washed down with a beautiful bottle of pinot grigio. There is a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with views over beach and harbour.
After your meal you can take a walk along Weymouth Beach and pop in to its famous arcade. Here you have all your seaside classics from coin pushing to claw-grabber machines stuffed full of prizes.
If you’re tempted to visit, summer is unsurprisingly when the resort becomes most popular and busy but the autumn months offer a more chilled vibe if you want to avoid the crowds.
What struck us the most was how friendly the people of Weymouth are – they will happily offer you recommendations and are very approachable if you have any questions.
Overall we were blown away by this whole holiday. We stayed for just three nights but could have easily done a week – we’re already planning our return next year!
Prices for a three-night stay at Harbour Vista start at £547 for four people with Dorset Cottage Holidays. Find out more at dhcottages.co.uk
You can also get more information at weareweymouth.co.uk and visit-dorset.com.
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