Outdoor activities at Ringstead Bay

View across the shingle and water to the cliff on the east side of the bay at Ringstead Bay, Dorset — View across Ringstead Bay, Dorset | © National Trust Images / John Miller

The beach, coast path and unspoilt countryside makes Ringstead Bay an ideal place to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. From coastal walks, some family fun, swimming spots or bird spotting, there's something for everyone.

Walking around Ringstead Bay

The countryside surrounding Ringstead Bay is a haven for walkers with miles of footpaths to explore, including a particularly scenic stretch of the South West Coast Path.

Starting from the National Trust car park, you can follow it west towards Osmington and Weymouth or east towards the famous Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. Alternatively walk through the wildlife-rich fields down to the bay.

Family fun activities

Calling all young (and young at heart) adventurers. You can complete almost half of the '50 things to do before you're 11¾' challenges at Ringstead Bay. Take a look at the handy activity map to show you what you can do and where.

Two people swimming in the sea at Shell Bay, Studland, Dorset — Taking a dip at Shell Bay, Studland | © National Trust Images / Ben Selway

Wildlife spotting

Wildlife enthusiasts should bring their binoculars because they're in for a treat.

The scrub at Ringstead attracts migratory birds such as the white throat, and you might also see waders on the foreshore and rock pipits, and see or hear a nightingale.

Butterflies and wildflowers

You're in prime butterfly spotting territory too. On the ground, you can see many beautiful wildflowers including viper's bugloss, carline thistle and other flowering plants of calcareous grassland.

Swimming in the bay

Ringstead Bay is a sheltered beach that's great for swimming. A peaceful alternative to the busy resort of Weymouth, it also boasts a fantastic view of the Isle of Portland to admire as you swim.

Running along Ringstead Bay

Why sweat it out on a treadmill in a gym when you can enjoy traffic-free running in the fresh air? For a beautiful but challenging training session, the undulating South West Coast Path awaits.