family hols in 2007

[quizzywig]

My family (hubby, 2 daughters, their hubbies and 2 small children) and I are looking to holiday altogether next summer somewhere in Dorset. I would be grateful for any opinions of ABers as to where the best quiet beaches are to be found. Never been to Dorset before, but very keen and so are the family. We always have a week together and have a great time.Somewher between Sidmouth and Weymouth maybe, we want to rent a cottage close to a nice beach if possible. Any advice greatly appreciated.

[lizwizz]

I think you'll be lucky to find a quiet beach in Dorset in summer. We found the beaches in Bournmouth (particularly Sandbanks) absolutely fab for kids, clean, sandy, clear blue sea and lifeguards on duty. The beach is very long so didn't feel crowded, unlike Weymouth and Swanage, both very cramped. If you go a bit further east along the same beach, its less busy, but steeper sloping, so the waves are bigger and no lifeguards. We liked Durdle Door too, but very stoney and quite a long walk from car park to beach. I know this doesn't really answer your question, but hope its helpful.

[nickmo]

http://www.farmstayuk.co.uk might have the accommodation you want. Enter Dorset in the search..

Also Dorset as above gets really busy. There are some good places a mile from the coast inland that may suit so you can escape the real crowds - and if you stay near Bridport, go along to River Cottage and visit Hugh Fearnley -Whittingstall and the team for a bit of real entertaiment !

You can book a days visit off the River Cottage web site at: http://www.rivercottage.net/index.jsp

For beach info, have a look at : http://www.goodbeachguide.co.uk and search Dorset for reviews by the Marine Conservation Society.

[quizzywig]

Thanks very much for both your help. It's very much appreciated.