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Dorset

Studland Bay

Vast area of sandy beaches and heathland

Studland, near Swanage, Dorset

View between dunes to turquoise sea and white cliffs beyond

Planning your visit

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Studland Bay map 

Take a look at the map of Studland Bay to help plan your visit.

A small dog on the lead standing at the beach
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Visiting Studland Bay with your dog 

Studland Bay is a two pawprint rated place. Well-behaved dogs are very welcome. We have certain restrictions to ensure everyone enjoys the beach, whether on two or four feet.

Two visitors explore the Kingston Lacy estate on bikes on a sunny summer's day
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Leave the car at home 

You can avoid traffic queues and stress, and do your bit for the environment, by leaving your car behind when you travel to Studland Bay.

The sun rising over Knoll Beach with grasses in the foreground at Studland Bay, Dorset
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Naturism at Studland Bay 

A designated section of Studland Beach is probably the best known naturist beach in Britain. The 900m area of Knoll Beach is marked with signs and posts.

An Agglestone Rock on the beach at sunset at Studland Bay, Dorset
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Barbecues and fires at Studland Bay 

Please be aware that barbecues, cooking and fires are not permitted at Studland Bay, due to the fire risk. There are no designated barbecue areas at Studland. In the case of fire dial 999. Please contact 01929 450500 to report BBQs to our staff at Studland Bay.

A drone pilot flying a drone over the Cerne Abbas Giant in Dorset, with countryside visible in the background and blue skies above.
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Metal detecting and drone use at Studland Bay 

Metal detecting is permitted via a permit system only. Please email us to apply for a permit. Drones are not permitted on any National Trust land.

A long concrete building with a narrow horizontal slit for a window

Finding World War Two ammunition

Live World War Two ammunition may occasionally be found. Studland was used as a live fire area in preparation for D-Day. If you see anything, do not touch or remove it but note the location using what three words and report it immediately to a member of staff, call 01929 450500 or the police on 999.

A large group of visitors walking on the beach at Studland Bay
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Group and educational visits to Studland Bay 

Groups are welcome at Studland Bay, whether you’re planning a group trip or a self-guided education visit. Find out about the kinds of activities on offer for education groups, and how to arrange your visit.

Two visitors exploring the garden in spring at Quarry Bank, Cheshire

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