DORSET ROCKS!

A trip to the Jurassic Coast sees Victor Charles admiring beautiful bays and romantic castles, with coastal views that spark delight

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Walking along the clifftops, the thought occurred that there are few sights more evocative than the chalk cliffs and stacks of Old Harry Rocks - the creamy white cliffs bordered by light green downland and patches of sand below, with miles of shimmering sea stretching away into the distance. It is the epitome of the celebrated Jurassic coastline.

There was no great mystery as to why we had chosen to visit the Dorset coast. Quite simply, it is a stunning part of the UK, with many wonderful places to see, including Lulworth Cove and Studland Bay. It has nature reserves, history and heritage, animal attractions, and miles and miles of glorious golden beaches.

We were booked to stay at Downshay Farm, near Swanage, but the terrible drive south, plagued by hold-ups and roadworks, meant we were an hour later than we'd hoped. On arrival, we found there'd been a mix-up with the bookings and that someone else had been granted an extension on our pitch. Fortunately, there was a spare spot where we could have parked up and relaxed if we'd wanted to, but we were keen to get out and explore.

We headed into Swanage in glorious sunshine. Excited children were building sandcastles on the beach and playing with inflatables in the sea.

We walked up the promenade, past cafés and ice cream stalls. Lots of people were walking their dogs along Monkey Beach, which is dog-friendly all year round.