Knoll Beach
A beautiful, dog-friendly beach on the Jurassic Coast with clear waters, soft sand, and stunning views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Knoll Beach
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful, dog-friendly beach on the Jurassic Coast with clear waters, soft sand, and stunning views.
"Stunning views, soft sand, and clear waters make Knoll Beach a must-visit."
🐾 Dog-Friendly All Year
Bring your furry friends! Knoll Beach welcomes dogs year-round for beach fun.
🚗 Parking Perks
National Trust members park free. Non-members have paid parking available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sandy Shores & Clear Waters
Knoll Beach
Soft sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Old Harry Rocks Views
Overlooking Studland Bay
Breathtaking panoramic views across to the iconic Old Harry Rocks.
Reptile Discovery Trail
Adjacent to the beach
An engaging nature trail with fascinating insights into local reptiles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dog-Friendly Paradise
Beyond the Beach
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly All Year
Bring your furry friends! Knoll Beach welcomes dogs year-round for beach fun. +1
🚗 Parking Perks
National Trust members park free. Non-members have paid parking available.
🚶♀️ Explore Dunes & Woods
Venture beyond the sand to discover walking paths through dunes and woods.
🏊♀️ Natural Hydrotherapy
Horses enjoy sea swimming for natural hydrotherapy here!
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly All Year
Bring your furry friends! Knoll Beach welcomes dogs year-round for beach fun. +1
🚗 Parking Perks
National Trust members park free. Non-members have paid parking available.
🚶♀️ Explore Dunes & Woods
Venture beyond the sand to discover walking paths through dunes and woods.
🏊♀️ Natural Hydrotherapy
Horses enjoy sea swimming for natural hydrotherapy here!
☀️ Day Retreat Option
Consider a day retreat at Knoll House Hotel for pool access and lunch.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Knoll Beach's soft sand, clear waters, and stunning views of Old Harry Rocks. It's praised for being well-maintained, dog-friendly year-round, and offering a good mix of peaceful spots and amenities like a café. Some mention the presence of nudists in certain areas.
"Absolutely loved my visit to Knoll Beach! The sand is soft, the water’s super clear, and the views across to Old Harry Rocks are just stunning. There’s a nice mix of peaceful spots. The National Trust café nearby does decent food and drinks, and the whole place is really well looked after. Great for a day out walking, swimming, or just relaxing. Definitely coming back."
Rashid Ali
"A wonderful afternoon spent here. A great food outlet run by two charming young brothers.
Great car parking and unspoilt surroundings."
Lizzie Brown
"Gorgeous beach. Just please beware the nudists everywhere. Calm, stunning water."
Katarzyna Jiddou
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Knoll Beach is located in Studland, Dorset. The easiest way to access it is by car, with a National Trust car park available. You can also reach Studland by bus, though services may be less frequent.
Yes, there is a National Trust car park at Knoll Beach. It's free for National Trust members.
Cycling is a great way to explore Studland. There are cycle paths and racks available at various points, including near the beach.
The main beach area and paths are generally accessible, but some sandy areas can be challenging. Check with the National Trust for the latest accessibility information.
The nearest town is Swanage, which is a short drive or ferry ride away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the beach itself is free. However, parking in the National Trust car park incurs a fee unless you are a National Trust member.
Knoll Beach is accessible at all times. The National Trust car park has specific operating hours, typically from dawn till dusk.
No, there are no booking requirements to visit Knoll Beach. It's a public beach.
Yes, you can reach Studland by bus. From the bus stop, it's a walk to Knoll Beach.
The reptile discovery trail is part of the natural environment and generally free to explore as part of your visit to Knoll Beach.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe, walk along the shore, explore the dunes and nearby woods, and discover the reptile trail. Dogs are welcome year-round.
Yes, Knoll Beach has calm, clear waters, making it excellent for swimming.
Public toilets are available near the car park and café. Shower facilities may be limited, so it's best to check locally.
It's a nature trail designed to help visitors learn about and spot local reptiles in their natural habitat.
Absolutely! Knoll Beach is a great spot for picnics. Remember to take all your litter with you.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a National Trust café near the beach that serves food and drinks.
The café typically offers light meals, snacks, and beverages. Some reviews mention a 'great food outlet run by two charming young brothers'.
The closest dining options are the café at Knoll Beach and restaurants in the nearby town of Swanage.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is a popular option for visitors to Knoll Beach.
Yes, the Knoll House Hotel offers day retreats that include lunch, and is known for its Sunday roasts.
📸 📸 Photography
The views towards Old Harry Rocks are spectacular. The sandy beach itself, especially during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful light. The dunes and surrounding heathland also provide scenic backdrops.
Drone usage may be restricted in National Trust areas. Always check local regulations and guidelines before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) offers the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm glow.
Yes, horses are sometimes seen swimming in the sea at Knoll Beach, offering unique photographic opportunities.
The prominent chalk stacks of Old Harry Rocks are a must-capture landmark from Knoll Beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the ample space for children to run around and the availability of a café for convenient snacks and meals. While there aren't extensive playgrounds, the natural environment provides plenty of opportunities for imaginative play. Remember to pack sun protection and beach toys for a full day of family fun.
🐶 Dog Owners
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Studland's Natural Beauty
Many visitors appreciate the ability to combine a beach day with a hike. You can walk along the beach, then loop back through the dunes and woods, offering a refreshing change of scenery. The National Trust manages much of this area, ensuring its preservation and providing information for visitors. The presence of wildlife, from birds to insects, adds to the ecological richness of the site.
For those interested in the unique geology, the views across to Old Harry Rocks are a significant draw. These striking chalk formations are a testament to the power of erosion and a photographer's dream. The combination of beach, heathland, and iconic coastal landmarks makes Studland a truly special destination.
Dog-Friendly Adventures
This policy makes it a popular choice for visitors with pets, contributing to a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s important to be a responsible dog owner, ensuring your pet is under control and cleaning up after them. The expansive nature of the beach and surrounding areas provides plenty of space for dogs to roam and play.
While dogs are welcome, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other beachgoers, especially during busier periods. The ability to bring dogs without seasonal limitations is a significant advantage for many travelers looking for a truly inclusive holiday experience.
Day Retreats and Relaxation
These retreats are highlighted as a budget-friendly way to enjoy the Jurassic Coastline, offering a taste of luxury without an overnight stay. The idea of a 'day retreat' for a set price, including meals and activities, appeals to travelers looking for value and convenience.
Beyond the hotel, the beach itself provides ample opportunity for relaxation. Whether it's sunbathing on the soft sand, enjoying the calm waters, or simply taking in the stunning views, Knoll Beach is designed for unwinding. The presence of a café also means you can easily grab refreshments without leaving the immediate vicinity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit