top of page

Charton Bay

Beach

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Woodland, Cliffs

Walking, Swimming, Photography, Picnicking

Late Spring to Early Autumn

Photo: Nigel Mykura via Geograph.org.uk

Charton Bay is a remote pebble beach set in the Undercliff, the long landslip coast between Axmouth and Lyme Regis on the Devon and Dorset border. It is one of the few places where the coast path drops down to the shore along this otherwise closed-in stretch, where the route runs hemmed by dense, ju...

10

Parking nearby

2

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

4 day, 6 overnight

Largigi Thai Restaurant​, The Smugglers Kitchen

The Old Writers Cabin, Hillcrest Cabin, Morlais Log Cabin

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Charton Bay?
Dorset's famous Jurassic Coast hides this secluded shoreline beneath a canopy of dense coastal trees. Hikers often discover the spot while exploring the nearby undercliff wilderness paths.

What type of place is Charton Bay?
Charton Bay is a remote beach bordered by coastal woodland on the East Devon and Dorset border.

When is the best time to visit Charton Bay?
Late spring to early autumn delivers the warmest weather for a proper seaside visit. Aiming for low tide ensures you get to experience the expansive sandy floor rather than just the upper pebble bank.

What can you do at Charton Bay?
Walking along the empty shoreline gives you a fantastic sense of isolation from the modern world. People also love swimming in the English Channel or combing through the shingle for unique shells.

How long should I spend at Charton Bay?
Spending a full afternoon allows ample time to relax under the trees and enjoy a coastal picnic. A shorter visit of an hour or two works perfectly if you just want to stroll along the water line.

Where do I park at Charton Bay?
Vehicles can utilise ten nearby spaces, which split into four day and six overnight allocations. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Charton Bay?
Largigi Thai Restaurant and The Smugglers Kitchen provide two eateries in the wider area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Charton Bay?
The Old Writers Cabin, Hillcrest Cabin, and Morlais Log Cabin represent three nearby holiday options. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Free UK Travel Guides

Planning a UK adventure? Download our free itinerary guides and hidden gem collections, completely free.

Last Updated:

02 July 2026

Logo RGB_White_Stacked.png

Download the app

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get all the latest updates regarding hidden gems and staycations plus much more!

Thanks for subscribing!

Cookie Policy

Connect with us

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Youtube
  • TikTok
bottom of page
UK Hidden Gems
UK Hidden GemsUncover the UK's best secrets on our app