Mudeford Sandbank Beach

  • Mudeford Sandbank Beach - Dorset
    © Roman Grac
  • Mudeford Sandbank Beach - Dorset
    © Pierre Terre and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • Mudeford Sandbank Beach - Dorset
    © Andrew Mathewson and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • Mudeford Sandbank Beach - Dorset
    © Capt' Gorgeous and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • Mudeford Sandbank Beach - Dorset
    © John Goldsmith and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • Mudeford Sandbank Beach - Dorset
    © Smudge 9000 and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • Mudeford Sandbank Beach - Dorset
    © treehouse1977 and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • Mudeford Sandbank Beach - Dorset
    © Charles DP Miller and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • Situated at the mouth of Christchurch harbour this sandy spit of beach forms a barrier between the sea and this large natural harbour. There are great views both of the harbour itself and to the Isle of Wight and Needles across the Solent.

    The beach extends off the ancient headland of Hengistbury Head with the whole area designated a Site of Nature Conservation Interest. As such there is no direct road access and the nearest parking is around 15 minutes walk away. The good news for those who don’t fancy the walk is there is a year round land train running from Hengistbury Head car park to Mudeford Sandbank. Alternatively you can take a ferry from Christchurch or Mudeford Quay across the harbour entrance.

    Mudeford came to national prominence recently as the home to some of the most expensive beach huts in the country, fetching over £100,000. There are around 300 huts here many of which have residential status, unlike elsewhere.

    Facilities include The Beach House Café and shop and public toilets. The harbour side of the sandbank is designated for water-sports with the seaward side recommended for bathing, although great care should be taken near the harbour mouth.

    Type of beach

    Sandy

    Lifeguard service

    No

    Dogs friendly beach?

    Dogs allowed

    Dogs are allowed but they must be kept under control. No dog bins are available.

    Dorset dog friendly beaches »

    Activities

    • Kayaking/canoeing
    • Jet-skiing
    • Swimming/bathing
    • Water skiing
    • Wind surfing

    Facilities

    • Cafe/restaurant
    • Toilets
    • Disabled facilities
    • Shop

    Nearest town

    Bournemouth

    Postcode

    BH6 4EW

    OS grid ref.

    SZ 1825 9102

    Parking

    No local parking but there is pay and display parking at Hengistbury Head and Mudeford Quay with disabled spaces. There is a Cycle Park on the Sandbank near the Noddy Train terminal.

    Water quality

    Water quality star rating

    Awards

    Marine Conservation Society Recommended

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    Mudeford Sandbank Beach Reviews

    Stunning!

    Aug 22nd 2022

    Fabulous beach! We absolutely loved it…the soft sand and clean sea. Perfect! We took a picnic and I don’t know about amenities as it was just part of a day out but the beach is very beautiful and we definitely want to go back!