Overcombe Beach

Just under two miles east of Weymouth is the wide shingle beach of Overcombe. Despite its relative proximity to the town the beach here has a very different feel with very little in way of development.

It is a popular spot with local families as well as kite-surfers and kayakers. As the tide goes out an expanse of sand is exposed - just the right sort for building sandcastles and digging in. 

Although there is no lifeguard, the beach is considered relatively safe for swimmers because the water is zoned to keep bathers separate from watersport enthusiasts.  The water is also fairly shallow in places.

Preston Beach Wall Esplanade runs alongside part of the beach, and the South West Coast Path passes over the nearby cliffs. A large grassy area can be found behind the beach, suitable for games and picnics.  The Café Oasis is a popular place to stop off for a bite to eat.

In peak season, the free parking spaces along the road fill up quite quickly.

Loadmoor Nature Reserve lies immediately behind the beach, on the other side of Preston Road (the B3155).  The reedbeds, open waters, salt marshes and grasslands of the reserve attract a variety of birds, including terns, bearded tits and warblers. In the autumn months there are some spectacular displays of migratory birds here.

Loadmoor Country Park, next to the wildlife reserve has a miniature railway, a pitch and putt and other recreational facilities as well as plenty of footpaths to explore.