Burton Bradstock - Dorset Guide

Burton Bradstock & Hive Beach

Burton Bradstock (Google map) is a village situated about half a mile inland from Chesil Beach and 2.5 miles southeast of Bridport. Most people go there to visit the beach (Hive Beach) which is wide and sandy.

Much of the coastline and cliffs are owned by The National Trust https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/burton-bradstock

There is a large National Trust Car Park conveniently located next to Hive Beach Sat Nav Postcode DT6 4RF (Google map). It’s free to park for National Trust Members otherwise there is a charge.

Hive Beach is a coarse sand & shingle shelving beach with great views. On a clear day you can see all the way along Chesil Beach to Portland in the east and the East Devon Coast to the west.

Facilities include toilets and an excellent cafe/restaurant (see below). There is no lifeguard service at this beach. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from June to October inclusive.

Hive Beach is quite popular with fossil hunters. Fossils can sometimes be found embedded in the limestone boulders below the cliffs. There are frequent landslides and cliff falls so please take care and follow the Fossil Hunting Code.

Hive Beach Café (Cafes & Coffee Shops)

Address: Beach Road, Burton Bradstock, DT6 4RF
Telephone: 01308 897070
Website: https://www.hivebeachcafe.co.uk
Description: Great location overlooking Hive Beach this cafe is open all year round. An obvious choice on a sunny day but also cosy and warm during the winter months with the sound of the waves crashing on the beach outside. The menu leans towards seafood dishes. Try the Halibut Fish and Chips or treat yourself to a West Bay lobster or crab. A breakfast menu is also available between 10-11:30 for a full English or a veggie breakfast. Bacon & sausage baps also recommended. Next door is the Hive Beach Cafe Shop selling locals produce and gifts. Easily makes it onto our Best Cafes and Coffee Shops in Dorset list.

Seaside Boarding House (Restaurant & Bar)

Address: Cliff Road, Burton Bradstock, DT6 4RB
Telephone: 01308 897205
Website: https://theseasideboardinghouse.com
Description: One of the best seafood restaurants in Dorset and with the added bonus of great views of Lyme Bay.