The UK’s National Trust beaches are among the most picturesque and well-preserved coastal spots in the UK. They offer spectacular views, nature walks for little feet as well as hardened hikers, and activities that make for truly memorable family holidays.
To enhance your National Trust experience, stay at family-friendly lodges and hotels nearby to ensure easy access to these hidden gems and a luxurious retreat after a day exploring the rugged British coastline. Here’s our pick of five of the best family lodges and hotels to stay in when visiting some of the UK’s finest National Trust beaches.
1. Shell & Knoll Beach, Studland Bay, Dorset
Studland Bay’s Shell and Knoll Beach are some of Dorset’s most stunning stretches of sand, perfect for a day of family fun. My family has spent many summer and autumn days on these beaches, exploring the dunes, enjoying deliciously flavored New Forest ice creams on the beach, and swimming in the sparkling sea.
These pristine beaches are set against the backdrop of heathland and offer safe waters for swimming and opportunities for paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply building sandcastles with the kids. For those seeking a little wellness, there is even the Studland Beach Sauna Hut to warm up in before a deliciously cold dip in the sea – very good for your health, apparently!
The Studland area is rich in wildlife, with birdwatching opportunities and nature trails to explore. While visiting, don’t miss the chance to take a ferry from nearby Sandbanks to Brownsea Island. This short trip allows you to discover another National Trust treasure, home to red squirrels, peacocks, and stunning landscapes.
For accommodation, our firm favorite, above all else, is Burnbake Luxury Lodges and award-winning UK campsite set on the breathtaking and sprawling Rempstone Estate. The lodges provide a tranquil and luxurious retreat hidden in the Dorset woodlands, just a short drive from Studland Bay.
These lodges are ideal for families, offering self-catering facilities, luxurious hot tubs, and plenty of open space for children to roam. The rustic charm of Burnbake is coupled with modern amenities, ensuring that families can enjoy a cozy yet refined stay close to nature. Recently, Burnbake also received the prestigious Visit England Rose Award, recognizing the team’s dedication to delivering world-class customer service and a very warm welcome.
There are 18 wonderful lodges to choose from, each set in its own little nook of nature, surrounded by bird-filled trees, bouncing bunnies, and all manner of wildlife. You can choose between a 2 or 3-bedroomed standard lodges, executive lodges, or dog-friendly lodges.
Set in a tranquil wildlife haven, each lodge has a private deck with a hot tub and space for BBQ, ideal for enjoying alfresco meals amidst birdsong and nature. Inside the lodges, you’ll find spacious, open-plan living areas with oak furnishings and corner sofas facing crackling woodburning stoves, and a kitchen with a full complement of appliances and cooking utensils, plus there’s always a little something tasty waiting for you in the fridge.
Lodges come with either two or three bedrooms, each with wonderfully comfortable beds and a master bedroom with an ensuite bathroom. Executive lodges offer even more space and privacy, and essentials can be purchased at the on-site shop or nearby supermarkets.
As well as the lodges, Burnbake offers the wonderful Snack Shack serving up pizzas, burgers, bakes, and shakes along with daily specials throughout the summer season (April – September).
If you want to get a little closer to nature, then you can choose to luxuriously camp in one of their brand new Safari Tents that offer an unforgettable escape in nature, blending luxury and comfort for up to 4 or 6 guests, with fully equipped interiors and thoughtful touches to elevate the outdoor experience. Or if you prefer to pitch up yourself, then you can put your own tent up at the campsite too.
Located in the heart of stunning walking country, Burnbake offers access to miles of trails through forests, heathlands, towering sea cliffs, rolling hills, nature reserves, dunes, and sandy beaches on the picturesque Isle of Purbeck. Whether you’re visiting as a family member, couple, or group of friends, Burnbake will cater to your every need and ensure a memorable nature break.
2. Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters, East Sussex
A visit to Birling Gap and the iconic chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters promises breathtaking coastal views, invigorating hikes, and a chance to witness the dramatic meeting point of the land and sea. This stretch of coast is part of the South Downs National Park, making it a perfect spot for scenic walks and picnics, with plenty of fascinating rock pools for the kids to explore at low tide.
For a more leisurely experience, head down to the pebble beach at Birling Gap and let the beauty of the natural landscape wash over you. Kids can delight in the various wildlife and sea creatures that inhabit the area, while the whole family can learn about coastal erosion and its impacts from the visitor center.
After a day of coastal adventures, retreat to The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne, affectionately known as the “White Palace.” This iconic five-star hotel offers a taste of grandeur, complete with family-friendly services such as afternoon tea, children’s menus, and a supervised kids’ club. The combination of luxury and proximity to the coast makes The Grand Hotel a perfect base for exploring Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters.
3. Robin Hood’s Bay and Ravenscar, Yorkshire Coast
The Yorkshire coastline is famed for its striking beauty and historical intrigue, and no place captures this better than Robin Hood’s Bay and Ravenscar. Robin Hood’s Bay is a charming old fishing village steeped in smuggling history, with narrow, winding streets and stunning views out to sea. For a family day out, there’s fossil hunting, rock pooling, and the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque, dog-friendly beaches.
Nearby Ravenscar offers a rugged contrast with its sweeping views and dramatic cliffs. The combination of history, scenery, and outdoor activities makes this area a must-visit for families who love to explore the outdoors.
For accommodation, Wrea Head Hall is a short drive away and offers a peaceful country house experience with beautifully maintained gardens and stylish, spacious family rooms. The hotel is both elegant and welcoming, providing easy access to the coastal attractions of Robin Hood’s Bay while giving families a restful retreat at the end of the day.
Review: Burnbake Luxury Forest Lodges, Dorset
Discover Burnbake, an enchanting woodland retreat set amidst dramatic coastlines, blue flag beaches, coves, ridges, and valleys on the doorstep of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic coastline. A place where children can be children with an immense sense of freedom and good old-fashioned play, surrounded by diverse wildlife of all kinds, including deer, rabbits, foxes, squirrels, and all manner of birdlife. Hidden in the woods, you can savor starry nights from the privacy of your very own bubbling hot tub with a chilled drink in hand.
4. Stackpole Coastline, Pembrokeshire, Wales
The Stackpole coastline, managed by the National Trust, is one of Pembrokeshire’s most idyllic spots, renowned for its unspoiled beaches, rich wildlife, and endless walking trails. Whether you’re exploring Barafundle Bay, renowned as one of the best beaches in the UK, or taking a stroll through the lily ponds at Bosherston, this area offers an abundance of natural beauty.
Dylan Coastal Resort, located a little drive away, offers luxury lodges with breathtaking views over the estuary and the rolling Welsh countryside. These self-catering lodges provide the perfect family base, complete with top-notch spa facilities for parents to unwind and a wonderful pool for the children to burn off excess energy. With its blend of modern luxury and proximity to the stunning Welsh coast, Dylan Coastal Resort is ideal for a family getaway.
5. Woolacombe, Devon
Woolacombe’s expansive, golden beach is a family favorite, thanks to its vast shores, clean waters, and fantastic surf. The beach is well-patrolled by lifeguards, making it a safe environment for swimming, surfing, or simply sunbathing with the family. There are plenty of coastal walks nearby, including the scenic route to Baggy Point, part of the Southwest Coast Path.
For your stay, Saunton Sands Hotel Source Spa provides a luxurious retreat with panoramic views of the coastline and direct access to the beach. This family-friendly hotel offers a heated outdoor pool, kids’ activities, and a fantastic spa for parents in need of some relaxation. Its blend of luxury and beachside convenience makes it a fantastic choice for a family vacation.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for peaceful seclusion or a seaside adventure, these National Trust beaches and their nearby lodges and hotels offer the perfect setting for unforgettable family holidays. Combining the beauty of nature, lovingly preserved by the National Trust, and a little luxury for your family after a day of exploring, you’re guaranteed to create cherished memories with your loved ones.
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