If you’ve ever fancied combining a great coastal hike with a hearty pub lunch or enjoying a pint with a postcard view, then Waterside’s holiday parks offer the perfect springboard from which to explore. From Dorset’s Jurassic Coast to the rugged Cornish cliffs, our parks are footsteps away from some of England’s finest walking trails and iconic taverns. Here’s your guide to the best pub stops along the South West Coast Path near our parks:
1. The Smugglers Inn, Osmington Mills
Nearest park: Osmington Mills Lodge Park
Historic, thatched, perched above the bay, this former smugglers’ hideout, built in the 13th century, is part of the Jurassic Coast path. With its spacious beer garden, cosy interiors and local ales from Hall & Woodhouse brewery, it’s an ideal lunch stop or sunset pint after the Weymouth-Osmington Mills hike.
The walk: About 2 ½ miles (2 hour walk) from Bowleaze Cove or a short stroll (5 minutes) from Osmington Mills Lodge Park.
2. The Ship Inn, Weymouth Harbour
Nearest park: Chesil Beach Holiday Park
Ideal as a shore stop, this friendly harbourside pub offers pub classics, cask ales, and a relaxed vibe - great after a long walk or ramble along the harbour.
The walk: From Chesil Beach along the Rodwell Trail, 2 miles (1 hour walk) or just under 3 miles (1 hour walk) from Bowleaze Cove along the seafront.
3. The Springhead, Sutton Poyntz
Nearest park: Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park & Spa
Nestled just inland from Bowleaze, this picture-perfect pub with a garden is tucked in the quaint village of Sutton Poyntz alongside a stream and duckpond. Popular with walkers, it offers lunch, evening and set menus as well as carveries – perfect after a coastal-to-countryside stroll from Bowleaze or Osmington.
The walk: From Bowleaze Cove, walk inland through the park and out via Church Road, passing through countryside and across the main road (Preston Road) into Sutton Road. Then continue on down to the charming village of Sutton Poyntz. Less than 2 miles, (about 40 minutes).
4. The Lobster Pot, Portland Bill
Nearest park: Chesil Beach Holiday Park
Perched by the iconic Portland Bill lighthouse, this seafood-focused restaurant is right on the coastal trail. After a walk along Chesil Beach, round the clifftops of Portland with striking 360 views, and past the Bill, The Lobster Pot dishes up a range of dishes to fuel you up for the walk back!
The walk: From Chesil Beach Holiday Park, head south along the Rodwell Trail and Portland Beach Road with Chesil Beach on your right until you reach Portland. Continue on the looping trail around Portland that takes you to the tip of the peninsula.
5. The Jolly Sailor, West Looe
Nearest park: Tregoad Holiday Park
A traditional Cornish pub with rustic charm, great local ales, and hearty food including pub classics, seafood, small bar bites and roasts. Positioned near the harbour in West Looe, it’s a great stop after exploring the beach or the town.
The walk: From Tregoad, follow the country lanes or take the footpath down into Looe. It’s around 2.5 miles (1 hour).
6. The Cove House Inn, Chesil
Nearest park: Chesil Beach Holiday Park
With panoramic views across Chesil Beach, The Cove House Inn is a brilliant choice for a relaxed lunch or early evening drink. The menu features pub classics with a coastal twist and various wine options. Its elevated position means you get incredible sunsets - perfect for unwinding after a day by the sea.
The walk: From Chesil Beach Holiday Park, it’s a leisurely 2 mile walk along the coastal road taking less than an hour. Follow the path across Chesil Beach Causeway and you’ll find The Cove House Inn on the shore as you get onto Portland.
7. The Blue Peter Inn, Polperro
Nearest park: Tregoad Holiday Park
Famous for its seafood, real ales, and character, The Blue Peter Inn is a favourite with locals and hikers. It’s tucked right in the heart of one of Cornwall’s most scenic fishing villages.
The walk: For a more adventurous walk, follow the coastal path from Tregoad, through Looe to Polperro, about 7 miles (3 hours). Or drive to Polperro and enjoy a shorter coastal amble.
Tips for Walkers
- Where available, reserve tables at pubs ahead of arrival in peak season (weekends/school holidays) to avoid disappointment
- Check coastal path detours and tide times
- Pack a backpack with suncream, hat, water and snacks (and any extras for dogs or children)
Ready to Plan?
From the trails of Dorset to the fishing villages of Cornwall, there’s a perfect walk and pub combo waiting for you. Just lace up your boots, and map out a trip where breathtaking views meet traditional pub charm, all just a short step from your accommodation at Waterside.
Book your next getaway with Waterside and enjoy the best of the South West one step (and pub) at a time.
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