RINGSTEAD BAY AND BEACH
Ringstead Bay is steeped in history. From the remnants of a 14th Century Medieval Fishing Village, which was wiped out by the Black Death, and Ringstead’s role as a key smuggling spot in the 18th century, to the presence of a chain home radar station, RAF Ringstead, situated in the Bay, which played a pivotal part in air defences during World War II.
The continuous sense of history contributes to the Bay’s popularity and charm, along with the breathtaking views out to sea and to Weymouth – the site of the UK 2012 Olympics, and Portland – famous for its stone quarries and prominent lighthouse.
The famous South West Coast Path – England’s longest national trail that stretches 630 miles along the southwest peninsula – runs through Ringstead and past the Reef Cafe. There are both easy and hard routes available in this scenic, secluded spot, with the Smugglers Path providing a challenge for the more adventurous! The Cafe also serves as a welcome pitstop for those en route to the world-famous Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.
The shingle beach, which has a small reef, offers sheltered bathing and is popular with swimmers, windsurfers and kitesurfers all year round. It has the highest bathing water quality, with a classification of excellent by the Environment Agency.