ad Our little staycation and what we did…

If you’re planning a Dorset staycation, don’t make the mistake of simply driving through Portland.

We recently spent the day exploring the island while staying at The Front Rows, and it reminded us just how much there is to see in one day, we really could have stayed longer. From dramatic coastal views and historic castles to quiet beaches, fresh seafood and one of the best sunsets in Dorset, here’s exactly how we spent 24 hours on the Isle of Portland.

Wake up at The Front Rows

Our day started at The Front Rows, a collection of beautifully designed coastal houses just a short walk from Church Ope Cove.

For us, it made the perfect base. Every stop on our itinerary was only a short drive away, so we could head out for a few hours, return for lunch and a rest, then head back out again for the evening.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay while exploring Portland, I’d definitely recommend it. The sea views are beautiful, the location is ideal and it felt lovely returning after a day of exploring to watch the sunset from the terrace.

We stayed in a two bedroom holiday home which was perfect for us. The kitchen was well equipped, there was a nice big living space (with sea views) so the children could rest and the beds were super comfy!

📍Pennsylvania Rd, Park, Portland DT5 1HU

Stop 1

Portland Bill Lighthouse & Pulpit Rock

No trip to Portland is complete without visiting Portland Bill.

The famous red and white lighthouse has guided ships through these waters since 1906 and you can climb all 155 steps for panoramic views across the Jurassic Coast if you’re feeling energetic. The lighthouse stands 41 metres tall and remains one of Dorset’s best-known landmarks. 

Parking

We parked in the large Portland Bill Car Park, which is only a couple of minutes’ walk from the lighthouse.

There are over 300 spaces, public toilets and easy access to both the lighthouse and Pulpit Rock. 

📍Portland Bill Rd, Portland DT5 2JT

Don’t miss

✔ Pulpit Rock

Just a short walk from the lighthouse is Pulpit Rock, one of Portland’s most photographed landmarks. Although it looks natural, it was actually created by quarrymen in the 1870s to resemble an open Bible resting on a pulpit. 

📍Portland DT5 2JT

Stop for lunch or coffee

The Lobster Pot

This family-run café has been welcoming visitors to Portland Bill since the late 1940s and is famous for its local crab sandwiches, homemade scones and incredible sea views. Even if you’re only stopping for coffee, it’s well worth it. 

📍Portland Bill Rd, Portland DT5 2JT

Stop 2

Portland Castle

Around a 15-minute drive away you’ll find Portland Castle, one of Henry VIII’s finest coastal forts.

The children absolutely loved exploring with the English Heritage audio guides and completing the summer holiday trail. It’s one of those attractions that manages to keep children interested while adults can appreciate the incredible history and views over Portland Harbour.

Built between 1539 and 1541 to defend the harbour from invasion, it’s one of the best-preserved Tudor artillery forts in England. 

📍Liberty Rd, Castletown, Portland DT5 1AZ

Entrance

We paid for entry, but English Heritage members visit free.

Parking

There is a small English Heritage car park next to the castle for members.

We parked in the larger public car park near the helicopter memorial, which was an easy walk to the entrance.

Nearby recommendations

Riptide Espresso

A brilliant little independent coffee stop overlooking Portland Harbour.

Island Sauna

If you have a little more time, Island Sauna offers wood-fired sauna sessions overlooking the sea and would make a lovely addition to your day.

📍Mulberry Ave, Portland DT5 1FA

A castle beach

Just in front of the castle is a little sandy beach that we stopped at for a paddle, the kids really enjoyed it and it was shallow enough for them to enjoy.

Back to The Front Rows

After a busy morning, we headed back to The Front Rows for lunch and a chance to relax.

One of the things we loved about staying here was how easy it was to pop back during the day rather than rushing from one attraction to the next.

If you’re staying for a few nights, it really lets you explore Portland at a slower pace.

Church Ope Cove

In the afternoon we wandered down to Church Ope Cove for a paddle.

This sheltered little beach feels completely different from Chesil Beach and is one of Portland’s prettiest hidden spots.

Olympic Rings

Our next stop was the famous Olympic Rings.

Installed to celebrate the sailing events during the London 2012 Olympics, they’re one of Portland’s best photo spots and offer incredible views across Chesil Beach, Lyme Bay and the Jurassic Coast. 

Dinner at Chesil Beach

As the sun started to set we headed to Chesil Chippie which is a popular fish and chip shop just opposite the beach.

If you’re looking for proper seaside fish and chips after a day exploring, I’d definitely recommend it.

Grab your food and walk down to the beach. Watching the sunset over Chesil Beach with fish and chips in hand felt like the perfect way to finish the day.

📍The Stables, Chesil Chippie 1a olde, Victoria Square, Portland DT5 1BJ

Sunset back at The Front Rows

We finished exactly where we started.

Back at The Front Rows, watching the sky slowly turn shades of pink over the sea.

It’s one of those places that makes you want to slow down a little.

Our itinerary

📍 The Front Rows

📍 Portland Bill Lighthouse

📍 Pulpit Rock

📍 The Lobster Pot

📍 Portland Castle

📍 Riptide Espresso

📍 Church Ope Cove

📍 Olympic Rings

📍 Chesil Chippie

📍 Sunset back at The Front Rows

Planning your own Portland day?

I’d recommend allowing a full day or even longer, to explore the island.

The mix of history, dramatic coastline, beautiful beaches and brilliant local food makes it one of my favourite places to visit in Dorset.

If you’re staying at The Front Rows, everything on this itinerary is only a short drive away, making it a fantastic base for discovering Portland at your own pace.

Sarah x