Page 28 - Enjoy-it 2024

STEP BACK IN TIME, AND ONTO THE BEACH...
Ringstead in Dorset is an historic and charming seaside hamlet, and thanks to the challenging access that keen beach dwellers and visitors have navigated over the last 100 years, the beautiful spot remains unspoiled. With
its breathtaking Jurassic backdrop and views over the English Channel and Portland, it’s stunning and peaceful.
The beach itself has become a well-kept secret with local families ‘in the know’, indeed I re-discovered Ringstead while running on the South West Coast Path, as I came over the brow of a hill and saw the familiar beach, bay, small boats and caravans, the memories flooded back;
I spent many-a-summer’s day as a child on the beach and playing on the reef at low tide with one of my best friends.
At that moment, on the brow of the hill, I vowed to go back to Ringstead – with the very same best friend, forty- five years later!
I made my enquiries and heard that the park, which was established over a century ago by Hilda Fisher, is still family run and after many changes, and a period
of closure, is now home to brand new caravans, it is immaculate with all the mod cons one would expect, and access is remarkably smoother these days down a winding and well-kept road (thanks to the car park fee, something guests of Creek Caravan Park do not have to pay).
There is a delightful café at the entrance to the park and that very spot is the point at which day-tripper walkers, runners and adventurers choose whether to go east to White Nose and Lulworth Cove or west towards Portland.
We, however, are going just a few meters due south and with a loaded trolley and the sun shining we make our way along well-manicured paths through the caravans to
Willow, our home for a few nights; a two bed, six-sleeper brand new caravan with front row sea views that are frankly priceless!
The caravans on the park are either privately owned or rented out by the family. Those lucky enough to own
are able to live onsite for the majority of the year when the park is open under licence. There are four caravans for sale as well – so if you are in the market for a holiday home on what could be argued the most stunning beach in the UK, just ask for a tour. Prices are modest and a
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