General
Burton Bradstock is on the Dorset coast, south-east of the market town of Bridport.

Getting There

StreetMap

O.S. Map Ref: SY 491 888 Landranger maps 193/194 (on the join)

Burton Bradstock can be reached via Bridport on the A35, then taking the B3157 towards Abbotsbury. When you reach the village take the turning on the right sign-posted to Hive Beach - it is initially a rather nice residential road.

There is a car park only a few yards from the beach, charge £2 per day, but free to National Trust members (£1.50 after 14.00 hrs, and free when the attendant goes home around 16.00) .

Description
When you reach the beach, walk eastwards towards Abbotsbury - about half a mile should take you to a 'safe'distance from clothed beach users. You should check the tide times before setting out as parts of the beach along this stretch of coast are covered at high tide - the car park attendant displays the time of high tide on his hut

The beach is composed of coarse sand, with a fairly gentle slope initially but may shelve more steeply at lower tides.The cliffs behind beach of Blue Lias Clay. 'The beach and cliff face are practically devoid of wild life, but there is a slight possibility that the odd fossil may be found as the geology is similar to Charmouth and Lyme Regis.' This beach has been known for naturist use for many years, but is less well-established than some others There may be some passing walkers using the edge of the water as an alternative to the Dorset Coastal path on the top of the cliffs, as the latter goes through assorted caravan sites.

Please note that, when the sea is rough, swimming may be hazardous along this stretch of coast. Several deaths have ocurred in recent years. For obvious reasons, sitting under the cliff can also be dangerous!

Naturists have also been reported using Seatown Beach (to the west of nearby West Bay) and the beach at Swyre (between Burton Bradstock and West Bexington). In both cases, at busy times clothed beach-goers may predominate.

Facilities
There is a cafe (totally textile - of course) at the Hive beach car park: 'a rather nice beach cafe/restaurant serving fresh crab sandwiches and cream teas among other things, with an enclosed section, a veranda section and an open section all with sea views. Toilets included. Actually a very nice place...'