Portland

If you happen to be visiting Weymouth, either for its beach or its shopping, it is worth travelling a little further and taking a trip to Portland.

The journey takes you along a causeway with Portland Harbour to your left and the long stretch of pebbles that is Chesil Beach to your right, before climbing the steep hill on the Isle of Portland. Stop off at the sign-posted viewpoint and you will be rewarded with a magnificent view of the causeway, coast, harbour and beyond.

Portland Castle, built by Henry VIII to defend Weymouth against possible French and Spanish invasion and now owned by English Heritage is well worth a visit. It remains largely unaltered today and an audio tour is included in the admission price. Refreshmentsare also available at the Captain's House tearooms.

Continuing on to the southern most tip of the Isle of Portland brings you to Portland Bill. A rugged, rocky coastline overlooking the English Channel that's perfect for exploring, walking, or just sitting and watching the waves crashing onto the rocks including the giant Pulpit Rock which extends out into the sea.

Guarding the treacherous coastline and guiding ships into Portland and Weymouth is the automated lighthouse, the third to be used for this task and built in 1906, which also houses a visitor centre, open during the summer months.

Nearby is The Pulpit Inn, named after the Pulpit Rock, with an a la carte menu specialising in fresh local seafood.

More information at the English Heritage website