Voices is the Dorset Echo's weekly youth page, written for young people by young people

400,000. That’s how many people visited Dorset five years ago (according to VisitBritain). It just happens that the stretch of winding coast and quaint villages that we call home are also a British tourist destination.

Staying at home can be tedious during the holidays – but here are some destinations to make Dorset feel like your own holiday spot:

Bournemouth beach – littered with brightly coloured beach huts and a glowing sea it’s no wonder that this is one of the main attractions. Alternatively (if sunbathing is too boring for you), then jump on the zip wire or explore the vibrant town of Bournemouth.

Tyneham village – A ghost town located in the rolling Purbeck hills. Less than an hour away from both Weymouth and Poole, this beautiful village has been eerily preserved from 1943 due to the evacuation of its inhabitants. Be sure to check that it is safe to go to the village on your chosen day, as it is used as a military practice zone.

Lulworth Cove – this idyllic pebbly lagoon is a must-visit. The crystal clear waters are perfect, home to beautiful and rare sea creatures. Durdle door, an iconic symbol of Dorset, is a short walk from here.

Chesil beach – Not far from Weymouth lies a timeless stretch of the Jurassic coast. Numerous fossil discoveries have occurred here making it an adventurous day out.

Lyme Regis – ‘The pearl of Dorset’. A perfect coastal town with the winding Cobb curving out into the harbour.

By Becca Seb