A west Dorset beach has been named as one of the best in the UK.

Hive Beach has made the The Times and Sunday Times annual best beaches guide and is one of several Dorset beaches to make the list. 

It is the 16th edition of the guide which is compiled by Chris Haslam, the award-winning chief travel writer at The Times and Sunday Times.   

Mr Haslam personally visited and inspected all 50 beaches included in the guide in the past eight weeks.

(Image: NQ)

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He said: "My Jack Russell, Dave T. Dog, and I have journeyed 5,583 miles and explored 543 beaches.

"The 50 beaches that made our list are graced with outstanding natural beauty, superb infrastructure, and a clear sense of pride from those who live, work, and play there.

"I’m still in awe of the beauty of the UK coast. From Kynance to Caithness, and Brancaster to Benone, the beaches of Great Britain and Northern Ireland are the most magnificent on earth.”

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(Image: NQ)

The guide showcases the unrivalled beauty of the UK seaside, evaluated through a rigorous 11-point inspection checklist.

Criteria include water quality, cleanliness, accessibility, car-parking facilities, lifeguard presence, hygiene levels at restrooms and showers, and dog-friendliness. 

Writing about Hive Beach in the guide, he said: "The sun was shining for the first time in weeks when I arrived at this gap in the cliffs at Burton Bradstock.

"I was hungry and the Hive Beach Café wasn’t busy.

"I bought a fresh crab sandwich and spicy chilli and lime squid, served with aioli and chips.

"Then I withdrew to one of the grassy knolls above the shingle and dozed under the dog’s accusing glare.

"If you find yourself in the neighbourhood around lunchtime this summer, I suggest you follow my lead. Bookings are usually essential."

READ: West Dorset beaches among UK's best for cold water therapy

The beach was also recognised for having toilets, being dog-friendly and accessible.

Southbourne Beach in Bournemouth was named as south England’s beach of the year, with Man O'War beach in Lulworth and Middle Beach in Studland also making the top 50 list.

The 2024 guide only features beaches which are rated as “excellent” for water quality by the national environment agencies. And only covers mainland beaches.

Best beaches in the south:

Southbourne Beach, Dorset

Hive Beach, Dorset

Man O’War, Dorset

Middle Beach, Dorset

Birling Gap, East Sussex

Sandgate, Kent

Westbrook Bay, Kent