Five miles toward the mainland perched on the southern edge of Osmington village, lies the grassy four-week pop-up campsite Shortlake Farm. The views from here are spectacular – out across Weymouth Bay and over the channel where tankers and dinghy’s alike to and fro into the harbour. Such scenes are all set at the foot of the so-called island, its greening shores creating a protective natural shelter for the bay.
Cast your eyes down, away from the views, and closer to home there is plenty to delight at the campsite itself. Set up in allegiance with the campsite opposite, Eweleaze Farm, the owners know a thing or two about how to keep things sweet. The atmosphere is perfect, wonderfully relaxed with a campfire-welcoming environment and no designated pitches. Simply rock up, find a patch and settle down in the ample room provided. Despite the size of the field it remains a relatively quiet place to camp, a secluded spot, safe for kids to hurtle around making friends with other social scampers.
If you’d prefer to keep them occupied then there are a few easy and fulfilling options. A 10-minute stroll will take you the 800 meters down to the Eweleaze Farm beach, a tiny shingle cove only accessible on foot and, consequently, quiet and untouched by the summer crowds. Or five minutes further will take you to the farm itself where the kids can pet the tame goats, sheep and dogs.
The most rewarding walks, however, are reserved for those willing to extend their legs a little further. Skirted by the South West Coast path, Shortlake Farm is a gateway to some of the most scenic spots in Dorset. To the east walk to Durdle Door, a perfect rock arch that precedes Lulworth Cove, one of the most photographed and popular spots in Dorset. To the west head into Weymouth with its sandy beach, elegant sea front and lively old harbour. It all makes for a thirsty walker by the time you get back to camp, a welcome touch, then, that the Shortlake Farm shop sells a host of the best local brews alongside their organic produce… a pint of Durdle Door anyone?