This pretty seaside town on the Dorset coast has more than a whiff of Georgian charm about it. With a Blue Flag sandy beach dotted by colourful beach huts, it has a sleepy air but has plenty to see and do. Cross the causeway to the iconic Portland Island with its impressive ‘Portland Bill’ lighthouse and array of birdlife. whilst fossil-rich Chesil Beach, part of the UNSECO world heritage site of the Jurassic Coastline, offers a bleak yet beautiful setting. The bustling harbour filled with bobbing boats and busy fishermen is a delightful scene, whilst the craggy, imposing ruin of Sandsfoot Castle is an impressive reminder of Weymouth’s rich history.

You’ll not want for fabulous places to eat, where the focus is very much on seafood. From crab shacks and fish and chip shops to cheffy seafood restaurants and fine dining, the choice is yours. Meander beyond the town and traditional Dorset pubs await with good cheer, whilst hidden-away tea rooms offer the best tea and cake.

Dorset has a rich heritage of fantastic produce, and Weymouth is no exception. With the emphasis well and truly on seafood, you’ll find something for all tastes, whether it’s fish and chips in newspaper through to haute cuisine. We particularly love the laid-back waterside eateries such as The Crab House Café, overlooking Chesil Beach.

Head to the surrounding countryside and you’ll find traditional Dorset pubs with a welcoming fire, real ale and gardens for the summer such as The Elm Tree Inn in Langton Herring. If you’re keen on something a little sweeter, why not discover the plethora of tea shops for a cream tea – making sure to keep from for a slice of Dorset Apple Cake of course!

If you’re a budding chef, there’s plenty of places to pick up local foodstuffs to cook at home. Of course, there’s plenty of fishmongers for the freshest of fish, such as Weyfish set in the harbour itself, whilst there are farm shops aplenty such as Ducks Deli & Farm Shop.

The surrounding area is just a dream to discover, where you’ll find chocolate-box-pretty villages – such as the delightful Abbotsbury, as well as the unspoilt coastline. Take the coastal road to Lyme Regis and you’ll gasp at the views, whilst head east and Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door are just lovely too.

There’s something of the olde-worlde in this area, a slower, sleepier pace of life that’s deliciously inviting. You’ll find mysterious ancient artwork such as the Cerne Abbas Giant and the Osmington White Horse, magical healing wells (such as at Cerne Abbas), unspoilt countryside and even a Roman town house on the outskirts of Weymouth.

Families will love the Sea Life Centre, whist the Blue Flag winning beach – gloriously golden and safe – is the perfect spot for a day out. For something a little different, you can go mackerel fishing out at sea, whilst there’s a golf course too should the mood take you.