If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Weymouth's popular seafront, then the peaceful haven of the Nothe Gardens is just a stone's throw away.
Positioned at a stunning location on a promontory overlooking both Weymouth and Portland harbours, these informal gardens are arguably the most beautiful the borough has to offer.
The vast array of choice trees, established shrub beds and winding paths that lead down to sheltered slopes and picnic areas are ideal for walkers, sun bathers and families. The large grassed area is great for ball games while, at the foot of the gardens, the seashore is a fun place for children to go crabbing in the rock pools.
The main cafe at the entrance to the gardens has a terrace where tables and chairs are set out during the summer for customers.
A small Wall's Ice Cream hut, located at the entrance to Newton's Cove, sells hot drinks and ice creams to passing trade.
The public toilets are positioned in the centre of the gardens and are open all year round.
There are three pay and display areas for car parking.
The gardens are mainly accessible by wheelchair although there is limited access to some of the lower paths.
The Nothe Fort was built to defend the coast from potential invasions by the French. This coastal fortress is open to the public all year and tells the story of garrison life for Victorian and World War II Soldiers.
Open: May-Sept everyday, 10.30am-5.30pm, last entry 4.30pm. Otherwise Sunday and Bank Holidays 11.00am-4.30pm.
The stylishly transformed Newton's Cove area not only protects over 30 residential properties from coastal erosion but has created a fantastic walkway for all to enjoy. The contemporary £2 million scheme won the British Construction Industry Environmental Award 2004.
The South West Coast path runs through the Nothe Gardens and is waymarked both eastwards and westwards.
