Season: spring
Fine weather greeted me for this visit to Durley Chine. Towards the main pier in Bournemouth the cliff lift was starting to lower seasonal visitors to the beach once more. Visibility was excellent and there was a spring in the step of the beachside promenaders, cyclists and runners. I chatted to Simon, who surely has one of the most enjoyable walks to work, taking him along this wonderful string of chine beaches near Bournemouth.
What the beach means to Simon.
Looking back to Durley Chine from the water’s edge.
Season: autumn
Durley Chine beach holds a coveted Blue Flag award and is one of the best beaches in Bournemouth. A chine is a narrow gorge, leading down to the beach from higher ground. Durley Chine is now a large car park, but just west along the beach is the beautiful Middle Chine, which also leads down onto Durley Chine beach. In summer the beach is patrolled by RNLI lifeguards, who have a prominent watch house on the beach. Durley Chine has a pub, a cafe and shops. There’s also a boat hire facility. However, its most appealing aspects are its acres of golden sand and clean bathing water.
The beach as an important reference point and as a part of Christine’s daily routine.
Afternoon sun breaks through on a stormy day at Durley Chine.
