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This Hidden Gem Cafe Tucked Above the Sea Might Offer Some Of The Best Views in Dorset

by Harriet Young Updated: June 6, 2025
written by Harriet Young Updated: June 6, 2025
2.6K

There’s nothing better than a hot cup of coffee, whether you enjoy it alone, hanging with friends or washed down with a sweet treat to keep you going through the afternoon.

The Sandy Salt Pig is the perfect place to enjoy a brew whilst admiring the most amazing views of Old Harry Rocks and beautiful Purbeck beaches.

Dorset Explored / Harriet Young

Situated in Studland, a lovely coastal village. Most famous for its history, its natural beauty and diverse wildlife.

Studland boasts a variety of stunning beaches, from Knoll Beach, South Beach, Middle and the main beach of the same name.

Each with its own charm and crystal clear shallow waters. Giving you plenty of options to enjoy a day by the coast.

Dorset Explored / Harriet Young

The Sandy Salt Pig is nestled within the Middle Beach National Trust car park.

If you’re a National Trust member, then you can enjoy all-day parking for free when using your membership card at the machine.

🌊 The previous Middle Beach cafe had to be closed after 70 years, as the location, being closer to the beach, made it prone to erosion and unsafe to use. The Salt Pig is now set back from the beach, offering the same experience and prides itself on employing local people and serving local food.

The cafe can be located to the side of the car park and overlooks the beach.

A wide variety of seating is available from benches, cosy nooks and sun loungers that allow you to sit in peace and look out to sea.

Dorset Explored / Harriet Young

The founder of The Salt Pig brand, James Warren, a shepherd from The Purbecks, opened the first Wareham restaurant in 2010.

The company’s ethos is to use local food and produce – their meat, fish, crab, and lobster all come from the Purbecks — including pigs raised on their own local farms, and seafood sourced from nearby waters.

By supporting the Salt Pig, you are also supporting local farmers and fishermen, reducing your food miles while enjoying great food. 

Making the choice to use local a sustainable and cost effective way to serve great food for a reasonable price.

Dorset Explored / Alan Young

You are warmly greeted by the friendly members of staff when you arrive at the counter.

Being from the area allows them to inform you of all the great things to do during your visit, such as country hikes and watersport adventures.

Dorset Explored / Alan Young

The menu consists of homemade food bursting with flavour, such as burgers, sausage rolls, breakfast baps filled with bacon, sausage, and egg, and a wide variety of homemade cakes.

A canine menu is also an option for your four-legged friends after a leisurely dog walk.

🧁 The staff happily cater to dietary requirements and can customise your order. Vegan and Vegetarian options are also available.

Dorset Explored / Alan Young

An extensive drinks menu is available, offering a selection of cold soft drinks, local ciders, and a variety of hot drinks, including Dorset tea, cappuccinos, hot chocolates, and more.

Dorset Explored / Harriet Young

The vibe is chilled, and the decor is rustic. Numerous natural materials have been utilised to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment, resulting in a visually pleasing aesthetic that complements the beach vibe.

Dorset Explored / Harriet Young

Sustainability is a key component of the Salt Pig ethos, so a dedicated section is available for recycling any used cups, and the option to purchase a reusable, branded cup is also available.

Dorset Explored / Harriet Young

The Sandy Salt Pig is an excellent spot to relax, meet with friends or start/end a hike in the Purbeck hills.

The beach vibes and sun loungers are inviting in the warm sunshine, and the delicious smell of food floats in the air.

Being a local company makes spending time here a lot more enjoyable in comparison to a large corporate chain, and a trip here is highly recommended if you like a good coffee and a view like no other.

To find out more about The Sandy Salt Pig, visit the website here.

📍 Middle Beach Car Park, Beach Rd, Studland, Swanage BH19 3AP

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Harriet Young

I am a mother of two beautiful boys and wife to Alan, with whom I started Dorset Explored. My passion for Dorset runs deep, as it's an incredible place that I love to explore and experience anew. Every day brings a new discovery about Dorset, deepening my love for my home county.

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2 comments

Chris White June 6, 2025 - 7:16 am

I am so pleased to have found your web-site. All the interesting places I did’nt know about. It’s great!

Reply
Alan Young June 9, 2025 - 9:37 pm

Thanks Chris! Glad you’re enjoying discovering new places in Dorset! Enjoy 🙂

Reply

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