Burton Bradstock Library

Books and beach holidays don't always mix, but Burton Bradstock's small village library makes a lovely rainy day refuge. Tucked into this coastal Dorset village between Bridport and the sea, it's one of those proper community libraries that feels more like someone's front room than an institutional building.

Families staying at nearby holiday parks like Freshwater Beach or West Bay will find it's a godsend when the weather turns. The children's section is well-stocked, and there's usually a decent selection of holiday reads for adults too. Don't expect anything grand - this is village library territory, which means limited opening hours and a volunteer-run feel.

What makes it worth mentioning is the location. Burton Bradstock sits right on the Jurassic Coast path, so you can easily combine a library stop with a walk to the beach or a pint at the local pub. It's particularly handy for campers at Golden Cap Holiday Park or Highlands End who fancy something quieter than the usual holiday park entertainment.

The opening hours can be unpredictable, so don't plan your day around it. But if you're already in the village - perhaps after walking down from the clifftops - it's worth checking if they're open. A proper slice of village life that reminds you holidays don't always need to be about constant activity.