The Coast House

Perched on the clifftop at Friars Cliff in Highcliffe-on-Sea, The Coast House offers panoramic views across Christchurch Bay towards the Isle of Wight and the Needles. This modern beachfront venue combines a relaxed bar and dining space with direct access to the promenade and sands below, making it a natural spot for meals overlooking the sea.

The building features large glass windows that frame the coastal scenery, allowing natural light to flood the interior. Outdoor seating on the terrace provides front-row positions for watching waves roll in, while inside, the layout includes comfortable booths and tables arranged to maximise those same vistas.

The menu focuses on classic British dishes with seafood influences, from fresh catches to grilled options and lighter bites suitable for sharing.

Many appreciate the dog-friendly policy, welcoming four-legged companions both inside and on the terrace. The atmosphere stays casual throughout the day, shifting from morning coffees to evening drinks as the sun sets over the water. Walkers along the coastal path often stop here, drawn by the convenience and the ever-changing seascape visible from nearly every seat.

The location ties into the broader stretch of coastline between Highcliffe Castle and Mudeford Quay, where shingle gives way to sand and the cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop. On clearer days, the outlook extends to Hengistbury Head in one direction and Bournemouth’s skyline in the other.