A NEW attraction on the west Dorset coastline has welcomed more than 1,000 visitors in its first month.

Dorset Foot Golf has been declared 'a great success' since it opened at Highlands End Holiday Park at Eype.

Built on the former 9 hole pitch 'n' putt course, the now 18 hole course pays homage to its Jurassic Coast surroundings.

The course is full of obstacles linking to its stunning Dorset backdrop. The various obstacles include Durdle Door,  a West Bay cliff, tyres, fences and tunnels.

A Durdle Door-themed obstacle on the Dorset Foot Golf courseA Durdle Door-themed obstacle on the Dorset Foot Golf course (Image: Dorset Foot Golf)

Foot golf is a sport growing in popularity in which players kick a football into an oversized hole in as few shots as possible. 

Each kick of the ball is worth a point and the player with the lowest score wins.

The first shot has to be played from a tee box, and bunkers, trees, water and hills must be crossed or avoided in order to reach the hole.

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The course, suitable for all ages and abilities, takes about an hour to one and half hours to complete.

James Loveridge, of Dorset Foot Golf, said: "It’s an up-and-coming activity, gaining popularity and we’ve put our own spin on it with obstacles and links to the Jurassic Coast with local landmarks as obstacles.

"We’ll be looking to improve the course every year, with new obstacles and more planting and wildflowers to really establish it further."

Mr Loveridge said the attraction, which offers views of the coastline from West Bay all the way to Portland Bill,  is aimed at everyone - families, couples and groups.

It has been visited by locals, holiday park guests and visitors staying in the area.

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He added: "It’s a great way to spend an hour or two having fun with great views and facilities and it’s suitable for all ages and abilities.

"We’ve had great feedback on the course so far from everyone who has played."

The course, which is open daily from 10am with the last tee off at 5.15pm, has a winner's podium for photos and welcomes well behaved dogs on leads.

The course joins a range of facilities at Highlands End aimed at families including a fire engine display, an outdoor play area, alpacas and a nature trail.

Bookings can be made online at www.dorsetfootgolf.co.uk or in-person at the SPAR store at Highlands End.