Dorset Gifts

01/04/2026

29/03/2026

End of an era as Weymouth pedalos go up for sale after 60 years on the beach

The iconic yellow pedalos that have been a fixture on Weymouth Beach for more than six decades are now up for sale, marking the end of a much-loved family-run seaside business.

Around 30 sea-going pedalos, each individually named and built for coastal use, are being offered to buyers following the announcement that the operators will not return for the 2026 season.

The decision brings to a close a tradition that began in the 1960s, with the same family running the business across three generations.

Emotional decision to step away

The operators described the move as “emotional”, confirming they had requested an early end to their lease, which had been due to run until 2029.

They cited a range of mounting pressures that made the business no longer viable, including:
• Rising minimum wage and national insurance costs
• Increasing insurance premiums
• Stricter health and safety requirements
• The need for significant future investment

Fleet built for the sea

Unlike many pedalos found on inland lakes, the Weymouth fleet was designed specifically for the open sea. Manufactured between 2020 and 2022.

The owners are now hoping the fleet will be sold to another operator, either to expand an existing business or launch a new coastal venture.

What happens next?

The departure of the pedalos – along with several beach chalets – leaves a noticeable gap along the seafront.

Weymouth Town Council has indicated it may explore future options for beach attractions, although the return of the distinctive yellow pedalos in their current form appears unlikely.

“End of an era” for locals

The news has prompted an outpouring of nostalgia from residents and visitors, many of whom grew up with the pedalos as part of the classic British seaside experience.

For many in Weymouth, their disappearance signals not just the loss of a business—but the end of a cherished tradition on the town’s historic beachfront.

25/03/2026

Simple small wooden sail boat, this has been popular in the shop as we move towards Easter.

20/03/2026

First order of the day, a collection of smooth cowries - these have a porcelain- like shine and were used as Chinese currency as long as 3000 years ago ( now it’s US dollars )
.

12/03/2026

An ice cream seller with his vendors barrow on the right serving an ice cream to a docker opposite the Jolly Sailor. Our whippy machine is having a service on Tuesday and she’ll be up and running Jersey ice cream for Easter - we will be holding prices if you’re nice to us 🍦🍦🍦🍦 .

22/02/2026

Mine sweeper, sand dredger and seven in a gig just opposite our shop - never dull, even in February.

. .

18/02/2026

Hand polished nautilus - edged and silver plated on copper foil base. Stunning and limited supply.

www.dorsetgifts.com/product/silver-edged-pearlised-nautilus/

16/02/2026

Our shop just on the left painted white - ship brokers then and originally the Britannia Inn

Throwback Thursday-Cargo Ship 'Happy Rider' on Poole Quay 17th May 1976!🛳️⚓️

15/02/2026

26/01/2026

A cat morning with a fish accent .

22/01/2026

Classic jute roped door stop looking good on Poole Quay, as a door stop or nautically situated on a window shelf. £14.95 www.dorsetgifts.com/product/nautical-knot-door-stop/