IF you're struggling to sleep, then a seaside stroll along Old Harry Rocks could be the perfect solution.

The Purbeck beauty spot has just been named in a list of Britain's top 10 coastal walks.

This list, released by the National Trust, accompanies a study suggesting a seaside walk can aid restful sleep and boost happiness.

The research, carried out as part of the National Trust's Great British Walk campaign launch, reveals UK coast walkers sleep an average of 47 minutes longer after an amble by the sea.

Environmental psychologist Eleanor Ratcliff, who undertook the 'Sleep, Mood and Coastal Walking' study, said: "Coastal walkers are getting more sleep, and are more likely to show increased sleep quality and morning alertness.

"In addition, coastal walkers associated their walks with family, childhood memories and the anticipation of holidays.

"It is clear that there is something special about the coast, particularly as a place to escape to that can allow people to boost their mood, relax and sleep in."

More than two-thirds of people quizzed said they're more likely to fall into a deeper sleep after being by the coast, with one in three also saying just thinking about the sea helps them sleep at night.

Other top seaside strolls making the list include Norfolk's Blakeney Nature Reserve and County Antrim's Giant's Causeway.

The Wonder of Britain presenter Julia Bradbury said: "Everyone knows I love a good ramble and what better news than it helps us to sleep longer.

"I've walked the coast a lot as part of my TV work and also spent a huge amount of time outdoors on the coast with friends and family and I can tell you firsthand, I always sleep like a baby afterwards."

Away from the coast there are plenty of inland walks on offer across Dorset as well

Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/walking for more information on the National Trust's Great British Walk campaign.

Top 10 Coastal Walks:

1) Old Harry Rocks walk, Purbeck

2) Potters Hill and Woolacombe Down, Devon

3) The Seven Sisters, East Sussex

4) Newtown Nature Reserve, Isle of Wight

5) Blakeney Nature Reserve, Norfolk

6) Marloes Peninsula, Pembrokeshire

7) Northumberland coast

8) Formby beach, Merseyside

9) Old Saltburn to Warsett Hill, North Yorkshire

10) Giant's Causeway, County Antrim