best places visit dorset

Go South West England

22 Amazing Places to Visit in Dorset: beaches and villages!

With a staggeringly beautiful ancient coastline and some of England’s most charming countryside, there are many places to visit in Dorset. It’s quite a large country, so you could be forgiven for feeling overwhelmed when planning a trip here. 

What are the best places to go in Dorset? This blog post will answer this question, detailing some of my – and other travel blogger’s – favourite attractions. 

If you’re planning a trip to Dorset, read on for some major travel inspiration to one of England’s most beautiful counties! 

Table of Contents

Places to Visit in Dorset

Bournemouth .

Situated on the southern coast of England, Bournemouth is a popular holiday destination for those seeking a beach getaway. Bournemouth is excellent for a longer break or a  day trip from London  or any other nearby city. 

The city’s main drawcard is the white sand Bournemouth beach that stretches over seven miles. For active visitors, there is a 10-mile-long promenade that starts at Sandbanks and finishes in Hengistbury.

The promenade is not only great for a long stroll but also is excellent for cycling. Don’t forget to visit the Bournemouth Pier, home to the typical British seaside attractions, including the amusement arcade, fish and chips and souvenir shops. 

Other activities include zip-lining, mini-golfing in the City’s Lower Park and a balloon ride that operates in the summer. Plus, there are rainy day attractions like laser quest and an indoor climbing wall.

Bournemouth also has some great seafront restaurants along the beach where you can have some fresh seafood and a glass of wine while watching the sun going down. 

By Mal from Raw Mal Roams 

Lyme Regis is one of the best places to visit in Dorset to find fossils on the Jurassic Coast.

The Dorset town was the birthplace of pioneering palaeontologist Mary Anning, whose work finding and preserving fossils was ground-breaking. Now visitors come from all over the world to go  fossil hunting in Lyme Regis , and anyone can find fossils on the beach to take home.

Lyme Regis Museum explains more about Mary Anning and her work and has some excellent examples of fossils on display.

They also run Fossil Walks, where a guide will take you along the beach to go fossil hunting, explaining why and what you might find here.

Entry to the Museum is £5.95 per adult, and the fossil walks are £12.75 per adult, both with discounts available for children.

While fossils are the main draw for most visitors, Lyme Regis also has a pleasant sandy beach, an aquarium and various independent shops to explore. 

By Claire from Tales of a Backpacker 

Durdle Door

Durdle Door is without a doubt one of the most iconic sights on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.

The natural limestone arch juts out of the cliffs between Swanage and Weymouth, near the village of West Lulworth.

The geological changes that formed Durdle Door happened around 25 million years ago when layers of hard limestone were pushed vertically upwards; the sea then eroded the softer layers of rock, leaving Durdle Door’s distinctive arch shape.

Visiting Durdle Door is easy and free.

Access by car is through the Durdle Door holiday park, then a sloping, downhill walk to the top of the cliff and the viewpoint.

You can also get here by walking along the South West Coastal Path from Lulworth Cove, about a mile away.

There is a beach at the base of the cliff which is very popular on sunny days; to enjoy the views without the crowds visit in the evening. 

By Helen from  Helen on her Holidays

Swanage is a small town located on the coast, and is one of the best places to visit in Dorset – and one of the most popular day trips from Bournemouth !

Every year thousands of tourists come to visit this town and its remarkable historic scenery.

The town lies between lime rocks, mountain landscape, and an incredible white sand beach and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast.

In the town, you will find many old buildings – some of them date back as far as the 18th century. You can also choose between lots of hiking trails along the cliffs and plenty of other nearby attractions.

By Victoria from  Guide Your Travel

Isle of Portland

A trip to Dorset wouldn’t be complete without visiting the stunning Isle of Portland. Located to the south of Weymouth, Portland is only connected to the mainland by a barrier beach called Chesil Beach.

Although it is an island, the Isle of Portland is part of the Jurassic Coast and has many unique and beautiful features to see.

The best part is that you can see most of its sights in one day if you complete the  Isle of Portland Loop , which is 16km (10 miles) and is part of the South West Coast Path. 

On the route, you’ll be able to visit Portland Bill Lighthouse, climb Pulpit Rock, and discover unique sculptures at Tout Quarry Sculpture Park.

You can admire the view from the Olympic Rings Lookout Point and visit the ruins of a church and castle. 

The best bit? You’ll be treated to dramatic cliffs and stunning views of the sandy beaches all day long.

By Kitti from Kitti Around the World

Charmouth is a pretty village in West Dorset in an area of outstanding beauty. If you’re thinking of  visiting Charmouth , you won’t be short of things to see and do. 

Fossil hunting on Charmouth beach is a very popular activity with visitors to the area. With ample parking in the seaside town and plenty of facilities, a visit to the beach is a whole day out.

In addition, you can visit the Heritage Coast Centre with fossil displays, and even book a fossil walk. 

The beach is separated by the river Char, providing a stretch of calm river which is perfect for paddling, paddle boarding, or even floating about in a dinghy. 

There are plenty of rock pools to discover when the tide goes out, ideal for entertaining the children. 

At the end of a busy day in Charmouth, you could enjoy fish and chips on the beach from the beach cafe, or there are various cafes and pubs in the village. It’s definitely one of the best places to go to in Dorset!

By Angela from Exploring Dorset

Weymouth is a seaside resort in Dorset and is a popular holiday location for families and others seeking a  UK staycation .

Not only are there plenty of things to do in Weymouth but its location in the middle of the Jurassic Coast make it the perfect destination for fossil hunters!

Amongst Weymouth’s attractions are its beautiful sandy beach which is 3 miles long and perfect for swimming and making sandcastles.

In fact, it’s so good for building sandcastles that a visit to Sandworld to see exhibitions of sand sculptures is a must every year. Tickets cost £7.50 for adults and £5.50 for children.

Nothe Fort is another popular attraction in Weymouth.

This historic sea fort consists of three levels which include a museum, café and gift shop.

Throughout the year events and exhibitions are held at the fort which are fun for all the family. Views from the fort across the harbours are also particularly memorable.

Other things places to visit in Weymouth include the SEA LIFE centre, shingle covered Chesil Beach, Portland Bill Lighthouse and Weymouth Harbour with its pretty painted houses.

By Tracy from UK Travel Planning

Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle is a National Trust property that is well worth visiting while you’re exploring Dorset. With 1,000 years of history, Corfe Castle sits imposingly atop a hill and is a fascinating place to explore.

Corfe Castle was constructed by William the Conqueror in the 11th century – it was one of the initial castles in England to be constructed with stone. It was instrumental in the Civil War when Parliamentarian forces besieged it two times. 

Nowadays, Corfe Castle is owned by the National Trust and is open to the public. It stands above Corfe village, not too far from Old Harry Rocks and the rest of the coastline.

Its unique structure makes it a fantastic place to visit in Dorset – and you can easily add a stop here to a trip to the coast! 

It costs £11 for an adult and £5.50 for a child – but if you are a National Trust member, you can enter for free. 

Despite not being a city, Poole claims to have the largest natural harbour in the world (which happened after Sydney in Australia built so much around its harbour!).

Poole Harbour is around 36 km 2  (14 square miles) – and although its claim to being the largest in the world is sometimes debated, there’s no denying that it’s enormous.

This means that it’s a definite must-visit place to go to in Dorset – there are so many opportunities for boating and watersports! 

Poole also has a lovely old town, with buildings from the 15th century, so there’s lots of history here. In addition, the town boasts some impressive museums, including the Poole Museum and the Old Lifeboat Museum. 

As it is one of the largest towns in Dorset, there’s a range of excellent dining opportunities available in Poole – and, of course, there’s no shortage of beaches here either! 

Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum is a charming place to visit in Dorset, sitting about 13 miles inland from Poole in the Blackmore Vale area. Situated on the banks of the River Stour, Blandford Forum is a historic place with plenty of charm. 

The historic town was destroyed by fire in the 18th century, so it was rebuilt in the classic Georgian style of the era. Modern Blandford Forum still looks like a step back three centuries.

It’s a wonderful place to walk around, and you can also visit the Fire Monument in the marketplace and go to the Blandford museum to learn a little more about its history.

There’s also the Blandford Fashion Museum which details historical fashion trends!

There are lots of independent shops around the main town and the Hall and Woodhouse brewery, which makes its own Badger Beer. 

If you want to enjoy some of Dorset’s beautiful nature, take a stroll from Blandford to either Stallbridge or Spetsbiry and the surrounding beautiful villages. 

Sturminster Newton

Sturminster Newton is one of the most beautiful towns in inland Dorset, sitting on the banks of the River Stour. This is Thomas Hardy’s country – if you’ve ever read his books and marvelled at the glorious descriptions of nature, make sure that you visit Sturminster Newton and the surrounding area! 

In particular, the 15th century bridge in Sturminster Newton has been featured in one of Hardy’s poems, “On Sturminster Bridge”. The author also lived in the town and took lots of inspiration from surrounding fields. 

It’s worth visiting the Sturminster Newton Water Mill, which dates back to the 17th century and is still a working mill.

Knowledgeable guides will show you around and detail the history and working of the building. The mill is open in the summer months (usually late March to late September) on Monday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. It is £4 for adults and £1 for children. 

There’s also the ruins of a 14th century castle that you might be able to find while walking around the town. The architecture of Sturminster Newton makes it a wonderful place to stroll around and there are a variety of pubs and restaurants in the town, as well as nature walks along the River Stour. 

Studland Bay

Located on the Isle of Purbeck, Studland Bay is a Dorset destination at the end of the South West Coast Path – making it a site of pilgrimage for many keen hikers. However, it’s well worth visiting in its own right as well! 

Studland Bay is a glorious beach with lots of watersports activities available. Out of season, it can be wonderfully deserted, with fantastic views over to Poole. 

If you want to try something different, Foreadventure runs foraging tours around Studland, and I highly recommend them.

We did the three-hour forest walk and forage tour, which ended with us making a wood-fired pizza with our foraged goods! 

They also run canoeing and fishing trips. 

Old Harry Rocks

Old Harry Rocks is the official terminus of the Jurassic Coast, which starts in Exmouth in Devon. These chalk formations are popular with hikers and people exploring the entire coast, but they are incredible on their own as well. 

Old Harry Rocks are brilliant chalk-white arches, stacks, and stumps, jutting out into the sea and running along the ocean. Although the whole area is known as Old Harry Rocks, only one is called Old Harry (and there’s also an Old Harry’s Wife!). 

From the rocks, you can enjoy epic views across the water into Poole and Bournemouth. 

Dorchester is the historic county town of Dorset and one of the largest towns in the county. Sitting on the River Frome, Dorchester is a town that very much sits in the heart of the countryside – and you can enjoy some of its epic nature as well as its more urban attractions while exploring the town. 

It’s worth visiting The Keep, Dorset County Museum and The Dinosaur Museum, where you can learn a little more about the Jurassic Coast.

There’s also a lovely historic art deco cinema in town, as well as the ever-popular Dorchester Market, an indoor and outdoor market. 

On the outskirts of Dorchester, there’s the 19th century Max Gate, which is run by the National Trust and is the former home of Thomas Hardy. 

Sherborne is a beautiful town with charming stone cottages and stunning surrounding scenery. Although the town isn’t huge, it’s packed with attractions, including two castles and an abbey – there’s so much to explore here!

The Abbey has a long history spanning back over a millennium – it has been a Cathedral and church over the years. Some people consider it to be the most beautiful building in Dorset. 

Sherborne Castle is a 16th century Tudor castle. It started its life as a Tudor hunting lodge but was expanded by Sir Walter Raleigh and was the subject of a siege in the Civil War. You can learn all about this at the castle! 

Sherborne Old Castle has a history spanning back to the 12th century and is the ruins of an old majestic fortress. You can still explore these ruins today. 

Christchurch

Christchurch is a coastal town on the Dorset/ Hampshire border, not too far from Bournemouth. With six beaches, it’s a popular spot for families! Activities that you can enjoy in Christchurch include stand up paddleboarding, swimming and beach games. 

Friars Cliff and Avon beaches are perhaps the most family-friendly, with plenty of facilities for people of all ages. Mudeford Sandbank also has amenities to enjoy. 

More nature-focused beaches are Highcliffe Castle Beach, with beautiful cliffs, and Gundimore, which looks over the Isle of Wight. 

Christchurch town has plenty of amenities, including shops, restaurants and Christchurch Castle which dates back to the 11th century. 

Highcliffe Castle

Highcliffe Castle is located near Christchurch and is a Grade I listed mansion, dating back from the Victorian era. 

Highcliffe Castle was destroyed by a fire in the 1960s and was left to ruin for two decades – before it was acquired by the Council in 1977 and received funding from the English Heritage and National Lottery Grants. 

Nowadays, it’s a popular tourist attraction in Dorset and has been the filming location of various shows, including The Antiques Roadshow and Mr Selfridge. 

Highcliffe Castle is open from Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. It costs £7 for adults and £3 for children.

Sitting between Lyme Regis and Weymouth, Abbotsbury is a small quintessentially English village with two stand out attractions: the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens and the Abbotsbury Swannery. 

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens are botanic gardens on the edge of Abbotsbury town.

Encompassing 30 acres, these gardens are famous for their range of flowers and exotic plants. The Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens are open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day, and tickets cost £10 for adults and £5 for children. 

Abbotsbury Swannery is also worth visiting. This is the only managed colony of mute nesting swans in the world. Spanning 25 acres and home to some 600 swans, walking through the colony is an unforgettable experience.

It is a Harry Potter filming location and has lots of other attractions, including the giant swan maze, a cafe and gift shop. 

Like the subtropical gardens, the swannery is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day, and tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for children. 

You can save 25% on ticket prices if you book a visit to both the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens and the Abbotsbury Swannery at the same time. 

Purbeck Hills

The Purbeck Hills is a ridgeway that runs from Durdle Door to Old Harry Rocks. A fantastic place for hiking, the Purbeck Hills encompass Corfe Castle and the inland area from the Jurassic Coast. 

Wimborne Minster

Wimborne Minster is an ancient market town on the Rivers of Allen and Stour.

There’s so much to see here, including a beautiful minster church (with the chained library which has a book dating back to the 14th century and a book that belonged to Catherine of Aragon!), a model town which resembles Wimborne Minster in the 1950s and Waterford Mill Crafts which has shops and exhibitions. 

There are also some beautiful walks and bike rides along the two rivers, so it’s a great place to enjoy nature as well! 

Burton Bradstock

Burton Bradstock is a popular holiday destination along the Jurassic Coast, with epic sandstone cliffs and charming villages. 

It’s a small village, but there’s plenty to enjoy here – including pubs, tearooms, a holiday park and there is a Spring Tide Food Festival every May. 

Also don’t miss Hive Beach, which is owned by the National Trust has some epic views over this stretch of coastline. 

Shaftesbury

Sitting near the Wiltshire border, Shaftesbury is one of the very best places to visit in Dorset. Shaftesbury is famous for Gold Hill, its postcard-perfect cobbled street which has been called “one of the most romantic sights in England” as well as “England’s most famous hill” (it has featured in numerous films and television programmes including the Hovis advert!).

With quaint cottages and rolling green hills in the background, Shaftesbury is a lovely place to stroll around – you can enjoy the many shops, restaurants, and cafes here and take in various viewpoints that look out over Blackmore Vale. 

Places to go to in Dorset!

With green valleys, beautiful villages and towns, popular sandy beaches on the world-famous Jurassic Coast and a hiking path with amazing views, there’s so much to love in Dorset!

Similar Posts

18 Fascinating Cornwall Landmarks: The Old and New!

8 Incredible Waterfalls in Devon – don’t miss these!

Visiting the Jurassic Coast: full guide for 2024

How to visit Old Harry Rocks, Dorset (2024 guide)

Top places to add to your South West England bucket list in 2024

10 most beautiful places in Cornwall (2024 guide)

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Discover the best things to do in Dorset, from finding fossils to coastal hikes

Jul 18, 2022 • 7 min read

Dorset has everything from great beaches to epic castle ruins, such as Corfe Castle © David Young / Shutterstock

Home to some of the country’s best-loved beaches and one of England ’s first seaside resorts, Dorset has long been a hit with British holidaymakers. But there’s far more to this charming coastal county than bucket-and-spade beach days and quaint fishing harbors.

Whether you’re in search of relaxation, adventure or a seamless blend of the two, there’s plenty to see and do in Dorset .

Those with even a passing interest in paleontology or geology – in fact, even those without – can’t help but be impressed by the dramatic scenery and fossil-ridden beaches of the Jurassic Coast. Thrill-seekers will find a wealth of experiences along the coastline, while hikers can tackle the rollercoaster cliff climbs of the South West Coast Path or venture into the scenic splendor of the county’s rural interior.

Marvel at Durdle Door

Dorset features the lion’s share of the 95-mile-long Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its fossil-rich cliffs and huge geological significance. All along the coastline, unusual rock formations reveal a visible record of millions of years of history, forming a living legacy that adds a unique touch to any cliff walk or beach day.

Durdle Door , a 200ft-tall (61m) rock archway over the sea, is probably the coast’s most famous attraction, and for good reason. This iconic sight really is a wonder, especially when viewed from the beach. Walk the long way down to the beach – through the amusingly named Scratchy Bottom – for a gentler descent that avoids (some of) the crowds.

Relax on Bournemouth Beach

It may be one of Dorset’s most popular beaches, but Bournemouth is still one of the best places for a day at the seaside. And with seven miles of soft sand to relax on, avoiding the summer crowds is easy. Locals head west towards Branksome Chine or east to Boscombe and Southbourne. At the far eastern end of the bay, the cliff-backed pebble beach at Hengistbury Head has a wilder feel and is often much quieter.

Step back in time at Corfe Castle

A peninsula once so cut off by moors and marshlands that it felt more like an island, hence the name, the Isle of Purbeck is one of the loveliest places to visit in Dorset. And at its center, the hilltop ruins of Corfe Castle provide unbeatable views of the surrounding countryside.

The thousand-year-old castle was largely destroyed during the English Civil War in 1646, leaving behind an evocative ruin. Corfe Castle is also believed to have been the inspiration for Kirran Castle in Enid Blyton’s beloved Famous Five books.

Ride the Waves on the Jurassic Coast

Adults searching for fun, adrenaline-pumping things to do along the Dorset coast will discover a myriad of watersports and boat trips. A RIB ride from Weymouth Harbour ( Weymouth Bay RIB Charter ) or Lyme Regis ( Lyme Bay RIB Charter ) offers a fast-paced tour of the coastline’s most impressive attractions; you can zip from Weymouth to Durdle Door and back in just over an hour. Dolphin and seal sightings are not uncommon, and the thrilling rides offer some of the best views of the Jurassic Coast.

Spot fossils at Lyme Regis

Although she wasn’t taken as seriously as she should have been in her time, local paleontologist Mary Anning is now recognized as a crucial figure in the study of the Jurassic Coast’s fossils, which she collected on the beaches near her hometown of Lyme Regis. Today, fossil finds are still common, particularly on the stretch of beach between Lyme Regis and Charmouth.

The bases of the cliffs can be dangerous (landslides are not uncommon), so amateurs are advised to steer clear – and to pay attention to tide times, as high tide can cut off your return. Better yet, book a guided fossil hunting tour through the Lyme Regis Museum or Charmouth Heritage Centre .

Escape to Brownsea Island

Dorset’s Poole Harbour is one of the largest natural harbors in the world, home to yacht-filled marinas, sheltered bays for paddleboarding, and the famous Sandbanks peninsula, aka the world’s most expensive seaside resort. Take a boat tour of the harbor and its many islands, or hop on a ferry to explore the National Trust nature reserve at Brownsea Island . There are no public cars allowed, creating a peaceful setting that’s rich in wildlife.

Take a Ride on Swanage Steam Railway

Journey back in time on a beautifully restored heritage steam railway across the Purbeck countryside. Step on board at Norden Station to ride the rails as far as the seaside at Swanage, looking out for the view of Corfe Castle on the right-hand side of the train as you chug past.

Discover Studland and Old Harry Rocks

Marking the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast, Old Harry Rocks are a series of chalk stacks stretching out into the English Channel. Thought to be named after an infamous local pirate, Harry Payne, the rocks were once part of the same chalk band as the Needles on the Isle of Wight .

While the headland above Old Harry Rocks has become a popular destination in recent years, the best way to see them is from the water. Join a kayaking tour with Fore/Adventure and paddle out across Studland Bay for a close-up view of the stacks, looking out for the resident seals as you go. Those in search of lesser-known spots in Dorset should head into the nearby Studland and Godlinston Heath Nature Reserve, home to a wealth of wildlife – including sand lizards and Dartford warblers – as well as the mysterious Agglestone Rock, an enormous orange boulder perched on a hilltop.

Wander the Gardens at Kingston Lacy

Immerse yourself in the extensive art and history collections of a 17th-century manor house, before a relaxing stroll through the scenic grounds. Perhaps the finest of Dorset’s numerous stately homes, Kingston Lacy sits on a vast 8500-acre (3440-hectare) estate. Wander the grounds and gardens, especially the attractive Japanese Garden. Pro tip: try to visit during spring, when the estate’s woodlands are filled with bluebells.

Monkey Around at Monkey World

One of southwest England’s most family-friendly days out, Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre near Bovington is an unexpected gem in the Dorset countryside. Don’t agree with animals in captivity? Fear not: Monkey World is not a zoo. They rescue and rehome primates from illegal captivity such as circuses or black market trades. Animals that can’t be released into the wild come to live at the center in Dorset, with profits from ticket sales supporting their worldwide rescue work.

Meet the Locals at Sea Life Aquarium

One of the best-loved attractions in Dorset, Sea Life Weymouth Aquarium is popular with adults and children alike. Discover both local and exotic marine life across 13 different themed zones, including an interactive rockpool showcasing British coastal life. For something special, consider booking a private shark or seal feeding experience for your budding marine biologists.

Explore the Lost Village of Tyneham

While it’s known to many locals, Tyneham remains one of the better-kept secret places to visit in Dorset. The tiny village was taken over by the British government for military training during WWII, and the homes were never returned to the locals. Today, the ruined houses still stand, eerily overgrown, while the restored church and schoolhouse offer a glimpse of rural English life in the 1940s. Combine your trip with the one-mile walk down to the coast at Worbarrow Bay, a remote beach that rarely sees many visitors, even on sunny days.

Paddle in Portland Harbour

Weymouth and Portland played host to the sailing events of the 2012 Olympics. Easy to see why, when you considered the sheltered waters of Weymouth’s idyllic bay and the vast walled harbor on the Isle of Portland. The protection of the breakwater wall makes this a perfect place to practice stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Rent a board or book a lesson – try OTC Watersports or Adventure4All – then head to the nearby Crab House Cafe or Billy Winters for a well-earned seafood supper.

Climb Golden Cap

Ramblers will find a wealth of trails to stomp throughout Dorset, both inland and along the coast, where the last leg of the South West Coast Path offers an array of well-signposted trails. For views, tackle the short but steep climb up Golden Cap . At 627ft (191m), it’s the highest point on the south coast of England, with views across Lyme Bay as far as Dartmoor on clear days.

Eat seafood on Weymouth’s historic harbor

This close to the water, Dorset has no shortage of incredible seafood to enjoy, and the colorful harbor at Weymouth has some of the best. For fish and chips, most locals will recommend Fish ‘n’ Fritz or Bennett’s . In summer, the annual Dorset seafood festival Seafest is a must-attend, held along the harbor against a backdrop of yachts, fishing boats and pastel houses.  

Explore related stories

Jul 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Home to beautiful beaches, quiet wetlands and tons of history, East Anglia should really be better known than it is – here are the best things to do.

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Feb 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Oct 6, 2023 • 15 min read

Aug 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Jan 31, 2023 • 4 min read

Jul 28, 2022 • 7 min read

Jun 17, 2022 • 7 min read

Feb 11, 2022 • 11 min read

Feb 9, 2022 • 7 min read

• Overall Guide to Dorset
• Dorset Coast

Bournemouth

• Things to Do
• Food and Drink
• Festivals and Events
• Inspiration

Dorset Towns: 19 Towns You Need To Visit In Dorset

• Last Updated 26 April, 2022

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Take a look at my privacy policy for more information.

Dorset is a pretty rural county. Lots of countryside, quaint villages, rugged coast… and absolutely no cities or motorways! But there are plenty of lovely towns in Dorset that make a great base for your next holiday.

And if you’re moving to Dorset – perhaps one of these could be your new home!

From the lively, small-city feel of Bournemouth , to historic market towns in the countryside, to colourful seaside spots like Lyme Regis and Weymouth , there are plenty of towns to keep you busy as you explore the county. Many of these towns make ideal bases to explore the surrounding coast and countryside!

Below you’ll find an A-Z list of all 19 Dorset towns, as well as a map. There’s also a size-ordered list, in case you’re looking for the bustle of a big town or the peace of somewhere smaller.

Of course, some of the smaller towns can still get pretty busy – especially seaside resorts like Swanage and Lyme Regis. So check out my list of the prettiest villages in Dorset if you’re looking for something more small and tranquil!

Whatever you’re after, there’s something for everyone in Dorset!

Map of All Dorset Towns

Dorset towns by size, blandford forum, christchurch.

• Dorchester – market

Shaftesbury

Sherborne – market, sturminster newton, wimborne minster.

All Towns in Dorset by Population Size

• Bournemouth (183,491)
• Poole (154,718)
• Weymouth (58,200)
• Christchurch (54,210)
• Ferndown (26,559)
• Dorchester (19,060)
• Wimborne Minster (15,174)
• Bridport (13,737)
• Verwood (13,360)
• Blandford Forum (11,694)
• Gillingham (11,278)
• Swanage (10,454)
• Sherborne (9,523)
• Shaftesbury (7,314)
• Wareham (5,496)
• Sturminster Newton (4,945)
• Lyme Regis (4,712)
• Beaminster (3,100)
• Stalbridge (2,698)

A-Z of Towns in Dorset

Beaminster is one of the smallest towns in Dorset, a proper West-Country market town full of crooked stone cottages and picturesque streets.

This one is a bit of a hidden gem, not yet overrun by “down for the weekend-ers” clad in squeaky-clean hunter wellies! Beaminster is ideally placed to explore some of the area’s top attractions, such as Jacobean manor Mapperton House & Gardens . Not to mention the Hardy-esque rolling hills and countryside surrounding the town! You’ll also find plenty of independent shops and restaurants to explore.

An attractive and historic market town on the River Stour, Blandford Forum is all-too-often overlooked by visitors.

The town sits right between the borders of Dorset’s two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. So it’s ideally situated to enjoy the county’s excellent countryside. Blandford itself was almost entirely destroyed by a fire in 1731, so was completely reconstructed in the classical Georgian style. As a result, the town centre is an elegant and quintessentially English place, filled with some truly beautiful buildings.

Among them is the red brick Hall and Woodhouse Brewery , home of Badger Beer. Founded in 1777, this is one of the most famous breweries in Dorset so it’s well worth a visit.

Bournemouth is the largest town in Dorset, and perhaps the most popular, known for its enormous white-sand beach. The bustling town centre has the feel of a small city.

Not only does it make a great base for exploring the county, but Bournemouth is also an ideal holiday destination all on its own! You have seven miles of beaches (not to mention these quieter alternatives nearby ).

There’s also history, culture, great food, and easily the best nightlife in Dorset. This town is packed with fun things to do, like these fab escape rooms or an afternoon tea bus ). Essentially, Bournemouth is brilliant if you don’t like to be bored!

Bridport is one of Dorset’s many market towns, filled with handsome Georgian buildings

This lovely town has strong nautical ties thanks to its close proximity to the harbour at West Bay. Since the Middle Ages, Bridport has been a rope and net making town . The industry still thrives today, with Bridport nets used on the Space Shuttle and for the Wimbledon tennis championships!

History aside, Bridport is also well known as one of the best foodie destinations in Dorset thanks to its agricultural connections.The historic weekly market is still well-known for its rich local produce. Bridport also hosts one of the county’s biggest annual food festivals . Another famous Dorset brewery can also be found in the town, Palmers of Bridport . Sitting on the banks of the River Brit, this is the only thatched brewery in the UK.

Tucked between the coast and two of Dorset’s longest rivers,  Christchurch is a small town where seaside, riverside, and countryside all collide.

Just on the outskirts of Bournemouth, Christchurch is a charming little town dotted with Norman ruins and historic buildings. The Priory church which gives the town its name dates from the 11th century. The town is right on the water, with two rivers and an impressive natural harbour, as well as numerous nearby beaches. So Christchurch is an ideal spot to try some watersports or take a scenic river cruise in one of the historic wooden ferries.

Dorchester is the “county town” in Dorset – a small market town steeped in local history.

The beaches and cliffs of the Jurassic Coast are just seven miles away, and the town is also in the heart of the Dorset AONB. So it’s an ideal base for exploring the county – and one of the best places to live in Dorst. There’s a reason I chose to call this town home!

Dorchester is perhaps best known for its connection to Thomas Hardy. The classic novelist was born and raised in Dorchester (you can still visit both his former homes) and set most of his works in a fictionalised version of Dorset ( more on that in this post ) . But the town’s history runs much deeper than that. It’s been settled since at least the Neolithic period, some 6,000 years ago, while the town itself was founded by the Ancient Romans as Durnovaria.

Ferndown is one of the larger towns in Dorset, although it’s not all that well known. It’s a relatively modern town which is more residential, so is less visited by tourists. The town’s good transport connections and modern centre make it an attractive place to live, as do the decent shopping centre and leisure facilities. There’s also a nice mix of independent shops to explore – and the town is brilliantly poised to make the most of the nearby countryside.

Not to be confused with the Kentish town of the same name, Gillingham is a small town in the Blackmore Vale area of Dorset. Just up the road from Shaftesbury, it’s also the most northerly town in Dorset. This means it’s about as far away as you can get from the coast, but ideally placed to explore some gorgeous countryside. The Cranborne Chase AONB is right on the doorstep, while the nearby National Trust House and Gardens at Stourhead marks the start of the Stour Valley Way, one of the greatest river walks in Dorset .

With its quaint harbour and fossil-rich beaches, Lyme Regis is one of the most popular seaside towns in Dorset .

Lyme Regis is particularly well-known as the birthplace of the famous palaeontologist Mary Anning . Along with the neighbouring village of Charmouth, this town is still famed as a fossil-hunting destination. Visit the town’s small museum to see a fascinating collection of locally-found fossils – or hit the beaches in search of your own finds.

As well as fossils and beaches, Lyme is known for its historic fishing harbour, known as The Cobb. The cute town centre also packed with some brilliant independant shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants.

A quirky, historic town clustered around the largest natural harbour in the world, Poole is one of the biggest towns in Dorset.

From the white sand beaches and millionaire properties of Sandbanks, to the picturesque Quayside old town, Poole is a pretty diverse destination. It often gets overlooked in favour of neighbouring Bournemouth, but this town makes a brilliant base for exploring the area.

Beaches, countryside, and the stunning Isle of Purbeck just a short ferry-ride away. There’s also plenty to keep you busy in Poole itself. Don’t miss the chance to take a cruise around the enormous Harbour, or pay a visit to nearby Brownsea Island.

Home to the county’s most famous street, Shaftesbury is Dorset’s only hill-top town, offering stunning views of the Blackmore Vale.

This picturesque town is best known for just one street. Gold Hill is known as one of the most attractive streets in England, and is one of the most photographed sights in Dorset. It was used as the backdrop for an iconic 1970s Hovis advert (reputedly the nation’s favourite advert). Even if you don’t remember the ad, this street is easily one of the prettiest views in Dorset. The rest of the town is also just as pretty, filled with cute cottages and quaint streets.

Sherborne is one of the most charming small towns in Dorset, known for its stunning medieval Abbey.

In fact, this pretty little town is filled with historic buildings. Alongside the Abbey, which dates from the 12th century, are some beautiful Tudor houses. The town also boasts not one, but two of Dorsets best castles . There are the 12th-century ruins of Sherborne Old Castle, as well as the 16th-century Tudor mansion known as the “New” castle. Most of the town centre is built from local golden Hamstone , giving it an attractive uniformity.

Stalbridge is the smallest of all the Dorset towns, tucked away in the Blackmore Vale close to the Somerset border. It’s also a bit of a hidden gem: a quaint town with a village-y feel and an unhurried, friendly atmosphere. This is a historic little place packed with listed buildings, including the 15th century Market Cross on the High Street, built from local Hamstone. If you want to get away from it all, and avoid the more touristy towns in Dorset, this one could be for you!

A historic town on the banks of the River Stour, Sturminster Newton is surrounded by watermills and rich farmland.

Although one of the smallest towns in Dorset, Sturminster Newton is a pretty important place. It sits at a historic fording point on the Stour, which was replaced in the 16th century with an iconic six-arch stone bridge. The 17th-century Sturminster Mill still works today, telling the story of one thousand years of milling.

Affectionately known as “Stur”, the town was home to author and poet William Barnes, who wrote in local dialect, as well as Thomas Hardy for a short time. A large part of the latter’s best-known work, Tess of the D’Ubervilles , was set in the town and surrounding countryside.

Sitting at the tip of the stunning Isle of Purbeck, Swanage is one of Dorset’s loveliest seaside towns.

The charming coastal resort is home to a beautiful working steam railway, which runs from Wareham to Swanage. It opened in 1885 and still runs today, shuttling tourists across the Isle of Purbeck in lovingly restored railway carriages. The station at Swanage is a must-see, to watch the trains rolling in amongst billowing clouds of steam.

As well as this remarkable tourist attraction, Swanage has plenty more to keep visitors (and locals) busy. There’s an attractive fishing harbour, some lovely beaches with safe sea bathing, and plenty of family-friendly attractions. You’ll also find lots of interesting antique and vintage shops, independent boutiques, and some great little cafes and restaurants.

Verwood is a peaceful town just north of Bournemouth and Poole. Its good connections with the larger towns in Dorset, and close proximity to both Cranborne Chase AONB and the New Forest National Park, make it a popular place to live. It’s not particularly well-known by tourists – perhaps another thing that makes it an attractive place to live! The modern town centre has plenty of shops and leisure facilities, as well as a good selection of pubs and restaurants.

Tucked between the Rivers Frome and Piddle, the historic market town of Wareham is the gateway to the Isle of Purbeck.

This is a peaceful riverside town with 2,000 years of history. Wareham is also one of the few remaining Saxon walled towns in England. It’s packed with pubs, restaurants, and unique shops – as well as an excellent Quay-side market every Saturday.

Plus, the town is ideally situated for exploring the incredible Purbeck region, with its rolling hills and stunning coastline. Many of Dorset’s most popular attractions are near Wareham, including Monkey World and the Tank Museum at Bovington.

Famed for its wide beach, Georgian seafront, and colourful fishing harbour, Weymouth is one of the most popular destinations in Dorset.

Weymouth is the perfect place for a quintessentially British beach holiday. After all, this is the spot where the idea of seaside holidays was first popularised , when King George III’s doctors recommended he try sea bathing to cure his “madness” . Situated on a beautiful bay, Weymouth has one of the nicest beaches in Dorset. There’s also a historic harbour lined with pastel-painted buildings and brilliant fish ‘n’ chips shops.

I grew up in Weymouth, so I’m a bit biased, but I honestly think this is one of the nicest Dorset towns. There’s a reason it gets so many visitors, especially in summer. You have coast, countryside, history, and family-friendly attractions, all within easy reach!

A Georgian market town on the banks of the River Stour, Wimborne is known for its twin-towered Norman Minster church.

Although one of the larger Dorset towns, Wimborne still feels quite small and rural. So it offers the best of both worlds! The narrow streets are home to a wide variety of architecture, especially the half-timbered properties along King Street.

Nearby, the 17th-century manor house and sprawling estates of Kingston Lacy are one of the most popular attractions in Dorset. While the surrounding countryside is littered with walks to suit all abilities. Its lovely atmosphere and wealth of nearby attractions make Wimborne an ideal base for exploring the rest of Dorset.

15 of the Best Things to do in Dorset

12 Seaside Towns in Dorset

The Ultimate Local’s Guide to Dorset

So there you have it; a list of all the official towns in Dorset. Let me know your favourite in the comments!

2 thoughts on “Dorset Towns: 19 Towns You Need To Visit In Dorset”

We visited Dorset for the first time in December 2021 for a week and enjoyed it so much we are returning early December 2022 for a week. We’ve visited Beaminster, Bridport, Lyme Regis, Shaftesbury and Sherborne already so we look forward to exploring more from your list. Thank you for the info, really helpful!

Thanks so much for leaving a comment Janey – so pleased you’ve enjoyed Dorset so much1 Hope your trip goes well 🙂 Come in spring next, the countryside is lovely then!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You May Also Like:

12 of the Best Forests and Woods in Dorset

15 of the Best Things to do Near Bournemouth

5 Waterfalls in Dorset You’ll Love to Visit

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• More to Explore
• Things To Do

The Top 10 Things to Do in Dorset, England

John Harper / Getty Images

The county of Dorset, located in southwest England, is an ideal destination for visitors to the U.K. Known for its beaches and dramatic white cliffs, the coastal area has lots to see and do during all seasons of the year. It makes for an excellent day trip from England or a long weekend by the English Cahnnel. Whether you're looking for a low-key beach visit or you want to dig into the history of the region at places like Hardy's Cottage, Dorset has something for every traveler.

Swim at Weymouth Beach

Tony Eveling 

Weymouth Beach

Dorset has plenty of great beaches, but the beach in Weymouth is one of the most popular in the area—and for good reason. The long, curved beach was once popular with King George III, and today the sandy stretch borders the town's Esplanade. It's popular for swimming and water sports, and there's plenty of space to lay out in the sun during the summer months. Lifeguards patrol the beach from May through September, but it's also a nice spot for a walk during colder weather. Nearby, look for local restaurants, shops on the Weymouth High Street, many of which showcase the town's impressive Georgian architecture. Dogs are allowed on the beach in specific areas, so check ahead if you plan to bring a furry friend.

Walk the Jurassic Coast

Jurassic coast.

Dorset's famous Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches about 95 miles along English Channel, from Exmouth to Studland Bay. There are tons of places to walk along the famed coast, both on the sandy beaches or atop the cliffs. The walks range in difficulty, but there's something for every type of traveler, including those with kids. A few of the most popular include Old Harry Rocks, which begins at Studland Bay, and a trek from Bowleaze Cove to Smuggler’s Inn, a historic pub. For something more challenging, kick things off in Worth Matravers and travel along to the rocky cliffs of St. Alban’s Head.

Explore Lyme Regis

The historic town of Lyme Regis is best known for its connection to Georgian fossil collector and paleontologist Mary Anning (who was recently the subject of the film "Ammonite"). The seaside town has generated lots of fossils, found in its cliffs and on its beaches, and today it's a nice resort area with quaint shops and restaurants. Don't miss the Lyme Regis Museum and the Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium, or opt to go on one of the fossil walks, where you can search out the ancient shells yourself. Book into the Dorset House Boutique B&B, a chic hotel, to stay a few days.

Marvel at Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove

Antony Spencer Photography / Getty Images

Durdle Door

Durdle Door may be Dorset's most famous natural attraction. The natural limestone arch is part of the Jurassic Coast and a must-see for many travelers to the area. Lulworth Cove is also well worth a visit where you can go swimming or pursue outdoor activities like mountain biking and sailing, or simply take a stroll around the coastal area to get a good glimpse of the sights. It can be very popular on hot days, particularly during summer weekends and bank holidays, so plan your trip accordingly. The beach is dog friendly and has available parking for a fee.

Go Wildlife Spotting on Brownsea Island

Thomas Faull / Getty Images

Brownsea Island

Hop on a ferry boat to Brownsea Island, the largest island in Poole Harbour. Now owned by the National Trust, the island is a great spot to see wildlife or go bird watching. Look for red squirrels, peacocks, and deer, and then spend some time exploring the island's beautiful lagoon. Camping overnight is allowed at the Outdoor Centre, open from April through September, and there are also regular activities for families and kids available for visitors. Travelers should park at Sandbanks to take the ferry across to Brownsea, which has a small entry fee. Wear sturdy shoes to explore the trails and bring along some rain gear just in case.

Go Back in Time at Hardy’s Cottage

CM Dixon/Print Collector/Getty Images

Hardys Cottage

Hardy's Cottage, a cob and thatch cottage, was the birthplace of English author Thomas Hardy. Visitors can explore the cottage and learn more about the writer's life (tickets are available at the Hardy's Birthplace Visitor Centre) and tour the adjacent Thorncombe Woods, a woodland and nature reserve. It's a nice spot to visit even if you aren't an avid reader of Hardy's work and especially if you're interested in 19th-century life. For those who are fans, it's particularly exciting to stand in the same spot where Hardy penned "Far from the Madding Crowd." The site also includes a cafe and a shop.

Hike Studland Nature Reserve

Studland Nature Reserve features 4 miles of beaches and heathland. Whether you want to swim in a peaceful cove or take a long hike through the nature reserve, it's a great spot for an outdoor day in Dorset. The best walk for families and kids is along a circular path through the dunes beginning at Knoll Beach. You can also opt for a longer hike that includes Old Harry, Purbeck Way, and Studland Beach to get a fuller look at the Jurassic Coast.

Tour the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

Courtesy of Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

Head to the town of Bournemouth to visit the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, an opulent historic building filled with paintings and sculptures. It was once a private home and the museum was founded by owners Sir Merton and Lady Russell-Cotes over a century ago. The couple gathered most of the museum's collection themselves, which means visitors can get a glimpse of what it was like to be a Victorian-era private collector. The museum is open select days of the week, so check its hours online before visiting. After your visit, head down the cliff to explore Bournemouth Beach.

Try Wine at English Oak Vineyard

Courtesy of English Oak Vineyard

English Oak Vineyard

England is not necessarily known for its vineyards, but Dorset is home to a few that make delicious sparkling wine. One of these is English Oak Vineyard, near Poole, which offers public vineyard tours and tastings on Fridays and Saturdays from June to September. Tours should be booked in advance by phone and you can also add on a vineyard picnic to your visit, which can be booked online .

Wander the Grounds of Historic Lulworth Castle

Courtesy of Lulworth Estate

Lulworth Castle Wareham

Lulworth Castle, owned by Lulworth Estate (which also owns Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove), makes for a nice day out when exploring Dorset. The 17th-century castle was originally a hunting lodge used for entertaining and was partially rebuilt after a fire in 1929. It's surrounded by vast parks, which visitors can walk around or picnic in during a visit. Don't miss the Castle Tearoom, where you can grab a snack or a souvenir. Lulworth is also home to the annual Camp Bestival , a music festival that also features DJs, comedians, and theater.

Related Articles

More related articles.

• Work With Me

• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Falkland Islands
• Netherlands
• Accommodation
• Electrical Gear
• Essential Gear
• Working Abroad
• Blogging Resources

Europe , UK , Western Europe

21 best places to visit in dorset.

A beautiful coastal county in the south of England, Dorset is chock full of wonderful things to do, places to visit and attractions to enjoy.

From historic castles to great hikes, stunning beaches to quaint villages, Dorset makes for a perfect holiday destination, especially from London, as you can reach it in just a couple of hours.

With rolling countryside and beautiful blue coastal water, this gorgeous region makes the ideal escape away from the city and even just a weekend here will leave you feeling refreshed.

However while a weekend is a good start, you’ll probably need a bit longer to enjoy everything on this list, because this mammoth compilation of 21 great places to visit in Dorset is going to keep you entertained for quite a while…

Related Posts

• Top 5 Dorset Walks + How Best to Enjoy Them
• 13 Best Beaches in Dorset
• 7 Epic Days Out in Dorset

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you

#1 Visit Corfe Castle

Coming in at number one, it’s an absolute English and National Trust classic.

Corfe Castle, near Swanage, has some gorgeous walks around, including the Purbeck Ridge, but the castle grounds, along with the incredibly cute model village nearby, make this a fantastic day out.

With tons of English history to learn as part of the displays at the castle, it’s really the views as you climb to the top that made it for me.

#2 Walk to Old Harry Rocks

And if we’re talking about views, then it’s hard to find a better place to visit in Dorset than Old Harry Rocks.

An incredible geological formation found in Studland, walking out to these dramatic cliffs to take in the sea air and snap the drama of this spot is something that can’t be missed when you visit Dorset.

#3 Head to Studland

And more broadly than Old Harry Rocks, there’s a whole load of beauty to take in on Studland, that you’ve definitely got to visit this area of Dorset more broadly.

From stunning beaches, like Knoll Beach, through to the dramatic hiking along the Southwest Coastal Path and even the cute village of Studland itself, if you’re after a treat, then the Pig on the Beach is the perfect excuse to do just that!

#4 Swing by Swanage

And just down the road, the town of Swanage in east Dorset is another must-visit location.

An old town with loads seaside charm, including donkey rides, steam train rides and top fishing opps, it’s really the amazing sandy beach strip that people come here to visit.

The gardens at the end of the beach, and the view they give over the town and the coast really are delightful, and you shouldn’t miss Swanage Pier or Durlston Country Park National Nature Reserve while you’re down this way either.

Learn more in my list of the top 10 things to do in Swanage .

#5 Delight in Abbotsbury Abbey

And now we swing to the other end of the county and west Dorset, as it’s time to bring the beautiful, historic village of Abbotsbury onto this list.

Honestly, things don’t get more quintessential than this gem and its chocolate-box appearance thanks to the beautiful thatched-roof cottages, with their cute roses climbing up the façade and classic English gardens infront.

Some of the most photographic cottages in the county are complemented here by an array of cute, independent shops and tearooms, alongside a number of churches, a hillfort and some beautiful walks.

Having inspired the famous English writer Thomas Hardy, it’s the Abbey and nearby St Catherine’s Chapel that really sets this place apart however and definitely makes it one of the best places to visit in Dorset.

Both are run by English Heritage and should not be missed!

#6 Tick Durdle Door Off Your List!

And another Dorset gem that should certainly not be missed is the UNESCO-listed wonder of Durdle Door.

A huge natural arch formed at the foot of some step cliffs due to coastal erosion, this iconic sight is one of the most familiar in the UK and if you’re looking to tick off some bucket list classic while you’re in Dorset, this is the one!

With beautiful beaches around, as well as some great clifftop walking care of the Southwest Coastal Path, there’s tons to do around Durdle Door too, which means it’s easy to make a day out of it.

A large paid car park allows you to do that with ease, but do beware of the steep walk to get down to the beach and back!

#7 Discover Lulworth Cove

And talking of walks, one of the best you can enjoy in Dorset, in my opinion, is the walk between Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.

Taking in some of the most beautiful scenery on the Southwest Coastal Path, this is a great walk, that shouldn’t take you longer than an hour, but allows you to marvel at 2 great Dorset icons.

Parking at Durdle Door is my advice – there’s more space – and then head across on the well-marked clifftop trail to Lulworth Cove.

Here you can snap this gorgeous circular bay to your heart’s content, before grabbing an ice cream or vegan sorbet before you retrace your steps.

#8 Rockpool at Kimmeridge Bay

And if you’re into coves, then checking out nearby Kimmeridge Bay is another must when it comes to places to visit in Dorset.

Located just east of Lulworth Cove, Kimmeridge is famous for its rockpools, which provide some great snorkelling, surfing and windsurfing opportunities.

A Marine Special Area of Conservation, head to the Wild Seas Centre to learn more about this landscape and its ecosystem, before scaling up to Clavell Tower that overlooks the bay for some great views.

There is some parking at Kimmeridge, but you have to pay via a toll road to get down into the bay, so this one is probably best accessed on foot or by bike if you can.

#9 Watch Sunset from Swyre Head

The top sunset-watching spot in Dorset in my opinion, Swyre Head is an elevated hilltop located just near Kimmeridge.

Walk here from Kimmeridge, before the sun goes down – perhaps with a small picnic packed – and then enjoy the colour display in front of you as the light fades and shimmers over the landscape and coast.

#10 Check Out the Isle of Portland

Now it’s time to continue westwards along the Dorset Coast as I bring you the next entry on this list of the best places to visit in Dorset.

Hanging off the town of Weymouth and suspended in the sea like a teardrop, the Isle of Portland is a glorious nature reserve where you can enjoy some epic walking right on the edge of England.

Wild and natural, quaint and isolated, it’s not just the rugged beauty you’ll be amazed at here, but also the history with castles, museums and lighthouses all waiting to be explored and their hidden takes of smugglers and pirates just waiting to be discovered.

#11 Day Trip to Weymouth

But now for something a bit more on the beaten track, we head to the Dorset town of Weymouth, which is situated just above the Isle of Portland.

Famous for its golden sandy beaches, which have Blue Flag status, the pretty harbour here and safe, shallow swimming waters make this a firm favourite with families.

The sailing and other water sports add to the action, or you can hire a classic deckchair and just relax with an ice cream on the beach.

#12 Stroll Bournemouth Pier

Another of Dorset’s top towns, and another family classic down in these parts, it’s the beautiful beachside spot of Bournemouth.

With some superb beaches, a bustling student community, beautiful gardens, as well as some top museums and galleries, it’s really the historic pier that seals it for me.

A retro-classic, lined with arcades and attractions, this is British seaside kitsch at its best!

#13 Fossil Find in Lyme Regis

And at number 13 on this list, we come to another great Dorset town, this time the most westerly one of Lyme Regis.

Famous for its fossil-collecting possibilities, this historic gem (it’s actually mentioned in the ancient Doomsday Book) is located in the heart of Jurassic Coast.

There’s so much to enjoy in Lyme Regis, but the jewel in its crown has to be the gorgeous harbour known as The Cobb, which has acted as a refuge since 1313 – don’t miss it!

#14 Browse Bridport

And also over in the west of Dorset, Bridport is a lovely market town filled with a cultural and creative community.

Charming and quaint, the cute independent shops and cafes of this place make it an excellent stop on a road trip or between sightseeing destinations if you’re looking to refresh and re-energise.

Regular farmer’s, vintage, vinyl, artisan and antique markets add to the offering here, as does the local Palmers Brewery and the iconic Art Deco cinema – The Electric Palace.

#15 Eat at Rick Stein’s

And now at the other end of the cultural spectrum, Sandbanks near Poole is one of the most elite places to live in the UK.

Boasting some of the most expensive coastal properties in the country, you should nevertheless take a trip to Sandbanks to just spot them!

If you’re up for even more of a special day here, then the beach is gorgeous, and there’s plenty of bouji places to treat yourself for lunch too… not least Rick Stein’s – a classic round in these here parts!

#16 Explore Brownsea Island

One of Dorset’s most magical spots in my opinion, Brownsea Island provides a unique sort of getaway.

As I was born on a tiny island, I’m always a fan, and Brownsea does not disappoint.

Managed and preserved by the National Trust, this island is known for its wildlife and is a great place to spot deer and red squirrel.

National Trust members can enter for free, but the island is only open during the summer season and you’ll need to catch a ferry here from Poole Quay if you want to enjoy it.

Day trips are possible, but to get the full experience, hitting up the campground here and staying overnight is a must.

#17 Snap Burton Bradstock & Hive Beach

Another beautiful place to visit in Dorset is the twin destination of Burton Bradstock and Hive Beach.

The latter is one of my fav strips of sand to hit up in Dorset (the café is also awesome!) and the former is one of the best and most beautiful Dorset villages going!

And that’s saying something, because the competition here is fierce!

The iconic cliffs around, and the great walking opps only add to the charm and there’s some brilliant seafood eateries here too for all you foodies.

#18 Go Back in Time at Kingston Lacy

Another National Trust classic – Kingston Lacy is a stunning historic mansion that sits in the middle of the Dorset countryside.

Built in the style of a Venetian palace, this place has to be seen to be believed and, luckily, if you’re an NT member, you can do so for free.

Yes, if you hadn’t guessed already, buying a membership if you plan to spend any time in Dorset is certainly a good idea!

With amazing gardens, meadows and heathlands outside to incredible rooms, opulent furniture and marvellous artwork inside, Kingston Lacy is a historic family home that has to be seen to be believed!

#19 Walk on Chesil Beach

Ah Chesil Beach!

As a literature student, I was first made aware of this huge shingle barrier thanks to Ian McEwan’s famous novel, which meant when I finally got to visit Dorset, I knew I had to come down here!

At 18km long, this is a pretty impressive natural spectacle, which is as wild and rugged as it sounds.

Head here for some alone time, some seriously moody walking and a load of artistic, melancholic inspiration!

#20 Hit West Bay

Very close to Bridport – just 1.5km away in fact – West Bay is so beautiful however, I thought it worthy of its own entry on this list of the best places to visit in Dorset.

Made famous as the filming location of the great British TV drama Broadchurch , this stunning cliff-backed stretch of beach is flanked by a cute harbour and can be reached from Bridport via a 20 minute stroll.

With a cute country town and an epic coastal spot both on offer, this makes for an epic combination!

West Bay is also to the start of the so-called Jurassic Coast, which is UNESCO listed, so fossil hunting is a great thing to do here.

You can also enjoy coastal and countryside walks, fishing trips, scuba diving, paragliding, golfing and river boating in and around West Bay, which is just 20 minutes on foot (or a short bus ride) from Bridport.

#21 Wildlife Spot at Mudeford Sandbank

I haven’t touched on Christchurch much on this list, but tucked over in the east of Dorset, basically nudging the New Forest in Hampshire , Mudeford Sandbank is the jewel in this area’s crown.

A unique sand spit and a designated Site of Nature Conservation Interest, this feature creates a beautiful natural barrier between Christchurch Harbour and the open ocean and is home to some of the UK’s rarest species of reptiles, birds and insects.

Accessible via bike foot, land train or ferry, the best place to head for is Hengistbury Head car park, from where you can pick up one of the first 3 options.

Passenger ferries depart from Mudeford Quay and Christchurch Quay and when you’ll arrive you’ll be greeted by a long strip of beautiful white sand.

Entrance to the spit is free – hoorah!

Just enter your details below and I'll email it to you - simple!

Information will be sent to the email provided above

Top Dorset Travel Tips

When to Visit Dorset?

There’s no question the best time to visit Dorset in my opinion is between the months of June and September when the weather is at its driest, sunniest and warmest.

Not only does this make for a more pleasant travel experience, but the better weather at this time of year will also allow you to enjoy more of the region’s beautiful landscapes too – whether that’s walking, cycling or hitting up the coast.

Within the summer months, do remember that the school holidays and sunny weekends will be by far the busiest months down here, so if you want to get the best prices or the thinnest crowds, it’s probably best to avoid these times!

As an FYI, I visited Dorset in mid-April and experienced idyllic weather that saw me hiking, beaching and sightseeing under brilliant blue skies every day, but this isn’t a given!

How to Get to Dorset?

Situated in the south of England, Dorset’s main town is Bournemouth and this place has the most regular train connections from London, along with frequent services from the nearby coastal cities of Southampton and Portsmouth.

Otherwise, the larger Dorset towns of Dorchester, Lyme Regis, Poole, Weymouth and Swanage also boast train stations and you can choose between them depending on where you are coming from and where you are basing yourself when you’re down here.

Regardless of which station you choose to arrive at, my top tip is to use Trainline to find the cheapest deals on rail tickets across the UK, as these guys use split-fare technology to get you the best prices.

Booking in advance with Trainline can throw up some surprisingly cheap fares, especially as this site also allows you to easily compare routes and journey times.

Alternatively, you can drive to Dorset – this will grant you the most flexibility when you are down in this rural county, especially if you are planning to hike and sightsee off the beaten track.

If you don’t have a car, you may consider renting one and I highly recommend Discover Cars for the job, as they offer some super deals on short-term hires and are very reputable.

Learn more about how to score a great deal when renting a car in the UK using these handy top 12 tips I swear by!

How to Get Around Dorset?

There’s no doubt that the easiest way to explore Dorset is via 4 wheels, however there are several good bus services (especially in the summer) that can help you get around if you don’t have a vehicle.

The Jurassic Coaster and Purbeck Breezer buses are probably the most useful for beach go-ers, especially those who want to enjoy parts of the Southwest Coast Path.

These tourist-friendly routes are also ideal for those who just plan to sightsee, and sitting on their top deck sure does give some epic views!

Learn more about the Purbeck Breezer here .

If you don’t want to catch public transport, then cycling is also an option for getting around Dorset.

Although there are some designated trails, as well as calm and quiet country roads to enjoy, do beware there’s plenty of hills too!

  Where to Stay in Dorset?

Bournemouth, Weymouth and Lyme Regis all have a heap of accommodation options.

However, Swanage would be my pick when it comes to a quieter beachside place to base yourself.

It’s just so beautiful there, and so near to many of Dorset’s best beaches and attractions, that it’s hard to pass up!

When it comes to accommodation in Swanage, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better deal than the YHA Swanage , which has both private rooms and dorms.

For something more suited to groups looking for some self-catering accommodation, this Shepherd’s House, also in Swanage, is a top-rated 2 bedroom house that gets regular rave reviews thanks to its excellent comfort, cleanliness and location.

Just down the road, The Bear Hotel , in Wareham offers lovely double and family rooms with an onsite bar, restaurant and a charming boutique feel.

Otherwise, over in West Dorset, the wonderful Pumpkin View Cottage is the perfect Airbnb spot for 1-2 travellers near Dorcester. The owners are delightful and the property is beautifully peaceful and clean.

5 Packing Essentials for Dorset

#1 Walking Shoes – I highly recommend these lightweight and comfortable ones from North Face , which are perfect for the job, with a great level of support for those clifftop ascents!

#2 Waterproof, Windproof Jacket – Bringing a good waterproof and windproof jacket with you, no matter when you’re coming, is just plain sensible!

#3 Swimwear & Towel – I thoroughly recommend taking swimwear and a travel towel with you, especially if you’re coming in the summer!

#4 Camera – I love my Sony A6000 , which never leaves my side during my travel adventures.

#5 Portable Charger – Come armed with 2 fully charged Anker portable chargers , so you can fire up your phone, camera or other devices whenever and wherever you need.

Where To Head After Dorset?

If Dorset has wet your appetite to explore more of the south of the UK (and who can blame you?!), then you’ll be glad to know it’s just a hop, skip and a jump to several other stunning areas around.

To the south, the wonderful Isle of Wight can easily be accessed by ferry and offers more great walking and glamping opportunities. Learn more in this list of the top things to do on the Isle of Wight .

Otherwise, to the west you have Devon and all the coastal hiking wonders this county provides or, to the east, the magnificent New Forest provides loads of great walks and cycling opps, as well as some fab pubs too!

Alternatively, to the north, the county of Somerset with the magnificent Cheddar Gorge and historic icons of Glastonbury and Wells shouldn’t be missed. Check out my list of the top 10 things to do in Somerset for more ideas.

Travel Insurance for the UK

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Travel Money in the UK

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card here… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold! Grab yours here .

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there you have it, my list of the top 21 places to visit in Dorset!

Have you been to any of these before?

Which was your favourite?

Or have I missed your top pick out?

Please join the conversation in the comments box below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

30 Rather Brilliant Things to do in Dorset

Planning to explore Dorset and not sure where to start? Don’t miss this guide to the best things to do in Dorset – brilliant places to visit, things to see and cool spots for your trip. 

Dorset is just beautiful – as someone who grew up on the outskirts of London, the first time I ventured down to Dorset as a teenager I absolutely fell in love. Who wouldn’t when the region boasts beautiful spots like Durdle Door and Lulworth Castle? 

I’m not the only one. Jane Austen loved it, Thomas Hardy was obsessed with it – but what is it about Dorset that captures people’s imaginations so? 

Time to find out with this guide to the best things to do in Dorset.

Top 5 Things to do in Dorset

Durdle door .

Gorgeous Durdle Door was England’s first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, so named back in 2001.

One glance at this quirky “doorway” and you’re sure to agree it’s a worthy inclusion. Years of erosion have left this true natural wonder, which attracts tens of thousands of eager visitors and photographers every year.

It’s not just a pretty face, either. There’s also a nice (rocky) beach not far from the rock formation, so you can easily spend a couple of hours here if the weather is good.

You can even take a tour (starting from Bournemouth) that explores both Durdle Door and Lulworth Castle in one day.

Lulworth Castle 

Arguably the most beautiful castle in the south of England, Lulworth Castle is undeniably very, very romantic.

It was first built in the sixteenth century, not as a fortification but to entertain rich guests – hence its status as a “mock” castle.

Like many old castles, it was badly damaged by a fire and largely rebuilt back in the 1920s. Today, it is open to the public to admire the beautiful interior and fancy grounds.

If you’re looking to go full British then you can even stop in for a cuppa and a cake at the castle’s tea house.

Sherborne New Castle 

Don’t be fooled. Sherborne “New” Castle is actually over 400 years old. That’s pretty old if you ask me.

In fact, Sherborne New Castle was built back in the Tudor era of the late 16th Century. The reason for the moniker is that it’s believed to have replaced an even older castle built in the 12th Century.

Old or new, the castle is very beautiful and one of the best places to visit in Dorset. You can visit the elaborate gardens most of the year, but if you want to actually get inside the castle then you’ll need to visit on a Saturday.

They also run frequent events including some pretty impressive fireworks.

Chesil Beach 

Looking to enjoy a day at the beach in Dorset? Then I highly recommend making your way over to Chesil Beach.

Now, it is a shingle (rocky) beach, which I know don’t get the same love as their sandy counterparts. However, this is a seriously excellent shingle beach.

It’s not just me who thinks so – it’s considered one of the three best and most important rocky beaches in Britain.

I mean, it goes for a staggering 12 miles (28 kilometres), which you’ve got to admit is pretty epic. Don’t miss it when you’re penning your list of Dorset places to visit.

Brownsea Island 

The biggest island in Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island is one of the most famous Dorset tourist attractions. 

Although you can easily see the mainland while you’re on Brownsea, you still get those relaxed island vibes.

There are particularly great wildlife watching opportunities on the island. It’s easy to spot the international visitors – they’re the ones squawking at the (admittedly pretty cute) squirrels.

Brownsea Island is managed by the National Trust, so if you’ve got a pass then you get in for free. Winning.

More Brilliant Things to See & Do in Dorset 

Kingston lacey .

If I ever leave London and become horrendously wealthy, I plan to stake a claim for Kingston Lacey. This 17th-century mansion is seriously impressive.

If you’re interested in history then the backstory of Kingston Lacey is a dramatic and scandal-filled read. Or, you can just wander through the gardens and dream of the good life.

As dogs are welcome, this is one of my picks for things to do with dogs in Dorset.

Fun fact – Kingston Lacey was gifted to the National Trust back in 1981, along with the equally impressive (but far less preserved) Corfe Castle. If you’ve seen them both, it’s probably no surprise to hear it was the National Trust’s largest-ever donation.

Highcliffe Castle 

As you might have picked up from this list, Dorset isn’t short on a fancy castle or two. 

Of all of them, their settings don’t get much more impressive than the stunningly beautiful Highcliffe Castle .

The name might be a bit of a giveaway as to its location – up on the hilltop, overlooking the staggeringly beautiful coastline.

It’s no surprise to hear it’s a popular wedding venue, considering it really does look like something a romance novelist cooked up. Don’t miss it when you’re looking for what to do in Dorset.

Corfe Castle 

Owned by the same family as Kingston Lacey, Corfe Castle was the other half of the National Trust’s largest-ever donation.

The result is that absolutely everybody is welcome to come and visit this iconic place of interest in Dorset .

Now, if you’ve spent much time in the UK you’ll know that we’re not exactly lacking in ruined castles – but the fascinating backstory of this one makes it particularly special.

If you’re a bit of a history geek, then you’ll want to head along to one of the special events where you can find out more about the castle during the English Civil War.

Maiden Castle 

Don’t be fooled by the name, this is not a castle in the regular sense. Instead, it’s an iron age hill fort.

In fact, it’s not just any iron age hill fort – but the oldest and most complete in Britain.

Parts of the archaeological site date back around 3,500 years, making Maiden Castle around the same age as Stonehenge. There’s also significant evidence of a Roman settlement.

So, if you’ve got any interest in European or ancient history – you’d best add this to the list of unusual things to do in Dorset.

Hunting Down Thomas Hardy in Dorchester 

If you don’t know who Thomas Hardy is, I recommend brushing up before a visit to Dorchester. The author is kind of a big deal around these parts.

If you do know of the famous author, then you’re in for a treat. The area is peppered with plenty of sites relating to his life.

Dorchester itself inspired many of his novels, while you can also drop by to see his family home. The Dorset County Museum also houses several original manuscripts.

Cerne Giant 

Kids, look away now. Turns out drawing, ah, questionably-clad figures on things is not a modern invention.

Case in point: the Cerne Giant . Standing at 55 metres high and totally starkers, this is certainly one of the more memorable places to see in Dorset.

While some early historians thought that it was prehistoric, recent studies pitch it as a piece of political satire from around the 17th century.

If so, they really did leave their mark on the landscape.

Abbotsbury Swannery

For a seriously amazing and unique experience, head down to the Abbotsbury Swannery , one of the most exciting things to do in Dorset.

This area is home to more than 600 mute swans, including hundreds of breeding pairs. It’s a totally unique attraction, being the only place on earth where you can walk through a colony of mute swans.

If you’ve got any interest in wildlife photography or are looking to rack up the likes on Instagram – be sure to bring a camera.

Portland Castle 

In the mid 16th Century, Henry VIII (the one who famously offed his wives) built a number of fortifications along the coast of England. This was so that Old Blighty could be protected from the cunning French and Spanish.

One of these was Portland Castle , and it’s one of the best preserved examples of a coastal fort. Today, you can check it out and also admire the sweeping views from it.

Walk in the Footsteps of Jane Austen at Lyme Regis 

Now, I could tell you that Lyme Regis is beautiful – but I suspect you’ll put more weight on the words of Jane Austen. 

The famous author described it breathlessly in her novel Persuasion, having visited the area at least twice on research missions.

Whether you love Jane Austen’s novels or just trust her (or my) judgement on beautiful places, it’s a great option if you’re looking for where to go in Dorset.

Sherborne Abbey 

There are quite a lot of old abbeys around England, however many of them have been ruined due to the Dissolution of the Monasteries. 

That’s why it’s so fascinating to visit a well-preserved one like Sherborne Abbey .

It’s believed to have been a spiritually significant site since at least 705, although much of what is on display dates from the 13th and 15th centuries.

Forde Abbey

Yet another beautiful old abbey is Forde Abbey , which is a privately owned Cistern Abbey. 

Originally started by 12 monks in the 12th century, the abbey is (unsurprisingly) Grade I heritage listed.

Far from being a dusty museum, the Abbey is open to the public to explore and admire. It’s set amongst over 1,600 acres of beautiful gardens, making it a fabulous thing to do in Dorset for adults – although kids may also appreciate the wide green space.

Free Things to do in Dorset 

Bournemouth beach .

Dorset is famous for its beautiful coast, and with beautiful coast comes beautiful beaches. Like Bournemouth Beach.

Technically, Bournemouth actually has several beaches that overlap, offering a magnificent seven miles of dazzling sand and surf.

They’re well-maintained, with lifeguards and constant cleanups, making them some of the most popular in England. For good reason.

Isle of Portland 

Located about five miles out to sea in the English Channel, the Isle of Portland is a seriously cool place to visit.

It’s just far enough away that you feel like you’re on a real adventure. Plus, all the cool maritime-inspired attractions like the historic lighthouse adds to the feeling of being a real explorer.

As well as the attractions including a castle and museum, the Isle is also famous for its gorgeous wild scenery – so strap on those walking shoes and get ready for a hike.

Isle of Purbeck 

Yet another spot to take in some seriously gorgeous coastal views is the Isle of Purbeck. 

So, sorry to burst your bubble, but the Isle of Purbeck is not technically an island. That said, it is surrounded by water on three sides – so close enough, I guess?

Island or no, it’s got amazing coastal views for miles and miles. There’s also a golf club if you consider yourself a Tiger Woods in the making.

Sandbanks Poole 

Sandbanks Poole is home to one of the best beaches in all of Britain. If you don’t believe me just ask the local real estate agents – rich people are falling over themselves to secure a home nearby.

I certainly don’t blame them – this sandy, wide beach is enough to make you think you’ve popped up in the south of France.

There’s also a very beautiful harbour, as well as a small selection of shops and cafes to browse as well.

Weymouth Beach 

If you’re looking for beaches, then Dorset really does deliver. 

Weymouth Beach is yet another popular option, thanks to its long stretch of soft sand and calm, warm water. 

Located along the Jurassic Coast, it’s also got pretty beautiful views and is a great stop off after a hike.

Stair Hole Bay 

You know those places that are super gorgeous and tend to go viral on Instagram? Stair Hole Bay is one of those places — minus the viral fame (for now).

Not far from Lulworth Cove, it’s a little pool of dazzling blue with interesting rock formations around.

It’s a popular route with kayakers, or you can make your way down to it – I just recommend wearing some sturdy footwear so you don’t take a tumble.

Tout Quarry 

Mining isn’t usually associated with beauty, but in the case of Tout Quarry, they’ve really made the best of a bad situation.

In fact, this abandoned stone quarry has become one of Portland’s most famous attractions since it was turned into a sculpture park.

There’s more than 60 sculptures to discover, with artists completing residencies since the 1980s. 

Cool Things Do in Dorset in the Rain 

Sea life .

Learn more about the world under the sea at Sea Life in Dorset. With sixteen themed areas, you can be dazzled by the different sea creatures.

There are plenty of interesting and informative things to do at Sea Life, however my personal favourite is to visit the teensy Little Penguins. They’re the smallest penguins in the world, and seriously cute.

They run lots of fun events, especially in the school holidays – so check out the website to see what’s on.

Dorset County Museum 

One of the oldest museums in the south of England, the Dorset County Museum was set up way back in the mid 1800s.

In fact, it replaced a pub – I guess I have to admit that’s better for your brain cells.

The design is distinctly Neo-Gothic on the inside and out, which is pretty cool. Inside, things are even better.

There’s an impressive collection of objects relating to the Dorset area. It’s a wide-spanning collection, from local author Thomas Hardy’s original manuscripts to fossilised dinosaur footprints.

Lyme Regis Museum 

I just love cute little local museums, and the Lyme Regis Museum is a beauty. 

The museum was built back in 1901, by Thomas Philpott. His aunt – and the inspiration for the museum – was Elizabeth Philpott. Elizabeth was a fossil collector so prolific that she ended up with her own Wikipedia page.

Fittingly, the museum is mainly devoted to fossils and geology of the Jurassic Coast area. However, the collection is wider, incorporating local and maritime history as well.

If you’re looking for things to do in Dorset on a rainy day, this is a great option.

Unusual Things to do in Dorset

Old harry rocks .

Marking the most easterly point of the incredibly beautiful Jurassic Coast Path, the Old Harry Rock s are quite the spectacle.

Jutting out of the water, they’re a stark white against the blue of the ocean and green of the mainland. 

No wonder that photographers (and nature lovers) are kind of obsessed with them. 

If you want to see this Dorset attraction you’ll want to hurry on over – one (Harry’s Wife) has already collapsed.

Tyneham Ghost Village

Since WWII, Dorset’s Tyneham Village has been completely abandoned – in 1943, the villagers who resided there were given notice that they would need to leave within 28 days as the area was required in order to train soldiers.

But today, the village still sits in ruins. It’s really cool to wander around and see a quaint English village frozen in time, completely undisturbed. Keep your eyes peeled for the ultra-retro phone box – London who?

Pirate’s Graveyard

St Andrew’s Church in Portland is known by many by its creepier title, the Pirate’s Graveyard. 

Sitting underneath the equally-spooky Portland Castle are the ruins of the church and the bones of smugglers who used to operate within the region. Not to mention the incredible sea view. Make sure to visit the castle while you’re there.

I won’t lie, it’s a bit eerie, but it’s a great place to bring older kids along to.

Knob Throwing

Yes, you read that correctly – this cheeky biannual event involves hurling the area’s famous bread rolls – (or is it a biscuit?) – known as Dorset knobs, FYI. A food market also takes place alongside the event, so you’ll get to try out local delicacies.

Bear with me on this one. Attractions include: Knob eating, knob painting, guessing the weight of the Big Knob (I’m not making this up, I swear), and a knob and spoon race.

Whilst the exact date and location changes each year, this is a pretty unique way to spend a day in Dorset. 

Places to Visit in Dorset: Practical Tips for Your Trip

How long should i stay in dorset .

As you can see from this list, for a relatively quiet place there is a lot to do in Dorset. Many people choose to spend extended breaks here, enjoying the amazing sights and relaxed seaside atmosphere.

A few days to a week will give you plenty of time to explore – which is especially ideal if you like history and hope to take a deep dive into the sights.

That said, if you’re on a tight time frame then an overnight trip from London is possible. It’s best to do this in summer when the days are long, giving you enough time to really explore it.

Best Time to Visit Dorset

Since Dorset is on the coast, you’ll see it at its best during summer. At this time, the sun is (often) shining and rain is at a minimum – meaning you can enjoy sunny days at the beach.

Of course, you won’t be the only one who thinks so, so prepare to share the beach.

If you prefer the peace and quiet, then late spring or early summer are good alternatives. They may be on the cool side, but you won’t have to compete with the crowds.

Where Should I Stay in Dorset? 

While there are plenty of hotels in Dorset, it’s a fabulous destination for a self-catered holiday as there’s plenty to keep you entertained for the course of a week or two and you can settle in to explore the area at your leisure.. 

Dorset Coastal Cottages offers a range of comfortable and stylish properties dotted around the Dorset, including fabulous options in Lyme Regis, Lulworth and the Isle of Purbeck.

Dorset Attractions: Map 

Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

14 Stunning Castles in England You Have to Visit

Best Places to Stay in Bath: Best Areas & Hotels For Your Trip

The Best Luxury Hotels in London: Elegant, Stylish and Quirky Stays

55 Interesting Facts about London I’ll Bet You Never Knew

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

10 of the prettiest places in Dorset

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Cursing the often snail-paced traffic heading west on the A303 or getting stuck behind a dawdling tractor as you weave your way along to the Jurassic Coast is par for the course on a trip to Dorset . But it’s the absence of a motorway that is perhaps the county’s secret weapon. Nearly half of Dorset is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with villages that whisk you back to a bygone era and a sprawling coastline with long, windswept beaches, as well as quiet coves that trick you into thinking you might just have been the first to discover them. Here we've rounded up the loveliest spots in Dorset.

Durdle Door, near Lulworth

So unreal is this 200-foot arch rising out of the inky English Channel that you’ll find yourself questioning whether this really can all be Mother Nature’s work. It was formed 25 million years ago when the unrelenting sea pierced through the limestone, leaving a structural feat in its wake. Set up camp on the swathe of shingle beach in the bay, dipping in and out of the turquoise sea closer to shore before gearing up for a swim under the arch, a rite of passage once you’ve made it here. Afterwards, hit the coastal path heading east to marvel at another natural masterpiece, Lulworth Cove – a near-perfect scallop-shaped harbour.

Ashmore, near Shaftesbury

Set 700ft above sea level on Cranborne Chase is Dorset’s highest village, where thatched cottages sit around a clay-lined dew pond. Ashmore appeared in the Domesday Book as Aisemere, derived from Old English and meaning ‘ pool where the ash trees grow’. There’s a feeling of splendid isolation here; in 1963 a snowstorm cut it off entirely for weeks. But this sleepy spot comes alive on the summer solstice each year with the ancient Filly Loo celebration. Expect an otherworldly mix of characters including the Green Man, antlered deer-men, Morris dancers and torches lit around the pond for the final fling.

Abbotsbury Hill, near Weymouth

Muster the energy to climb this hill and the prize is a panoramic view of all 18 miles of Chesil Beach , a shingle barrier that sweeps from West Bay to Portland, with fishermen hoping for mackerel scattered along it. This is a place brimming with history: the Iron Age hill fort of Abbotsbury Castle was once occupied by the Celtic Durotriges tribe before the Romans invaded. In the foreground from high up on the chalk hill is the 14th-century St Catherine’s Chapel sitting all alone, built by the monks of the abbey. Beyond is the impossibly pretty village of Abbotsbury, where the vast medieval tithe barn – which appeared in the 1967 film adaptation of Far From the Madding Crowd – is one of the showpieces among the rows of thatched cottages.

Gold Hill, Shaftesbury

It’s thanks to the 1973 Hovis bread advert directed by Sir Ridley Scott that this cobbled hill in Shaftesbury shot to fame. In the years since, it seems to have become embedded in our subconscious as a symbol of bucolic bliss, with its higgledy-piggledy roofs and patchwork Dorset farmland beyond. Here is a tiny slither of England that lets you forget it’s the 21st century, with sleepy cottages on one side of the street and the Grade II-listed walls of Shaftesbury Abbey (founded by King Alfred the Great) running alongside the other. Grab a coffee and a cinnamon-spiced Lovington bun from Pamplemousse, the florist/café in town, before you make the steep descent – bracing yourself for a breathless climb back up.

White Mill Bridge, near Wimborne Minster

Downstream from an 18th-century retired corn mill on the edge of Sturminster Marshall is the handsome White Mill Bridge, where eight red and white arches straddle the River Stour. Paddle in the shallows and admire what is thought to be the oldest bridge in Dorset (the timber pilings that it stands on date from the 12th century), or head 500 yards downstream for a proper dip, where gravel shallows make way for deeper waters. Hearty swimmers might want to head on to Eye Bridge near the largely thatched village of Pamphill. Here wildlife buffs can spot kingfishers and herons, while others can marvel at the 17th-century Italian-inspired Kingston Lacy mansion and its grand grounds, which include a seven-acre Japanese garden. 10 Castle Street, a smart member's club with rooms is a 15 minute drive away. Book your stay at 10 Castle Street

Studland Bay, near Swanage

You can’t help feeling a little smug as you explore this four-mile stretch of coastline. While sunbathers along much of the rest of Dorset’s shores master that undignified hobble across pebbles and curse the rocks they’re lying on, here the sand is soft and golden. Bag a bedroom at The Pig’s Studland outpost for easy access to South Beach – two-storey The Lookout comes with its own hut – and enjoy a day of buckets and spades. Follow the bay round and you’ll reach Middle, Knoll and Shell beaches (plus a half-mile dedicated naturist area in the mix), with rugged dunes behind and the Old Harry Rocks formation standing proudly at the southern end.

Book your stay at The Pig on the Beach

Sherborne Abbey, Sherborne

The approach to the abbey, down honey-coloured Cheap Street, is riddled with temptation ( Bella Freud sweaters and Penelope Chilvers boots at The Circus, French antiques at D’Urberville and Dorset cave-aged Cheddar at deli Ingredients). But you’ll be well-rewarded for persevering – on visiting in 1823, John Constable declared it ‘a magnificent church finer than Salisbury Cathedral’. Don’t forget to look heavenwards at the acclaimed fan-vaulted roof; then there’s the splendour of a Saxon doorway at the west end of the north aisle and the heaviest peal of eight bells in the world, as well as the graves of two Saxon kings.

Burton Bradstock, near Bridport

With its thatched roofs and yellow stone, the village of Burton Bradstock might strike you as yet another dose of Dorset’s plentiful chocolate-box offering. But here the brilliantly unspoilt Hive beach, less than a mile away from the centre, sets it apart. Found alongside looming cliffs and rolling farmland, the Hive Beach Café has been refuelling walkers and swimmers with monkfish sandwiches and heaps of king prawns with garlic mayonnaise for about 30 years. Meanwhile, up a few steps to the left is the slightly smarter Seaside Boarding House for a rosé lunch. And just three miles away is Bridport , dubbed Notting Hill on Sea, where sleepy village life is given a shake-up: there’s the Art Deco Electric Palace cinema and theatre; East Asian-inspired small plates at Dorshi, and a sprawling vintage and antiques market.

Book your stay at The Seaside Boarding House

Chapman’s Pool, near Swanage

Not everyone has the energy for the two-mile hike from the pretty village of Worth Matravers to this hidden cove cut into the cliffs at St Aldhelm’s Head on the Isle of Purbeck – but you’ll be glad you did. Even in the height of summer – while nearby Lulworth Cove, whose geology is considered a little superior, can heave with tourists – it’s unlikely for more than 20 people to be found dotted along this shoreline. Among them will be fossil hunters – shells, reptiles and ammonites are often found here – and others simply looking to escape the crowds with a book on the shingle beach or a potter in the rock pools.

Corfe Castle, near the Purbeck Hills

The crumbling ruins of Corfe Castle look their most magical at sunset, when the light catches the Purbeck limestone. This spot has a colourful past: once a Saxon stronghold and later a Norman fortress. Throw in the sound of the steam train pulling into the village’s station from Swanage, and the rolling Purbeck Hills that surround it, and you can see why Enid Blyton’s holidays to this corner of Dorset prompted her to rattle out her treasured children’s tales. Corfe Castle itself is thought to have inspired Kirrin Castle in Five on a Treasure Island (published a year after her visit) and its fictional reincarnation perfectly describes what’s here today: ‘Broken archways, tumbledown towers, ruined walls – that was all that was left of a once beautiful castle, proud and strong. Now the jackdaws nested in it and the gulls sat on the topmost stones. “It looks awfully mysterious,” said Julian.’

Like this? Now read:

The 20 most beautiful villages in the UK and Ireland

The most beautiful places in England

The best weekend breaks in the UK and Ireland

Adventures of Alice

25 Wonderful Things to Do in Dorset, England in 2024

Sharing is caring!

Looking for the best things to do in Dorset? It’s one of my favourite places in England and these are all of my top tips for exploring the Jurassic Coastline, pretty towns and villages, and so much more.

Dorset is a beautiful county and one of the most incredible seaside destinations in southwest England. Having spent plenty of summers exploring the coastline of Dorset, the country has a special place in my heart.

We first visited Dorset on part of our road trip around southern England. We’ve since returned a lot to explore the area more in-depth. From discovering beautiful hilltop castles to many coastal walks, I cannot get enough of how beautiful this part of the UK is.

If you are looking for somewhere new to explore in England, or just want some inspiration on what places to visit, then Dorset is one of the places I always recommend to people. And I’m pretty sure you’ll fall in love with it too!

My favourite travel resources for Dorset

✅ Here’s the best area of Dorset to stay . ✅ Don’t miss this amazing boat tour in Dorset , ✅ Don’t forget your travel insurance .

My Favourite Things to Do in Dorset

Although the county is best known for its miles of beautiful coastline and picturesque views, Dorset has many fantastic attractions. These are some of my favourites, and all of my top tips.

1. Admire Durdle Door

Cost : Free to visit. £12 to park for all-day parking or £6 per 4 hours.

The Durdle Door is the most famous attraction in Dorset and possibly the most well-known natural stone arch in Europe. As such, it has been a popular destination for many years.

Located near Lulworth on a beach that’s a mixture of pebble and sand, the archway dates back to the Jurassic Period, roughly 190 million years ago. It’s pretty impressive and towers 200 meters above sea level.

The beach next to Durdle Door is a great place for swimming in the summer months or exploring on foot at any time of year. There are lots of coastal walks in this area.

You can technically walk along the coast to West Bay and see reach like Old Harry Rocks by following the South West Coastal Path. But, that’ll take around 6 hours! If you want a slightly more doable day hike, I recommend the walk between Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.

Durdle Door can be visited any time of day for free, although you will need to pay a parking charge. It’s £12 for all-day parking.

It can also (understandably) get rather busy, as it’s a beautiful and popular spot so, if you want photographs without lots of tourists, I recommend visiting early morning or later in the evening.

✅ I recommend this Jurassic Coast Islands tour

2. Explore Corfe Castle

Cost : £12 off-peak time, £13 peak time per adult

Corfe Castle is one of the finest Norman castles in England. Located near Wimborne and Corfe, it can be found on a hilltop overlooking Purbeck District in Dorset. The castle was originally built by William the Conqueror as part of his invasion during the 11th century.

The castle is incredibly impressive to look at. Even from the ground, you can see just how impressive it must’ve looked back in the day.

You will find a strong reminder that this castle has seen conflict: battlements were reinforced with guns during Cromwell’s time and some scars remain from World War II. 

This site offers an excellent day out for those who love exploring places with history. The entrance is £12-£13 per adult.

3. Visit Lulworth Cove

Cost : Free to visit. 4 hours parking is £6.

Another treasure of the Jurassic Coast, Lulworth Cove is one of the best things to do in Dorset for those who love the sea or want a nice coastal walk.

As you arrive, you will walk down a slop lined with coastal pubs and taverns. If you want to eat here I suggest booking in advance as they get very busy.

At the bottom, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of Lulworth Cove and its multi-coloured cliffs leading out into the blue water beyond.

This cove offers visitors many places to explore: from rock pools that harbour starfish, urchins, and other wonders of nature; to places where people can enjoy cliff-diving (with care) in warm weather.

Lulworth Cove is also free to enter, but you’ll once again need to pay a parking fee if you go there by car.

4. Wander Around The Isle of Portland

Cost : Free to explore.

Portland is a limestone island and the only place in England where natural Portland stone can be found. The island is surrounded by water on three sides, and the unique barrier beach of Chesil Beach joins it to the mainland.

There’s plenty to do here if you’re looking for something active. With bike paths through beautiful countryside, and hikes through the scenic Forest Park.

There is a selection of historical sites too like the Portland Museum and the Portland Plateau. It’s no surprise why this is such a popular place to visit in Dorset. 

5. Visit Portland Castle

Cost : £7 per adult

If you’re a history-lover, be sure to visit Portland Castle. This impressive striking coastal fort on the Isle of Portland dates back to the early 17th century. It’s very well-preserved and inside, you can learn a lot about England’s maritime history.

Originally constructed by Henry VIII to defend against invasion from France and Spain, Portland Castle has an intriguing hexagonal design. From the towers and gun platforms, you can see over the English Channel.

Over the centuries, the castle has played a vital role in safeguarding the shores of the UK . Today, you can explore reconstructed rooms showing what things used to be like on the island, the gun rooms, weapons, and more.

6. Explore the Town of Weymouth

I love Weymouth . This was where we stayed last time we visited Dorset and I absolutely loved it there. It’s an enchanting blend of coastal charm, family-friendly attractions, and historical attractions, nestled along the stunning Jurassic Coast.

It also has a picturesque sandy beach, lined with colourful beach huts and backed by an elegant Georgian seafront. The town’s bustling harbour is well worth a visit with its lively quayside cafes and seafood restaurants. It’s the perfect perfect spot to watch fishing boats bobbing in the water and soak up the vibrant maritime atmosphere.

You can also explore the historic Old Town where you’ll find narrow streets lined with quaint shops, traditional pubs, and historic buildings.

You can enjoy lots of typical English seaside attractions here like donkey rides on the beach or thrilling rides at the bustling Weymouth Pleasure Pier. It’s a great spot for a family day out.

7. Explore the Nothe Fort

Cost : £9.95 per adult

If you do decide to travel to Weymouth (I highly recommend it), take a trip to the Nothe Fort. This is one of the best places to visit in Dorset, as it offers another fantastic glimpse into England’s history.

The Fort hosts many exhibitions, tours, and activities for those who arrive. This includes everything from exploring World War II battlefields to demonstrations of how soldiers used to live here during wartime. To top it all off, there are fantastic views across the Weymouth coast from the top. 

The entrance fee is £9.50 for adults or free for English Heritage members.

8. Explore Bournemouth Oceanarium

Travel a little further down Dorset’s coast and you’ll find Bournemouth. For those who love marine life and want to see what it’s like below the waves, take a trip to Bournemouth Oceanarium.

This aquarium is home to over 20 habitats. You’ll see places that mimic coral reefs, tidal pools with starfish and crabs, and even a shark tunnel where you watch the sharks swimming above you.

There are many opportunities for visitors to get up close and personal with creatures of all shapes and sizes here. As well as this, there are live interactive shows every day which make an excellent experience even better.

It’s a great experience for a rainy day in Bournemouth and one of the best things to do in Dorset with kids.

✅ I recommend this tour of the Jurassic Coast from Bournemouth

9. Visit Portland Bill Lighthouse

Cost : £8 per adult to enter the lighthouse.

I absolutely loved it here, despite the slightly dreary weather when we visited, and it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Dorset.

You’ll find the iconic Portland Bill Lighthouse perched dramatically on top of the rugged cliffs of Portland Bill. First lit in 1906, this lighthouse has guided sailors safely along the treacherous coastline of the English Channel for over a century.

It’s an impressive 41 meters (135 feet) tall and has a very powerful light that can be seen up to 25 nautical miles away!

When you visit, you can explore the lighthouse itself, and the surrounding area. One of my favourite parts of the area was a tall structure of rocks that juts out from the main cliffs to the right of the lighthouse.

This is known as Pulpit Rock, and you can actually climb up the side of it for stunning views over the coastline.

I recommend this with caution though. There’s no support up there, and the grooves in the rock are a little bit precarious. So, tread carefully, and I don’t recommend doing this in bad weather.

10. Go for a Walk in Upton Country Park

Cost : Free

For those who fancy exploring the outdoors, take a trip to Upton Country Park.

It’s just 30 minutes away from the centre of Bournemouth and offers visitors some fantastic places to explore in nature. This includes woodland, heathland, ponds, and even a set of small caves.

This country park also offers many different route options for those who like exploring by bike, or if you are feeling more adventurous try out one of their many hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty. 

11. Visit The D-Day Center

Cost : £10 per adult

Another spectacular historical attraction located in Portland, the D-Day Cente is easily one of the best things to do in Dorset. If you love history, this is a must-see since it showcases one of the most pivotal moments of modern history.

Situated in a former military building overlooking Weymouth Harbour, the centre is a tribute to the thousands of Allied troops who departed from the town’s shores to participate in the D-Day landings during World War II. Inside, you’ll find immersive exhibits, artefacts, and interactive displays, you can gain insight into the planning, execution, and legacy of D-Day.

You can also read personal stories of bravery and detailed accounts of the equipment and strategies they used at the time. It’s fascinating, but also incredibly sobering.

12. Go Wild at The Tunnel Tree Tops

Cost : £17.50 per adult for an hour session

This award-winning treetop adventure is one of the best places to visit in Dorset for adrenaline junkies. It’s also a great place to visit if you’re looking for something that the whole family will love.

Tunnel Tree Tops offers an exciting adventure activity and places of natural beauty in one. The high ropes course is located in West Dorset, just outside Charmouth, and 2 miles from the Jurassic Coast.

The forest is also an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and you’ll find stunning views, breathtaking moments of joy, and the opportunity to get up close and personal with nature.

The high-ropes course consists of 11 wooden elements that can take you up into the trees. There are aerial walkways, rope bridges, tree swings, and 3 zip wires as part of their course. The price is £15 per adult.

13. Explore Dorset’s Natural Parks

Cost : Free to visit.

Dorset has some of the most beautiful national parks in the UK. These are some of the best places to visit in Dorset for those who love nature, rural communities, or even historic buildings.

Some of the best National parks in Dorset include:

• The Jurassic Coast AONB,
• The New Forest,
• Durlston Country Park,
• Studland Bay Nature Reserve

For those looking for more than just one day out, there’s also National Trust’s Kingston Lacey , which is a beautiful country house. It houses Egyptian artefacts, a Japanese garden, and a beautiful woodland park.

14. Explore the Village of Abbotsbury

Cost : Free to explore

If you love adorable little English villages , you’re going to love it here! Easily one of the best places to visit in Dorset, you can explore the charming streets and picturesque countryside of Dorset.

Steeped in history and surrounded by rolling green hills, Abbotsbury is a really peaceful spot. The village is known for its stunning views, quaint thatched cottages, and winding streets lined with local shops and tea rooms.

One of Abbotsbury’s most famous attractions is the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, a beautiful collection of paradise of exotic plants and vibrant floral displays nestled in a sheltered valley.

Nearby, you can also explore the ruins of Abbotsbury Abbey, a medieval monastery with a rich and fascinating history.

15. Explore the Bournemouth Aviation Museum

For those who are interested in aviation history, the Bournemouth Aviation Museum is one of the best things to do in Dorset.

This museum has an interesting mix of exhibits which include planes from World War II; jets – including Concorde and many others; and helicopters that visitors can view up close for themselves too. You can also see collections of aviation memorabilia, trophies, and photographs.

16. Go for a Walk Along Chesil Beach

Cost : Free to visit

One of the most beautiful and dramatic landscapes in Dorset, Chesil Beach is a natural wonder of the region. In fact, it’s also one of the natural wonders of the entire UK!

Stretching for approximately 18 miles along the Jurassic Coast, Chesil Beach is a stunning shingle barrier beach that separates the Fleet Lagoon from the open waters of the English Channel.

Its unique formation and dramatic landscape make it a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor adventurers. You can explore the beautiful pebble ridge, which rises to heights of up to 15 meters (49 feet) in some places, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.

The beach is also a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot a variety of bird species, marine life, and rare plants along its shores. There is a small visitor centre in the car park too, where you can learn about the wildlife in the area.

17. Visit Abbotsbury Swannery

Cost : £12.50 per adult.

Another one for the bird-lovers, Abbotsbury Swannery is one of the most famous attractions in Dorset. Located in the village of Abbotsbury, this historic swannery is the only place in the world where you can walk among hundreds of free-flying mute swans.

Established over 600 years ago by Benedictine monks, the swannery is steeped in years of history and surrounded by lush gardens and ponds. You can get quite close to these majestic birds and learn about their habitat nesting habits.

If you look in the reed beds, you can quite often see their nests and watch them tend to their cygnets during the breeding season.

There are several guided talks and feeding sessions throughout the day at the Swannery. These provide further insights into the behaviour and conservation efforts of these beautiful birds.

18. Visit Monkey World Ape Rescue

Cost : £16.50 online and £18.50 at the door

Another chance to explore the natural world, Monkey World is home to over 400 rescued primates of many different species.

Visitors can get up close and personal with these creatures in their natural enclosures, whilst learning about the work they do here. This rescue centre has developed massively since it was founded.

It’s now home to more than twenty species of monkeys, all of whom were rescued from labs, circuses, pet shops, or even television. Entry is £16 per adult.

19. Take a Trip to Brownsea Island

Cost : £9.50 per adult for entrance to the island and £13 for the ferry

For a day trip away from the coast, take a ride to Brownsea Island. This is just off of Poole and it’s actually the largest island in Poole harbour.

The island is owned by the National Trust and there are some fantastic places to explore on this island. This includes woodland walks, nature reserves, lakes with beautiful views, and you can even see rare red squirrels.

To get there, you’ll need to take the foot ferry from Poole Quay. It takes about 20 minutes and costs £13 per person for one-way travel. It’s open all year round too, so it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Dorset.

✅ I recommend this Poole Islands Cruise

20. Visit The Tutankhamun Exhibition

Cost : £16 per adult

The Tutankhamun Exhibition is a must-see for anyone visiting the west coast of England. It’s located in Dorchester and offers visitors an incredible chance to explore ancient Egypt.

This is a must-see for anyone with an interest in history and culture. It places the famous discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb into a social context.

This beautiful museum tells the story of this ancient pharaoh, with some incredible interactive exhibits and immersive displays. You’ll also find artefacts from this period. This includes everyday items as well as some of the world’s most famous treasures.

21. Go Fossil Hunting at Lyme Regis

One of the most intriguing and beautiful beaches in the UK , Lyme Regis is also home to an incredible Jurassic past. Finding fossils on the area’s beaches is one of the top things to see in Dorset.

The fossils found here date back as far as 350 million years ago. This is the perfect place for those who enjoy geology or simply want to learn more about our past. 

22. Go for a Game of Crazy Golf

Cost : Varies by company. Expect to pay around £8 per game.

Sometimes, you just can’t beat a round of crazy golf. And it’s one of the best things to do in Dorset as the county is home to plenty of courses.

Most places have 18-hole courses and have everything from Dinasour-themed golf to complicated obstacles. There are also both indoor and outdoor courses. A few of the best ones are:

• Sandbanks Crazy Golf – Poole
• Weymouth Pirate Adventure Golf – Weymouth
• Mr Mulligans – Bournemouth
• Smuggler’s Cove – Bournemouth
• Santa Fe Fun Park – Swanage

23. Enjoy the Watersports

Cost : Varies depending on what you do. Expect to pay at least £30 per person.

As well as fun to be had on dry land, you can also participate in plenty of watersports in Dorset. You can go kayaking around Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, take a boat ride, explore places like Bournemouth Pier, or even go windsurfing.

There are also places to visit that offer some more unusual sports too – like indoor surfing.

24. Hike to the Old Harry Rocks

The Old Harry Rocks are a great place for anyone looking to explore the coast. The three chalk formations are similar to the Needles on the Isle of Wight . They’re located at Handfast Point, on the Isle of Purbeck.

The rocks mark the most easterly point of the Jurassic Coastline. The walk to the rocks is about a mile long. It takes roughly 35 minutes (depending on your pace and how many photographs you stop to take!).

These rocks offer up an unforgettable view from this stretch of coastline and it’s a must-see spot on any visit to Dorset.

25. Attend Dorset’s Festivals

Cost : Depends on the festival

The county of Dorset has festivals all year round. Places like Bournemouth and Poole host some of the most popular in this part of England .

Some of the best festivals to visit in Dorset:

• Dorset Seafood Festival,
• Bestival and Camp Bestival,
• The AONB’s Great Dorset Steam Fair,
• Swanage Music Festival + Carnival,
• Sidmouth Folk Week,
• Weymouth Blues Weekend

With a range of activities from culture through to live music, these festivals are some of the best things to do in Dorset.

How Long Do You Need in Dorset?

Put it this way, I’ve visited Dorset 4 times, spent weeks there and I still haven’t seen everything! If you really want to explore the county in-depth, you could spend a month in Dorset easily. However, for a first-time visit, I recommend spending around a week there.

This will give you time to explore the Jurassic Coastline, go on a few countryside walks, explore Corfe Castle, and a few of the towns like Weymouth and Portland . You’ll also have time to explore Abbostbury and visit some of the beaches nearby.

How to get to Dorset

Dorset is located in the southwest of England and it’s about 3 hours southwest of London. If you’re travelling from the capital, there are several ways to get there:

• By Car : If you’re travelling by car, it’s a pretty straightforward drive. Major roads such as the M3, M27, and A31 provide access to Dorset from London and other parts of England.
• By Train: Dorset is served by several railway stations, including major hubs like Bournemouth, Poole, and Dorchester. Direct trains run from London Waterloo to these stations, with journey times typically ranging from 2 to 3 hours.
• By Bus: National Express and local bus services connect Dorset with other towns and cities across the UK. Bus routes often terminate at major towns like Bournemouth, Poole, and Weymouth.
• By Air: The nearest major airport to Dorset is Bournemouth Airport (BOH), which offers domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi or public transportation to reach your final destination in Dorset.

Once you’ve arrived in Dorset, it’s much easier to get between destinations with a hire car . This will also give you the freedom to visit some of Dorset’s more remote areas as some of the historic sights aren’t the easiest to reach via public transport.

However, if you don’t want to hire a car, you can get around with a combination of buses and taxis.

✅ I recommend this company for hiring a car in the UK

Where to Stay in Dorset

Since Dorset is quite a large area, it can be tricky to know where to base yourself if you plan to explore the county. However, here are a few of my favourite places to stay:

• Jurassic Coast : The Jurassic Coast is one of the reasons you’ve come to Dorset, right? But there are actually plenty of places to stay along the World Heritage coastline. Towns like Lyme Regis, Charmouth, and West Bay offer plenty of options with easy access to the coast.

• Bournemouth : As one of Dorset’s largest coastal resorts, Bournemouth offers a wide range of accommodation options. With its sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Bournemouth is perfect for families, couples, and groups looking for a lively seaside destination.
• Dorchester : This historic market town, located inland, serves as the county town of Dorset. Dorchester has a rich heritage, with attractions like Maiden Castle, the Dorset County Museum, and Thomas Hardy’s Cottage. It’s a great base for exploring both the countryside and coastal areas.
• Weymouth : Another popular coastal town, Weymouth is known for its picturesque harbour, sandy beach, and family-friendly attractions like the Sea Life Adventure Park and Sandworld Sculpture Park. You can stay in waterfront hotels, holiday parks, campsites, and much more.
• Lulworth Cove and Wareham : These areas provide access to some of Dorset’s most iconic landmarks, including Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, and Corfe Castle. Accommodation options include hotels, B&Bs, and holiday cottages, offering a peaceful setting amidst breathtaking scenery.

✅ Discover more of the best places to stay in Dorset

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Dorset

Dorset is one of my favourite counties in the UK . There is so much to see here, from fossil-filled coastlines to natural wonders, charming villages, and beautiful walking trails .

You can explore historic castles one minute and then laze on a beautiful beach the next. It’s a stunning part of England, and I hope this post has inspired you to visit Dorset .

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Some of the links above may be affiliate links that earn me a commission at no extra cost to you. If you purchase through my links – thank you so much! I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a travel blogger, content creator, and founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy, she embraced her passions and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

Based in the UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and going off-the-beaten-path, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

Similar Posts

14 Best Things to Do in Somerset, England

Somerset is a charming English county and the perfect place to go for a UK getaway. Here are the 14 best things to do in Somerset.

1 Day in London: The Perfect One Day London Itinerary

From Big Ben to the London Eye, if you only have 1 day in London, here are the best things to add to your London itinerary.

14 Incredible Beaches in The UK

Many of the best beaches in the UK are places that people haven’t even heard of. Here are the 14 best seaside destinations that you’ll love!

90+ Free Things to Do in London: A Guide for Locals and Tourists

If you’re trying to explore London on a budget, here are more than 90 amazing free things to do in London, from museums to markets and more!

Best Hikes in the UK: 14 Most Incredible Trails

Are you ready to explore some gorgeous UK hiking trails? From weekend walks to multi-day hikes, here are the best hikes in the UK.

13 Hidden Gems in London You Have to Visit

From overgrown churches to hidden temples, there is much more to London than meets the eye. These are the 13 top hidden gems in London.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Los Angeles

The 9 best things to do in Dorset

Explore some of the most expensive properties in the world when exploring our list of best things to do in Dorset

From the magical Durdle Door to the lush Argyll Gardens in Bournemouth , the best things to do in Dorset have the power of nature front and centre. How could they not? The third most southerly county in England is blessed with beauty at every turn, with over half of Dorset designated as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The natural beauty finds its way into the towns, with buzzing farmer's markets, quaint local shops and a sense of community marking Dorset as a delightful place. No matter your preferred style of vacation, Dorset steps up to the plate and smashes it out of the park.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Dorset

1.  durdle door and lulworth cove.

Where is it?  Between Poole and Weymouth. 

What is it?  Located on the Lulworth Estate in south Dorset, Durdle Door is an entirely natural limestone arch formed simply by waves eroding a hole through the middle.

Why go?  As one of Dorset’s most photographed landmarks, Durdle Door is worth the car journey. This spectacular coastline was designated England’s first natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001. It’s even in the same prestigious family as America’s Grand Canyon and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Better on a sunny day, get there in time to enjoy a good Dorset sunset – a half-hour walk will lead you over to similarly picturesque Lulworth Cove, perfect for a picnic.

2.  Lyme Regis

Where is it?  West Dorset.

What is it?  Nicknamed ‘The Pearl of Dorset’, Lyme Regis’s beaches and cliffs form part of the Jurassic Coast. With a bustling harbour and rip-roaring independent shopping and dining scene, Lyme Regis is a year-round treat.

Why go?  Lyme Regis is high up on the list of places to visit within Dorset. A popular palaeontology spot for fossil-hunters, there’s even a dedicated annual Lyme Regis Fossil Festival. But if you’re more interested in frocks than rocks, you’ll find a handful of cute boutiques to browse too. Wolf down fish fingers and chips at light and airy Hix Oyster & Fish House before checking out Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall’s renowned River Cottage HQ, only a few miles away. If you fancy getting stuck into a cookery course in a rustic farmhouse, this is the place.

3.  Gold Hill

Where is it?  Shaftesbury.

What is it?  The only real hilltop town in Dorset, Shaftesbury overlooks the lush Blackmore Vale (part of the Stour Valley).

Why go?  Shaftesbury had a taste of fame in 1973 with Ridley Scott’s Hovis’s ‘Bike’ advert, which features an industrious young lad pushing his basket of loaves up Gold Hill. The hill looks exactly the same today and hosts an annual ‘Cheese Race’, requiring contestants to cart 25kg wheels of cheese up the steep and cobbled street. 

4.  Brownsea Island

Where is it?  Poole Harbour. 

What is it?  The largest of the islands in Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island is where the Scouts originated from back in 1907.

Why go?  Accessible by  ferry  or private boat, Brownsea Island is home to a nature reserve and a great deal of wildlife. Most of the island is owned by the National Trust, but Dorset Wildlife Trust owns a portion of land, too. If you're lucky, you might spot an indigenous red squirrel, spotted Silka deer or roaming peacock. The island features a visitor centre, museum, and a cafe for mid-afternoon cuppa. Consider booking tickets for Brownsea Open Air Theatre, which annually stages open-air Shakespeare plays in a unique setting.

5.  Bridport

Where is it?  East along the coast from Lyme Regis. 

What is it?  The pretty town of Bridport holds a popular farmer’s market every second Saturday of the month.

Why go?  Once voted the ‘best Farmer’s Market in Dorset’, you can find over 30 local producers at this twice-monthly Bridport event. Cheese, chutneys, bread, meats, local veg – foodies will agree that there are few nicer ways to spend a weekend than idly browsing a market. In fact, Bridport also holds a weekly market (every Wednesday and Saturday) selling bric-a-brac, clothing, flowers and food. Complete your weekly shopping trip by swinging by Furleigh Estate Vineyard and Winery for a bottle of local wine.

6.  Studland Beach and Nature Reserve

Where is it?  Just south of Poole. 

What is it?  A bracing beach walk is a must when visiting Dorset’s spectacular coastline. Studland Bay in Purbeck features a four-mile stretch of golden, sandy beach.

Why go?  Whether you want to crash out on the sand with a good book, embrace a bit of water sport action or tackle one of the Bay’s designated nature trails, Studland Bay has something for everyone. An (almost) 1 kilometre stretch of beach is a designated naturist zone if that's your bag. Beloved hotel and restaurant  The Pig  is mere moments from the beach and offers simple British garden food as well a snug room for the night.

7.  Hardy’s Cottage

Where is it?  Near Dorchester. 

What is it?  No author has captured the essence of the West Country quite like Thomas Hardy. His birthplace is the quintessential country cottage in Higher Bockhampton.

Why go?  Hardy was born in this cob and thatch cottage in 1840. Built by his great grandfather, it sits beside nature reserve and woodland Thorncombe Woods (visit in Spring for a bluebell fest). Featuring a pleasingly cute English cottage garden, the house was left much as it was inhabited by the Hardy family. Unlike some historical houses and museums, visitors have access to all the cottage’s nooks and crannies. Venture into the author’s old bedroom, in which he penned early classics ‘Far From the Madding Crowd’ and ‘Under the Greenwood Tree’. To get the full Thomas Hardy experience, visit nearby Max Gate, the house the author designed and moved to on the outskirts of Dorchester. Both are National Trust properties. Head south to the coast for a glimpse of Chesil Beach, the setting for Hardy’s ‘The Well-Beloved’ and, more recently, Ian McEwen’s ‘On Chesil Beach’. 

8.  Sandbanks

What is it?  Heard of Sandbanks? This stretch of sand in Poole Harbour is the most expensive bit of coast in Britain.

Why go?  With its slightly flashy reputation, pricey Poole Harbour has been likened to Palm Springs (albeit with a chillier climate). Football manager Harry Redknapp famously lives here, and the streak of impressive multi-million-pound houses along Sandbanks is certainly worth a nosy. After a spot of property window shopping, enjoy a slap-up fish lunch at revered seafood spot  Storm . Flower lovers should amble over to  Compton Acres  – this privately owned garden is open to the public and zoned with different themes: Italian garden, Japanese garden, heather garden, and a wilder, wooded area. Stop for a hot beverage at the charming tea room.

9.  Alum Chine and Argyll Gardens

Where is it?  Bournemouth.

What is it?  For a taste of the tropics, visit the lush Argyll gardens at Alum Chine.

Why go?  Alum Chine beach is quieter than those beaches close to Bournemouth town centre, and along with nearby Argyll gardens, this is the ideal spot to spend a peaceful morning. Believed to have origins in the 1920s, the tropical garden thrives because of its (very localised) micro-climate. Capture the very essence of the British beach break by renting a pleasingly pastel-hued beach hut situated along Bournemouth’s seven miles of award-winning beaches.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

The 11 Prettiest Villages in Dorset That You’ll Instantly Fall in Love With

Get ready for an adventure through the most beautiful villages in Dorset! These places look like they’ve just popped out of a storybook, with charming cottages, beautiful gardens, and fascinating history.

Whether you love nature, old buildings, or just discovering new places, these villages have something special for everyone. From the coastal beauty of Worth Matravers to the historic charm of Cerne Abbas, each village is a gem waiting to be explored.

Let’s dive in and discover the 11 prettiest villages in Dorset that you simply must at least once in your lifetime!

Table of Contents

Worth Matravers

Worth Matravers is a beautiful little village in Dorset made from local limestone. You’ll see pretty cottages and a village green with a duck pond as its focal point. It literally looks like something you’d see on a postcard. Just west of Swanage, this village is near the South West Coast Path, which offers stunning views of the cliffs on the UNESCO Jurassic Coast.

I recommend going to Winspit Quarry and Chapman Pool , as they are only a short walk away and are really worth checking out.

And once you’ve been out exploring the local area, if you fancy a drink after, then don’t forget to stop by the Square and Compass pub, a favourite since 1776. The pub even has its own museum!

Briantspuddle

Check out Briantspuddle, an award-winning village in Dorset’s Piddle Valley. When you walk through its charming streets, you’ll see old thatched-roof cottages that capture the essence of traditional English countryside living. Recently, it won the “Best Small Village” award at the Dorset Village Awards.

Visiting here feels like you’ve gone back in time, with a slower pace and beautiful nature all around. Enjoy the Arts and Crafts houses and the peaceful atmosphere of this lovely village.

Studland is a little village known for its unspoilt beaches and nature reserve. It’s also the perfect place to start your walk to the famous Old Harry Rocks.

There’s a traditional 16th-century pub called the Bankes Arms Inn, which has one of the best beer gardens in Dorset in terms of the view. You can even visit the nudist beach for a dip, which is a short walk away if that’s your thing :-).

Cerne Abbas

Cerne Abbas is a lovely village in Dorset’s rolling hills. Have a walk along its picturesque streets, historic buildings and thatched cottages.

At the village’s centre stands Cerne Abbey, rich with history and fascinating tales dating back over a thousand years. A short walk takes you to St Augustine’s Well, a mysterious place perfect for making a wish.

Don’t miss the Cerne Abbas Giant, a large figure on the hillside, also with a large, well, how do I say it, phallus! For a great view, hike to a spot overlooking this landmark. Cerne Abbas is a piece of English heritage in one delightful village.

In the beautiful Weymouth countryside, you’ll find Upwey, a charming village with a cosy feel. It’s also home to the Upwey Wishing Well, a delightful tea room surrounded by serene water gardens. Here, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and make a wish at the legendary wishing well.

And be sure to visit St Lawrence Church, a beautiful historic church dating back to the 13th century.

Recommended Post : Explore the charm of Upwey Wishing Well (Dorset’s best tea room)

Milton Abbas

Milton Abbas is in the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You can walk down the main village street lined with charming thatched cottages from the 18th century. It’s a place where you can unwind, enjoy the fresh air, and feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Don’t miss the Milton Abbas Street Fair if you have the chance. Held only every two years, it’s a vibrant event featuring arts, crafts, and local food. The village truly comes alive; the residents even get dressed in period costumes. It’s really fun!

Surrounded by nearby hills and woodlands, it’s the perfect place to find a quiet spot and soak up the Dorset countryside. Milton Abbas truly is a slice of rural heaven

Osmington is a hidden gem in Dorset, just six miles from Weymouth. Picture stone cottages and bright gardens along narrow lanes.

There’s also the White Horse, a hill figure cut into the limestone of Osmington Hill just north of Weymouth in Dorset in 1808. This striking figure depicts King George III riding his horse and is visible from miles away.

Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury, which is not technically a village, is so pretty it needed to be included on this list. It has the well-known cobbled streets of Gold Hill, famous for the classic Hovis advert. The views across the Blackmore Vale are stunning, especially at sunrise or sunset.

You can explore the remains of Shaftesbury Abbey, established by King Alfred the Great. Enjoy the local shops, unique crafts, and cosy cafés with traditional Dorset food. Make sure to have a walk around the town’s quaint alleyways, a big part of Shaftesbury’s character.

Kimmeridge is a coastal hamlet in Dorset with stunning views and unique geological features. Kimmeridge Bay is great for fossil hunting or enjoying the pebbled beach. The clear waters are perfect for snorkelling. You can also take a walk up to Clavell Tower for panoramic views and to capture a photo of this distinctive cliffside tower.

For a relaxing meal and a pint, visit Clavell’s Restaurant, which features a peaceful beer garden. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a sunny day and reflect on the beauty of the Jurassic Coast.

Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle feels like stepping back in time, with not a single modern building in sight. The streets are lined with ancient cottages made of grey Purbeck limestone, creating a perfect snapshot of old England in the present. A visit to the National Trust’s Corfe Castle is a must, and don’t miss the miniature Corfe Castle village with its beautiful gardens, offering a glimpse of the castle’s historical appearance.

For a pub garden lunch, I recommend The Greyhound Inn, where the views of Corfe Castle in the background are spectacular—perfect for an Instagram pic!

Recommended Post : Check out the 1/20th scale model of Corfe Castle and the village as it was in 1646.

West Lulworth Village, on the Jurassic Coast, has classic thatched cottages and scenic views leading down to the renowned Lulworth Cove.

It gets busy in the summer with visitors exploring the Dorset coastline, but in the winter, the village is peaceful, perfect for enjoying its quiet beauty. Snap a picture on Main Road – it’s especially pretty and captures Dorset’s charm.

Abbotsbury is a charming village, offering visitors a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. This picturesque spot is  renowned for its Swannery , where you can see over 600 mute swans in their natural habitat.

Traditional and free from today’s built-up towns, Abbotsbury is quaint and pretty. With its thatched cottages, narrow streets, beautiful ponds and landscapes, it’s a great place to visit.

For those who enjoy exploring, the Subtropical Gardens are a must-visit. And if you’re up for a short hike, make your way up to St. Catherine’s Chapel for some truly spectacular views over the village and Chesil Beach.

With its mix of attractions and quintessential Dorset charm, Abbotsbury is definitely worthy of a spot on our list of prettiest villages in the county.

If you like the look of this village, then check out these 11 incredible reasons you’ll fall in love with Abbotsbury, Dorset

Born and raised in Dorset, I've lived most my entire life in Poole and Bournemouth. I have a deep appreciation for my local area and a passion for travelling. The best hikes for me are in the pouring rain—there's nothing quite like it!

This Secret Garden In Dorset Is The Perfect Spot For A Peaceful Afternoon

Get farm fresh produce and delightful homemade food at pamphill dairy in dorset, you may also like, these 19 seaside towns in dorset are perfect..., leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Where you can find the 40 coolest places in Dorset

There are some fantastic places to go to and be seen at in the county

• 20:00, 4 FEB 2023
• Updated 12:14, 6 FEB 2023

You might ask yourself "where's the coolest place in Dorset?" It is a deep and interesting question.

Many might suggest Camp Bestival, checking out the Jurassic Coast at Durdle Door, or having a few goes on the machines at seafront arcades. But there are loads of places to see - and be seen - across the county all year round.

Dorset Live has rounded up the coolest places to visit in the county, ranging from restaurants, bars, beauty spots, quirky shops and much more. How many have you been to?

READ MORE - Ultimate A-Z of beaches and beauty spots across Dorset to visit in 2023

1) Insanity G aming Arcade, Poole

Two floors of arcade machines, games and consoles all set to free play to be enjoyed in one, two, or three-hour unlimited sessions - how cool is that? The arcade has classics such as Sonic, Crazy Taxi, Street Fighter, Time Crisis as well as multiple gaming consoles.

You can also buy food and drink from their in-house bar and grill and free parking is available outside of the building.

2) Swanage Railway

Hop on vintage steam trains and take in the sights of the Isle of Purbeck. It’s a beloved railway that has been lovingly maintained and hosts some very special guests.

Going past Corfe Castle on a steam train is just mesmerising.

3) Corfe Castle

It might not look like much from the still pictures, but a visit to Corfe Castle is - excuse the trope - like stepping back in time. With constant restoration work going on, the owners of the site have preserved what could easily have become a total ruin.

The castle, which has stood in various forms for around 1,000 years, has everything from guided tours to medieval activity days on the site. Then, once you've done your bit of historical intrigue, there's some fantastic pubs in the village.

4) Ecco Gelato, Sherborne

Cool both literally and figuratively, this ice cream parlour has become one of Sherborne’s most fashionable haunts since opening last year. Boasting fantastic ice cream, smoothies, milkshakes and waffles, its friendly staff and tasteful décor seal the deal. Come at the right time and you can even watch the gelato being made!

5) Oliver’s Coffee House, Sherborne

A bastion of Cheap Street’s identity for years, Oliver’s is the perfect place to grab a coffee or something more substantial either to break up a shopping trip or reward a hard day’s work. It’s the place to be seen for meeting in Sherborne, with its excellent food being complemented by traditional furnishings and a warm atmosphere.

6) The Nook, Weymouth

The cocktail bar on the Esplanade is definitely one of the best places for a drink on a night out in Weymouth. Its talented staff serves the freshest cocktails to thirsty revellers with beach-view seating both inside and outside.

There is often a DJ playing plenty of banging tunes that will surely allow you and your friends to dance the night away.

7) Boss Miniatures and Gaming, Weymouth

The store has become the most popular place for the table-top hobby scene in West Dorset and the surrounding area. There is a great selection of Pokemon, Games Workshop, Magic, D&D, board games and much more here.

8) Sealife, Weymouth

Easily one of the best things to do with your family in Weymouth, Sealife is a great place to visit on wet or warm days. Visitors can see seals, turtles, sharks, exotic fish, penguins and much more in here.

There's even a glass tunnel you can walk through to allow you to get a closer look in some of the sea's most beautiful and interesting creatures.

9) Church Ope Cove, Portland

X marks the spot of a rumoured pirate's grave at Church Ope Cove on Portland. It’s a stone tomb with a Jolly Roger-style skull and crossbones within the graveyard at the ruins of St Andrew’s Church.

The stunning Chuch Ope Cove also offers scenic views of Rufus Castle dating back to the Normans. It is also surrounded by dramatic cliffs and the cove is a real suntrap and sheltered for visitors to take a dip in the blue waters for swimming, snorkelling or even diving.

This pebbled beach is usually popular for more advanced open-water swimmers, particularly as there isn't a lifeguard. It is advised that visitors don't swim further out more than necessary and that children should avoid venturing to the deeper parts of the cove.

To get there, visitors must walk a steep flight of stairs which might be difficult for small children and less able people. Yet, the payoff is the stunning views of Rufus Castle which overlooks the clifftops. The beach is also just a short walk away from the ruins of St Andrew's Church which visitors can access via an easy pathway.

10) Curiosity Centre, Dorchester

Based on the Grove Trading Estate, this place is an Aladdin’s cave full of nostalgic items, upcycled furniture, garden ware, antiques and much more. From old football programmes to old CDs, the Dorchester store appears to have everything in its various rooms and serves as a step back in time.

Areas are rented by traders who can sell their items and the centre’s staff help sell them on behalf of the traders. Well worth a visit on a wet day in Dorset.

11) Acorn Inn, Evershot

Based in the scenic village of Evershot, is a 16th-century pub which has been well-loved for a long time, with Thomas Hardy mentioning the site in 'The Sow & Acorn', 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles'. The pub is also recommended in the Good Beer Guide, and it is hard to ignore the added bonus that it is not only beautiful, friendly and does great drinks, but it also has a skittle alley and beer garden on site.

The pub’s approach is to create a “home-from-home” atmosphere where people can visit for a morning coffee, lunchtime meal or three-course dinner in the evening. With fireplaces roaring in the pub during the cold autumn and winter months, The Acorn Inn has become the go-to place for residents, tourists, ramblers and dog walkers.

12) Beaminster

Beaminster is a town in West Dorset full of Georgian architecture with a population of more than 3,000 people and based in a bowl-shaped valley, surrounded by hills and greenery. The town is unspoiled with major national brands, albeit Co-operative has a prominent spot in the town centre, with an independent florist, butchers, bakery, clothes shops and two pubs.

It's well worth a visit - we had a lovely trip there in 2022.

13) Absolute Music, Bournemouth

Possibly the best music shop in the county, Absolute Music is a two-storey store with countless guitars, keyboards, recording equipment and more. A great place to go if you want to buy a guitar or just listen to the band rehearsals while drinking a coffee in the cafe.

14) Brassica, Beaminster

Based inside a 16th-century house in Beaminster, it is a friendly venue that blends local produce with influences from the Mediterranean. The Michelin Guide said the restaurant is “constantly evolving menus list hearty dishes with punchy flavours and a refined edge” and by far one of the best in Dorset to visit.

Definitely a perfect place for a posh date night.

15) The Parlour, Burton Bradstock

Based on Bredy Farm, The Parlour is within a disused milking parlour on a farmyard that’s approximately one mile off Coast Road and more than two miles away from Burton Bradstock. It’s well signposted and you would think it’s a random place for a fine dining restaurant, but it is worth the trek.

It's a restaurant that transports you to Italy, with its Mediterranean interior, its dim lighting and open kitchen and with a rotating menu full of small and big dishes. Due to its popularity advance booking is essential either by telephone or email.

16) Blue Pool, Wareham

The pool, on the Furzebrook Estate in Wareham offers scenic views of the Purbecks and features a lagoon that could even give Iceland a run for its money. The nature reserve is a Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to a phenomenon in its waters which creates a unique turquoise colour for all to admire.

The pool which shows off a unique colour has a depth of around 30 ft and is surrounded by 150 acres of grounds, overlooking stunning views of Isle of Purbecks. There are also trails for visitors to enjoy with hotspots where people can admire the various plants at this site.

17) Tyneham village

Tyneham is notorious as Dorset's 'lost village' after its residents were 'temporarily' evacuated in December 1943 during World War II. However, its inhabitants were never allowed to return and it remains on military land to this day

The village is based in East Lulworth, near Wareham and lies between the two ridges of the Purbeck Hills. Nowadays it is a living museum where tourists can visit and explore the village's history, with its pre-war buildings including houses, farmhouses, church and a school.

18) Durdle Door, Lulworth

One of Dorset's most picturesque and photographed beauty spots, it’s no wonder Durdle Door is so popular to visit. Its natural limestone arch was formed by the powerful waves crashing and eroding the rock and creating a hole through the middle - yet it’s still standing!

Lulworth Cove is a World Heritage Site and is a great advertisement for the Jurassic Coast and what Dorset has to offer. In this area, you can visit the ever-popular Durdle Door, explore Stair Hole's beach and waters or check out Worbarrow Bay near Tynenham.

You will still see people in the area during the colder months, with serious walkers with large rucksacks and hiking gear, or wetsuit-clad kayakers with the right kit to brave the elements.

19) Camp Bestival, Lulworth Castle

The festival at Lulworth Castle is a weekend of family fun with headline acts, performers, DJs and much more in late July. Other offerings besides the music include theatre, well-being workshops, circus spectacles, comedy and an array of food and drink.

The festival ends with a bang as there will be an "epic grand finale" set to the backdrop of Lulworth Castle by Two Tigers Fireworks on Sunday night.

20) Tank Museum, Bovington

The Tank Museum is a collection of armoured fighting vehicles at Bovington Camp, with loads to see and go. Among its famous collection are Tiger 131, the only surviving Tiger I tank in operable condition, which appeared in the film Fury, and the replica Mark IV tank built for the film War Horse.

They also hold TANKFEST which sees tens of thousands of people given the chance to view a range of historic vehicles dating from the Second World War and Cold War.

21) Monkey World, Longthorns

It's hard to sell Monkey World to you, the reader, any better than a picture of an adorable monkey, so here you go. The conservation centre, which is also open and welcoming for tourists, participates in breeding programmes, and rescues.

It's also an excellent place to take a keen zoologist, or someone who just likes looking at cute animals.

22) Clay Pigeon Raceway, Wardon Hill

If you are ever on the A37, you would have seen the signs for Clay Pigeon Raceway and wanted to pull in for a few laps. The go-kart circuit is one of the most challenging in the South West, with turns and corners that would test any skilled driver.

It's even seen F1 world champions Sir Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button race in their rookie years, with F1 starlet Lando Norris also racing on its track. Clay Pigeon Raceway hosts a number of karting events but is also open for corporate events, parties and practice sessions.

23) Patisserie Mark Bennett

Patisserie Mark Bennett has several shops across Dorset which specialise in artisan bread, croissants, patisseries and pastries. Mark Bennett is the third generation of bakers. His parents run the well-established Bennetts’ Family Bakers chain which was first established in 1951.

It’s a beloved bakery chain that has plenty of local fans and also celebrity visits. Amanda Holden ventured into Patisserie Mark Bennett on Sandbanks Road in Poole to collect an afternoon tea last December.

24) Mr Mulligan's, Bournemouth

The colourful and quirky mini-crazy golf is based inside Bournemouth's BH2 and is a lot of fun. There's even a shooting gallery, pool, electro-darts and ping pong.

25) Boom Battle Bar, Bournemouth

A welcome addition to BH2, Boom Battle Bar allows people to throw axes, American Pool, Darts, Beer Pong play a number of party games and offers a range of decent food dishes and drinks. There's nine activities to choose from and it's perfect for a birthday party or a celebration.

26) Be At One Cocktail Bar, Bournemouth

The popular bar has more than 100 cocktails to choose from, great music and a lively atmosphere. Everything you need for a night out in Bournemouth.

27) V. Dorset, Poole

The meat-free diner in Parkstone only opened last June, but it is easily one of the best places to eat out in Dorset. V. Dorset was originally launched by Michelin-trained chef Keri Astill-Frew as a vegetarian catering company before it was expanded into a takeaway and later a diner.

The diner offers a vegan spin on classic meals with homemade meat-free burgers, pittas, salads, and plant-based roast dinners and it's gone down a storm locally. Keri and her husband Dan won Best Takeaway in the South West at the British Takeaway Awards in September 2021.

28) Woodman's Treehouse, Holditch

Near the Somerset border is the Mallinson’s Woodland Retreat which allows guests to stay inside treehouses and yurts in the countryside. The Woodman’s Treehouse, which was once featured on George Clarke’s ‘Amazing Spaces’, has been built around a huge oak tree, with an outdoor shower, wood-burning stove, and a copper hot tub on the balcony.

29) Dorset Adventure Park, Corfe Castle

Dorset Adventure Park can be found near the ruins of Corfe Castle and is surrounded by views of the Purbeck countryside. Dorset Adventure Park is set around two lakes, Woodland lake and Castle Lake. Fully lifeguarded, there are over 200m of obstacles for adults and children to tackle.

Visitors can expect to be catapulted into the air on the Flip Bag and to twirl around on the water on the Spinner. There is also a Mud Trail covering two kilometres with balance beams, cargo nets, crawls and slides.

The leisure park was identified as the best attraction of its kind by Showerstoyou.co.uk , which compared more than 800 water parks.

30) Compton Abbas Airfield

Compton Abbas Airfield and Café has unique views over the runway and beautiful scenery stretching for 30 miles and was a destination with a difference to tuck into homemade and locally sourced food. Over the years, it's welcomed light and vintage aircraft, tours of the Dorset countryside from the air and trained countless pilots.

It is a great place to watch the world go by. Once owned by the Hughes family for 35 years, it's now owned by Hollywood director Guy Ritchie who has big plans for the site.

31) Gold Hill, Shaftesbury

Everyone knows about the iconic Gold Hill which was made famous by the Hovis TV advertisement, but it’s still a great place to visit. The steep cobbled street boasts one of the most romantic sights in England and is one of the most recognisable in Dorset.

Take a photo on top of Gold Hill or explore the nearby 14th-century St Peter's Church. You can visit the Gold Hill Museum, but it is currently closed until Spring 2023.

Shaftesbury is known for many other delights too. From highly rated eateries to being home to one of the best hotels in the county , there is much to like about the town.

32) Baboo Gelato

This multi-award-winning firm makes Italian-style ice cream by hand in Bridport, using organic milk from a farm in North Perrott and fruit from their own trees.

It is perhaps one of the most popular places in Dorset to buy gelato, which is no wonder as the gelato parlour has earned itself some prestigious awards. In 2020, Baboo's Gelato's salted caramel was crowned the Champion Ice Cream & Sorbet in the esteemed Taste of the West awards.

A few famous faces have even expressed their love for their ice cream. The Hairy Bikers judged the company's Elderflower Sorbet as the Best British Specialty product in the Great British Food Awards. You can sample their amazing ice cream in Weymouth, West Bay, Swanage and Lyme Regis.

33) Bridport Market

In short, it's a proper market with a huge range of stalls and products lining the main street as well as the side roads. Every Wednesday and Saturday you can get anything from antiques, vegan food, books, clothes, specialist food products, local artists

In addition to the regular twice weekly markets, Bridport also hosts a Farmers Market on every second Saturday of the month on Barrack Street & in the Lyric Theatre, open from 9am until approximately 2pm.

34) Old Forge Antiques, Swanage

The large antique shop on the High Street has lots of rooms full of gems from over the years. It's definitely worth a visit and its friendly and very helpful staff will help you with any questions.

35) Dorchester Car Boot

Dorchester Car Boot, run by market operators Ensors, has been a solid staple of the county town’s events for many years at the Dorchester Market off Weymouth Avenue and Fairfield Car Park if it’s busy. Sellers can pitch up from 6.30am and sell their unwanted goods, random household items, items from house clearances or their plants or produce.

From 7am, the buyers come in and browse the countless tables and stables, haggle over items or just get a nostalgia buzz. The beloved weekly event also runs beyond the traditional car boot season of between April and October and whatever the weather, unless it’s a storm, there’s a good chance it will be on.

36) Portland Bill

Travelling here feels like reaching the end of the world. Portland Bill is the most southern point of Dorset and is known for its lighthouse, Pulpit Rock and its views of the coast.

Due to being exposed to the coast, it's prone to strong winds and waves crashing into the rocks. It's also worth a visit to the Lobster Pot or Pulpit Inn, which could be turned into a new bar, restaurant and holiday units if plans are approved.

37) Studland

It's mostly known for its beaches on the eastern tip of the Isle of Purbeck , but it is also the name of a village. And this village, the Telegraph says, is the poshest one in Dorset. Studland village parish (which actually includes Brownsea Island) had a population of just 425 in the 2011 census, across 182 homes. However, the population wildly varies by season due to the prominence of holiday and second homes.

Nestled between Swanage and the chain ferry to Poole, it's easy to see why people might want to move to Studland village - and why it might be deemed particularly posh.

The Telegraph has published a list of the poshest villages in the UK per county, with Studland's "posh appeal" coming from its sandy beaches, fine dining at Pig on the Beach, and the links to Poole.

38) Tiramisù Sorrento Italian Patisserie, Poole

The new patisserie is taking Poole by storm - and its owner thinks he has the best pastry chef in town. Helmed by passionate owner Gennaro Campanile, originally from Naples, Tiramisù Sorrento's first week has been busier than expected.

With a focus on everything being made from scratch, in house, and using Italian ingredients - Gennaro said the opening has been a roaring success. The bakery even had some special guests on opening day. Harry and Sandra Redknapp proudly posed for photos - Harry in a chef hat - with Gennaro and his pastry chef, while they enjoyed coffee and a snack.

The bakery sells a huge selection of cakes, pastries and independent coffee, and can be found at 7 High Street, Poole - or on its Facebook page here.

39) The Riverside at The Coventry Arms, Corfe Mullen

The 15th-century pub is locally known by paddleboarders and kayakers for overlooking the River Stour and allows paddlers to have a pint or meal after a session on the water. After being purchased by local businessman James Mills, he told DorsetLive that he wanted to take on the new challenge of managing the Riverside, which he believes 30,000 motorists drive past every day.

Holly Emptage, who helps run the pub, said its traditional pub features go hand-in-hand with its modern decor and they wanted to give the pub some “character”. Browsing the food menu, it is in keeping with its ‘traditional with a modern twist’ approach with pub classics of fish and chips, steak and burgers, as well as fine dining dishes of wild mushroom risotto, smoked duck breast and dressed crab thermidor.

The dog-friendly pub also prides itself with the locally sourced drinks on its vast drinks menu as well as a number of desserts. More information about the pub can be found on its website.

40) The Ranch, Weymouth

Have you ever wondered what it is like to go on a walk with a goat? The Ranch in Weymouth offers sessions with them to improve mental and emotional health.

That and goat yoga are their main activities but they also offer animal therapy. Whether it is with a fluffy goat, quacking duck or muddy worm The Ranch says that spending time with any of these lowers anxiety and helps people relax.

Found on Coombe Valley Road near to Preston, the team offers group and 1-2-1 sessions.

Got a story to share or an issue for us to investigate? Email us at [email protected] to share your pictures, stories and information.

You can stay up-to-date on the top news near you with Dorset Live's FREE newsletters – sign up to our newsletters here .

21 things you would have done growing up in Dorset

35 things about Dorset which confuse and bemuse residents

Flip Out in Poole: What to expect from £3 million adventure park including karting, arcades, laser tag

The best Dorset pubs with a view from fantasy vistas to riverside beauty

£200M regeneration for Bournemouth town centre site includes flats, cinema, hotel and sky bar

• Things to do
• Food and Drink
• Bournemouth
• Shaftesbury
• Most Recent

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Discover Dorset Home of the iconic Jurassic Coast

Dorset is perfect for a laid back, relaxing break or day out or one that's full of activity and adventure...the choice is yours!

One thing we know for sure it that you'll be amazed by Dorset's stunning scenery, friendly welcome and things to do.

Enjoy making happy memories in Dorset!

#VisitDorset #YourDorsetAdventure

Explore Dorset this Summer

Top reasons to visit in august.

Spend a day at the beach, visit an amazing attraction, take part in a watersport and more this August.

Visit The Blue Pool this summer

Nestled in a serene woodland, The Blue Pool is a hidden gem offering a variety of activities that cater to all...

Sunflower trails and maize mazes

Dorset's sunflower trails and maize mazes open during the summer months from late July to October.

Summer Breaks

Experience fantastic festivals, inspiring activities and amazing beaches this summer.

Free summer firework displays

Brighten up your summer evenings with a FREE firework show this July and August.

Top things to do for Teenagers

Hello Teens! Are you ready to uncover the wonders of Dorset? Read more for fantastic places and activities tailored...

Share your Dorset

What does your dorset look like adventures on our epic coastline visiting attractions with family a walk through the beautiful countryside or perhaps a chilled out evening eating and drinking with friends discover a sample of your #visitdorset images below and share your love for dorset using the hashtag on instagram.   , highlighted for you..., 3d zombie woodland archery in dorset.

Our Dorset woodland is located 30 mins from Bournemouth & Poole, 30 mins from Swanage, 25 mins from Weymouth, 10 mins from Dorchester. Unleash Your Inner Zombie Slayer: Thrilling Woodland 3D...

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is no ordinary garden, with its own micro-climate in a sheltered woodland valley on the Jurassic Coast. The special plant collection has been built up over the last...

Abbotsbury Swannery

Abbotsbury Swannery is the only place in the world where you are able to walk through the heart of a colony of nesting Mute Swans. A visit to this beautiful and tranquil place is one of the most...

Athelhampton House and Gardens

Athelhampton nestles in the Piddle valley, between Tolpuddle and Puddletown and is easily reached from the A35 main road. ​The ancient manor of Athelhampton has been continually lived in since Saxon...

Bournemouth International Centre

Situated in the heart of Bournemouth, the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) hosts comedians, musicians, sporting events and plenty more.    The BIC is a 6,000 capacity arena and...

Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre

Situated in the heart of Bournemouth, the Pavilion Theatre is host to comedians, musicians, sporting events and plenty more.    Bournemouth Pavilion has a 1,400 capacity seated...

Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park and Spa

For a coastal holiday park in Dorset with luxurious accommodation and 5 star leisure facilities, you need look no further than Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park & Spa (previously known as Waterside...

Burnbake Forest Lodges

Tucked inside the glorious Purbeck region of Dorset on the breathtaking Jurassic Coast, Burnbake Campsite and Forest lodges is the perfect location for a great British getaway for family,...

Character Farm Cottages

Welcome to Character Farm Cottages, four self-catering cottages situated on our farm in the villages of Langton Herring near Weymouth and Dorchester.  The cottages are a family run...

Chesil Beach Holiday Park

Chesil Beach (previously known as Chesil Vista) is a 5* Holiday Park celebrating a breath-taking coastal location overlooking Portland and the Fleet with panoramic sea views. The fantastic on-park...

Chideock Grange Holiday Cottages

This is a small, quiet holiday cottage complex, on the outskirts of the village of Chideock, set in a hollow by Winniford Stream and surrounded by rolling farmland. A mile inland off the main road, it...

City Cruises Poole

City Cruises operate daily from Poole Quay and Swanage Pier. We offer a wide selection of cruises along the Jurassic Coast, trips to the Victorian resort at Swanage and the Steam Railway, Poole...

Classic Cottages

Classic Cottages have the perfect holiday home waiting for you in Dorset. From family-sized homes with sea views in Lyme Regis to chic couple’s boltholes in the heart of Bridport, there's...

Situated on the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site coast. Clifftops luxury lodges are within the grounds of Portland’s Pennsylvania Castle and have uninterrupted sea views. Unique and...

Condor Ferries Boat Trips

If you're looking for a day out with a difference that's really great value, join us on one of our high speed journeys to Guernsey. You can travel on foot or with your vehicle, and...

Cove Lodge represents the very definition of laid-back luxury. The lodge provides panoramic sea views, an elegant interior, and the perfect location for short breaks, or getaways with friends. Cove...

Dorset Cottage Holidays

Dorset Cottage Holidays is a an independent, family run agency, established over 20 years ago and located locally in the heart of Corfe Castle in Dorset. We offer over 60 holiday cottages in Swanage,...

Dorset Museum and Art Gallery

Welcome to Dorset Museum, a place to connect with 250 million years of history. From amazing archaeology, to dinosaur bones and the story of Mary Anning, the archive of Thomas Hardy and the Elisabeth...

Dorset Retreat by Jacqui

Unveil Your Perfect Dorset Escape: The Retreat, The Hideaway, The Secret, & The Nook! Immerse yourself in our curated collection of Dorset stays, each a unique gateway to both adventure and...

Dream Cottages

Dream Cottages specialise in self-catering holiday cottages with around 300 independently owned, VisitBritain rated properties across Dorset and the surrounding counties. Since 1989, Dream Cottages...

Durdle Door Holiday Park

Close to Lulworth Cove and the iconic rock arch of Durdle Door, the Holiday Park is ideally situated between Weymouth and Swanage in one of the most spectacular parts of the Jurassic Coast. This...

Go Ape Moors Valley

Located 10 miles north of Bournemouth and 5 miles west of Ringwood, you can find us in Moors Valley Country Park. We're just off Horton Road - near to Ashley Heath and the New Forest. Go Ape Moors...

The Kersbrook is a beautiful thatched, eighteenth century Grade II listed building (1780) set in its own picturesque mature gardens just off the town centre with views across Lyme Regis. Family run,...

Knoll House Hotel

You’ll find us at Studland Bay on the Isle of Purbeck, between Poole and Old Harry Rocks. Purbeck is a quiet landscape of coast, cliffs, heath and woodland, and a haven for wildlife. It’s...

Lulworth Holiday Cottages

Thatched cottage retreats with hidden sun terraces, traditional farm buildings with swimming pools, period properties in rolling park-land... Book a stay in a holiday cottage here on the privately...

Lyme Bay Holidays

Everything about a Lyme Bay Holiday is special. As a family-run business we know what's really important when you take a break, and have over 35 years experience getting it just...

Lyme Bay RIB Charter

Be blown away by a range of exciting and fast paced trips, sightseeing cruises, private hire options and watersport packages.  We’ve a trip to suit all tastes and budgets.  Our...

Mallinson’s Woodland Retreat

Escape, unwind and recharge in a stunning West Country woodland. Choose from three distinct award-winning luxury treehouses, each one a self-contained nest for two with its own facilities (and no...

Monart Spa Poundbury

Monart day spa has been created with only one purpose in mind to help you rest, relax and rejuvenate in a beautifully tranquil, adult only environment. This unique journey begins with a personalised...

Moonfleet Adventure Sailing

Sailing daily from Portland - check website for availability and to book Gift vouchers now available - Prices start at just £42 for a 2 hour cruise on the Tallship Moonfleet. Treat yourself...

Osmington Mills Lodge Park

Osmington Mills Lodge Park is a relaxed luxury lodge park set in the beautiful wooded valley of Osmington Mills. The quiet rural setting is the perfect place for a peaceful getaway on the Dorset...

Pennsylvania Castle

Pennsylvania Castle is an exclusive wedding, events and private rental venue overlooking the charming Church Ope Cove and UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coastline. The neo-gothic design of the Castle...

Ranmoor Estate

Ranmoor Estate is a small award winning, luxury, family run holiday site, set in over eleven secluded acres, located in Blandford Forum, in the stunning rural county of Dorset. We offer 10 exclusive...

Sandford Holiday Park - Parkdean Resorts

The wonderful woodland surrounds Sandford Holiday Park which is bursting with new activities and facilities to make your holiday unforgettable. A Blue Flag beach is just a short drive away, perfect...

Swanage Railway

Whatever the weather, take a journey back in time with an enjoyable day of excitement and nostalgia at the award winning Swanage Railway. Sit back and relax during a leisurely trip behind a historic...

The Eastbury Hotel and Spa

A tranquil destination like no other, comfort and elegance, wrapped in West Country charm. The award-winning Eastbury Hotel & Spa, a luxury Georgian Townhouse hotel with a bijou garden...

The Front Rows

A collection of 20 luxurious holiday homes situated on the cliff edge of The Estate. The Front Rows provide an ideal base for those who wish to explore The Isle of Portland and experience everything...

The Heights Hotel

The Heights Hotel set on the summit of Portland with stunning sea and coastal views over Weymouth and Chesil beach towards Lyme Bay. A warm welcome awaits you at the hotel - whether you are staying...

The Pebbles

Located in a quiet leafy avenue, yet within walking distance of the centre of town,  The Pebbles is a Victorian residence in central Weymouth, offering high quality en-suite bed and...

Upton Grange Holiday Cottages

From it’s location of privilege, cossetted in the centre of the tiny unspoilt hamlet of Upton, where the World Heritage Jurassic Coastline rejoices in the simplicity of nearby Ringstead Bay, the...

Wareham Forest Tourist Park

Our Park is situated midway between Bere Regis and Wareham in the heart of Wareham Forest. We have spacious and level camping, caravan and motorhome pitches in a tranquil woodland setting, with...

Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park

Explore an amazing underwater world and journey to the ocean depths at Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park! Get up close to over 2,000 creatures, including our playful otters and rescued sea turtles....

Plan Your Visit

Discover our great outdoors.

Dorset's coast is perfect for a beach day, adventure or activity!

Natural Beauty

Uninterrupted coastal views, epic landscapes and some of the most wonderful wildlife.

Find your perfect walking route to explore Dorset's coast and countryside.

Dog Friendly Dorset

All the information you need to plan a break to Dorset with your four legged friend!

Getting to Dorset

Getting to Dorset couldn't be easier. The county’s excellent connections via international airports, ferry ports, national and local railway, coach and bus services makes Dorset one of the most accessible holiday destinations in the South West.

• Corrections

9 Historical Places to Visit in Dorset

From battered castle ruins and fine manor houses to settlements belonging to the Norman, Neolithic, and Roman eras, discover nine fascinating places in the county of Dorset.

Dorset’s history tells tales of how religion and political power met, clashed, and made peace over the centuries. Discover the memorial commemorating the Catholic martyrs who were killed during the English Reformation and a temple where prehistoric Celtic religion seems to have embraced Roman-introduced Christianity. Learn how the Clavell tower was saved from crumbling down the cliffside, and walk the halls of Dorset’s finest estates, many of which were owned by one very powerful family. These are the top nine historical locations worth exploring in the English county of Dorset.

1. Discover Tudor & Elizabethan Splendor at Athelhampton House & Gardens

Athelhampton Hall, built in 1485, is one of the finest examples of Tudor manor houses . Prior to its construction, records show that a manor stood in its place, named “Pidele.” The name “Aethelhelm” only appears in records from the 13th century. “Athel” and “ham” mean “noble” and “home,” respectively, and the name is inspired by the Saxon Duke Æthelhelme, who was killed in the Battle of Portland in 837 following the Danish invasion.

The Great Tudor Hall was built by Sir William Martyn, who inherited the property after his father’s death. By 1595, the Martyn family had all died, and the property served as a farmhouse until it was purchased in 1891. The house had been extended during the Elizabethan period (1558-1603); however, the new owner, Mr Alfred Cart de Lafontaine, set about restoring the manor house to its Tudor splendor. Along with Tudor heraldic stained glass and linenfold paneling, there are over 20 rooms featuring distinctive Tudor architecture, antiques, and furnishings. Mr Cart de Lafontaine’s architect, Francis Inigo Thomas, assisted with creating the surrounding gardens, which are very popular in today’s horticultural sphere. Both the house and gardens are open for visitation.

2. View the Ancient Timber Construction of What Was Once a Lavish Home 

Get the latest articles delivered to your inbox

Please check your inbox to activate your subscription.

This medieval house is thought to have been built around 1370 by the Sheriff of Somerset and Dorset, William Latimer. It is renowned for its solid timber roofs in the solar and in the great hall, which give insights into a very lavish life lived by the Sheriff. The hall provided a great setting for extravagant evenings of entertainment, and the rooms would have been furnished to reflect the Sheriff’s sense of great self-importance.

Sheriff Latimer came to own Fiddleford Manor and the wider estate through his marriage to the daughter of a man named John Maury in 1355; his bride’s father was the previous owner of the estate. The existing manor house, a description of which is noted in records from 1086, suggests that Sheriff Latimer put in some effort to modernize his newly acquired property. Alterations in the 16th century and 18th century resulted in the addition of a north wing and a west wing, respectively. The north wing serves as a private home and is closed to the public; however, the remainder of the property is open to the public.

3. Tour Kingston Lacy, a “Venetian Palace” Filled to the Brim With Artifacts & Art

This lavishly designed Victorian family home is heavily influenced by Venetian architecture . The creator of the property as it stands today was William John Bankes. Bankes’ remodeling of the property took place remotely between 1834 and 1855. This came about following his exile; he was homosexual, which was a criminal offense that was punishable by death. Bankes sought refuge in Venice and spent his time issuing instructions on the decoration of the interiors.

The house is set on 8,500 acres and includes a variety of gardens, water meadows, and even Iron Age hill forts. The world’s oldest pedigree herd of Red Ruby Devon cattle also call the grounds their home. The Bankes family enjoyed great wealth, the source of which can be traced to the inheritance of Caribbean plantations. There is no doubt that the value of this wealth was largely accrued through the Transatlantic slave trade . Strategic and profitable marriages also led to the accrual of valuable property. With this abundance of wealth, the Bankes family continued to embellish their Venetian palace with art collections and artifacts. Today, the UK’s largest private collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts is held at Kingston Lacy. In 1982, Kingston Lacy, along with several other large estates belonging to the Bankes family, was donated by the family to the National Trust.

4. Explore Knowlton Church & The Neolithic Earthworks, a Place of Worship for Two Religions

Although this Norman church ruin has suffered over nine centuries of wind and rain, it is one of the few churches still standing today. Erected sometime in the 12th century, some of the walls were constructed with stone and flint, and although the roof has long since disappeared, the eastern face shows the line where it once would have sat.

This historical location is particularly interesting as the church was built at the center of what once was a ritual henge earthwork from the Neolithic period (4500-2500 BCE). These ceremonial sites, used by people in the Neolithic and later people in the Bronze Age (2500-600 BCE), were believed to be of vital importance, serving various different roles in the community. Today, “Church Henge” is protected, and it sparks curiosity over why two distinct religions of English history chose this location as their place of worship.

5. Hear the Stories of the Brave Women Who Resisted Sieges at Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle sprang from the ground shortly after the Normans’ successful invasion of England in 1066. Typically, these motte and bailey castles were built with wood; however, Corfe’s walls were fortified with stone. Today, a stone hall stands as the oldest surviving part of the Norman castle. Prior to its role as a Norman fort, it was a Saxon stronghold and, in 978, the scene of a royal murder. On a visit to his half-brother, King Edward was stabbed and killed, with rumors that it was on his stepmother’s orders, who wished for her son to become King.

A keep was added in the 12th century using shiny Purbeck limestone. The design was intended to be eye-catching, and–standing at 21 meters atop a 55-meter high hill–Corfe Castle’s keep could be seen for miles around. King John , who reigned from 1199 to 1216, took a liking to Corfe Castle and built a magnificent gloriette. He spent a small fortune on interior improvements and the addition of an indoor toilet for his use. King John also used the castle to hide during times of turmoil and lock up his political rivals.

Centuries later, the Bankes family would come into ownership of Corfe Castle and use it as their country seat. The Bankes family would later support King Charles I during the English Civil War period , with the defense of two sieges led by Lady Mary Bankes. A mutineer would eventually betray the defending party, which included the Lady’s daughters and her maids.

Corfe Castle was then partially demolished with gunpowder, but Lady Mary eventually would have the castle returned to her and the Bankes family would keep ownership until the late 20th century. Along with Kingston Lacy, Corfe Castle was gifted to the National Trust by Ralph Bankes, culminating in one of the largest giftings of property ever received by the National Trust from one family. Today, it is possible to visit the grounds and walk among the remaining walls, now scarred from its dramatic past.

6. Meet Clavell Tower, an Iconic Building That Was Nearly Lost to the Sea

Clavell Tower is situated on the Smedmore Estate, property belonging to the Clavell family since 1420. As the property was passed down through extended family, new owners adopted the Clavell family surname until, in 1833, it passed to a late owner’s niece, who kept her surname of Mansel. Clavell Tower was built only a few years prior to Ms Mansel’s inheritance of the estate. It was originally used by coastguards keeping watch, but by 1914, it was no longer in use. Cliff erosion over the next few decades threatened to pull the tower into the sea, and the tower was eventually relocated in 2002. Today, this Grade II-listed building serves as a navigational mark and also an observatory.

7. Trace the Square Foundations of Jordan Hill Roman Temple

Of all the interesting ruins and outlines to be found across the rolling hills of England, this Romano-Celtic temple, with its distinctive square shape, signifies a fractious time in English history. Built sometime in the 4th century, as Roman control over Britain was beginning to recede, this ruin indicates a merging of two cultures: the common Celtic culture of southern British tribes and the Roman way of life.

This small, symmetrical temple design was quite typical for Roman Britain, and excavations have uncovered the bases of four portico columns, with other column parts found close by. Also nearby is a cemetery, with over 80 skeletons buried in a mixture of stone cists and wooden coffins. Many of the items excavated, including the pillars, are on display at Dorchester Museum. A 4-meter-deep pit that had been lined with old roofing slabs revealed several artifacts, including a spearhead, two urns, a sword, and a coin from the reign of Emperor Theodosius I (379–95 CE). Across Europe, similar pits have been found, indicating a merging of prehistoric Celtic religious practices with classical religions.

8. Traverse the Sprawling Hills of the Once Mighty Maiden Castle

Dorset is home to one the largest and most complex Iron Age hillforts across all of Europe: Maiden Castle. The vast area would have housed many ramparts, and the overall structure would have been outlined by the bright white chalk naturally found in the earth. Prior to its use in the Iron Age, the hilltop was also used in the early Neolithic period (3000–2300 BCE). A “causewayed enclosure,” created by digging segmented ditches, would have been used as a space to construct flint axes and perform other community duties and activities.

It is thought that hundreds of residents would have sought sanctuary in the castle grounds sometime during the Iron Age (800 BCE-43 CE). As construction continued, the entrance routes became more and more elaborate, with the addition of ramparts and improvements to gateways. The settlement would eventually grow to become the preeminent settlement in southern Dorset. Evidence of grain storage, textile production, and metalworks has been found. The interior layout of the hillfort, packed with roundhouses in no particular order, was restructured with properties lined up in rows and roads for easy passage.

Excavations in the 1930s uncovered over 50 burial sites, with some male skeletons possessing gruesome injuries. This may be from the Roman conquest of 43 CE , during which the Romans brutally attacked the Britons. Other evidence suggests inter-tribal warfare during the Iron Age period, as violence was common and could have easily caused the trauma inflicted upon the uncovered skeletons.

9. Visit the Dorset Martyrs Memorial, Where Seven Men Were Executed During the English Reformation

In 1527, following Pope Clement VII’s refusal to grant King Henry VIII an annulment , the king passed reformation legislation that gave the monarchy full religious authority. As the Head of the Church of England, and with no challenge to his papal authority, the religious minority of Protestants gained increasing support from the monarchy, while the Catholics fell from favor. Between 1534 and 1680, many Catholic men and women found themselves at the mercy of the English Reformation. In 1570, Pope Pius V excommunicated Queen Elizabeth I and instructed a Catholic rebellion against the Crown. This triggered a new law whereby Catholics could face execution for treason if found to be acting under the authority of Pope Pius V.

At the site of the Dorset Martyrs Memorial, at least seven Catholic martyrs were hung from the gallows; Hugh Green, Thomas Pilchard, and John Cornelius SJ were found guilty of being Catholic priests. William Pyke, a carpenter, was killed for having spoken favorably of the Catholic religion while in prison. Thomas Bosgrave, John Carey, and Patrick Salmon all were found guilty of harboring a Catholic priest. The memorial shows two Catholic men about to be made martyrs and remembers all the women and men of Dorset who met a cruel and untimely fate under the English Reformation.

Tudor History: The Complete Overview

By Katie Parr LL.B. Law Katie holds a First Class Law Degree LL.B. from the University of Kent, Canterbury. She is a professional writer and owns a small copywriting business. When she’s not creating content for different projects, she’s planning her next travels. She has a keen interest in history and culture of both Great Britain, where she is from, and abroad. She enjoys exploring old bookshops, visiting new places, and walking her dog.

Frequently Read Together

10 Palazzos (Palaces) in Venice You Must Visit

The Flying Africans: Returning Home in African American Folklore

4 Awe-Inspiring Neolithic Monuments in the British Isles

Why Dorset needs to be your next foodie staycation

The southwest county has become a haven for gastronomists, where organic produce and the freshest coastal plunder are cooked by trailblazing chefs. Rosalyn Wikeley rounds up the very best places to get a taste of the burgeoning scene

If you’re making a foodie pilgrimage to the West Country and bypassing Dorset for Devon or Cornwall , you’re missing a trick. This deliciously green and lyrical county (save for Bournemouth and Poole’s suburban sprawl) dotted with Thomas Hardy market towns and pretty, thatched villages constitutes one big pantry.

Spanking fresh coastal plunder is hoicked into restaurant kitchens, all iridescent and salty; wild garlic, flowers and vegetables thrive in the mineral-rich soil, and dairy farming is written into Dorset’s DNA, or really, just farming in general.

West Dorset’s rural rhythms are as pure as the sweet, unpolluted air, and deeply woven into everyday life. And yet, for so long, this first-rate pantry was just that. Only in the past five years has Hardy Country really got its act together, gingerly spinning its wild bounty and farming treasure into delicious, wholly inventive plates, drumming up restaurant ideas, with trailblazers such as Mark Hix and Harriet Mansell.

Urban chefs and artisans have cottoned on, leaving the Big Smoke for organic produce on par with that of Tuscany’s, setting up restaurants, cafes, bakeries and creating feasts that draw on Dorset’s unflashy spirit, just with wildly delicious food with urban-learned finesse.

Locals fear a Cotswolds-style gloss – they relish the undiscovered, untamed nature of this ravishing corner of the UK, where Saturday lunch is unpicking a Portland crab beside a shingly Chesil Beach, and Sunday roasts are a succulent joint from a friend’s herd These are the very best places to taste the spoils.

The Parlour, Burton Bradstock 

Anyone who believes they are in the countryside at Soho Farmhouse will be sorely disappointed with The Parlour. Its farmyard carpark is scruffy, its bar is essentially a makeshift teenage den, and the courtyard is unkempt and scattered with plant pots. Because this is a real farm, not the countryside-for-Londonders flavour. But once inside the restaurant, that gazes across the undulating Bride Valley, loud, well-dressed, well-informed families fill tables and the magic begins to unfold.

Occupying a chunk of Bredy Farm, a few minutes drive away from the coastal village of Burton Bradstock, The Parlour is, without doubt, Dorset’s best pizza joint. Layered with West Country cheese, local vegetables and Italian cold cuts, the loaded slabs of fluffy, home-made dough are flung into an enormous, red-mosaic wood-fired oven. What comes out is something close to euphoria. The Tuscan theme (West Dorset and Tuscany are well-matched in their seasonal bounty, rural rhythms and family-first spirit), continues across the menu, with pasta dishes wrapping flavour-packed, seasonal treasure into their al dente coils — pork and fennel, or maybe fresh asparagus with cream.

Their Sunday roasts (with Italian twists) are a fine reward for those braving the Hardy Country hills — expect slow-roast pork with goose-fat roasties, Tuscan fish stew with mussels and clams, and handsome helpings of thick, creamy tiramisu.  bredyfarm.com

Brassica, Beaminster 

Brassica really was a first for Dorset. Opened by Cass Titcombe and Louise Chidgey (whose collective culinary pedigree includes The Cow in Westbourne Grove and Canteen), the now beloved restaurant sympathetically wove its London-learned skills into the Midsummer Murder-esque town of Beaminster. It is housed in a cosy, art-clad building that blinks onto the square through a tea room-style mullion window. A log burner warms toes on chilly nights, bare brick and creamy walls are woken up with a splash of contemporary prints and ceramics, and benches are backed by a medley of cushions, evoking a comfy sitting room setting. It’s as if they want you to stay. And you should, because Cass Titcombe’s Mediterranean-inspired menu leverages the best of the surrounding farms and fields, drumming up succulent plates of pork shoulder rigatoni, meaty and moreish halibut fillet on borlotti beans with fennel, and Melanzane Parmigiana, loaded with West Country cheese.

The puddings are superb (sweet, apricot fool, or gingerbread swimming in creme fraiche); as is the wine list, meticulously chosen by Cass to let his menu sing. It’s worth noting that the restaurant is only open for dinner from Thursday till Saturday, and, if you go for breakfast or lunch, ensure you drop by Brassica Mercantile just opposite, a fine curaton of chocolates and crafty gifts, courtesy of Louise’s Conran-focused CV.    brassicarestaurant.co.uk

The Pig On The Beach, Studland  

Sweeping views over the Purbecks and that postcard-perfect shot of Old Harry's Rock, The Pig On The Beach occupies one of the best clifftop seats in the house. The building itself is a mustard, higgledy-piggledy marvel — almost spooky in character with witch-hat turrets, Gothic mullioned windows and a Victorian skeleton, fleshed out with warm, textured fabrics and cosy armchairs in its various nooks and crannies.

It’s as charming in the chillier months as it is in the hazy height of summer, with roaring fires and herb-infused cocktails welcoming autumnal walkers back to base. Roasts are carnivorous and served with braised, charred root vegetables.

True to Piggy form, seasonality and the hotel’s restaurant’s local approach errs on puritanical, with produce (when not plucked from their own bountiful kitchen gardens) sourced from local fisherman and farmers within a 25 mile radius. Highlights include the legendary ‘Piggy Bits’, Jim Adami’s pigeon breast with garden sweetcorn and black pudding and sinfully delicious Westcombe ricotta dumplings.

The 25 mile menu rolls out in the plant-filled, rosemary-scented greenhouse restaurant (think rustic tables, nostalgic light and coastal views), or for an even more relaxed setting, a wood-fired menu can be tucked into on the outdoor patio, with giggling children cartwheeling into the long, lawn-based afternoons. Foodies can join for a pre-prandial tour of the kitchen gardens every day (no need to book) at 11am, watching the chefs snip various herbs and hoik out vegetables that will shortly be spun under hungry walkers in the main restaurant.  thepighotel.com  

FOUND by Found & Fine, Dorchester 

This unassuming, green-fronted cafe sits at the far end of Dorchester’s Trinity Street that’s permanently choked by cars from the traffic lights. We were one of those cars, and that is the only reason anyone comes across this nondescript-but-brilliant bistro. Inside, it's a minty, minimalist take on a farm kitchen, with wood panelling and industrial suspended lamps. The owner’s manifesto is clear: locally-grown, farmed or foraged food spun into sharing plates and seasonal specials.

Come from Thursday till Saturday evening (until 8pm) for small plates and cocktails, or for a lunch doused in sunlight –expect plates such as venison crumpet with wild garlic, parsnip veloute with Dorset truffle arancini, and squash ravioli with sage. The puddings are ludicrously tasty. Immortalised by Thomas Hardy’s The Mayor of Casterbridge yet decaying and succumbing to chains, Dorchester needs rescuing by little cafes and restaurants like FOUND, bringing vim and vitality to a stale-yet-splendid market town.  foundnfine.co.uk  

Catch At The Old Fishmarket, Weymouth 

As well as its Georgian pastel antiquity, Weymouth has a shabby, dishevelled side to it that lies a few roads behind its main sea-fronted stretch. Turn a blind eye to the high street chains and chicken shops, and its streets (particularly the harbour front) are the perfect Dickensian film set. Rhythms from eras preceding the author’s endure here, from the congregation of gossipers in the teahouses that spill into the sunshine to the fisherman’s pootling out to secret coordinates. One of these is reserving his finest coastal plunder for Catch, a relatively new arrival, occupying the splendid Victorian bones of the old fish market.

Enter through a Narnia-like door, up a flight of stairs and all is calm, whitewashed and a little Nordic. This is the new digs of ex Pollen Street Social chef, Mike Naidoo, who’s a deft hand at spinning all coastal treasures (an enormous sea bass, brill, really whatever the fisherman procures), into haute, wholly delicious plates. It has earned him a well-deserved one Michelin star, and put a port town in need of a wee spruce firmly on the foodie map. Expect the usual, spanking fresh salty suspects such as Portland crab dumplings, perfectly-roasted scallops, which are meaty and moreish inside, washed down with local Langham’s wine, of course, rounded off with a light, fluffy New Forest Strawberry Baba. catchattheoldfishmarket.com

Lilac Restaurant and Wine Bar, Lyme Regis 

Having injected some culinary fizz into the genteel, seaside town of Lyme Regis with Robin Wyld (now closed), Harriet Mansell’s second opening on Broad Street has lured city gourmands all the way down the M3. It’s worth the dastardly motorway trudge, for arty sharing plates, loaded with West Country’s seasonal treasure. All is earthy toned and calm in this former wine cellar, with white table cloths, smart wine glasses and atmospheric Nordic lighting suggestive of a culinary show worth bedding in for.

It’s good value too – artsy locals flock here for cocktails and dinner, digesting their foraged feasts with a moonlight stroll along the beach, where Mary Anning once hunted for fossils, and Jane Austin penned Persuasion. This summer, Harriet opened Garden Table at Lilac, hidden behind the main restaurant in a plant-filled courtyard space that inhales the sea air. Here, 14 diners are treated to intimate foodie theatre, with Harriet cooking her personally foraged, wild ingredients over a fire – except smoked fish and meat sprinkled with summer flowers and flavoursome wild vegetables. lilacwine.co.uk

Rick Stein, Sandbanks 

I routinely urge all Dorset-bound foodies to head West, and stay there, dodging the chains, the urban sprawl of Bournemouth and the architectural, and poor town planning of most of Poole. But Hamptons-inspired Sandbanks’ retirees, done-good types and footballers and their wives, quite rightly, deserve a really good restaurant. Somewhere worth a blow dry and nice shoes (the Superga-footed yachties sinking into the Scandi chairs are in for a sartorial treat). And Rick Stein’s Sandbanks outpost delivers, wowing with various spins on classics (deep-fried coconut prawns, Pondicherry cod curry, posh fish and chips with curry sauce, and the like) gleaned from his peripatetic career.

All is a paean to land and sea West Country produce, from the gooey and gorgeously caramelised Coombeshead sourdough to the Cornish grilled lobster (a must for any first-timers). Punters return religiously for Stein’s legendary Indonesian seafood curry and the Launceston-reared steak, seared with panache (and drowned in bone marrow gravy). The views (away from the beach’s car-park side) are sensational — a pancake-flat, ankle-deep stretch of water that moves through shades of pink in the evening, when the kite and windsurfers come out to play.  rickstein.com  

Soulshine Café, Bridport 

If you’ve read about the arty contingent that have either returned to childhood pastures or left London rents for Bridport’s artisanal, (more affordable) scene, pull up a chair at Soulshine Café on a Sunday. You’ll need to visually wade through the tourists to find them, but they’ll be sharing secrets over juices from the orchard, and eating well-proportioned brunch classics (the avocado on toast with bacon is divine), and just-baked pastries.

Interiors are relaxed and imbued with that famous West Country hippy spirit — the yogi lot, with celestial inclinations, love it here, as do the ex-Londoners gagging for a salted padron pepper (perfectly braised), or a proper cappuccino (from the Goose & Badger roastery). The pocket-sized patio at the back of the café is a heavenly spot on a summer’s day, and if in town for a hot minute, be sure to pick up their freshly-baked bread and deli goodies at the very front of the café (the sort of fresh, artisanal picnic that Fortnum & Masons can all but dream of). Children are welcomed with open arms (and well-thumbed books), and the café puts on various supper clubs, with guest chefs, authors and even mushroom experts. wearesoulshine.co.uk

Crab House Café, Weymouth

It’s the sort of spot that only the locals know about. Our seafaring friends finally let us in on the secret — their favourite seafood joint, where they fuel up on oysters and Portland crab before a long afternoon on their yacht. The menu is written hastily with the latest haul: terracotta crabs (some monster specimens), plump, iridescent hake and freckled turbot.

Reassuringly makeshift, shack-like interiors belie the refined, finely-tuned plates of roasted skate wing with chorizo, whole plaice roasted with anchovy butter and Somerset cider onions. It’s a restaurant full of substance, without the frills and with poetic views across a shingled Chesil Beach. crabhousecafe.co.uk

Peppina, Poundbury 

King Charles III’s Poundbury regularly divides: Georgian pastiche or the promised land? But spend an afternoon marvelling at its squares, architecture and the courtyards, which mimic the Georgians’ handsome symmetry and perfect proportions, and you could easily be swayed. Particularly if you swing by Peppina for a ricotta-filled pistachio cannoli or a graffa.

Tucked in a courtyard reminiscent (shock) of a palace stables, the Sicilian café may feel utilitarian, if not a little underdressed, but the delectable pastries and reassuringly fat focaccia sandwiches demand little in the way of fancy decor. This is the stellar work of Angelo Fischera, a spirited, bouncy character who’s deftly pared Dorset produce with Sicilian recipes, and exhibits that typically Italian warmth (children tinker in the corner on a mini kitchen and people of all tribes linger in this easygoing space).

Behind a counter filled with plum cannoli, baci, arancini, and sweet cream-loaded brioche is a small, industrial-style bakery where the holy grail of all sourdoughs is baked and Sicilian cooking lessons take place. Look out for their Thursday pizza nights, and, if staying at a nearby Airbnb, or in need of picnic material, their boxed pizzas, bread and biscuits will transport you to Sicily’s sun-scorched coastline with one bite.  peppina.uk

Parnham Park Restaurant 

On the fringes of timewarp Beaminster lies 140 acres of parkland, and at its centre, a rambling Elizabethan pile, whose skeleton is held up solely by thick braids of wisteria. Its mullioned windows are charred, its innards burnt to cinders by a devastating fire, (the alleged perpetrator and previous owner was later found drowned in Lake Geneva). It all sounds a little Frederick Forsyth (and it was), but rising from the ashes, courtesy of James and Sophie Perkins, is something quite extraordinary. The wings have been restored to their former glory and filled with antiques and taxidermy, one as a separate house to rent for a bucolic Dorset weekend.

The team retraced the original landscaping in what was an overgrown tangle of garden – now bursting with colour and genteel topiary. And now, they’ve opened a restaurant – a paean to Dorset’s exquisite, just-caught seafood and its wild superlative farm produce. 

This isn’t Sophie and James’ first rodeo, with James’ history of restoring historic properties and the couple famously organising knockout celebrity parties at their previous, famously eccentric Northampton home, Aynhoe Park. There’s a sense, as you edge up their stately, tree-lined drive, that you’re entering a splendid private home. Which you are. But turn right, walk through a fairy-lit arboretum and you’ll enter the walled garden, where an elegantly unpretentious, cocktail-studded scene now occupies a beautiful greenhouse. Chefs whip up plates in an open kitchen, alongside the upholstered bamboo chairs, chintzy plates and a shabby-chic piano, all a little olde worlde, yet decidedly new energy for this stretch of Dorset.

Tuck into implausibly fresh, torched mackerel pepped up ginger, ‘lamb from Alex’s farm’ in a whisky glaze, and Sophie’s courgettes, lathered in labneh and sprinkled with edible garden flowers. Don’t miss the majestic white deer roaming the grounds, or the storytime soundtrack in the loos, or, emphatically, the Parnham Pintxos cocktails — consider pre-booking a cab.  parnhampark.co.uk

Seaside Boarding House 

The lane tracing the cliffs from the pansied-pub, coastal village of Burton Bradstock, towards a Daz-white, Edwardian Boarding house, elicits a jolt of vertigo. It's humbling, and wholly West Dorset — a sort of road that leads to nowhere curving high above a beguiling mass of blue. Except it does. It leads to the Seaside Boarding House, a quiet triumph from the team behind The Groucho Club whose strong seafood game is ramped up with a sun-trap terrace, and, unsurprisingly, right-on cocktails.

Tuck yourself under white tablecloths for a drawn out afternoon, cracking Portland Crab and washing down oysters with Langham’s sparkling wine. On a sunny day, it’s a pretty louche scene, by West Dorset standards, where the light-filled dining room exhales onto the terrace, with all eyes on the horizon. Those walking off the Westcombe cheddar soufflé (unreal), or the buttermilk pudding (pure rapture) along the cliff paths may ponder just how the nearby mobile home holiday parks bagged such an exquisite chunk of the Jurassic Coast. And yet, the unpretentious spirit of this field-meets-sea coastal stretch is, really, what lends it its enduring charm.

It still feels a little undiscovered. Guests sinking into the Boarding House’s whitewashed, coastal rooms will feel rightfully smug, particularly after an invigorating swim at Hive Beach or having nursed an Seaside Breeze cocktail with fried baby squid as the sun dips.  theseasideboardinghouse.com

3 of the best Dorset foodie experiences to book

If you want to experience more of Dorset’s growing gastronomy scene with a full-on foodie experience then there is much to be explored. Here are some of our favourites booze tours and feasts.

Langham Wine Estate 

Following its sparkling wine of the year award from IWSC (triumphing over various well-established Champagne houses), Langham Wine has become something of a South Westerly pilgrimage for oenophiles, bringing the county’s chalky soil and wine-making panache into sharp focus. Their owner’s generational farming experience informs the minimal intervention method, and the vines can be inspected (and the four wines sampled) with various tours.

Linger for lunch at the Estate’s vineyard cafe, occupying an old Dutch barn, where a wall of hay bales keeps things low-key, and Fizz Fridays pair Dorest’s musical talent with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and themed suppers. langhamwine.co.uk

Flames and Feast 

Specialising in fire cooking with a Middle Eastern twist, Dorchester-based Flames and Feasts is a sky-high standards catering company that friends recommend quietly in their circles like precious amulets. It does what it says on the tin, plenty of flames, and lots of seasonal feasting, with Louise Perry-Warnes smoking and flame grilling on theatrical, Argentine-style asados. It’s a bewitching, almost ritualised performance beneath rural Dorset’s star-brandished skies, which now also extends to a series of pop up suppers. These are often held in the secret gardens, woodlands or parkland of some of East Dorset’s most romantic, wildly beautiful private houses.  flamesandfeasts.co.uk  

Black Cow Distillery 

Proud distillers of the world’s first milk-derived vodka, Black Cow Vodka brought a little maverick energy to the green, rambling heart of Dorset's dairy making culture. The story goes, that a fifth generation dairy farmer and his neighbour conjured the idea from a drinking session, and now its 250-strong herd of dairy cows (grazing on hills seemingly drawn by a child that wrap Beaminster and overlook the sea) produce the creamy goods, with the milk-based vodka distilled and bottled by hand. Browse their website for the Lyme Regis-based Black Cow saloon for various launches, quick courses and tasting from vodka and cheese pairing nights to vodka cocktail making workshops.  blackcow.co.uk

Could the British Riviera become the new Med?

UK festivals 2024: music events and line-ups this summer, from Boardmasters to Mucky Weekender

The best hotels in Cornwall — from The Pig to Stanley Tucci's favourite

Why the chic Dolomites are the place to be this summer

23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA)

In search of the best and fun things to do in Santa Clara, CA?

Santa Clara is a city in Santa Clara County, California, with a population of nearly one hundred and twenty-five according to the last census.

For over two hundred years, the city has existed as a Spanish Mission. Santa Clara is famous for its flourishing tech industry, known as Silicon Valley worldwide.

There is a touch of everything here for a fun vacation, these cuts across places to visit, events, fun adventures, and more.

Planning an exploration of Santa Clara? Here are the top things to do in Santa Clara, CA.

Things to Do in Santa Clara, CA

1. mission santa clara.

Mission Santa Clara is currently located on the campus of Santa Clara University, it was founded by Franciscans in the 1770s.

Fire, earthquakes, and floods eradicated the original building, so the location was changed, and a new one was established in 1822.

Mission Santa Clara was built to convert the Ohlone people, and the Franciscans were doing just fine until measles and smallpox attacked Ohlone.

The mission is one of the historic sites in the city, and it was gifted to the Jesuits in 1857, who built California’s first institute of higher education, Santa Clara University.

Mission Santa Clara is open seven days a week. Although it is no longer carrying out the function it was built for, it now serves as a museum and Chapel.

It is open to everyone, and visitors can take self-guided tours with the help of brochures found close to the entrance.

Address: 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, California 95053, United States.

2. The Central Park Library

The Central Park Library is one of the three libraries in Santa Clara under the Santa Clara City Library. The other two include the Northside Branch Library and the Mission Branch Library.

This library is the largest library facility in Santa Clara, with more than 80, 000 Square feet of floor space packed with a massive library collection.

The Central Park Library consists of large community rooms, group study rooms, public art, and many more.

The library has more than one hundred public computers, a computer training facility with a high-speed internet connection for personal laptops.

Central Park Library features a children’s garden, fireplaces, and a large collection of educational and innovative programs materials.

There is a fully packed bookstore with a contemporary collection of books, a nice cafe, and lovely park views.

Address: 2635 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara, CA 95051, United States

3. California’s Great America

For an exceptional outdoor experience in Santa Clara, spend a day at California’s Great America with your friends and family.

California’s Great America is a massive and exhilarating fun park with many eye-catching attractions and activities.

The park features various kinds of roller coasters, including a twenty-story drop tower and the Xtreme Skyflyer that serves as hang gliding and skydiving found high above the park.

California’s Great America features rides for the family, such as a carousel, bumper cars, a flume ride, and more.

There is an amazing playground with lots of play equipment for the little ones to explore and have a great time.

California’s Great America features numerous water slides, cabana rentals, a wave pool, and a lazy river where visitors can relax and cool off.

Address: 4710 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, California 95054, United States

4. Beat The Lock Escape Rooms

Beat The Lock Escape Rooms will be one of the highlights of your visit to Santa Clara with your friends and family.

Don’t forget to add a visit to Beat The Lock Escape Rooms to your checklist of things to do in Santa Clara.

Beat The Lock Escape Rooms offer visitors a unique sixty minutes of wonderful experience with their loved ones.

Each escape room requires a group of at least two to fourteen people who would be locked up in a themed room and made to find ideas, clues, crack codes, and solve puzzles to help them escape before the time elapses.

Beat The Lock Escape Rooms is an excellent place for nice team-building events by law enforcement, churches, companies, youth groups, sports teams, military, and others.

It is open for different special events and offers catering services for engagements parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthday parties, reunions, anniversaries, and more.

Address: 1171 Homestead Rd University Plaza, Suite 280, Santa Clara, CA 95050-5478 United States

5. 49ers Museum

 The 49ers Museum is a favorite location for football fans, especially 49ers fans, and it is open every day of the week throughout the year.

The museum is located in Levi’s Stadium, which is the home of the San Francisco 49ers consisting of a whopping eleven fantastic galleries and spaces for exhibitions.

The 49ers Museum is exciting and interactive; it features an education center that uses football as a case study to enlighten about math & art, technology, engineering, field trips, and science.

You will find a twenty-minute introductory movie close to the museum’s entrance with a vast exhibit of 49ers memorabilia such as helmets, Jerseys, super bowl rings, balls, and cleats.

There is an interactive area where visitors could try on helmets and Jerseys, learn 49ers cheers and throw a football.

49ers Museum features lifelike statues of players, including past and present, with a site of the 49er’s history.

Address: Levi’s Stadium, 4900 Marie P. DeBartolo Way, Santa Clara, California 95054, United States

6. The South Bay Historical Railroad Society

The volunteers who operate this museum staff the Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History, buildings, and the society’s library.

The South Bay Historical Railroad Society displays a wide collection of historical artifacts such as a velocipede, locomotive headlights, signals, and more.

The Museum contains two nice operational model train tracks, one in N gauge and the other in OH, including maintaining a business class car from the Oregon-Washington Railroad exemplifying the different periods in railway history.

The South Bay Historical Railroad Society comprises a library filled with railroad-related books and materials.

Address: 1005 Railroad Avenue, Santa Clara, California 95050, United States

7. Anderson Lake County Park

Visiting Anderson Lake County Park is one of the best things to do in Santa Clara for a spectacular experience.

Anderson Lake County Park stretches to a landscape of four thousand, two hundred and seventy-five acres.

The park is home to the Coyote Creek parkway with numerous trails, the Burnett Park area, the Jackson Ranch historic park site, and the Moses L. Rosendin Park.

Anderson Lake County Park is a fantastic location for picnickers, powerboat enthusiasts, equestrians, nature lovers, and bicyclists.

It is a great spot for fishing, jet skis, and swimming; the park is filled with beautiful wildflowers, cottonwood trees, sycamore, and more.

Anderson Lake County Park is a must-visit if you truly want to explore the outdoor pursuits offering exciting recreational activities.

Address: 19245 Malaguerra Ave, Morgan Hill, CA 95037, United States

8. Harris-Lass House Museum

The museum was built in a symmetrical Italianate style in 1865, and it was expanded and renovated in the 1890s.

The Harris-Lass House Museum is the last farm property in Santa Clara, consisting of a nice farmhouse.

The Museum contains a summer kitchen, a classic California barn, a Heritage Orchard, a tank house, and a landscaped garden.

Harris-Lass House Museum is remarkably furnished with Lass Family belongings, and it is open for occasional docent-led tours and school and group tours.

A ddress: 1889 Market Street, Santa Clara, California 95050, United States

Also, check out our guide on things to do in San Juan Capistrano , things to do in Indio and fun things to do in Visalia for a memorable vacation

9. K1 Speed Santa Clara

K1 Speed Santa Clara is an exciting destination for families, friends, and co-workers to experience incredibly fun.

This family-friendly fun center features fast indoor electric go-karts, state-of-the-art safety barriers, and a professionally-designed track.

K1 Speed Santa Clara consists of many meeting rooms and an arcade room that features different varieties of games.

There is a snack bar that offers delicious meals and chilled drinks for reasonable costs; this is the best place for motorsports lovers.

K1 Speed Santa Clara is a wonderful venue for corporate events, social outings, fun date night ideas, company parties, bachelor or bachelorette parties, birthday parties, and much more.

 The fun offered here will give you a feel of adrenaline rush, K1 Speed Santa Clara guarantees you a fun experience, and it is open for all skill levels.

Address: 2925 Mead Ave, Santa Clara, CA 95051, United States

10. Headen-Inman House

Headen-Inman House was originally built in 1913, but the recent building was in 1985, and its location was changed.

The beautiful bungalow was established in Arts and crafts style; it was transformed into a lovely museum containing several items.

Headen-Inman House features a collection of furniture owned by the Inam family, as well as dining room furniture, an old pump organ, and a bedroom suite.

There is a reserved room specifically for photographs and artifacts that demonstrates the history of Santa Clara.

The Santa Clara founders and pioneers room consists of credible information about the early settlers in the region.

Address: 1509 Warburton Avenue, Santa Clara, California 95050, United States .

11. The de Saisset Museum

The de Saisset Museum was established in 1955, and it is located adjacent to Mission Santa Clara at the Santa Clara University.

The museum started as an art gallery showcasing more than one hundred works made by the Painter Ernest de Saisset.

It combines both art and history with diverse and easily accessible exhibits, with great emphasis on art from the San Francisco Bay Area and the Santa Clara Valley.

The de Saisset Museum also houses European and American artworks from the Renaissance. In addition, the museum has an impressive collection of Mission-era Liturgical vestments and an exhibit on California history.

Address: 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, California 95053, United States

12. Henry Schmidt Park

Henry Schmidt Park should certainly be on your list of things to do in Santa Clara, CA. It is home to the “Henry Schmidt Park Walls of Fame.”

This eight-acre park showcases sports memories of Henry Schmidt, a forty years old who dedicated himself to training athletes.

Henry Schmit coached Santa Clara University Bronco athletic teams and the San Francisco 49ers; the sports display is in the large neighborhood building.

Henry Schmidt Park features basketball courts, four tennis courts, the Tom Barrett softball field, a large play area, and an exercise course.

Picnic facilities are available in the picnic area with bbq grills and restrooms, including a playground.

Address: 555 Los Padres Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95050, United States

13. Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival

Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival is one event you shouldn’t miss in Santa Clara.

The Festival is open to both tourists and residents alike for free, and it is an extremely exciting family event in Santa Clara.

Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival is held in the city’s central park and usually features numerous talented local and regional artists.

The festival features about two hundred vendors selling different merchandise like a wide variety of California’s best wines, fine arts & crafts, and gourmet food.

Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival features twenty-five community groups serving International foods, micro-brewed beer, and fine wines, with live entertainment on three stages.

The festival also features the ever-popular kids’ kingdom and a new shaded Craft Beer Garden.

Address: Location is Central Park, 969 Kiely Blvd, Santa Clara, California United States

14. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

If you haven’t visited Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, you’re missing out; add dining at this lovely restaurant to your list of things to do in Santa Clara, CA.

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar offers the best sevice when serving amazing prime steak, handcrafted cocktails, and wines.

This restaurant offers an extensive food menu which includes French onion soup, Miso Glazed Chilean Sea Bass, fleming’s salad, sweet chilli calamari, lobster bisque, Crème Brûlée, key lime pie, caesar salad, Filet Mignon Sandwiches, and more.

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar comprises a full-service bar that offers wines like loosen bros, maso canali, Kim Crawford, duck horn, Francis coppola, goldeneye, and more.

If you’re planning a special occasion, hosting a business date, or you just want to enjoy a delicious meal with great services, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar is the best option.

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar also offers online delivery if you can’t come yourself or simply want to enjoy the meal in the comfort of your home or wherever you are.

Address: 2762 Augustine Dr Suite 110, Santa Clara, CA 95050, United States

15. Santa Clara Farmers’ Market

If you’re searching for a place to shop, add shopping at Santa Clara Farmers’ Market to your list of things to do in Santa Clara, CA.

Santa Clara Farmers’ Market offers a wide variety of commodities, starting from seasonal produce & freshly baked goods, prepared food items to health & body products.

The market is open all year-round on Saturdays only from 9am-1pm, offering goods for affordable prices you can’t get elsewhere.

Santa Clara Farmers’ Market offers fresh and healthy produce to encourage the public to always choose the best products.

The market offers you an opportunity to meet and interact with locals and ask them questions about the town.

Address: 950 Jackson St, Santa Clara, CA 95050, United States

Are you planning an exploration of California and wondering what to do? here is a guide on things to do in Chula Vista ,  things to do in San Marcos , and  fun things to do in Redlands for a memorable time.

16. Levi’s Stadium

 A day at Levi’s Stadium is one of the top things to do in Santa Clara, CA. It has a sixty-eight thousand seating capacity.

Levi’s Stadium is home to the National Football League’s San Francisco 49ers, and it is one of the country’s premier professional football stadiums.

The stadium is the venue for the 49ers season; the pre-season begins from August to its final season-ending in early January.

Levi’s Stadium is a host of world-class entertainment and concerts that are always held daily.

The stadium is available for public tours, which may be booked through Ticketmaster; the public tour includes a 90-minute tour of the stadium and admission to the 49ers Museum.

A group of more than twenty people can organize a private tour, and the stadium features a restaurant, Bourbon Steak, that offers delicious American fares.

Address: 4900 Marie P. DeBartolo Way, Santa Clara, California 95054, United States

17. Voyager Coffee

The best way to start your day is by drinking a flavorful cup of coffee, and Voyager Coffee serves the most delightful coffee in Santa Clara.

Voyager Coffee was founded in 2016 and has continually served the public with world-class coffee they can’t get anywhere else.

The owners and staff ensure the customers are happy by providing a comfortable environment to feel free and interact with other guests and form new friendships.

They offer fresh and delicious pastry and baked foods, tea, coffee, and other non-coffee drinks, served however you want it.

Voyager Coffee offers drinks like Chai latte, drip coffee, Americana, mocha, cold brew, drinking chocolate, London fog, cappuccino, macchiato, and more.

Aside from drinks, they also offer meals like Avocado toast, almond butter toast, nut & honey, cinnamon rolls, Chocolate Almond Croissant, Pesto Ricotta Toast, chocolate cake, and so on.

Many of their coffees sport internationally influenced flavors, and they’re often infused with things like orange essence and cherry blossom water.

Address: 3985 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95051, United States

18. Triton Museum of Art

 Whether you’re an art lover or not, add a visit to the Triton Museum of Art to your list of fun things to do in Santa Clara, CA.

Triton Museum of Art’s primary mission is to promote local, regional, and national art by showcasing the various artworks.

The Museum collects and displays historical and contemporary California artworks with a duty to motivate cultural and gender inclusiveness.

Triton Museum of Art enlightens the public on art and the creative process; the building itself is a piece of art with a curved glass wall.

The Museum is home to the historic 1866 Jamison-Brown house and a seven-acre sculpture garden.

Address: 1505 Warburton Avenue, Santa Clara, California 95050, United States

19. Central Park

Are you ready for a terrific fun moment with your dear friends and family? Then, visiting Central Park should be on your Santa Clara to-do list.

Central Park is a center for recreational activities, and it houses the George F. Haines International Swim Center and a 30, 000 square foot Community Recreation Center.

The park consists of two softball fields, two lighted tennis courts, basketball courts, a green bowling lawn, an exercise course, and more.

Central Park also consists of a fantastic amphitheater and a beautiful children’s playground with lots of fun equipment.

This park is a perfect venue for group and family picnics at designated areas with barbecue pits and public restrooms.

Address: 969 Kiely Blvd., Santa Clara, California 95051, United States.

20. Montague Park

Montague Park is a wonderful 5.5-acre park with several facilities suitable for both adults and children.

The park is home to a neighborhood recreation facility that features two tennis courts, a large multi-purpose room, and restrooms.

Montague Park features a children’s play area with several play apparatus for them to explore and have a memorable experience.

There is a picnic area with picnic tables and bbq grills perfect for a small family outing or friends gathering to grab a meal together.

Montague Park is adjacent to the Montague Swim Center, which offers recreational swim and swimming lessons during the summer months.

Address: 3595 MacGregor Ln, Santa Clara, CA 95054, United States

21. Santa Clara Fire Museum

The Santa Clara Fire Museum is housed in an old training center behind the Santa Clara Fire House in Santa Clara.

 The museum contains numerous memorabilia from 1855 when the Santa Clara Fire Department was established.

The Santa Clara Fire Museum showcases photographs, documents, and fire equipment like fire extinguishers, nozzles, and hoses.

The museum features an excellently refurbished Model T Ford truck purchased by the Santa Clara Fire Department. It was used as a she truck from 1921-1945, and it has been well refurbished by volunteers.

The Santa Clara Fire Museum is open to everyone as well as school groups with educational programs relating to fire safety.

Address: 1900 Walsh Avenue, Santa Clara, California 95050, United States

22. Ulistac Natural Area

Ulistac Natural Area is a forty-one acre open space that brings you close and helps you communicate with nature.

The area is committed to preserving the native Californian vegetation and wildlife with a variety of natural habitats.

Ulistac Natural Area consists of riparian woodland, grassland, savannah, wetlands, coastal scrub, and other natural habitats.

This nature preserve features a bird and butterfly garden with nectar plants, including monkeyflower and fuchsia, that attract hummingbirds and a wide range of butterflies.

Ulistac Natural Area consists of natural trails featuring interpretative signs, and it was once a seasonal camp for the Ohlone Indians.

This preserve was used as a golf course in the mid-20th century, as grazing land for sheep and cattle during the Spanish and Mexican conquest era, and as agricultural land for 19th-century Chinese settlers.

Address: 4910 Lick Mill Road, Santa Clara, California 95054, United States

23. War Memorial Playground

 For your next family outing, add a visit to War Memorial Playground to your list of fun things to do in Santa Clara.

War Memorial Playground is a one-acre park perfect for families with children who want to share an intimate moment.

The playground is small but unique, with large sculpted ants and an anthill for climbing. They were designed and made by Francine Agapoff, California artists.

War Memorial Playground is ideal for preschoolers and toddlers with their guidance; for their utmost safety, dogs are prohibited from the park.

There are sandboxes for kids to play in and a flagpole with memorial plaques underneath it to commemorate those that died during the war.

War Memorial Playground provides benches for the adults to sit on while the little ones play around with picnic areas.

Address: 295 Monroe Street, Santa Clara, California 95050, United States

Check out more cities in California, here is  a guide on things to do in San Pedro ,  things to do in Merced , and  fun things to do Sonora  in for a fun time

Plan your trip to Santa Clara

Santa Clara offers something for everyone, making this city an exciting place to visit for the entire family.

Santa Clara should be your next vacation destination as there are several fun options to pick from. Whether you’re in the mood to go out and have great fun or simply want to relax, enjoy a delicious meal, read a novel, or discover new things.

Start planning a trip to Santa Clara, CA.

Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 15 Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA)

15 Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA)

Santa Clara is a city of nearly 125,000 residents that’s located in Santa Clara County, about 75 kilometers south of San Francisco .

The city was founded more than 200 years ago as a Spanish Mission. Now, it’s most well-known for its booming tech industry that’s commonly referred to around the world as Silicon Valley.

Though it’s common knowledge to most football fans, it’s a surprise to many to discover that the relatively small city is also the home of the National Football League’s San Francisco 49ers.

Visitors to Santa Clara have abundant activity options at their fingertips without venturing outside city limits, so staying engaged and entertained shouldn’t be an issue.

1. Levi’s Stadium

With a capacity of nearly 70,000, Levi’s Stadium on Marie P. DeBartolo Way in Santa Clara is one of the country’s premier professional football stadiums.

The 49ers play their home games here, and during the off-season, the stadium hosts a variety of annual events, including concerts featuring big names in the music industry.

Taking a family to a football game isn’t the least expensive activity option in the area, but for those who’ve never taken in a pro game, it’s an exhilarating experience that may be worth the cost.

Guided tours are also regularly available, and the bars and restaurants around the stadium are fun to visit year-round.

2. Ulistac Natural Area

Despite its large population and the overall hustle and bustle, the Bay Area features plenty of urban parks and natural areas that are convenient options for those interested in enjoying the great outdoors.

The Ulistac Natural Area is located on Lick Mill Road in Santa Clara. It is comprised of more than 40 acres that include a variety of distinct environments.

The natural area straddles the Guadalupe River and is home to an array of plants and animals that are well-suited to its riparian habitat.

A particularly popular attraction for bird watchers, it features a number of well-marked nature trails dotted with interpretive signs.

3. Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival

Californians take their art and wine seriously, and there’s no better way to combine the two than by visiting the Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival.

The event is held in the city’s Central Park and features nearly 200 vendors from across the country selling fine art and crafts, gourmet food, and a vast selection of California’s best wines.

Proceeds are donated to worthwhile causes that benefit residents in need. It all takes place in the early fall when the central California weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

Other highlights include live entertainment and lots of art-related activities for kids.

4. The de Saisset Museum

Though he’s not exactly a household name for those who don’t typically travel in West Coast art circles, Ernest de Saisset was one of the Bay Area’s most prominent artists in the 19th century.

Saisset was a French immigrant who enrolled in Santa Clara University and studied painting as a young man.

The museum that now bears his name is located on the university’s campus. It includes a collection of more than 100 of his most impressive works.

It’s as much a historical attraction as it is an art one, and it also has other works from European and American artists dating back hundreds of years.

5. Intel Museum

Intel is one of the titans of the tech world. Over the years, it has been responsible for some of the most significant technological leaps forward in computer hardware.

The Intel Museum is located on the campus of the company’s world headquarters in Santa Clara, and it’s regularly open to the public.

Even for those who don’t fall into the tech-savvy category, it’s a fascinating place that’s definitely worth an hour or two of time.

Though it may sound dry to technophobes, it’s packed with interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages, so it’s great for kids with short attention spans too.

6. Santa Clara Farmers’ Market

There’s really no better way to rub elbows with locals, enjoy pleasant weather, and have access to tons of great products you won’t find elsewhere than by visiting a farmers’ market.

The Santa Clara Farmers’ Market is open year-round and features a little bit of everything – from seasonal produce and fresh baked goods to health and body products and prepared food items.

Held on Jackson Street near the downtown area, it’s common to find different items each time you go.

Spending a few bucks is a great way to support local farmers and entrepreneurs, and don’t be shy about asking them for suggestions for things to see and do while in town.

7. California’s Great America

There’s no shortage of theme parks in the Golden State, but there’s one clear choice for those visiting Santa Clara.

California’s Great America is located on Great America Parkway just outside of town. It features tons of rides, dining options, kid’s activities, and a water park that’s a huge draw during the hot summer months.

Though Great America can really draw a crowd during peak times when kids are enjoying their summer vacations, previous guests have noted that wait times for rides weren’t overly long.

Many families choose to spend an entire day on-site to avoid wasting valuable recreational time in the car.

8. Mission Santa Clara

Mission Santa Clara is one of the city’s premier historic sites, and it’s now conveniently located on the campus of Santa Clara University.

The mission was established by Franciscans in the 1770s to spread Christianity to the area’s Native American population.

Sadly, things didn’t go according to plan; due to several natural disasters, the mission was forced to move from its original site to where it is now.

Over the years, it was also run by the Jesuits. Though it’s no longer functioning in its original role, it now doubles as a museum and chapel that are open to visitors.

9. The Triton Museum of Art

Though guests tend to visit the Triton Museum of Art for the works in its collection, its stunning contemporary architecture usually makes a big impression as well.

The museum’s collection includes works from all over the country, but its emphasis is on pieces created by Bay Area artists using local people and scenery as inspiration.

The grounds also include a sprawling outdoor sculpture garden spread over nearly seven acres, and a home from the mid-1860s that’s among the most well-preserved examples of historic American architecture in the area.

The museum is located on Warburton Avenue, and most visitors spend a few hours on-site.

10. Santa Clara Players

The Santa Clara Players traces its roots all the way back to the early ‘60s, when a group of local performers began putting on small shows for the community.

Now nearly seven decades later, they’re still going strong. Their annual performances run the gamut from dramatic theater and mystery to satire and humor.

The players are part of a community theater group staffed by talented volunteers dedicated to providing high-quality, family-friendly entertainment at a reasonable cost.

They’re located on Don Avenue in Santa Clara and offer lots of volunteer opportunities for budding actors and stagehands.

11. Central Park

Featuring lots of wide-open spaces and massive swimming and community rec centers, Santa Clara’s Central Park is a go-to destination for activity minded visitors looking to make the most of their limited vacation time without traveling to more distant attractions.

The park is centrally located on Keily Boulevard, has ample parking, and features lots of outdoor amenities and recreational activity options.

From tennis and basketball to softball, lawn bowling, and a big playground, there’s really no excuse for getting bored while on-site. For those looking to spend a relaxing afternoon, there are a lake, built-in BBQs, and public restrooms.

12. The 49ers Museum

Even for those who won’t be in Santa Clara during the regular season, the 49ers stadium and museum are fun attractions worth visiting for sports-minded visitors.

The museum is located inside Levi’s Stadium and features nearly a dozen distinct galleries that are open to the public year-round.

It’s a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. In addition to football, its exhibits touch on science, technology, and art in a way that engages and entertains young and old minds alike.

Most guests check out the introductory video in the visitor’s center before showing themselves through the impressive collection of trophies, balls, and Super Bowl memorabilia on display.

13. The Santa Clara Fire Museum

The Santa Clara Fire Department’s roots run all the way back to the 1850s when it was founded.

The museum is now located on Walsh Avenue in an unused training center behind the city’s new fire station.

It sports an impressive collection of equipment and historical memorabilia that give visitors unique insights into the lives of fire and rescue personnel in years past.

The museum’s highlights include a fully restored Model-T fire truck that served for two decades, beginning in the 1920s.

The knowledgeable local volunteer staff also offer regular programs geared at educating the public about fire safety and prevention issues.

14. Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History

The Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History is run by a local historical society. It is housed in the depot of a now-defunct railroad on Railroad Avenue in Santa Clara.

Like many local historical attractions, the museum is staffed by local volunteers who love answering questions and showing first-time visitors around.

The museum’s exhibits include a variety of railroad equipment and memorabilia, including signals, safety equipment, and historical photographs dating back over 100 years.

The museum is regularly open to the public. It maintains an extensive library of books relating to railroad development and local history as well.

15. Voyager Coffee

Though it has only been around since 2016, Voyager Coffee’s owner and staff are dedicated to the noble pursuit of making their customers happy.

They do this largely by providing world-class coffee, but also by offering a comfortable space in which guests have opportunities to build relationships with like-minded customers.

Many of their coffees sport internationally influenced flavors, and they’re often infused with things like orange essence and cherry blossom water.

Don’t worry if you prefer your coffee straight-up, because they’ve got more traditional brews as well.

They offer fresh pastry and baked goods, tea, and other non-coffee drinks too.

15 Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA):

• Levi's Stadium
• Ulistac Natural Area
• Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival
• The de Saisset Museum
• Intel Museum
• Santa Clara Farmers’ Market
• California's Great America
• Mission Santa Clara
• The Triton Museum of Art
• Santa Clara Players
• Central Park
• The 49ers Museum
• The Santa Clara Fire Museum
• Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History
• Voyager Coffee