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The Top 20 Attractions in West Dorset

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Hiking Highlight

Standing at 626 feet (191 m), Golden Cap is the highest point on the South Coast. From the cliff, you are afforded utterly breathtaking views over Lyme Bay to Dartmoor and ahead to the Isle of Portland.

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Pilsdon Pen affords fine views over the rolling Dorset countryside. In clear conditions, you can see Golden Cap, Marshwood Vale, and the ocean to the south, Exmoor and the Quantocks … read more

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Part of the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, West Bay is a beautiful harbour settlement. Originally designed as a commercial harbour for nearly Bridport to export fishing nets, West Bay declined … read more

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Author John Fowles described Chesil Beach as “an elemental place, made of sea, shingle and sky”. Backed by The Fleet, the largest tidal lagoon in Britain, this natural pebble beach … read more

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Bike Touring Highlight

The monument is not for Thomas Hardy, but was built in 1844 in memory of Vice-Admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, Flag Captain of HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. … read more

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The Cerne Abbas Giant is a large, ancient figure depicting a naked man holding a club, and it's often associated with various myths and fertility rituals. The origin and purpose … read more

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About fifteen years ago I got my cycling legs on this stretch between Maiden Newton and Frampton. The Maiden Newton to Notton section is largely tarmac with a section of … read more

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Colmer's Hill is a fantastically distinctive, conical hill in the west of Dorset. It rises above the stunning Symondsbury Estate and makes for an excellent objective on a walk in … read more

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Road Cycling Highlight ( Segment )

Stunning climb and descent with amazing views of the Jurassic coast. There is plenty of laybys at the top to stop and admire the view (while catching your breath!). There … read more

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For many, known as the ‘Cathedral of Dorset’ Founded by St. Aldhelm in AD 705, Sherborne Abbey has developed from a Saxon cathedral to one of England’s most beautiful parish … read more

Popular around West Dorset

Explore the most popular Tours in West Dorset

Hiking in West Dorset

Running Trails in West Dorset

Cycling in West Dorset

Road Cycling Routes in West Dorset

MTB Trails in West Dorset

Gravel biking in West Dorset

Discover the most popular attractions in West Dorset

Peaks in West Dorset

Are you keen on exploring more awesome places nearby? Browse our guides:

• Broadwindsor
• Whitchurch Canonicorum
• Puddletown Forest
• Littlebredy
• Melbury Bubb
• Catherston Leweston
• Nether Compton
• Kingston Russell
• Symondsbury
• Bothenhampton
• Frome St. Quintin
• West Knighton
• Burton Bradstock
• Stoke Abbott
• Bishop'S Caundle
• Godmanstone
• Caundle Marsh
• Melbury Sampford
• Minterne Magna
• Ryme Intrinseca
• Winterborne Monkton
• Melbury Osmond
• Buckland Newton
• North Poorton
• Toller Porcorum
• Over Compton
• Beer Hackett
• West Chelborough
• Sydling St. Nicholas
• Frome Vauchurch
• Wynford Eagle
• Nether Cerne
• Wootton Fitzpaine
• Litton Cheney
• Shipton Gorge
• Maiden Newton
• Bradford Abbas
• Clifton Maybank
• South Perrott
• Compton Valence
• Stanton St. Gabriel
• Alton Pancras
• Winterbourne Abbas
• Bettiscombe
• Winterborne Came
• West Compton
• North Wootton
• Winterbourne Steepleton
• Melcombe Horsey
• Langton Herring
• Cerne Abbas
• Sandford Orcas
• Cheselbourne
• Toller Fratrum
• Winterborne St. Martin
• Charminster
• East Chelborough
• Athelhampton
• Purse Caundle
• Piddlehinton
• West Stafford
• Piddletrenthide
• Bradford Peverell
• Winterborne Herringston
• Poyntington

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

• Dorset AONB
• East Dorset
• Weymouth And Portland
• North Dorset
• Christchurch

• Overall Guide to Dorset
• Dorset Coast
• Bournemouth
• Things to Do
• Food and Drink
• Festivals and Events
• Inspiration

19 Fun Things to do in Bridport (and West Bay) in Dorset

• Last Updated 5 January, 2024

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A historic market town just inland from the stunning Dorset coastline, Bridport is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding coast and countryside.

The neighbouring village of West Bay is ideal for a seaside day out, while the main town is filled with intriguing boutique shops, several thriving markets, and plenty of culture.

This post showcases a few of the best things to do in Bridport, as well as in West Bay and the surrounding area. And it’s all written by a born-and-bred Dorset local, so you know you can trust it! Enjoy…

Map: Things to do in Bridport

7 fun things to do in bridport, 7 things to do near bridport, bridport festivals and events for your diary, is bridport worth visiting, what is bridport famous for.

1. Bridport Market

Bridport is a bustling Market Town, and has been one since 1253. In fact, the “port” in the town’s name actually refers to the market – a trading port rather than a seaport.

Today, the town’s market is a twice-weekly event held on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Taking over the town’s three main streets, the market has over a hundred stalls selling pretty much everything you can think of. On Saturdays, there are also many bric-a-brac and antiques stalls found along lower South Street.

2. West Bay

Although technically a separate village, West Bay feels almost a part of Bridport. In fact, it’s sometimes known as Bridport Harbour. This small seaside village is centred around a busy harbour, with a sheltered sand-and-shingle beach on the famous Jurassic Coast.

The beach is overlooked by the dramatic, golden form of the towering East Cliff. Looks familiar? The cliffs, town, and surrounding area were used as the filming location for the British drama series Broadchurch . If you want to make a day of it, you can walk from Bridport down to West Bay, following the river which ultimately flows out through the harbour.

While you’re at the seaside, don’t miss a trip to the West Bay Discovery Centre . Housed in the former Methodist Chapel, this fab award-winning museum is packed with information about the local area – its history, geography, and stories!

3. Palmers Brewery

Palmers Brewery has been brewing fine cask ales in Bridport, Dorset since 1794. Today, they have 53 pubs across the South West.

Their ales are still brewed in the original thatched brewery, one of the oldest in the UK, so a tour of the brewery is a fascinating glimpse into the age-old process of English brewing. Tours last two hours and run daily from Easter to October at 11am Monday to Friday.

RELATED POST: 15 Fantastic Dorset Breweries you can Visit

4. Bridport Museum

If you want a bit of insight into local history, Bridport Museum is one of the best things to do in town. It’s housed in one of Bridport’s oldest buildings and has had a major redevelopment in recent years.

Discover the area’s history, from prehistoric fossils to Roman jewellery to Bridport’s dark history of disease, decay and death. Bridport was historically a net and rope-making town, so the museum also has a large collection relating to this industry, including working machinery.

5. Bridport Arts Centre

Founded in 1973, the Bridport Arts Centre is housed in a beautiful Grade II listed stone building which was once a Methodist chapel. Today, it’s a thriving multi-arts complex with a theatre, gallery, and cinema. Year-round, the centre offers a vibrant programme of visual arts, theatre, dance, comedy, music, spoken word and films and screenings.

6. Browse the Independent Galleries

Speaking of arts in Bridport, there are also several independent galleries showcasing local and national artits. Here are a few must-visits:

• Sladers Yard – West Bay Road, West Bay, DT6 4EL. Handmade furniture designed by Petter Southall as well as a wide variety of contemporary British art. Both the gallery and Café Sladers are now reopened.
• ArtWave West – Morcombelake, DT6 6DY
• Bridport Contemporary – 11 Downes Street, DT6 3JR

7. Colmers Hill

Colmer’s Hill is an iconic part of the West Dorset landscape. A conical 417-foot high hill, topped with a cluster of trees, Colmer’s is a beautiful spot for a hike and one of the best things to do near Bridport.

From the top, you’ll get one of the best views in Dorset, as well as the chance to spot local wildlife. During spring the whole hill is covered with bluebells . The walk to the top is around 45 minutes from the carpark at Symondsbury Estate ; when you return be sure to visit Symondsbury Kitchen for a bite to eat!

8. Boutique Shops

I’ve already mentioned the popular bric-a-brac stalls on South Street during the Saturday market. Well, if shopping for antiques, curios, or locally made crafts is your thing – Bridport has plenty to offer.

St Michael’s Trading Estate is filled with artists’ studios and vintage shops. They also hold a Vintage Market on the last Sunday of every month from April to October. Below are a few other fab boutique and independent shops you can explore in Bridport and West Bay…

• Alleyways Antiques Centre – Bridport’s largest indoor Antiques Centre, with over 50 traders under one roof.
• The Customs House West Bay – an enormous, multi-storey space with over 100 traders in a Grade II-listed former boat shed and courtyard.
• Clocktower Music – new and pre-loved vinyl records (including rarities and collections), as well as CDs.
• Malabar Trading – hand-crafted clothing and homeware individually sourced from around the world.

9. Electric Palace

The Electric Palace in Bridport is an art deco 1920s cinema which also includes a stage for live performances. Today, the venue plays host to a wide range of performances and events. Expect a varied programme of film, theatre, music and comedy – including some well-known names.

10. Bridport Golf Course

Fancy a round of golf? Bridport and West Dorset Golf Course is found right at the top of East Cliff, so it offers some exceptional views of the Jurassic Coast. Their signature 6th hole, pictured above, is particularly memorable! The Club also features an excellent restaurant, as well as a lounge and bar.

11. Shop for Local Food and Drink

Bridport’s long history as a Market Town means the town is at the heart of Dorset’s produce trade. There’s a regular Farmer’s Market, as well as several food festivals throughout the year (more on those at the end of this post). So Bridport is the perfect place to discover some of the best local food and drink. Here are a few spots you shouldn’t miss:

• Bridport Farmer’s Market is held on the second Saturday of the month, 9am-1pm.
• Moore’s Biscuit Factory – producers of the infamous Dorset Knob Biscuits, as well as a wide range of biscuits and baked goods. You’ll spot their treats all over the county, but visit the Craft Bakery for the best experience!
• RJ Balson and Sons Butchers – dating from 1515, this is the oldest family-run business in Britain so it’s worth a visit for the history alone. But with its focus on free-range and locally-sourced produce, it’s also a great place to pick up supplies for your summer bbq!

12. Jurassic Fun Centre at Freshwater Beach Holiday Park

One of my family’s favourite things to do close to Bridport is to visit the Jurassic Fun Centre at Freshwater Beach Holiday Park. Although it’s a holiday park, the centre is open to day-visitors as well.

The complex boasts three swimming pools, i ncluding one with water slides, water cannons and other apparatus. Grown-ups can unwind in the hot tub, sauna or steam room.

Upstairs, there’s also a family-friendly restaurant and six full-sized American 10-pin bowling lanes to enjoy. Prices are very reasonable, so this is the perfect day out if you’re trying to keep the kids entertained!

13. Hive Beach

Just on the other side of the cliffs at West Bay, you’ll find Hive Beach. A small pebble beach tucked between dramatic golden cliffs, Hive offers breathtaking views along the coast as far as Portland. It’s also home to the popular Hive Beach Cafe – one of the best restaurants in the area.

The walk from West Bay to Hive across the cliffs takes just under an hour, so you can spend the morning walking there, have an amazing lunch at the Beach Cafe, and walk back!

14. Furleigh Wine Estate

If you’re looking for a day out near Bridport with a bit of a difference, head to the Furleigh Wine Estate up the road. Set within the stunning Dorset countryside, Furleigh Estate is 85 acres of vineyard, lakes and grazing land.

The winery was built in 2007 and has gone on to produce some incredible, award-winning wines. Visit for a vineyard tour, complete with tasting, to learn more about English wine production in a spectacular setting.

READ MORE: 8 Dorset Wineries to Discover on Your Next Trip

15. Charmouth

Just up the coast from Bridport, the seaside village of Charmouth is one of the best things to do in the area. The shingle beach is a popular spot in summer, and it’s also very rich in fossils. Especially beneath the cliffs between Charmouth and nearby Lyme Regis.

Head to the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre to learn more about the Jurassic Coast, and view a vast collection of locally-found fossils. Among them, is David Attenborough’s “Sea Dragon” : the complete, 200-million-year-old skeleton of an ichthyosaur.

16. Mangerton Mill

A working 17th-century watermill set in a peaceful rural valley on the River Manger, Mangerton Mill is less than 10 minute’s drive from Bridport. As well as the Museum of Rural Bygones housed inside the mill, you’ll also find various craft shops and artists’ studios. The onsite tearooms, Maria’s Pantry, serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea – as well as a very popular Sunday Roast.

17. Mapperton House and Gardens

Just 15 minutes from Bridport, Mapperton is a magnificent Jacobean manor house set within fifteen acres of gardens. Once home to the 4th Earl of Sandwich, the man who reputedly “invented” the sandwich by putting roast beef between two slices of bread, the house has a long and fascinating history.

It can be visited by guided tour only, so book in advance to avoid disappointment. The romantic valley gardens surrounding the house are Registered Grade II and are considered one of the most important and distinctive gardens in the country. In fact, they’ve recently been nominated for the Historic Houses Garden of the Year Award 2020!

Find out more in my guide to Dorset’s stately homes !

18. Chesil Beach

Chesil Beach, one of the most famous parts of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast , begins just a stone’s throw from Bridport in West Bay. From there, the barrier beach runs 18 miles (29km) to the Isle of Portland. The beach separates from the mainland to form a shallow tidal lagoon called the Fleet, and also provides a barrier to Portland’s enormous harbour. Walk the length of the beach, or just a section from West Bay down to the Fleet, for stunning views of the Jurassic Coastline.

19. Golden Cap

Golden Cap is the highest point on the south coast of Great Britain. At an impressive 191m, it’s a bit of a climb to the top. But the views of the stunning Jurassic Coast are well worth the effort. Follow my Golden Cap Walk Guide for a lovely 4-mile circular.

From Page to Screen , 2024 dates TBC (usually April) – the UK’s only film festival that celebrates the art of adaption.

Bridport Food Festival , 2024 dates TBC (usually June) – a week-long event celebrating local food and drink. Restaurants, cafes and pubs put on special menus and food-related events. The main event on the final Saturday sees the festival ground at Asker Meadows filled with tents, marquees, and food stalls.

BeCider Seaside 18 & 19 at Bredy Farm, 24th – 27th May 2024 and 23rd – 26th August 2024 – popular festival showcasing the best ciders in the South, as well as great local music. Camping and glamping is also possible if you want to really make the most of the event.

Bridport Folk Festival , ​26th – 28th July 2024- folk music, dancing, and other traditional culture at a variety of venues across Bridport.

Bridport Hat Festival , 7th September 2024 – a giant summer-ending party for the town with live music, games, and all kinds of hats!

The Bridport Literary Festival , 3rd-9th November 2024 – a festival born as a result of the internationally renowned Bridport Prize. Welcomes writers from all over the country for an eclectic programme of events including readings, signings and talks.

I hope this blog post has proved that Bridport is absolutely worth visiting! This charming market town offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventures – so there’s something to appeal to all types of travellers.

What really sets Bridport apart is its unique, small-town charm. From its bustling market to its independent shops and eateries, there’s a real sense of community here that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend away or an action-packed adventure, Bridport is well worth a visit.

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Dorset countryside, Bridport is a charming market town that’s famous for many things. Here are just a few of the town’s claims to fame…

The Bridport Dagger: a Bronze Age weapon that was crafted in the area over 3,000 years ago. These daggers are renowned for their intricate decoration and were highly prized by warriors of the time.

Rope and net making: Another thing that Bridport is famous for is its long tradition of rope and net making. The town’s location near the coast made it an ideal spot for this industry, which was once a vital part of the local economy. At Bridport Museum, you’ll find several displays on the town’s rope and net-making past.

Food and drink: Bridport is home to a variety of independent cafes, restaurants, and pubs, many of which serve up delicious local produce. There’s also an epic annual Food Fair (see above for the dates).

Arts and culture: Finally, Bridport is a hub of arts and culture in Dorset. The town has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and performance spaces showcasing the work of local artists and musicians. It’s also home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Bridport Literary Festival and the Bridport Folk Festival, which celebrate the town’s rich cultural heritage.

Is there anything missing from this round-up of the best things to do in Bridport and West Bay? Scroll down to leave a comment if you have a local gem to share!

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12 thoughts on “19 Fun Things to do in Bridport (and West Bay) in Dorset”

What place called and name the TV Series like Brodchurch series one to three (1-3).

Hi Susan. The main town from the TV series Broadchurch is West Bay, the beach and cliffs there are where most of it was filmed. There’s a pretty comprehensive list here: https://www.westbay.co.uk/broadchurch/locations.php

Lovely website, you have given us loads of ideas, Inspiring and we are going to book accommodation and stay for a week hopefully. Looks lovely! I’m thinking of also coming to the hat festival as a surprise for a family birthday. You are a very good traveler writer.

Thanks so much for commenting Tara! I hope you have a fab time in Dorset – there are so many lovely things to do in this area! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions, either through my “contact me” page or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DorsetTravelGuide/

Thanks for the ideas. We have just booked a mini break there for the summer, so will try out a few places. I hope the sun is out, as West Bay looks stunning.

Oh so exciting! Will you be staying in Bridport? There’s so much to do nearby, and some really lovely beaches 🙂

Hi Emily We had an amazing day out in Milton Abbas stunning chocolate box village amazing history I recommend you read up on it before you visit we bought the little book and now we are going back with more knowledge great pub too what more could you want

Thanks so much for the recommendation Steve! It’s on my list of places to visit, think I went years ago but I don’t really remember it (and probably wasn’t that interested)!! Not super close to Bridport though but a nice day trip 🙂

Hi Emily, My wife and I will be visiting Bridport in August this year 2022), and were wondering if there are any Argentine Tango dance venues in the area. Many thanks if you could let us know, and please keep up the great work on your excellent website. Gary

Hi Gary! I’m not sure to be honest – but I just found this group on Facebook which might be the kind of thing you’re looking for. Certainly you could ask in there and see if anyone knows of a venue: https://www.facebook.com/groups/407539253528046/

Hope that helps. Enjoy your trip 🙂 Emily

Great to have some ideas. We are camping in Bridport this summer with kids. Any surf schools near by?

I don’t know of any near Bridport way I’m afraid – that section of the coast isn’t known for its surfing. If you don’t mind driving a bit, there are some watersports schools in Weymouth (about 30 mins east) and Exmouth (an hour west).

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Golden Cap Walk – 4 Mile circular from Seatown

10 Best Things to Do in Dorset, England

Written by Bryan Dearsley Aug 5, 2022

The beautiful county of Dorset offers no end of attractions and fun things to do for those visiting Southwest England .

It's as popular for its beautiful countryside as its many quaint villages. The best places to visit in this picture-perfect corner of the country make an easy getaway from London , whether by train or car.

Dorset's also popular for its many excellent beaches and stunning coastline. Dorset's beaches are some of the best sandy beaches in the UK , and are perfect for those wanting to indulge themselves in water sports.

Popular activities at Dorset's beaches include surfing and kitesurfing, paddleboarding and kayaking, as well as gentler activities such as swimming and sunbathing.

So important is the Dorset coastline, in fact, that three quarters of it has been declared a part of the Jurassic Coast Natural World Heritage Site . This esteemed designation recognizes the remarkable diversity of its landscape, as well as the county's role in the discovery and study of dinosaurs and fossils in England.

To learn more about these and other top attractions in this beautiful corner of the United Kingdom, read our story on the top things to do in Dorset, England.

1. Have Fun on a Bournemouth Beach

2. take the ferry to brownsea island, poole, 3. explore dorset's jurassic coast, 4. visit weymouth harbour, 5. see the cobb in lyme regis, 6. russell-cotes art gallery & museum, bournemouth, 7. pay a visit to lulworth cove and durdle door, 8. the tank museum, bovington, 9. explore prehistory at dinosaurland fossil museum, lyme regis, 10. take a steam train to corfe castle, map of things to do in dorset, england.

Stretching along 10 miles of magnificent Dorset coastline, there are in fact over a dozen Bournemouth beaches to choose from. Which beach you choose to visit will depend on your preferred choice of activity (or inactivity!) when you get there.

Those who like a bustling beach area close to all the action should park close to the Bournemouth Pier , one of England's most photogenic spots . Better still, opt for a space in one of the town's excellent "Park and Ride" lots.

The pier separates Bournemouth's two main beaches, East Cliff and West Cliff , both of which are close to a wide variety of fun things to do.

These Blue Flag beaches are some of the best in England, wide and very sandy with shallow, clean water that's as great for adults to swim in as it is for kids to play in.

After all those sandcastles have been built, you're only a few steps away from the amusement arcades, entertainment, and food vendors on the pier.

Other nearby things to do in Bournemouth include the Lower Gardens , the perfect picnic spot; an aquarium called the Oceanarium ; and the Bournemouth Observation Wheel , to name but a few.

Address: Undercliff Drive, Bournemouth, Dorset

If you do start your exploration of Dorset in Bournemouth, try to allow time for an adventure on Brownsea Island.

The largest island in Poole Harbour, just 15 minutes' drive west of Bournemouth, this National Trust property can be reached by a short ferry ride from the mainland.

Entirely traffic-free, Brownsea Island's 500 acres of land is mainly level and is crisscrossed by a good network of walking trails. Along the way you'll enjoy spectacular views over Poole Harbour.

The island's abundant wildlife can be spotted in its heaths, woods, beaches, and lagoon. In addition to red squirrels and sika deer, there's a large population of seabirds here, including terns, spoonbills, and oystercatchers. Wildlife tours are available, and if bird-watching's your thing, don't forget the binoculars.

For a real adventure, book a stay at the island's historic campsite, famous as the place where Britain's scouting movement got its start. A number of unique cottages are also available for rent.

Other notable island features include a visitors center, a pretty church built the 1800s, the remains of a former village, and an open-air theater. This popular tourist attraction can get busy in the summer months, so to avoid disappointment, book your ferry in advance.

Location: Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour, Dorset

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/brownsea-island

Stretching for 96 miles from the beaches of Exmouth all the way eastward to the seaside town of Swanage, England's Jurassic Coast has been a huge boon for tourism in Dorset.

Officially known as the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, this magnificent coastline is unique in the UK, if not the world.

Designated of importance by UNESCO in 2001 for its diverse landscape and unique geological structure, this remains the only World Heritage Site in England and offers many opportunities for adventure.

Formed between 50 and 250 million years ago, the Jurassic Coast is especially popular among sightseeing families with kids who are interested in dinosaurs and fossils. The area is rich in fossil deposits, especially around the beaches of Lyme Regis.

Those wanting to dig a little deeper into the history of this spectacular coastline can visit an abundance of museums and tourist attractions that have sprung up, including Dinosaurland Fossil Museum in Lyme Regis, and the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre .

These facilities, along with local fossil shops, are a font of information about this period in Earth's history and offer unique tours and other related experiences including walks, talks, and fossil-hunting expeditions.

For those able to visit in May, make a note to check out the Fossil Festival in Lyme Regis. In addition to the educational side of things, folks visit for the live music, theater, and workshops.

Official site: https://jurassiccoast.org

The attractive town of Weymouth is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in England for a traditional seaside vacation, a weekend getaway, or even a day trip.

Located approximately half way between the popular Dorset beach towns of Bournemouth and Lyme Regis, Weymouth Harbour (or "Old Harbour" as the locals call it), is one of the prettiest ports on the Jurassic Coast .

While established in the 14th century and known to have been used by the Romans centuries earlier, much of what you'll see today dates from the 1800s when Weymouth served as one of the country's most important harbors.

Notable features include Weymouth Pier , which separates the harbor area from popular Weymouth Beach; Weymouth Pavilion, a popular place of entertainment since 1908; and the Stone Pier, or "South Pier," an important breakwater built in the 1700s.

Other popular things to do in Weymouth Harbour include watching the commercial fishing fleet come and go, along with pleasure craft and the cross-channel ferries; renting a row boat to cross the harbor; or taking a fun cruise along Dorset's Jurassic Coast.

Address: Custom House Quay Weymouth Dorset

Official site: www.weymouth-harbour.co.uk

Rebuilt numerous times since its first iteration in the late 1300s, The Cobb remains one of the most impressive harbor walls in all of England . It's certainly one of the best known, famously having a starring role in the hit 1980s Meryl Streep movie, The French Lieutenant's Woman .

Snaking outwards from the Lyme Regis waterfront, the version you can explore today was constructed in 1817 from local stone. In addition to standing Meryl Streep-like at the end of The Cobb, an especially memorable experience on a stormy winter's day, it's a great place to fish for bass or even cod.

There's also a small beach tucked away here that's popular for couples and pet owners, as well as a fun aquarium and plenty of places to simply sit and watch the boats go by.

The Cobb is also overlooks two of the most popular beaches in Lyme Regis : Sandy Beach , a great spot for families for its shallow waters and soft sand; and Monmouth Beach , well-known among fossil hunters for its many easy-to-get fossils.

Address: Cobb Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset

Culture buffs are often pleasantly surprised to learn that there's far more to Bournemouth than just its beaches.

A short five-minute stroll from Brighton Pier up East Cliff, and you'll find the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, a small yet packed-to-the-rafters museum that should certainly be included on your Dorset travel itinerary.

The building that houses the museum is, in itself, quite stunning, boasting some of the best views over Bournemouth. Built in 1901 as a summer home, today this elegant mansion is home to an impressive collection of artworks and museum pieces collected by the home's original owners.

Highlights include paintings from locations such as Japan and Russia, along with a variety of interesting Victorian-era artifacts. Guided tours of both the museum home and the property's lush gardens are available.

Address: Cliff Promenade, Bournemouth, Dorset

Official site: https://russellcotes.com

Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door are likely the most recognizable natural features of the Jurassic Coast's stunning landscape.

Looking not unlike a giant horse or dragon dipping its nose in the sea, Durdle Door consists of a huge limestone arch that juts out into the English Channel. One of the most photographed areas of Dorset , it makes for a dramatic setting whether you're taking your photos from the clifftop or from the adjacent beach area.

A 30-minute walk away from the Durdle Door car park, Lulworth Cove is part of the same private estate and should be included in your visit.

It's especially popular with beachgoers for its clean, almost turquoise waters, something of a rarity in England. Safe to swim in, taking a dip in the shallow waters of this protected and pretty cove is a must-do for swimmers who fancy pretending they're in the Mediterranean.

Both Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door are included as landmarks along the fun-to-hike South West Coastal Path , which also connects to the equally interesting Old Harry Rocks , a dramatic set of chalk formations on the Isle of Purbeck.

It's easy to spend the best part of a day exploring the Tank Museum, a bucket-list attraction for military enthusiasts.

Located on the Bovington military base, 20 minutes' drive east of the county town of Dorchester, the Tank Museum features over 300 fighting vehicles dating from WWI to the present day.

Set in an expansive collection of large buildings and grouped according to their place in the history of tank development through the decades, the observant visitor will note that these war machines look as new as the day they were manufactured.

This is due to the fact that many of these remarkable machines are in fact maintained (or were restored) to running condition, and are often featured in the museum's popular Tank Day demonstrations.

These family-friendly events involve demonstrations of fire power and speed, and often even include reenactments of historic encounters between enemy tanks. These popular events do sell out, so be sure to get your tickets as far in advance as possible.

A café and shop are located on-site, as are ample picnic tables.

Address: Linsay Road, Bovington, Wareham, Dorset

Official site: https://tankmuseum.org

Located in a historic old church building in Lyme Regis, the Dinosaurland Fossil Museum does a great job of explaining Dorset's place in the Earth's early history.

Given the fact that Dorset covers a large area of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, a visit to the museum is certainly time well spent.

Highlights of a visit include browsing an extensive collection of marine fossils, most of them found locally and from the Jurassic period, as well as a collection of dinosaur bones. Other exhibits deal with the history of dinosaurs, and there's a sizable collection of life-size models of these fascinating creatures to keep the kids amazed.

There's a good gift shop on-site that also sells fossils, and the museum also offers fossil-hunting tours.

Address: Coombe Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset

Official site: www.dinosaurland.co.uk

Corfe Castle, both the castle and village that's named after it, make for a splendid day trip.

Though now largely ruins, the castle commands incredible views over the village and the surrounding countryside, offering some of the best photo-ops in England.

Built in the 11th century, the castle was destroyed by Parliamentarians after a second siege in the English Civil War.

One of the best ways to get to both the village and the castle is aboard the Swanage Railway . These historic steam trains depart the town of Wareham with stops in Corfe Castle for those wanting to visit the old fortress.

The train makes the return journey to Swanage a few times day, enabling visitors to also enjoy time on Swanage Beach.

Address: The Square, Corfe Castle, Nr Wareham, Dorset,

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/corfe-castle

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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!

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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.  

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These 19 Seaside Towns In Dorset Are Perfect For A Daytrip

The Dorset coastline does not disappoint with its vast beaches with white sand, crystal clear water, and quaint fishing harbour villages. Rich with history, classic British seaside entertainment and picturesque villages, Dorset is the place to visit. 

Here is a full list of Dorset Seaside Towns you don’t want to miss!

19 Charming Dorset Seaside Towns and Villages

West of the Dorset coastline sits the ‘pearl of Dorset’, named the best seaside town in Dorset .

Lyme Regis is on the Devon/ Dorset border and is full of beautiful boutiques, delicious bakeries and a beautiful beach with views of the cliffs in the distance. 

Lyme Regis has the ‘Lyme Regis and Dinosaur Fossil Museum’, which provides lots of information and history of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.

In this Dorset coastal town, you can visit the Lyme Regis brewery, relax in the shoreline sauna, or enjoy a day at the beach with the family, offering great value for a memorable experience.

There are lots of places to eat and lots of beautiful buildings and houses to admire and dream about living in, each with its unique location charm.

Certainly, not one to miss if you’re exploring the coastal towns and villages in Dorset.

Charmouth 

Charmouth is a beautiful destination that is well known for drawing in visitors due to its wealth of fossils and stunning beach shoreline.

It is a little village with lots of shops, a market every Monday, and lovely country pubs where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while visiting under the watchful eyes of local seagulls.

Fun fact : Charmouth is also a great spot for sea glass collectors. 

This lovely rural village in west Dorset is perfect if you want to visit somewhere quaint and ‘untouched’ from all the modern ways of busier towns. 

Burton Bradstock

Burton Bradstock is a very rural, picturesque village just southeast of Bridport. 

Surrounded by vast, beautiful, green countryside rife with thatched cottages, they look like they’re right out of an Enid Blyton story. 

There are very few shops, but there are a variety of pubs, cafes, and tea rooms. There is also a beautiful beach and a holiday park (FreshWater Beach Holiday Park) packed with lots of entertainment for families and people who want to holiday in a beautiful and quiet part of the world. 

Eype is a quiet part of Dorset and is situated just west of Bridport.

There are several hotels and caravan/ campsites. Although it is a tiny village, it is worth mentioning because of the beautiful scenery and stunning sandy beach. 

It is also home to the highest cliff on the south coast, ‘The Golden Cap’, which is a staggering 191 m above sea level. A perfect hidden gem for hikers exploring the south coast. 

Seatown has been identified to be an Area of Outstanding Beauty. With a stunning and quieter beach compared to surrounding ones and the vast green countryside as a picturesque backdrop, it is ideal for swimming.

There is a pub practically on the beach, which makes for a perfect place for lunch and possibly a glass of wine! 

Seatown is popular for fishing, fossil hunting, and country walks, and it is the starting point for the Golden Cap hike. 

Bridport is a lovely seaside market town and fishing port. The market takes place along three streets on Wednesdays and Saturdays, making it perfect for anyone who loves to shop in gorgeous boutique shops and various market stalls. 

There’s a vast selection of pubs and cafes to enjoy, and the local people are friendly and love to chat. 

West Bay is close by with stunning beaches and cliff-top views, a picturesque harbour, amusements, and great places to eat. 

Many TV shows have been filmed around here, the most recent one being ‘Broadchurch.’ There is also a holiday park, which is perfect for family getaways. 

Chickerell is a town close to Chesil Beach and Weymouth. It’s home to Bennetts Water Gardens, an 8-acre garden with many beautiful ponds and lakes that hold international collections of water lilies. 

Chickerell is a beautiful place to visit and hosts weddings because of its beautiful surroundings. It also has a great selection of places to eat, whether you fancy a takeaway or a pub lunch. 

If you’re looking for a seaside town with shops, Chickerell isn’t the place for that. However, what it lacks in boutique shops, it makes up for with its beautiful countryside surroundings and vast beaches nearby. 

When you think of Dorset towns, the Isle of Portland doesn’t stand out as much as Bournemouth, Poole, or Swanage. However, it offers a lot in the way of beautiful scenery, excellent walks, and history. 

Portland is the most southern point on the famous Jurassic coast and is joined to the mainland by Chesil Beach. 

It boasts not 1 lighthouse but 3! And also a castle and is home to the local landmark Pulpit Rock. It is also popular for water-based sports such as kite surfing and is an excellent place for sailors. 

Definitely worth a visit for the quaint village feel and beautiful surroundings. 

Weymouth is packed with things to do with the family or just for quiet trips without the kids! 

The beach is a blue flag-winning bay bursting with natural beauty and themed family fun, such as a Punch and Judy show or a traditional donkey ride. 

It also wouldn’t be a traditional British seaside town with amusement parks nearby packed with games and coin machines. There are plenty of places to eat, including fresh seafood restaurants, bakeries, pubs, and takeaways. 

Weymouth has a stunning harbour and is home to Nothe Fort, which is full of history and tales of the area. A great place for photographers and people looking for a stunning view of Portland in the distance. 

Weymouth is the perfect seaside town—it really has it all! If you’re not interested in the beach, a lively high street with lots of independently run shops and some of your high street favourites is close by. 

The town also hosts lots of exciting seasonal festivals and days to enjoy throughout the year. 

Nestled between the bustling Weymouth and the scenic Chesil Beach, Wyke Regis is a delightful blend of traditional charm and modern comforts. 

This quaint village, known for its stunning views over the Fleet Lagoon and Portland Harbour, offers a tranquil escape from the busier tourist spots. 

Wyke Regis is proud of its historic church, St. Andrew’s, which dates back to the 15th century and stands as a testament to the village’s rich heritage. 

The area is perfect for those who love outdoor activities, with numerous walking and cycling paths showcasing the best of Dorset’s natural beauty. 

The village itself, with its blend of old and new architecture, invites leisurely exploration, and you can find cosy pubs and cafes perfect for a restful break. 

Wyke Regis may not boast the extensive amenities of larger towns, but its serene atmosphere and picturesque setting make it an unmissable stop for anyone seeking a peaceful seaside experience.

Abbotsbury is one mile inland from the sea and is a charming little village with pretty thatched-roof cottages and vast countryside surrounding it. 

There are a few independent shops, pubs, and bnb’s. It is also home to St Catherine’s Chapel and Abbotsbury Swannery . 

Walking through nesting mute swans makes it a unique day out. You can also visit the subtropical gardens, which are home to some of the most amazing plants and gardens. 

There’s a tea house there and amazing Christmas and winter lights to enjoy on those colder winter nights. 

Osmington is a little village close to Osmington Bay. The beach is stunning with its clear blue water, and the village has pretty thatched cottages, charming gardens, and countryside. 

Osmington is famous for having King George III carved into the hillside, riding his horse Adonis. It was carved on the hill to commemorate the royal visits to Weymouth. 

Lulworth is home to one of the most picturesque beaches in Dorset. The water is crystal clear, and the beach is mostly shingles and stones, perfect for exploring rock pools. 

The beach has a secluded feel, and there are some excellent walks around the area, including a great hike to Durdle Door. 

In the small village of Lulworth, there are a few independent shops, a few places to eat, and some B&Bs. 

Although Lulworth is small, it makes up for it by being a fantastic place to visit and having cheap, natural, and genuine fun at the beach. 

Swanage is a beautiful seaside town that is underrated in its beauty and attractions. 

There is a stunning Victorian pier to stroll along, multiple amusements, and great restaurants. Swanage also has beautiful beaches and various water activities. You even have the stunning Old Harry Rocks a short walk away.

The town is charming and full of history. 

There are a number of beautiful spots and places to camp in Swanage that are suitable for families or quieter places for people who wish to camp alone.

There are also a number of breathtaking beaches around the Purbecks, such as Studland, and the historical Corfe Castle is not too far away. 

Poole is one of Dorset’s larger seaside towns and is home to Europe’s largest natural harbour. 

It has the luxury of many high-street shops but is also a beautiful old town with its historical Georgian houses. 

Along the quay, there are a mixture of independent shops and restaurants, the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon drink or lunch in the sun. 

There are a number of stunning beaches in Poole , including the award-winning Sandbanks Beach, with gorgeous white sand and amazing views of the Purbecks. 

You can also enjoy a boat trip to Brownsea Island, home to the red squirrels and Brownsea Castle. 

The National Trust owns the island, which is bursting with wildlife and stunning views from every aspect. 

Bournemouth

Bournemouth is renowned for its glorious beaches and being a classic seaside town. 

Probably the most well-known in Dorset and the busiest. 

There is a bust high street, great nightlife and is packed with restaurants with cuisine from all over the world. 

Bournemouth’s lively pier is home to restaurants, fun fair attractions, and a zip wire that runs from the pier to the beach.

To reach the beachfront from the town, you can take a walk through Bournemouth Gardens (pictured above), which hosts various festivals and attractions, such as Pride and a Christmas market, every year. 

The seafront provides entertainment for families in the summer months, especially on Friday nights, when there is a fireworks display throughout the summer holidays. 

Bournemouth is also an excellent place to catch a show or a live performance, with the BIC and Pavillion close to the seafront. 

Bournemouth offers a range of activities outside, such as surfing by the pier and inside, such as the cinemas and the oceanarium.

A fantastic place to visit if you prefer somewhere more lively with a mixture of Dorset beauty. 

Boscombe is a lively Bournemouth suburb with its 1890s Royal Arcade, independent shops and high street favourites. 

Taking a walk around Boscombe, you will see some amazing Art Deco buildings, and there’s lots to see for anyone interested in architecture. 

Boscombe is home to beautiful beaches and stunning gardens, which are close to the beach, with crazy golf and a play park. 

It is also where you would find the Vitality Stadium, home to Bournemouth Football Club. 

Southbourne

Southbourne is a pretty suburb in Bournemouth but is worth noting for its lively high street with its independent bars and restaurants. 

It’s a clean, welcoming area full of exciting little shops selling unique boutiques and vintage finds.

There is a lovely walk to the clean, family-friendly beach close to Hengistbury Head. This natural, unspoiled beach is popular for its beauty and picturesque beach huts along Mudeford.

Christchurch 

Christchurch is a place of natural beauty on the edge of Dorset. 

It has the luxury of being close to Bournemouth and The New Forest in Hampshire. 

Surrounded by beautiful beaches such as Avon, Highcliffe and Mudeford, Christchurch is popular for water sports enthusiasts such as kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing. 

There is an outdoor door splash park for the hotter months, and there’s a great feeling of community with food and wine festivals held yearly. 

A truly beautiful park of Dorset with lots to offer for people who like quieter towns with lots of wildlife, castles and country walks.

So there you have 19 seaside towns you must visit in Dorset. 

Some are much smaller and quieter than others, but all offer the benefits of beautiful coastal walks and beaches.

From quaint little towns that make you feel like you’re in an old-fashioned famous five-book to bustling busy towns with the added bonus of being in beautiful seaside surroundings but also having the modern world to hand in. 

I hope you enjoyed this article and it has helped you book your next trip to Dorset. 

Thanks for reading. 

Harriet Young

I am a mother of two beautiful boys and wife to Alan, with whom I started Dorset Explored. My passion for Dorset runs deep, as it's an incredible place that I love to explore and experience anew. Every day brings a new discovery about Dorset, deepening my love for my home county.

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Dorset packs the most idyllic parts of south England’s coastline and countryside into one easy-to-visit county. Follow the south west coastal path, swim in quiet coves or go fossil hunting on Dorset’s Jurassic coast. We discovered the best things to do in Dorset, from sandy beaches and lush countryside walks, to cute thatched cottages and heritage attractions, staying with Classic Cottages.

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Table of Contents

Top places to visit in Dorset

Dorset is a surprisingly large and varied county in southern England, so to get the most from your time there, here’s an overview of the best places to visit in Dorset.

Lyme Regis and Charmouth – This charming fishing town was a favourite of Jane Austin and together with nearby Charmouth is a magnet for fossil hunters.

Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door – Visit the circular Lulworth Cove, a bay created by sea erosion, then walk over the cliffs to the photogenic rock arch at Durdle Door.

Bridport and West Bay – Sample the twice weekly Bridport markets and discover the ‘Broadchurch’ film locations and striking cliffs at nearby West Bay.

Weymouth – Relax in Dorset’s traditional ‘bucket and spade’ seaside resort, with golden sands, donkey rides, ice creams and fish’n’chips.

Isle of Portland and Portland Bill Lighthouse – Take a clifftop walk on this small peninsula, famous for its Portland stone quarries overlooking Chesil beach, to see the red and white Portland Bill lighthouse.

Dorchester and Hardy Country – Visit the market town that Thomas Hardy featured in his novels and the two houses where he lived nearby.

Corfe Castle and the Isle of Purbeck – Step back in time with a ruined castle on the hill, ride the vintage steam railway, then head to unspoiled Studland Bay for a clifftop walk to Harry’s Rocks.

Sherborne – Wander through a pretty Dorset town with stylish shops and cafes, as well as an abbey and two historic castles.

Things to do in Lyme Regis

1. the town beach and cobb at lyme regis.

Since Jane Austen’s day Lyme Regis has been a popular resort to take the sea air, featuring in novels such as Persuasion and John Fowle’s The French Lieutenant’s Woman . The picturesque harbour is encircled by a broad sea wall known as the Cobb , unusual for its sloping top that allows storm waves to drain away.

We took a walk along Monmouth Beach, to the west of the Cobb, which is dog friendly. If you continue as far as the cliffs at low tide, you may discover the Ammonite Pavement , where fossils can be seen imprinted in the flat rocks.

The sandy town beach is a popular and busy place to sit or swim. Above it the Marine Parade runs past candy coloured beach huts and a row of picturesque Georgian cottages, with cafes and ice cream stalls.

If the beach and promenade feel a bit crowded, head up to the tranquil Langmoor and Lister Gardens , set on the slopes above the beach. At the far end of the promenade, the River Lim meets the sea and the path continues a little further past the Lyme Regis Museum, a good place to see some of the town’s fossils.

Looping back, Lyme Regis’s main street runs up the hill. It’s a great place to browse for artisan gifts and locally produced food specialties.

As one of the prettiest things to see in Dorset, Lyme Regis harbour and beach get lots of visitors, especially in summer. To avoid driving in endless circles, we recommend parking in the large Holmbush Car Park, since many of the smaller car parks fill up quickly.

2. Fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast

Most of Dorset’s coastline is part of the Jurassic Coast , a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s known for the unique geology and fossils that formed in the Jurassic period millions of years ago. Fossil hunting is one of the more unusual things to do in Dorset that you can’t try elsewhere in England. Perhaps you’ll uncover an ammonite you can proudly display at home!

Where to find fossils in Dorset

Check out these great places to learn more about or find fossils in Dorset.

• Walk along Lyme Regis Monmouth beach to see the Ammonite pavement at low tide.
• The Lyme Regis Museum is housed in the home of famous fossil hunter, Mary Anning. There are displays of her fossil collections and the museum runs fossil hunting beach walks.
• Dinosaurland Fossil Museum is a privately run museum in Lyme Regis old town that has 16,000 different fossils on permanent display.
• Charmouth Beach is a good fossil hunting location, with free displays at the Charmouth Heritage Centre where volunteers run fossil hunting walks.
• At Kimmeridge, the Etches Collection is a small museum that houses an extensive collection of marine fossils, many of them found nearby on Kimmeridge beach.
• The Dinosaur Museum in Dorchester displays fossils from the Jurassic coast as well as reconstructions of larger dinosaurs.

3. Charmouth and the Charmouth Heritage Centre

Just along the coast from Lyme Regis is Charmouth beach , another good place for fossil hunting with a long sandy beach. Rock falls from the towering cliffs often reveal fresh finds of ammonites. For this reason take care not to sit or walk too close beneath them.

At Charmouth the river runs into the sea, creating shallow pools for children to play. The Charmouth Heritage Centre is right on the beach and has an excellent mini-museum full of fossils, which is free to visit.

Volunteers also run fossil hunting walks on the stony shore where you can easily find the conical fossils of squid like belemnites.

Charmouth is a good place to stretch your legs on the South West Coastal Path . The walk takes you west to Lyme Regis or east to Golden Cap , the highest point on the Dorset coast and beyond to West Bay.

Where to stay in Dorset

While there’s a whole range of accommodation options in Dorset, we can recommend a cottage stay to get that quintessential English countryside experience. We stayed with Classic Cottages who have a wide range of cottages in Dorset.

Choose from cosy nests for a romantic couple’s getaway, or larger holiday homes that would be perfect for an extended family gathering.

Stay at Seymour Barn with Classic Cottages

We loved our stay at Seymour Barn with Classic Cottages, which made an ideal base to explore Dorset. The location on the edge of Bridport was perfect, since we were surrounded by green fields but could walk into Bridport town centre.

This holiday home had been newly converted from an old stone barn adjoining the owners’ thatched house. As part of the renovations they had made the cottage as eco-friendly as possible.

The full insulation, solar panels and heat exchange pump were designed to keep the cottage cosy, while reducing its carbon footprint. There was also an electric car charging point and lots of information about recycling and local things to do. ( Check out other eco-friendly cottages here ).

The barn was elegantly practical with natural stone and wood floors, as well as a stylish mix of contemporary and antique furnishings drawn from the local area.

Our dog friendly cottage

Best of all Seymour Barn was dog-friendly which pleased our special guest for the weekend. Bertie the Dachshund appreciated the cosy dog bed and doggie welcome pack that awaited him.

There was a list of dog friendly walks from the front door, although the garden was not fully enclosed, so we did have to keep an eye on naughty Bertie while on the terrace.

Downstairs we found a spacious new kitchen with dining and sitting area, as well as a separate sitting room with TV and doors out to the terrace so we could dine al fresco.

Upstairs were two stylish bedrooms, each with their own shower room, one with a comfy king size and the other with twin beds. We enjoyed the views over the fields, the work of local artists on the wall and extra touches like the flourishing house plants, pretty garden flowers and vintage pieces.

For more on where to stay and what to do with your dog, read our article on Dog friendly cottages in Dorset .

Seymour Barn – book to stay in this 2 bedroom dog friendly converted barn in the countryside near Bridport

Things to do in Bridport

4. bridport – for the markets and antique shopping.

With a main road running through Bridport, the town doesn’t immediately reveal itself when you drive through. Better to park the car and wander around, to get a feel for the authentic charms of this thriving Dorset market town.

The famous Bridport market is held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, taking over three of the town’s main streets. Independent businesses are strong in Bridport and the town has something of a foodie reputation.

In addition to the twice weekly market, there’s a monthly farmer’s market and the Bridport food festival is held in June. Look out for Moore’s Bakery Shop selling the famous Dorset Knob biscuit and the 18th century thatched building of Palmer’s Brewery for cask ales. We also enjoyed shopping for local goodies at Washingpool farm shop , near our cottage on the outskirts of Bridport.

If you like browsing for antiques and collectables, the St Michael’s Trading Estate is home to a number of vintage and antique shops. Stop at the Bridport Tourist Information centre in the Old Town Hall to check what’s going on, or discover the area’s history in the small Bridport Museum .

Periwinkle Cottage – a 1 bedroom dog friendly cottage in the centre of Bridport

5. West Bay – a gorgeous sandy beach and harbour

Just down the road from Bridport on the coast is West Bay , which was the town’s seaport. My impression was of a seaside town with a dual personality.

On the east side of town is a gorgeous sandy beach backed with attractive old houses and heritage buildings. But around the harbour is more down to earth, with kiosks selling ice creams or fish & chips, an amusement arcade and modern holiday apartments.

In a former Methodist Church is the West Bay Discovery centre , where on Thursday mornings, there’s a 90 minute guided walk, lead by one of the centre’s volunteers.

The Customs House Emporium is a whole warehouse full of antique stalls and Slader’s Yard offers exhibitions of contemporary art and furniture in a Georgian rope warehouse. There are plenty of independent cafes dotted around the village – check out the Watch Bay Cafe right on the beach.

The River Brit runs right up to West Bay harbour, where its flow is controlled by sluice gates. The resulting marine lake offers rowing boats for hire. To enjoy those river views head to Rise Cafe Bar , a casual restaurant with terrace overlooking the river, or for more traditional pub fare try The George just opposite.

6. Discover the Broadchurch film locations of West Bay

I’m a big fan of the BAFTA award winning detective drama Broadchurch , created by local writer Chris Chibnall, much of which was set in and around West Bay. The beach and looming cliffs of West Bay are main characters within the drama, so it was fun spotting some of the Broadchurch film locations when we visited.

The beach is one of the main film locations where a body is discovered and where the police try and uncover the murder mystery. Within West Bay village, the Discovery Centre, housed in an old Methodist Hall doubles as the Sea Brigade Hall, while the gift shop with a post box outside was used as a newsagent owned by one of the murder suspects.

The pretty wooden summerhouse on the cliff that was used as a murder scene in Series 1 is located close to West Bay at Eype Beach , although it’s privately owned, so you can only look from a distance.

To find out more about the Broadchurch film locations from Series 1, 2 and 3, take a look at the Broadchurch trail information and downloadable leaflet produced by Visit Dorset.

Things to do near Dorchester

7. visit dorchester – heart of ‘hardy country’.

The historic market town of Dorchester is the heart of ‘Hardy Country’. It’s surrounded by the Dorset area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that Thomas Hardy described in his novels.

Hardy featured Dorchester as Casterbridge in his novel The Mayor of Casterbridge and you can see the grand townhouse that was the mayor’s home on South Street.

Wander up past the shops of pedestrianised South Street and look in on Antelope Walk for an arcade full of independent businesses, which also featured in Hardy’s novel as Antelope Inn.

Where South Street meets the High Street is a sign giving information about themed walks, such as the Hardy walking trail you can follow around Dorchester.

On the High Street are some of the town’s grander buildings, such as the Corn Exchange , which is now an arts centre, and the fine Victorian building that houses the Dorset Museum . At the top of the town is a statue of Dorchester’s most famous resident, Thomas Hardy himself.

Park Farm Byre – a 3 bedroom dog friendly converted barn near Dorchester with hot tub

8. Hardy’s Cottage – birthplace of Thomas Hardy

The pretty cob and thatch cottage, where Thomas Hardy was born, was owned by his grandfather, a master builder. With the cottage garden at the front, Hardy’s cottage makes a photogenic spot that is reminiscent of many old Dorset cottages and villages.

Together with nearby Max Gate, the cottage is one of the places of interest in Dorset to discover the life and work of Thomas Hardy and his fictional ‘Wessex’.

But the reality of Hardy’s upbringing is somewhat less idyllic, since the flower filled garden was once a builder’s yard serving the family business. Three generations of Hardys were crowded into the small cottage, with cooking done over the open fire in the kitchen and water from the pump outside.

Thomas Hardy himself lived at home until his thirties until he had earned enough from his writing and work as an architect to set up home with his wife Emma.

You can walk through the woods from the visitor centre and join a timed tour to learn more about Hardy’s childhood and life at the cottage. After enjoying the garden, step inside the cottage to find the cosy kitchen where the family would gather to make music. One of the sparse upstairs bedrooms has a desk at the window, where Hardy wrote several of his novels.

9. Max Gate – the home that Thomas Hardy built

Another home of Thomas Hardy is Max Gate, located just outside Dorchester. Max Gate was designed by Hardy himself, who trained as an architect and is furnished as it was when he died here in 1926.

This is the red brick house built by Hardy once he had reached some success, reflecting how far he had risen in society from the modest thatched cottage of his childhood.

In the house, which he shared with his first wife Emma, Hardy wrote novels such as Tess of the D’Urbervilles and Jude the Obscure, as well as much of his poetry.

St Peter’s Cottage – a 3 bedroom dog friendly thatched cottage in a village near Dorchester

10. The Cerne Giant at Cerne Abbas

Just outside Dorchester, the small village of Cerne Abbas is best known for the 180 ft high naked male figure carved into the chalk hillside, wielding a club. It’s unclear when the figure was carved into the hillside. Earliest mentions are from the 17th century but archaeologists believe the figure dates back to the late Saxon period.

On the hillside above the giant is an iron age fort and the land around it is maintained by the National Trust. To reduce erosion you can’t walk over the giant but there are paths leading up the hillside beside and above it.

The best viewing point is a small parking area by the main road just north of the village, where there’s an information board. From here you can walk into the pretty village of Cerne, which has many attractive old buildings.

Things to do near Lulworth Cove

11. lulworth cove – a picturesque circular cove.

The picturesque circular bay with a pebble beach at Lulworth Cove , is one of the most popular places to visit in Dorset. If you time it right, you may find rock pools revealed at low tide.

Stop for coffee or lunch at the Boat Shed Cafe right by the beach, or there are plenty more pubs, cafes and ice cream shops.

Immediately above Lulworth Cove is a small hamlet with just a few cottages, but the larger village of West Lulworth is a 15 minute walk away. A main road passes through West Lulworth, but other than a useful village store and pub, there’s not much to see in the village itself.

The South West Coastal Path runs right past Lulworth Cove, so rather than walking along the beach, you may like to follow the path in either direction for some lovely views from the clifftops down onto the cove.

If you follow the path eastwards, you’ll reach the secluded beach of Worbarrow Bay and the abandoned village of Tyneham . It’s part of the military training area, so this section of footpath is generally only open at weekends and in school holidays.

There’s a large car park at Lulworth cove, with a Visitor Centre that’s worth a quick stop to learn more about the area. From the car park a scenic cliff path will take you in less than an hour to Durdle Door.

12. Durdle Door – the famous sea arch

The famous rock archway and its shingle beach are one of the most photographed Dorset attractions along the Jurassic Coast. Durdle Door was created by sea erosion and although you can swim through the arch, the currents are strong, so we recommend admiring from the beach.

From the car park it’s a steep walk down to the beach which takes around 15 mins. This site gets very busy in the summer months, so be warned!

Another popular Dorset beach on the east side of Durdle Door is called Man O’War Beach, which is also accessed by a steep path. Both Durdle Door and Man O’War beach are open to dogs all year round. There’s a paid car park at Durdle Door which you can use to access either beach.

You can also make the easy 1 mile walk from Lulworth Cove car park along the South West Coastal Path to Durdle Door and return by the same path, or make a circular route that takes you slightly inland back to West Lulworth.

13. Lulworth Castle and Park

If you have time after visiting Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, you may like to call in at the nearby Lulworth Castle , which is also owned by the Lulworth estate. The 17th century hunting lodge was damaged by fire in the 1920s but the structure has been restored with the support of English Heritage.

Inside the castle, which is also used as a wedding venue, you’ll follow the fortunes of the Weld family who owned it. While some of the spaces are unfurnished, you can visit the basement kitchens and get views from the turrets of the surrounding Purbeck Hills.

There’s extensive wood and parkland where you can walk, with a children’s playground and tea room.

Badgers Cottage – a 1 bedroom dog friendly cottage on a farm estate near the Jurassic Coast

14. Clouds Hill – retreat of T.E.Lawrence

The tiny cottage in the woods at Clouds Hill was used as a retreat by T. E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia. While working at nearby Bovington Camp, Lawrence would come in his spare time to the cottage to read and write, as a creative escape from his working life in the army.

Over a number of years he furnished the cottage in a pragmatic way that suited his own needs. There was no electricity, toilet or kitchen but instead the sparse rooms were filled with books and paintings.

The most luxurious aspect of the cottage was the thatched shed that Lawrence built to house his collection of motorbikes!

Sadly Lawrence was killed in a motorbike accident on the road nearby in 1935, and the cottage was preserved much as he left it on that day. Due to the limited size, tickets need to be booked in advance. Visit the NT website for more information.

15. The Tank Museum at Bovington

Since Guy is a former tank commander, of course the Tank Museum at Bovington was top of his list to visit. Unless you have military connections, you may not be aware that parts of Dorset are a major army training area, with a centre at Bovington Camp and a firing range near Lulworth Cove.

Hence it makes sense that that the Tank Museum, full of military hardware would be located at Bovington, home of the Royal Tank Regiment. It’s a huge museum, with plenty to keep the whole family interested and hundreds of tanks on display.

The exhibits tell the story of how tanks were used in world wide conflicts, from WWI and WW2 to Afghanistan. It’s worth checking for some of the different events such as the annual Tankfest festival in June, where you can see the tanks in action in an arena setting.

Tip: Even if you don’t visit the museum, you may like to stop at the free roadside viewing spot near Clouds Hill, where you can often see tanks at close range being driven within the Bovington training area.

It’s marked on the map as the Lawrence of Arabia memorial, and there’s a stone marking where T. E. Lawrence was fatally injured in a motorbike accident on this road.

Things to do in Weymouth

16. weymouth – a historic harbour and sandy beach.

The pretty fishing town of Weymouth with its coloured houses, clustered around a protected harbour, offers the British seaside experience at its best. The town became popular in Georgian times, when King George III visited and sea bathing for health became fashionable.

On one side of the town, the modern marina leads into the harbour with its pretty Georgian buildings. Following the line of the harbour past the numerous pubs and restaurants brings you round to the beach promenade.

A popular sandy beach stretches from the Pavilion theatre, with a funfair, donkey rides, Punch and Judy shows and sand sculptures. No visit to Weymouth is complete without trying some fish and chips around the harbour (we tried Fish’n’Fritz) or a traditional ice cream from Rossi’s Ices on the Esplanade.

There are some interesting small shops in the lanes that run back from the seafront promenade, although the feel here is a little more down at heel, revealing the contrasts in Weymouth of different levels of affluence.

17. Isle of Portland and Portland Bill Lighthouse

Close to Weymouth is a peninsular known as the Isle of Portland, joined to the coast by a causeway at the eastern end of Chesil Beach. At its tip, the peninsular is known as Portland Bill , marked by a red and white lighthouse that was built in 1906.

The area was once used as a quarry to extract the famous Portland Stone that was used to build many buildings in London, like St Paul’s Cathedral. Some stone sculptures and remains of the quarries can be seen at Tout Quarries nature reserve .

Overlooking Portland Harbour and the town of Weymouth is Portland Castle , built in the 1540s by King Henry VIII to protect Dorset’s coast from invasion.

To visit Portland Bill, drive to the end of the peninsula and park in the Portland Bill car park, then walk the short distance to the lighthouse. From here you might want to continue your walk along the cliff path to Jess’s Cliff, from where you can get some dramatic photos, looking back at Portland Bill lighthouse.

18. Abbotbury Sub tropical gardens

We particularly enjoyed our visit to Abbotsbury subtropical gardens , on the way to our cottage in Bridport. It’s dog friendly too and Bertie the dachshund was welcome on his lead, in the cafe as well as all parts of the garden.

The gardens once belonged to the 18th century Abbotsbury Castle, which stood on the high ground overlooking Chesil Beach, but was demolished in the 1930s. The cafe and shop are located within the castle’s old walled garden, while much of the sub tropical garden covers the gentle slopes of a valley, with a stream running at the bottom.

We admired the carved sculptures from old tree trunks and red oriental bridges around the valley bottom. Returning past a gardener’s bothy full of Victorian tools, we enjoyed the fountains and cute sculptures of Peter Rabbit and Alice in Wonderland around the walled garden area.

There’s also a steep grassy walk up to a viewpoint, which is worth the effort to look over Chesil Beach and the miles of Jurassic coast in Dorset.

The Abbotsbury Swannery is the partner attraction the garden, located a short drive away in the wetlands that sit behind Chesil Beach, with a colony of mute swans.

Check out the list of other lovely gardens in Dorset to visit at the end of the article, many of which are dog friendly.

Corfe Castle and the Isle of Purbeck

The Isle of Purbeck is a beautiful area of rolling Dorset countryside, that while not truly an island, is surrounded on three sides by water. At its centre is the ruin of Corfe Castle, dominating the hill top with views of the Purbeck Hills.

There’s plenty to fill a day or more in this area, with a stunning length of coastline, cliff walks, a vintage railway, nature reserve at Studland and fossil hunting at Kimmeridge. Our visit to Corfe Castle and the surrounding area made one of our favourite days out in Dorset while we were there.

19. Corfe Castle – a ruined castle on the hill

The ruins of Corfe Castle are set in grassy grounds and are a fun place to visit to soak up some history and take in the views of the surrounding Purbeck Hills. The castle was established by William the Conquerer and reduced to a ruin in 1646 during the English Civil War.

As you walk around the castle, there are information signs to tell you about the castle’s history and an audio trail to listen to at various points. Look out for the ravens nesting in the castle walls who are said to desert the castle when disaster is about to strike. Enid Blyton featured Corfe Castle in her Famous Five books as Kirrin Castle.

Following your visit, you might like to wander around the pretty village of Corfe Castle, or take a walk in the hills surrounding the castle. Another lovely dog friendly attraction that’s tucked away in Corfe Village is the Corfe Model Village , with a scale model of Corfe, tea room and pretty rose filled gardens.

One of Dorset’s top tourist attractions, Corfe Castle is run by the National Trust: Opening times and entry prices here .

20. Swanage Railway – ride the steam trains

The Swanage Railway is a lovingly preserved heritage railway. Travel on a steam train or vintage diesel locomotive, from Swanage to Norton, with a stop at Corfe Castle station. The railway is mainly run by volunteer enthusiasts and was restored after the once thriving railway line was partly demolished in the 1970s.

On the 25 minutes trip (one way) you’ll get lovely views of the Purbeck Hills and Corfe Castle as you pass by and there are normally around 5 trips per day. Dogs are allowed on the train for a small extra charge.

We enjoyed looking around Corfe Castle station while waiting for our train, with its original waiting rooms and knowledgeable volunteers, before taking a short trip up the line to Norton station and back. At Corfe station there’s also a small railway museum (free but donations appreciated), with information and memorabilia about the railway.

21. Studland Bay and Old Harry Rocks

In the gentle curve of coastline running from Old Harry Rocks to Poole Harbour is Studland Bay . This unspoiled area of heathland and sand dunes is an area of natural beauty run by the National Trust, with miles of sandy shore. There’s a range of different beaches at Studland, from the more remote Naturist beach to Middle Beach and South Beach, both of which have car parks and beach cafes.

We stopped at Studland South Beach for a picnic on the sand in front of the beach huts, where dogs are allowed. Nearby is The Bankes Arms traditional country pub with a large garden, the Pig on the Beach with its rather smart garden-to-table restaurant and Joe’s Cafe overlooking the beach itself.

From South Beach an easy path leads to Old Harry Rocks , a string of chalk sea stacks located just off the tip of Handfast Point. After taking in the impressive cliff views, it’s possible to continue the walk along the coastal path to Swanage and beyond.

Look out for seals that occasionally can be spotted around Old Harry Rocks and take care near the unfenced cliff edge when taking photos.

22. Kimmeridge – fossil hunting and the Etches collection

Another place that’s close to Corfe Castle is Kimmeridge Bay , a rocky beach that’s well known for its fossils, rock pools and surfing. From Kimmeridge village the bay is accessible by car via a toll road, with a charge of £6 that includes parking. There’s no charge for cycling or walking along the well marked Kimmeridge Way footpath from the village.

At Kimmeridge Village, which is a little set back from the sea you’ll find The Etches Collection , a modern museum that was purpose built to house the collection of local fossil hunter and paleontologist Dr Steve Etches.

Here you’ll find displays of marine fossils, many of which were collected at Kimmeridge, that tell the story of life in the seas of the Jurassic Coast 157 million years ago.

The museum also runs beach walks to explore the geology and fossils in Kimmeridge Bay, which take place through the winter months from September to April. Just opposite the museum is Clavells , a restaurant with ‘field to fork’ dishes that capture the flavours of Dorset.

23. Sherborne – a pretty town with historic abbey and castles

While Dorset’s gorgeous beaches and coastline are a major attraction, it’s well worth exploring the pleasant rural villages and market towns that lie inland.

One such is the town of Sherborne , where we broke our journey on our drive down from Bristol. Leaving our car in one of the public car parks, we wandered down the semi pedestrianised Cheap Street, full of attractive old buildings and independent boutiques.

Our walk brought us past the 16th century stone Conduit, used by the monks for washing and into the cloisters of Sherborne Abbey. From the first century until the Reformation, this medieval cathedral served an order of Benedictine monks. Step inside to see the glorious fan vaulted ceiling and stained glass windows, where Sir Walter Raleigh worshipped.

A 20 minute walk across the meadows from here will bring you to Sherborne Castle which was built by Elizabethan courtier, sailor and explorer Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594. In the 18th century, the castle was modernised in the latest fashion by the Digby family and this blend of Tudor and Georgian style is reflected in the fine furnishings and fireplaces.

It was at this time that the parklands around the castle and lake were landscaped by Capability Brown, with formal flower borders, walled kitchen gardens and woodland walks.

Across the lake is the ruin of Old Sherborne Castle , the original mansion bought by Sir Walter Raleigh but destroyed during the English Civil war. This is run by English Heritage and can be visited with a separate ticket. Read about our previous visit to Sherborne here.

Things to do near Poole

On the eastern border of Dorset are the towns of Poole and Bournemouth. This part of England’s south coast is more densely populated than other parts of Dorset. Poole Harbour is popular with sailors and a small foot ferry runs to Brownsea Island , a nature reserve within the harbour. While we didn’t have time to visit Poole, there are a couple more places to visit nearby that are worth a mention.

24. Kingston Lacey – styled on a Venetian Palazzo

A grand country house, Kingston Lacy is styled like a Venetian Palazzo. It’s filled with artworks and surrounded by parkland and a formal garden. The house, which is run by the National Trust, was the family home of the Bankes Family who used their enormous wealth to embellish the house over the centuries.

Kingston Lacy as we see it today was remodelled by William John Bankes between 1834 and 1855. Forced to live in Venice due to his homosexuality which was illegal in England at the time, he collected artworks and Egyptian artefacts that were sent home to his house.

Surrounding the house are classic English borders, a Japanese garden and a kitchen garden that you can also visit.

25. Sandbanks beach

Across Poole Harbour from Studland Bay is Sandbanks Beach , which is an extension of the beautiful sandy shore on the Studland side. The narrow strip of land that encircles Poole Harbour has the beach on one side and a road on the other. Sandbanks is also known for the multi million pounds houses that overlook the beach, offering some of the most expensive real estate in England.

A ferry for both cars and foot passengers crosses the mouth of Poole harbour three times an hour, taking you from Studland to Sandbanks and back. There’s no need to book and you can pay either on the ferry or at the toll boxes.

A smaller ferry for foot passengers also runs from the same location in Sandbanks to Brownsea Island, a nature reserve in Poole Harbour that’s known for its native red squirrels.

Things to do in Dorset with Dogs

With our special guest Bertie the dachshund in tow, we made a point of visiting as many dog friendly places in Dorset as possible. For more on where to stay and what to do with your dog in Dorset, read our article on Dog friendly cottages in Dorset .

Here are some of the dog-friendly things that Bertie enjoyed:

Dog friendly cottages:

We recommend a cottage stay if you are travelling with your dog, as it’s more relaxing and less restrictive than some other types of accommodation. Use the filter on the Classic Cottages website to find their holiday cottages that take dogs .

Dorset’s dog friendly beaches:

There’s an endless choice of beaches to visit in Dorset although some do have restrictions, especially between 1 April and 30 September. Almost all beaches have an area to exercise your dog even in summer and on the less busy and wilder beaches you can let your dog off the lead year round.

Dorset’s countryside walks:

The beautifully rural and gently rolling countryside of Dorset offers numerous country walks for your dog. Most cottages like the one we stayed with Classic Cottages will have information about the best local walks near where you’re staying.

Dorset’s dog-friendly heritage attractions:

While most stately homes only allow dogs in their parklands Bertie enjoyed our visit to Corfe Castle. He was also welcome to travel on the heritage steam trains of Swanage Railway and found that Corfe Model Village was just the right size for him to sniff around.

Dorset dog friendly gardens:

Bertie loved visiting the dog friendly Abbotsbury Subtropical gardens, with its shady paths and welcoming cafe. We found that the gardens that don’t have a house to visit, generally accept dogs on leads – try the gardens at Compton Acres, Cranborne Manor Gardens, Exbury Gardens, Minterne Gardens, and the Walled Garden at Moreton.

Dorset dog friendly pubs and restaurants:

Almost all the pubs we came across in Dorset welcome dogs, especially those near a beach or in the countryside. Many country restaurants and beach cafes also welcome dogs, but it’s best to check online before you visit in case they are allowed only in certain parts of the restaurant such as outdoor seating.

Historic houses and castles in Dorset

If you are a history buff like us, you’ll enjoy visiting Dorset’s historic buildings and gardens, some of which are run by the National Trust in Dorset.

Max Gate – The red brick house built by Thomas Hardy once he had reached some success and where he wrote novels such as Tess of the D’Urbervilles.

Thomas Hardy Birthplace – The pretty cob and thatch cottage was built by Thomas Hardy’s grandfather and was where he was born.

Corfe Castle – A picturesque ruined castle that was built by William the Conquerer and partly demolished during the English Civil war.

Kingston Lacy – A grand country house, styled like a Venetian Palazzo filled with artworks and surrounded by parkland and a formal garden.

White Mill – An old water mill on the Kingston Lacy estate, set by the River Stour which can be visited separately from the Kingston Lacy House.

Clouds Hill – The tiny cottage in the woods, used as a retreat by T. E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia.

Highcliffe Castle – A historic mansion located close to Bournemouth within 14 acres of gardens and grounds. The house is used as a wedding venue but some rooms are normally open to visit.

Portland Castle – A Tudor coastal fort built by King Henry VIII that overlooks Portland Harbour.

Lulworth Castle and Park – A restored 17th century hunting lodge near Lulworth Cove with extensive grounds.

Athelhampton House and Garden – A Tudor manor house with formal gardens near Dorchester.

Gardens in Dorset

Check out our list of the most beautiful gardens in Dorset to visit, some of which allow dogs on a lead.

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens – Lush gardens with water features and a walled garden in the village of Abbotsbury near Weymouth.

Bennett’s Water Gardens – Home of the National Plant Collection of Water Lilies with a tropical house and woodland walks near Weymouth.

Compton Acres – Ornamental gardens for all seasons with Heather gardens, Japanese gardens and a wooded valley near Poole.

Cranborne Manor Gardens – A traditional English garden surrounding an ancient Manor House near Cranborne.

Mapperton Garden s – Italianate formal gardens with topiary within a small wooded valley near Beaminster.

Minterne Gardens – Tranquil Himalayan gardens, known for the azaleas and rhododendrons planted around streams and waterfalls, near Dorchester.

The Walled Garden, Moreton – A garden with different borders and areas for all year interest, with plant shop and cafe.

Sculpture by the lakes – A sculpture park set in 26 acres around lakes and streams, together with more formal garden areas and a Maker’s yard, close to Dorchester.

More places to stay in Dorset

Cobb Cottage – a 3 bedroom dog friendly coastguard’s cottage near the beach in Lyme Regis

Toby’s Hut – a colourful dog friendly shepherd’s hut for 2 people with hot tub

Where is Dorset?

Dorset is a country located on England’s southern coast, between Hampshire to the east and Devon to the west. It’s easy to reach Dorset from London (3 hrs by car or train) or Heathrow Airport (2 hrs by car or 4 hrs by train via London).

Map of best places to visit in Dorset

To find the places mentioned in the article on a map you can click on the link for our map of places to visit in Dorset or click on the map below.

Ready to plan your trip? Explore dog friendly cottages in Dorset

More places to visit in Dorset

Visiting Thomas Hardy Country in Dorset

Cycling in Dorset on the Jurassic Coast

Our Cottage stay in Dorset was sponsored* by Classic Cottages.

* More info on my policies page

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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Thursday 28th of September 2023

When spouse and I lived in Britain many many decades ago, we thought we would never be able to spend time on the beaches. But that was not true, once locals recommended Weymouth, Lyme Regis and Bridport. After a couple of years away, I didn't want to go home :)

Heather Cowper

@Hels England's beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world, if only the sun always shone on them!

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Places to Visit in Dorset (England)

15 Best Places to Visit in Dorset (England)

In England’s West Country, Dorset is a rural place without a single city.

But what Dorset does have is the most romantic countryside and heroic coastal landscapes that make up the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast.

Wherever you go there’s always something memorable to see close by.

On the sea are atmospheric ports, perfect sandy beaches, massive cliffs and natural wonders like Durdle Door.

You’re in England’s fossil-hunting capital here, where exciting finds are guaranteed with a little patience.

And strewn across the interior are castles, abbeys and stately homes, many of which you may already have seen on TV or in movies.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Dorset :

1. Weymouth

It’s easy to see why the coastal town of Weymouth is such a hit with tourists: Straight away there’s the enchanting harbour, set on the banks of the River Wey before it reaches the sea.

The quays have a quaint jumble of old inns and warehouses, and you can take in the scene from a waterside bench and watch the yachts and trawlers come and go.

And then there’s the beach: Long, sandy and with waters safe for kids to spend whole sunny days paddling and splashing around.

There’s always something big going on in Weymouth, be it the Kite Festival in May and the Seafood Festival on the quaysides in July.

• 2.  Bournemouth

A spa town from the early-1800s onwards, Bournemouth attracted Regency and Victorian society’s upper crust for health retreats for its warm climate (comparatively!), gardens, pine woodland and fresh sea air.

Large villas were built in this time and continue to lend the town a feeling of grandeur and opulence.

There are seven miles of beaches on the coast, one of which is the Blue Flag Alum Chine, with perfect golden sands.

Potter around the artisan shops in Westbourne and sample the nightlife around the Square area.

A real trove of British art and decoration awaits at the Russell-Cotes Gallery, set in a sumptuous Art Nouveau villa on a cliff-top.

3. Dorchester

Dorset’s county town is both beautiful and historic, with tons of listed buildings in its centre and majestic estates like Athelhampton and Kingston Maurward in the immediate countryside.

For shopping and nightlife, look no further than the newly regenerated Brewery Square, set in front of the striking old Eldridge Pope Brewery.

The esteemed Victorian writer Thomas Hardy spent most of his life in and near Dorchester.

You can visit Thomas Hardy’s Cottage, a quaint thatched house where he was born in 1840 and resided until 34, during which time he wrote classics like Far from the Madding Crowd.

Also open is the more sophisticated Max Gate, a Victorian mansion that Hardy occupied from 1885 until he died in 1928.

4. Jurassic Coast

The entirety of Dorset’s western shoreline, from Studley all the way to the boundary with Devon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The rugged limestone throughout has recorded some 185 million years of natural history, and is layered with fossils of the plants and animals that have lived in this area during that time.

The beaches have been prime fossil-hunting territory for hundreds of years, and were first made famous by the 19th-century amateur, Mary Anning, whose eye for a valuable fossil has never been equalled.

The village of Charmouth is right by Golden Cap, the highest cliff on England’s south coast, and is also home to the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre where you can tap into the natural and human history of this singular coastline.

On a vast natural harbour, Poole’s calm, sheltered seas are possibly the best on the south coast for watersports, and sailors, fishers, windsurfers all very well-catered for.

If you’re up for some sightseeing, the twee traditional quay in Poole is a working maritime district and the point of embarkation for a host of cruises and excursions.

One of the favourites is Brownsea Island, owned entirely by the National Trust and cloaked in pine and oak woodland, with exciting little fragments of history here and there.

But Sandbanks is what really draws the crowds in Poole.

Most people say it’s the best beach in Britain, a sandy spit that shields the north side of the harbour and has a kilometre of soft golden sand.

6. Sherborne

It’s not unusual to see Sherborne included in lists of the UK’s most beautiful towns.

Sherborne is mostly built with the ochre-coloured “ham stone”, quarried from just across the boundary in Somerset and making everything just a little more gorgeous.

For a small town there’s a great deal to see.

The abbey is outstanding, particularly the fine fan vaulting in the nave and chance.

This building started out as a Saxon cathedral in the early-8th century, and you can still see vestiges of this structure around the western portal . Add to this, two castles, the newest of which was ordered by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594, and you’ll have enough for a breathless couple days of sightseeing.

7. Lyme Regis

If you fancy yourself as the next Mary Anning make a bee-line for Monmouth Beach where she found most of her fossils.

The word is that you have a better chance of finding something when the weather is unsettled at low tide.

In summer you may just be in need of a blissful few hours by the sea.

The Cobb is an fabled landmark, a powerful harbour wall that you may know from Meryl Streep’s the French Lieutenant’s Woman, and was also described in Persuasion by Jane Austin, who lived in Lyme Regis for a time.

In which case, Cobb beach is the spot for you, a spotless pebble beach on with calm seas that are transparent when the sun’s out.

8. Christchurch

If you’re in Bournemouth there’s no reason not to board the train for the town of Christchurch, just a brief jaunt to the east.

This town combines unblemished countryside, a gorgeous old quarter and first-rate beaches with a harbour at the confluence of two rivers.

There’s so much to discover in the area that you’d be better off hiring a bike to get from one beautiful place to the next.

You can go for a restorative walk by Highcliffe beach, try crab-fishing at Mudeford Quay or explore the ruins of the Constable’s House, an original Norman building.

Best of all could be Christchuch Priory, a glorious medieval monastery that survived Henry VIII’s Dissolution by becoming a parish church in the 1500s.

In wonderful scenery, Swanage is a seaside town with a beach that is up there with the best in the county.

The beach has soft white sands, and its shallow incline creates lots of shallow water for littler beach-goers to play in.

On steep hillsides, the resort is very smart and has taken good care of its Victorian stone buildings which house tea rooms, pubs and fish & chip shops.

This being the Jurassic Coast there are natural wonders here.

Old Harrys Rocks is the most majestic site in the area an ensemble of chalk outcrops.

If you laugh in the face of vertigo you can walk along the eroded path on the narrow isthmus, where there’s a sheer drop on either side, to get a closer look at the vertical stack at the end.

10. Shaftesbury

A lovable country town, Shaftesbury is the only major hilltop community in Dorset, located more than 200 metres above sea level.

Shaftesbury is well-accustomed to visitors and has its fair share of inns and bed & breakfasts in wonderful period buildings.

There has been a settlement at this site since at least Saxon times, and the former abbey was established in the 9th century.

Pop into the museum next to the ruins that now decorate a sublime garden.

Gold Hill meanwhile, encapsulates rural England perfectly.

This steep cobbled street has stone thatched cottages and the most astounding views of the countryside.

Gold Hill first came to the nation’s attention via a Ridley Scott commercial for Hovis bread, and it has since become a cherished landmark.

11. Blandford Forum

In 1731 the town of Blandford was razed by fire.

And this event is what grants it such an architectural unity today, as nearly everything you see in the centre is from the reconstruction in the years that followed, led by the uncommonly-named Bastard Brothers.

So the pleasure of visiting Blandford lies in navigating its genteel Georgian streets, particularly around the baroque town hall and corn exchange, which are both Grade I-listed.

There’s a Fire Monument in the marketplace to commemorate the fire, and the town museum has interesting exhibits about the grand rebuild.

An absolute must-do in around Blandford is the Hall & Woodhouse brewery, in business since 1777 and famed for its Tanglefoot bitter.

12. Lulworth

Comprising both East and West Lulworth, this area in the middle of the Jurassic Coast has some of the UNESCO site’s most heart-lifting seascapes.

The most inspiring of these is Durdle Door, a natural arch facing a secluded sandy bay.

The arch is set off by the more resistant limestone, which climbs above Durdle Door to the east and is also spectacular when viewed from Man O’ War Bay next door.

Lulworth Cove is majestic too, rated as one of the South’s seven natural wonders, and forming an almost perfect bowl protected by rugged rocks.

Put Lulworth Castle on your itinerary as well: Even though it has a brawny appearance, this 17th-century building was always more of a stately home than a fortress, and has seen a lot of fascinating events in its time.

13. Wareham

Few English towns can claim to be defended by their Anglo-Saxon walls.

But Wareham can make that brag, and if you’re an amateur historian you have to take a tour of these tall earthen banks.

The walls are actually Roman in origin, but the Saxons beefed them up during the reign of Alfred the Great to keep out the Danes.

There are information boards on the way to point out the sites of ancient skirmishes and bloody executions.

A little way from Wareham are the eerie but beautiful ruins of Corfe Castle, where large chunks of the keep and imperious gatehouses remain.

14. Isle of Portland

You’ll be leaving Dorset’s soft and forgiving countryside behind when you cross the tombolo at Chesil Beach onto Portland, a huge plate of Jurassic limestone.

This is a craggy, elongated island, four miles in length and exposed to the elements.

Some of the world’s most famous landmarks are made from stone quarried at this very place: Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral and even the United Nations headquarters in New York feature Portland Stone.

The limestone is a big attraction for adventure sports fanatics who come to climb and abseil on the rocks.

For everyone else there’s uplifting walks, energising coastal scenery and sights like Portland Castle, an artillery fort commissioned by Henry VIII in 1539.

15. Bridport

This town has two parts, the inland Bridport, an agreeable market town in hilly countryside, and West Bay, an uncommonly charming fishing harbour on the coast.

The town is very visitor-friendly and has a good selection of one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants to keep you around a little longer.

And then the coastal section is a traditional port, limestone cliffs and a tempting sandy beach.

Fossil-hunting is also on the menu in this town, and the Bridport Tourist Information Centre can give you tips to make sure your hunt is as successful as possible.

15 Best Places to Visit in Dorset (England):

• Jurassic Coast
• Christchurch
• Shaftesbury
• Blandford Forum
• Isle of Portland

Places to visit in Dorset

Bring the family for a day out and step behind the scenes of a Hollywood movie or bestselling novel in stunning Dorset. You can find your own Jurassic Park on beaches sprinkled with fossils and smuggler's caves or trace Thomas Hardy novels on open heaths and vales. The southwest county's dramatic coastline is an outdoor sculpture gallery with arches, stacks and coves carved by Mother Nature herself, a must-see attraction in Dorset. Casual amblers and serious ramblers alike can trek ridgeways between Bronze Age burial mounds and castle ruins. With so many incredible places to visit in Dorset you’ll leave knowing exactly why this county is incredibly popular for vacations and staycations alike.

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Top 10 places to visit in Dorset this summer

Take a Dorset adventure this summer for top-notch seafood, squirrel spotting, cool hotels and Instagrammable villages.

Pier to Pier in Bournemouth

Got a spare hour or two in Bournemouth? Then take a stroll between the two piers.

Location: Bournemouth, Dorset

Learn how to find fossils with a guided fossil walk

Take the family on a fossil hunting walk along Charmouth Beach and uncover prehistoric history while walking along a dramatic stretch of coastline.

Location: Charmouth, Dorset

Make waves on a water sports holiday in Bournemouth

Bournemouth has a vast array of water sports on offer throughout the year for both the novice and professional.

See the gardens in bloom in Bournemouth

Head down to Bournemouth to see the extensive collection of gardens and enjoy the wide range of facilities on offer.

Kingston Lacy: an Italian palace in Dorset

Home to a rather fabulous collection that includes pieces by Rubens, Van Duyck, Titian.

Location: Poole, Dorset

Camp at Corfe Castle

Explore this 1,000-year-old fortress above an eponymous Dorset village that's filled with wonky old cottages.

Location: Corfe, Dorset

Make friends at Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre

Home to over 250 rescued and endangered primates, this sanctuary lets you get up close and personal with all kinds of monkeys, gorillas and apes.

Location: Wareham, Dorset

Explore Lyme Regis

Wander round narrow streets and along the South West Coastal Path.

Location: Lyme Regis, Dorset

Uncover Wareham’s southern charm and civil war past

Wareham is packed with old red-brick houses and wonky, half-timber cottages that'll have your trigger finger reaching for the camera button.

Find romance in the depths of Thomas Hardy Country

Enjoy woodland walks and cosy inns, and immerse yourself in the romantic landscape that this renowned writer called home.

Location: Dorset

Have yourself a Famous Five adventure

Follow in the footsteps of Enid Blyton’s Famous Five with some castle capers and a seaside adventure by steam railway.

Location: Corfe Castle, Dorset

Visit the world’s best collection of tanks

Heroes big or small can find fun at The Tank Museum.

Majestic views at a Corfe Castle picnic

Enjoy breathtaking views at the majestic ruins of Corfe Castle in the perfect idyllic picnic spot.

Take to the slopes in Dorset

The Snowtrax alpine activity centre will transport you to the mountains for the day.

Location: Christchurch, Dorset

Enjoy high-wire and two-wheeled adventure in the Moors Valley

Enjoy adrenaline-fuelled activities for all the family in Moors Valley Country Park in the lovely Dorset countryside.

Location: Ashley Heath, Dorset

Take a walk through history in Cranborne

Explore the landscape of Cranborne Chase which inspired the father of modern archaeology, William Fox Pitt.

Location: Cranborne, Dorset

Visit a movie star house

Discover Bathsheba's 'Everdene Farm' from Far From the Madding Crowd in Dorset.

Location: Beaminster, Dorset

Peel away the layers of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast

Trace a history that goes back millions of years as you meander Dorset’s famous Jurassic Coast, England’s first UNESCO Natural World Heritage site.

Explore the West Bay coastline as seen on TV’s Broadchurch

Soak up the picture-perfect setting used in the TV series Broadchurch as you explore West Bay on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.

Location: West Bay, Dorset

Explore an island of discovery

Explore Portland’s rugged landscape and breathtaking views and discover its history, heritage and natural assets.

Location: Portland, Dorset

Enjoy a luxurious camping trip at Crafty Camping

Luxury glamping in a beautiful forest setting alongside Guy Mallinson’s Woodland Workshop, featured in the BBC Mastercrafts series.

Location: Holditch, Dorset

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Ambles through woodland lanes pausing at thatch-roofed tearooms and village pubs, canoe trips down bubbling streams and canters across heathland; that's what days in the New Forest are made of.

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Visit the Isle of Wight for picture perfect sandy beaches, timeless villages, royal castles and a range of fun loving festivals. With so much to do for kids and adults alike, the Isle of Wight is a vibrant place to visit.

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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

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#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!

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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.

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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

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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

Photograph: Shutterstock

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.

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Chesil Beach stretches for 18 miles from Portland to West Bay

Explore badbury rings.

near Wimborne Minster

Explore the dramatic scenery of the Jurassic Coast

Explore & discover dorset.

If you're after clear air, sweeping cliff  walks , breathtaking views and cute little towns brimming with places to eat and  shops  to explore, Dorset is for you!

We’ve got lots of ideas for fantastic days out where you can discover dinosaurs, get off the beaten track and explore more of our beautiful county.

From past to present

Make sure you visit our spectacular  Jurassic Coast  - a stunning stretch of 200 million-year-old shoreline that has been designated a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its outstanding geological make-up. This is where dinosaurs once walked, look closely and you might find your very own fossil !

Get lost in the county’s charms

Much of the charming  countryside  Dorset has to offer has been designated as National Landscapes, and it's easy to see why - take some time to discover this beautiful county at your own pace.

Wander ancient green lanes and numerous way-marked trails that criss-cross lush meadows and take in the stunning vista.

Coast with the most

Our  coast  offers something for everyone…beautiful, long, sandy  beaches  offer the ideal playground to build sandcastles and dance in the froth of the waves whilst other stretches are perfect for a bit of adventure!

Why not follow Dorset’s section if the South West Coast Path as it marches alongside the Jurassic Coast. Spot amazing rock formations and glimpse far flung views from towering cliff tops as you walk.

Welcoming towns & villages

All over Dorset, you'll uncover charming towns with their own individuality, character and history and there’s always a pretty little  village  tucked around the corner to explore.

There’s more to Dorset than you think!

As you can see, there is much more to this spectacular county than you may have first thought! Beautiful beaches, stunning countryside, rolling hills, history and heritage; and we haven’t even got started on the amazing array of attractions and  activities  on offer, or the fact that we probably have some of the best  food and drink  that you’ve ever tasted!

Book your  accommodation  now, and start planning!

Areas to Visit

Bustling towns, quaint villages and seaside resorts...all waiting to be explored!

Coast & Beaches

Dorset's stunning coast is waiting to be explored.

Dorset's National Landscape

Discover Dorset's National Landscape.

Jurassic Coast

Explore the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dorset Countryside

Epic views, fantastic walking routes...Dorset's countryside has it all!

Villages in Dorset

Discover some of the prettiest villages in England here in Dorset.

Share your Dorset

What does your dorset look like adventures on our epic coastline visiting towns and villages with family a walk through the beautiful countryside  discover a sample of your #visitdorset images below and share your love for dorset using the hashtag on instagram.   , plan your visit, we travelling responsibly, respect, protect, enjoy.

When you visit, be sure to follow these simple steps to help respect, protect and enjoy Dorset.

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Accommodation.

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Visit Dorset Blog

Check out our blog for all the latest ideas and inspiration to help you plan your visit

Gardens & Parks

Dorset’s mild climate makes it a perfect location for some truly magical gardens.