Walks
Perhaps one of the best ways to explore England’s only natural world heritage site is to take a walk around Dorset.
Explore
Corfe Castle, which dates back to the 11
th century, and take in the village surrounding it of the same name. The National Trust puts on a series of events and activities during the summer months, which are worth taking time out to visit.
Managed by the National Trust are two chalk sea stacks located at Handfast Point, known as
Old Harry Rocks. Walkers can expect to see a range of flowers, falcons and butterflies in warmer months.
Here’s a list of the
top 10 walks in Dorset.
Days Out
Whether you’re looking for family fun or interested in understanding more about Dorset’s history, there are literally dozens of ways to enjoy a day out locally. Here’s a few of our favourites…
Farmer Palmers – Animals, a fun barn, a bouncy castle, pedal go-karts and so much more. There are literally hours of fun to be had at this family attraction near Poole.
The Tank Museum – Located in Bovington, the museum of the Roya. Tank Regiment and Royal Armoured Corps is a collection of tanks and armoured fighting vehicles. You’ll be able to see around 300 vehicles up close in this fantastic exhibition.
Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park will take you on an adventure above and below the ocean.
And here’s a few more ideas from
Trip Advisor.
National Trust
There are literally dozens of places to see and things to do in Dorset that are lovingly cared for by the National Trust. From literary gems to the great outdoors you’ll never be stuck for something to do!
Of course, our first recommendation would be to visit
Thomas Hardy’s birthplace, which is right on our doorstep. The cottage is open seven days a week until October and takes you inside the modest home where Thomas Hardy grew up and wrote some of his finest works. Directly behind the cottage is Thorncombe Woods and there are great walking trails to explore.
Kingston Lacy is a lavish family home built to resemble an Italian Palace in the rural Dorset countryside. It has a treasure trove of art work and stunning gardens to amble around. There are around 8,500 acres of unspoilt estate, including the Holt Heath National Nature Reserve, which ensure there’s something to see all year round.
Beaches
What would a trip to the coast be without a visit to the beach? Greenwood Grange is ideally placed close to many of the county’s glorious stretches of sand, pebbles and ocean.
Lulworth Cove is one of the UK’s natural wonders and has been documented as such. It attracts around 500,000 visitors each year and is breathtakingly beautiful. It’s a short walk from Durdle Door, famed for its impressive rock arch formation, which is also great for snorkelling and bathing.
Weymouth Beach has miles of family friendly golden sandy beaches and was recently voted the best in the UK and the ninth best in Europe! A little further away, but still close enough for a day trip is the ever-popular Bournemouth beach.
Check out this list of the top 10 beaches in Dorset for more information.
Restaurants
Yalbury Cottage is ranked the number one restaurant in Dorset on Trip Advisor. It’s lounge and restaurant are full of character with oak beamed ceilings and inglenook fireplaces. Enjoy fresh ingredients and seasonal local produce.
No 6 in Dorchester is a contemporary restaurant offering a range of locally sourced produce. It’s hugely popular with locals, which is testament in itself. The menu is on the website, but changes several times a week in line with ingredients.
If a fantastic beach café is more your cup of tea, try
The Cabin at Swanage. Delicious cream teas and breath taking views await.
