Why you should visit Dorset
While Dorset might not be as popular as its southwest siblings, Devon and Cornwall, Dorset’s beaches are just as golden, its rolling hills are just as alluring and its villages are just as idyllic.
Why not explore this under-appreciated beauty for yourself? Lose yourself in the outskirts of the New Forest, gape at the landscapes of the Jurassic Coast and immerse yourself in its fascinating history with our guide to Dorset.
Best days in Dorset
Exploring the Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast is possibly the best example of Dorset's under-appreciated beauty. With jagged cliffs, white sand and breathtaking views, Charlie House guides us through a perfect day on the Dorset coastline.
Horse riding in Dorset – Western style!
Horse rider and Wild West fan Rachael Stiles discovers a slice of pioneer life in the hidden byways and lost combes of Dorset.
Enid Blyton's Dorset
Pack the cucumber sandwiches and ginger beer for a vintage adventure along the coastline that was beloved by the best-selling children’s writer, says Ali Wood.
Thomas Hardy's Cottage
Explore the tree-shrouded home and surrounding Dorset woodland that inspired novelist and poet Thomas Hardy to pen many of his great works.
Best places to stay in Dorset
Yalbury Cottage, Lower Bockhampton
Lower Bockhampton is no more than a cluster of beautiful cottages - one of which is Yalbury Cottage, burrowed in the heart of Thomas Hardy's Wessex.
The Green House, Bournemouth
Bournemouth is a wonderful Victorian seaside resort, with plenty of stuff going on to keep you entertained for a weekend. The Green House is just a short walk from the town centre and the beach, and a lovely place to stay.
The Crown, Blandford Forum
The Crown boasts that they're the oldest inn in Dorset. This hotel is situated in the picturesque Georgian town of Blandford Forum.
Best places to eat in Dorset
The Anchor Inn, Seatown
Nestled in the coastal hamlet of Seatown, this rustic pub uses the best locally-sourced ingredients for a wonderful dining experience. Take a walk along the cliffs before your visit to work up an appetite.
Square and Compass, Worth Matravers
Last year, the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) unveiled their 45th edition of the Good Beer Guide. There are only five pubs in the UK that have made every single edition of the guide. The Square and Compass in Worth Matravers is one of them. This is due to their "consistent high standard of quality beers served in a fantastic setting." Although they're more known for their drinks than their food, this fantastic pub is certainly worth a visit.
La Fleur de Lys, Shaftesbury
Shaftesbury, a very agreeable small town, lies in North Dorset, about 20 miles west of Salisbury. The best food that this town has to offer is found at La Fleur de Lys, a restaurant and hotel overlooking the Blackmore Vale.
Best walks in Dorset
Abbotsbury
Burrowed in Dorset's Area of Natural Beauty with a chapel that overlooks the Jurassic Coast.
The Acorn Inn, Evershot
Explore a deer park in winter and follow magical woodland pathways before cosying up in a pub brimming with rustic charm that inspired the great Dorset writer (and even hosted a hangman).
Golden Cap
Follow the Jurassic Coast to conquer the highest point on Britain’s south shore, looking for fossils en route.
Charmouth
Enjoy an ancient treasure hunt when you search for fossils along this rugged, ever-changing coastline.
Maiden Castle
Explore Britain’s largest Iron Age fort; a magnificent monument where skylark song fills the skies.