Find romance in the depths of Thomas Hardy Country

Dorset

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

Visit the landscape that Thomas Hardy used as a backdrop for his tales of love and tragedy.

This is ancient Wessex; home of The Mayor of Casterbridge, Tess, and Jude the Obscure.  

Whilst exploring the beautiful landscape, stop for an ale or a romantic supper in Tess of the D'Urbervilles' ‘Sow and Acorn’ (the Acorn Inn at Evershot) where you can imagine florid farmers and caddish aristocrats flirting with doomed maidens in their low-ceilinged, flag stoned-floored barrooms.  

In Dorchester, Hardy’s Casterbridge, visit his statue and the Dorset County Museum where you can view his recreated study and personal possessions. Max Gate, Hardy’s home of his own design, is located on the edge of town and his cottage birthplace is hidden in woodland nearby at Higher Bockhampton.  

Much of the film adaptation of Far From the Madding Crowd was filmed here also; explore the locations and immerse yourself in the story of Bathsheba Everdene and her many suitors. 

Finally, visit the medieval church in the hamlet of Stinsford. Here Hardy’s heart is buried, alongside his wives, in the place his heart was devoted to....

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Filming of the 2015 film adaptation of Far From the Madding Crowd in DorsetFar From the Madding Crowd © Fox Searchlight
Carey Mulligan and Matthias Shoenarts in Far From the Madding CrowdFar From the Madding Crowd © Fox Searchlight
National Trust Hardy's Cottage Hardy's Cottage © Visit Dorset
National Trust Max GateMax Gate © Visit Dorset
Carey Mulligan in Far From the Madding CrowdThe Acorn Inn

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