A view of the rock formations and beach at Durdle Door in Dorset

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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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.

Location: Bournemouth, 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.

Location: Wareham, Dorset

 

Majestic views at a Corfe Castle picnic

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

Location: Corfe, 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.

Location: Dorset

 

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

 

A botanical treasure trove on the Jurassic Coast

Sniff your way around the award-winning Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, a coastal haven filled with rare and exotic plants from all over the world.

Location: Abbotsbury, Dorset

 

Discover Dorset’s Myths and Legends

Tour the many landmarks, dotted along Dorset’s beautiful coast and countryside, and uncover their fascinating tales.

Location: Dorset

 

Watch Indie A-listers at the End of the Road Festival

The intimate surroundings of the End of the Road Festival give you the chance to get up close and personal with the bands and their music.

Location: Larmer Tree Gardens, North Dorset

 

Enjoy a romantic break surrounded by echoes of royal love

Opulent comfort and English grandeur, in a house that once bore royalty.

Location: Bournemouth, Dorset

 

September events: Bournemouth Air Festival

The world's biggest airshow brings together the thrill of gravity-defying plane displays and an abundance of family entertainment on the ground - all for free!

Location: Bournemouth, Dorset

 

Experience a spiritual side to Bournemouth's history

Visit St. Peter's Church for the stunning architecture, the famous final resting places or simply the atmosphere.

Location: Bournemouth, Dorset

 

See Dorset from two wheels on a Jurassic Cycle Trail

The Jurassic Coast Cycle Trails are 3 family-friendly routes designed to help you take in the splendors of the Weymouth and Portland coastline.

Location: Weymouth, Dorset

 

Cook with celebrity chefs in Dorset

Share in Lesley Waters' and Mark Hix's kitchen secrets.

Location: Dorset

 

Stunning sea views and fine wines at a hip Dorset clifftop hotel

Enjoy a romantic summer break to the luxurious Seaside Boarding House in Dorset.

Location: Burton Bradstock, Dorset

 

Enjoy family fun and meals by the fire at Norburton Hall

Celebrate a special occasion, or just enjoy having the whole family round for dinner on this Dorset estate.

Location: Burton Bradstock, Dorset

 

Enjoy an eco-friendly stay in green and pleasant Dorset

Come and enjoy Dorset’s incredible scenic beauty and rich wildlife this spring on a sustainable seaside holiday.

Location: Dorset

 

Take the family pet along on a dog friendly break in Dorset

Thanks to Dorset’s dog friendly places, there’s no need to leave your favourite canine companion at home on a family holiday.

Location: Dorset

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