Dorset

Dorset's dramatic coastline and surrounding countryside is perfect for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Picture-postcard scenery makes for an idyllic escape for walking, cycling or simply taking it easy.

In West Dorset the World Heritage ‘Jurassic Coast' is a fascinating spot for fossil hunting. The dramatic rock formation of Durdle Door jutting out into the ocean and the beautiful Lulworth Cove are absolute must sees and the pretty town of Lyme Regis, nicknamed the 'Pearl of Dorset' is an historic seaside resort and small fishing port, packed full of character and romantic charm.

Water sports enthusiasts will love the seaside resorts of Weymouth and Portland, offering some of the best spots in the UK for sailing and windsurfing, along with award-winning beaches ideal for lazy days catching rays.

Away from the coast explore hill forts and ancient market towns, castles, cottages and stately homes where history is brought to life. You could meet some apes at Monkey World, take a romantic ride on a steam railway, or discover the world's finest collection of armoured fighting vehicles at the Tank Museum.

Take a look at the ideas below for more things to do in Dorset, or for detailed information go to the official Visit Dorset website.

To search for a wide range of fantastic accommodation in Dorset and to book online, go to:
visit-dorset.com

5 Must Sees

Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door

Image: 091220153407-iStock_000002912055XSmall_durdledoor.jpg

The perfect horseshoe shaped Lulworth Cove and the beautiful arch of Durdle Door are two of Dorset's most recognisable features.

Find out more

Weymouth

Image: 100201142050-img11.jpg

An elegant Georgian seafront, safe sandy beach and exciting year-round events programme make Weymouth a favourite seaside resort.

Find out more

The Jurassic Coast

Take a walk through time along dramatic coastline and enjoy stunning natural features, exceptional views and 185 million years of Earth's history.

Find out more

Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre

Image: 100115104533-MonkeyWorldApeRescueCentreDorset.jpg

65 acres of woodland park is home to over 160 rescued and endangered apes and monkeys. Regular talks are given by their expert keepers.

Find out more

Sherborne

Nestled in Dorset's green valleys is the beautiful market town of Sherborne with its ancient Abbey church, famous schools and two castles, one built by Sir Walter Raleigh.

Find out more

5 Must Dos

Ride the Swanage Railway

Image: 091220154018-iStock_000010334131XSmall_corfecastle.jpg

Dorset's premier heritage steam railway has unique views of the imposing ruins of Corfe Castle, described as "one of the most evocative ruined castles in England".

Find out more

Go sailing

Image: 100201142123-img13.jpg

Weymouth & Portland's waters will host the sailing events for the 2012 Olympics and are world renowned as some of the most beautiful in the UK.

Find out more

A day at the Tank Museum

Image: 100115104033-TankMuseum-tank.jpg

Experience action packed live displays and the mud and misery of the trenches at the home of world's finest collection of armoured fighting vehicles.

Find out more

Family days on the Beach

Image: 100115105018-bucketspade2.jpg

There are some great beaches in Dorset for sandcastles, swimming or lazing with the family including Weymouth, Lyme Regis, Swanage and Christchurch.

Find out more

See the Abbotsbury Swannery

Image: 100115111421-Abbotsburyswannery1_thumb.jpg

The only place in the world where up to 1,000 swans can be visited during the nesting and hatching time.

Find out more

5 Hidden Gems

Thomas Hardy’s Cottage

Image: 100115103528-hardyscottage10.jpg

Thomas Hardy was born in 1840 in this charming thatched cottage.  ‘Under the Greenwood Tree' and ‘Far from the Madding Crowd' were written here.

Find out more

Swanage Globe at Durlston Country Park

Image: 100115103906-swanageGlobeatDurlstoncountrypark.jpg

Built over a hundred years ago, Swanage Globe is surrounded by acres of countryside, dramatic cliffs, picturesque sea views and an abundance of wildlife.

Find out more

Extreme sports

Looking for exhilaration? Dorset's amazing coast and countryside offer fantastic adrenaline pumping activities to challenge every nerve including quad biking, rock climbing and zorbing!

Find out more

The Cerne Abbas Giant

Image: 100115104628-Cernegiant.jpg

High on the hill over the picturesque village of Cerne Abbas is a 180ft high male figure believed to be an ancient symbol of fertility. 

Find out more

Shaftesbury Abbey Museum and Garden

Stand in the footsteps of King Alfred the Great who founded the Abbey in 888AD. The Abbey remains are set in a beautiful walled garden.

Find out more

Image: Chesil Beach and Portland Harbour, Dorset