places to visit in hampshire and dorset

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Hampshire & Dorset road trip- 21 beautiful places to visit

Planning a south England road trip? Looking for best places to visit in Hampshire and Dorset? Here are some of the best, including itinerary suggestions for a weekend break or longer, plus more tips to help you.

Looking for some of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Hampshire and Dorset, South Coast England? Having lived here for years, we’ve narrowed down some of our favourite destinations for visitors, whether you’re enjoying an England road trip or just visiting from London for a few days.

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Hampshire Road Trip itinerary

Hampshire is one of the largest counties in England and there’s plenty to explore. Below, we’ve shared some of our favourite places to visit in Hampshire, but first let’s discuss how to plan a Hampshire road trip itinerary.

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Weekend in Hampshire Itinerary

Planning any UK road trip is tough – there’s so much to see no matter where you go.

If I only had a weekend in Hampshire, I would DEFINITELY take my own transport, rather than relying on public services. Here’s how I would spend my time:

Day One- New Forest, Lymington and Lyndhurst

Day Two- Winchester and Hinton Ampner OR a day trip to the Isle of Wight

Of course, you can change the days around to suit the weather- spend the better day in the New Forest if you can.

5-7 Day Hampshire Road Trip Itinerary

If you have longer to explore Hampshire and/or Dorset, I would definitely add in a couple of days in Portsmouth, especially if you enjoy history and museums. The submarine museum in Gosport is also worth a visit.

If you enjoy shopping, spending a day at West Quay in Southampton or at the boutiques in Winchester will solve all your problems.

And if you enjoy hiking and walks, I would spend longer in the New Forest or on the Isle of Wight- there are plenty of beautiful walks to enjoy there.

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Beautiful places to visit in Hampshire Road Trip

There are some beautiful places to visit all over Hampshire. Below, we’ve listed a few of our favourites to help you narrow down your road trip itinerary.

Winchester is one of the oldest and prettiest cities in the UK. It’s FULL of picturesque old streets, historic buildings and one of the most striking cathedrals in the country.

You can get to Winchester easily by either car – although the roads can be congested. There’s plenty of park and ride options all around the city- those are your best bet for an easy day out.

Some of our favourite things to do in Winchester include:

• Visit Winchester Cathedral. This is where Jane Austen is buried and is also home to one of the oldest bibles in the world
• Shop. Winchester has some amazing shops and unique boutiques, all close together on or near the high street. It’s not a big city and is easy to wander around and explore
• Winchester Planetarium – a wonderful place to lie back and enjoy learning about the stars and planets. (Perfect for kids!)
• Mizmaze . On the outskirts of Winchester is a very old turf maze- well worth a visit to see if you can crack it!
• Visit the Christmas market. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting in November or December, you NEED to head to the Winchester Christmas Market – one of the best in the country. 

You will be spoiled for places to eat and drink. One of our favourite restaurants in Winchester is ‘The Porterhouse’- mouthwateringly good steak. There are also several pubs to enjoy- the Willow Tree has never let us down for good food yet.

Oh, and if you get time, there’s an escape room in Winchester which is really fun!

Hinton Ampner

Hinton Ampner is an elegant country house just 8 miles from Winchester and is one of our favourite places to visit in Hampshire. 

Surrounded by landscaped gardens, this Tudor manor has stood since the 1540s, although it had major remodelling after a devastating fire in the 1960s. 

Inside, you can enjoy a dazzling display of art, antique furniture and history, but it’s outside where the estate really shines. 

The grounds and woodlands are beautifully kept and it’s a wonderful place to explore on a winter’s day, or take a picnic for a sunny lunch in summer. There’s a walled garden and a pretty church nearby. 

Kids will enjoy the space and nature trails, and there are often trees marked as safe to climb. 

Hinton is owned and managed by the National Trust, so members can visit for free. Non- members pay a small entrance fee or can join the National Trust at the entrance. 

As well as the house and gardens, there is also a shop and tea room for visitors to enjoy. Toilets and changing facilities are provided.

You can get to Hinton Ampner easily on your Hampshire Road Trip from the A272- it’s well signposted.

Isle of Wight

If you’re looking for more adventure on your Hampshire road trip, head to the Isle of Wight. This beautiful island has plenty to discover, including some of the best views and beaches in England.

Getting to the island is relatively easy as there are several ferry routes and even a hovercraft, which runs from Southsea on the mainland. Try to avoid Bank Holidays or the Round the Island sailing race- the prices can almost double then and it can be very congested.

Once across the Solent (the water between the Mainland and the Isle of Wight), there’s plenty to do. You must visit the Needles- the iconic rocks at the western tip, but don’t forget to visit the multi-coloured sands in Alum Bay which is just down the coast.

In addition, there are several lovely beaches on the Isle of Wight. One of the best is Sandown, but Shanklin and Compton also have great sandy beaches to play and are often safe for swimming (beware of rip tides and very strong currents.)

Another beautiful destination is Osborne House, one of the favourite residences of Queen Victoria. You can visit both the house and the grounds and even sit on the beach where she used to go sea-bathing with all her children. This is an English Heritage site- you can either pay for entrance on arrival or join their membership and help preserve English history for years to come.

If you have young children, they will love the Robin Hill Adventure Park or the model village at Godshill. There are also plenty of zoos and animal sanctuary, as well as stories of pirates and smugglers! 

There are plenty of great motorhome campsites on the Isle of Wight, but there are also some great hotels and BnBs to enjoy.

Portsmouth is one of the largest towns in Hampshire and is FULL of attractions and things to do. It’s easy to spend several days there, just exploring the sights, but some of our favourite things to do in Portsmouth include:

• Visiting the Historic Dockyard, with the Mary Rose Museum & HMS Victory
• Going to the top of Spinnaker Tower and enjoying the views
• Shopping in Gunwharf Quays
• Doing a boat tour of the harbour (and stopping at the Submarine Museum on the Gosport side)
• Eating fish and chips at the top of Portsdown Hill

You can visit Portsmouth at any time of the year- there’s plenty of parking and park and ride options for the city. If you’re getting a ferry from the UK to France , it’s one of the best places to stay for a night or two beforehand or on the return trip.

The New Forest covers parts of both Hampshire and Dorset and is one of the best places to visit. There are hundreds of walks and car parks, as well as multiple campsites if you’re enjoying a motorhome or camper holiday or travelling with a tent.

Some of our favourite places to visit in the New Forest include:

• Lyndhurst – gorgeous market town with unique shops and a lovely atmosphere
• Beaulieu and the National Motor Museum
• Hurst Castle (you can walk out at low tide, but pay attention to the timings)
• Just walking through the woods. Especially in Autumn when the leaves change. It’s one of the best places to enjoy Autumn in Europe.

Lymington holds a special place in our hearts- it’s where we found my engagement ring. We also had our boat moored here for a while- it’s a wonderful town to be a part of.

The town is recorded in the Domesday Book as ‘Lentune’ and was famous for its salt making and later for its thriving ship building industry.

Nowadays, it’s full of cute cobbled streets with wonderful shops, art galleries, cafes and ice cream stalls! We highly recommend getting fish and chips and sitting on the quay- but do NOT, under any circumstances, feed the seagulls. Those things are VICIOUS. (Be careful if you have young children with you- the gulls will happily take ice cream, chips or other food out of their hands and it can be a bit scary if you’re not aware.)

Dorset Road Trip

Planning a road trip in Dorset is very similar to planning one in Hampshire- so many options, so little time. Heck, we’ve lived in the area for over 15 years and we still haven’t seen it all!

Many of our favourite places in Dorset are on the south coast- there are some incredible beaches and places to visit along this stretch of coastline.

Weekend road trip itinerary for Dorset

If you only have a couple of days in Dorset, here’s our suggested itinerary:

• DAY ONE: If you like being outdoors, head to Swanage and do Corfe Castle and Old Harry’s Rocks. Even better, if the weather is fine, you can take a boat trip from Poole around to Swanage, taking you near the rocks. If you have time, pop into Blue Pool and marvel at the colours.
• DAY TWO: Ooooooh, tough one. I’m torn between Poole, Bournemouth and Durdle Door. For me, Durdle Door wins because it’s awesome, but I also love Poole for the atmosphere and Bournemouth for the beaches and shopping. So I’ll let you decide.

A week road trip in Dorset

Of course, if you have a week or more to explore, there are plenty of other places to add into your itinerary, like Weymouth and seeing more of the Jurassic Coast. You could even combine it with a road trip into South Devon and some of the beautiful beaches there.

Beautiful places to visit in Dorset

Below, we’ve shared some of the best places to visit in Dorset and how to make the most of your time at each one.

Poole & Poole Harbour

Shared by Joanna | The World in my Pocket

Poole is a coastal town often overlooked because of its bigger neighbour, Bournemouth. It has a lovely old town and a beautiful quay where people often stroll along. Here is where you will also find some of  the best places to eat in Poole , with a view of the harbour – the largest natural harbour in Europe.

Among the best things to do in Poole is taking a short boat ride across the harbour to Brownsea Island, a National Trust property where you will find over 200 rare red squirrels. Poole is also a getaway to the Jurassic Coast, with regular small cruising boats making daily excursions towards the famous cliffs, to observe the local birds.

Poole is also known for its beautiful sandy beach, in Sandbanks. This is also where you might bump into a famous people, as many VIPs have holiday homes here. From Sandbanks, crossing on the chain ferry, you will reach the nature reserve of Studland, with its beautiful bay in which protected sea horses leave. There’s also a naturist beach there- don’t say I didn’t warn you! From Studland you can enjoy magnificent views towards Old Harry Rocks, a stack of chalk cliffs standing into the sea.

Poole is a great destination to visit year-round, with plenty of things to do each season. To visit only the town, one day would suffice. However, if you want to enjoy all the natural beauty of Poole Harbour and its surrounding areas, you must stay for at least few days.

Bournemouth & Christchurch

As an air traffic controller, I did most of my training in Bournemouth, and my brother lives in Christchurch. I have literally spent way too many hours lazing on the beach (and one memorable time trying to surf. I want to be good… but my co-ordination levels just don’t seem to be up to it!!)

There are plenty of things to do in Bournemouth and Christchurch besides the beach. There’s a city bus tour, Bournemouth Aquarium, Monkey world rescue centre and nearby is Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World for the little ones.

If you’re around at the end of August/ beginning of September, you can catch one of the best airshows in the world on Bournemouth beach- but be sure to get there EARLY; it gets crazy crowded.

In nearby Christchurch, there are also plenty of things to do, including:

• Highcliffe Castle
• Adventure Wonderland (for adults and kids)
• Boat/ rib rides
• Fishing trips
• Plenty of walks, hikes and golf courses to keep you active!

Corfe Castle & Swanage Railway

Out in Swanage, you’ll find a fantastic ruined castle on a hill- Corfe Castle. And in the village nearby is a wonderful steam railway- Swanage railway. You can get the steam train from Swanage to Corfe Castle station, which is a trip we highly recommend. You don’t need to buy tickets in advance, but in busy times there may be a wait.

Corfe Castle is both the name of the village, which is worth a wander around, and the name of the Castle. The Castle is managed by the National Trust (join their membership here for free access) and it’s a brilliant place to explore. Kids love being able to scramble around the ruins- our daughter climbed up onto one of the walls and fell asleep!

The castle is one of the few survivors from the English Civil War and has been around since Saxon times.

This is also a great area to start a walk up into the Purbecks and enjoy some of the best views of Hampshire and Dorset, and the Solent.

Old Harry Rocks

Recommended by Hanna | Solar Powered Blonde

Old Harry Rocks is an incredible rock formation from where you can see right over to Bournemouth. It is located on the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset. Once you arrive there is a large parking area with a pub nearby and lots of seating areas for once you finish your walk!

The walk to the rocks takes around 15-20 minutes and then you can take a nice long walk along the coast. The path is very clear and through a bit of wood and then with amazing views over the bay. 

You will need a few hours here to wander around and take in all the views. One of the best times to come is at sunset. The sun sets just behind Old Harry Rocks so you won’t see it drop into the sea, but it is still a beautiful place to be at sunset.

Make sure to arrive well before sunset, maybe even bring a little picnic and sit on the rocks for a while. The other way to see Old Harry Rocks is from the water in a kayak! This is a great way to see all the chalk rocks in their unusual formation. Old Harry Rocks is great to visit any time of year. Spend a few hours kayaking around in summer, or go for a crisp walk as part of your countryside winter getaway. For an unforgettable sunrise in Dorset head to Durdle Door. 

Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove

Durdle Door is one of my favourite places to visit in Dorset. There’s something about the arch and the bays (one on either side) and the whole area which just speaks to my soul. So much in fact, that my friends took me coasteering here for my hen do. Yep, I actually jumped off the cliffs from near the top of the arch. (NOTE: Do NOT do this without a trained guide. The rocks and currents around here are treacherous. But it was a wonderful mix of sheer terror and hilarity!)

There’s plenty of parking near Durdle Door (expect to pay about £10 for the day) and it’s about a 10 minute walk to the arch or Man o’war Cove.

Man o’War cove is the beach right next to Durdle door . It’s a horseshoe shape, and perfect for a picnic and a local ice cream.

Recommended by Angela | Exploring Dorset

Weymouth is the third largest town in Dorset. A coastal town with award winning beaches, sitting approximately at the halfway point along the Jurassic Coast. The town is probably most recently famous for being a sailing venue in the 2012 Olympics.

There are so many things to do in Weymouth , you could visit for a day at a time, or stay for a week and not run out of ideas. If you’re visiting with family, then there are plenty of attractions to visit such as Weymouth Sealife Centre, Bowleaze Cove for amusements and fairground rides, or perhaps some adventure golf.

For keen walkers there is easy access to the Jurassic Coast paths, with plenty of short and distance hikes to take part in.

Perhaps you are looking for some sea air, then you can visit one of the many beaches in Weymouth. There are coves, shingle beaches and long stretches of sandy beaches. Something for everyone!

The town of Weymouth is often linked with Portland, a short drive away. On the southern most point in Dorset, you can visit the famous Portland Bill lighthouse. Why not take a trip to the top to look out across the ocean.

Recommended by Katja | Globetotting

Famous for its soaring mustard yellow cliffs – and for appearing in the TV crime drama, Broadchurch- is pretty West Bay. This charming fishing village sits on one of the most dramatic stretches of the Jurassic Coast, the UNESCO World Heritage site that stretches for 95 miles from Devon to Dorset. 

This is the perfect place for escape to for a weekend away – or even a longer holiday when the sun is shining as the beaches are lovely. West Bay is, in fact, home to two stretches of sand: East Beach and West Beach. East beach is a shingle beach bordered by golden sandstone cliffs. West Beach is smaller and quieter, popular with young families for the protected cove and shallow paddling waters. 

Walking along the top of the cliffs, swimming in the sea and fossil hunting are the main activities here but West Bay does have more to offer. Take a stroll around the colourful harbour stopping for traditional fish and chips along the way. You must also try the local Purbeck ice cream while here. 

Take a wander along the Jurassic Pier and see the restored 18th century cannon on display or hire a rowboat up the River Brit. Nearby is the  lively market town of Bridport , home to a good range of restaurants as well as a fun local market on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Freshwater Beach

The next bay down from West Bay, this incredible stretch of golden sand is the perfect place to spend a day in Dorset.

I should warn you, it’s incredibly easy to get confused- there is a Freshwater BAY on the Isle of Wight and plenty of others all over the world, so be sure you’re selecting Freshwater BEACH in DORSET.

The beach is private for the touring and caravan park, but if you’re travelling in a motorhome , campervan or have your own tent, it’s a wonderful place to base yourself for your Dorset Road Trip (although it can get VERY busy in the school holidays.)

Visited by Tracy | Tracy’s Travels in Times

The coastal town of Lyme Regis is located along the UNESCO World Heritage-listed  Jurassic Coast . The town is the perfect destination for fossil hunters as along its beaches and secreted in its cliffs are the remains of flora and fauna from the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. 

In fact, it was only in 1820 that a resident of the town, Mary Anning, found and identified the fossils of dinosaurs in the cliffs and the importance of the coastline emerged. Visitors to the town shouldn’t miss a visit to both the Lyme Regis Museum and Dinosaurland Fossil Museum to view many of the fossils discovered in the area and learn more about the geological importance of the Heritage Coast.

Take a walk along the pebble and rock strewn Monmouth Beach and keep an eye out for ammonite fossils. Many have been found along this stretch of beach over the years. At the western end of the beach you will find the ammonite  pavement where thousands of the fossils are found embedded in the limestone. This can only be viewed at low tide so check the tides if this is something you want to see.

Fans of The French Lieutenant’s Woman may recognise the harbour (or Cobb as it is known) at Lyme Regis. If weather permits walk to the end of the wall which curves into the bay and enjoy stunning views of the town and surrounding coastline.

I hope you find planning your road trips much easier with these itinerary ideas and best places to visit in Hampshire and Dorset. I’d love to know where you end up- feel free to tag me on Instagram so I can share your adventures.

How else can I help you today?

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Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

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Places to visit in Hampshire

Visit Hampshire for nautical cities with old-age naval war ships, sail-shaped towers and resurrected Tudor merchant vessels. There's lots to see and many things to do in Hampshire. Historic docks meet modern marinas on the Solent coast. Stay inland for the leafy New Forest National Park swarming with cute wild ponies, donkeys and Georgian market towns filled with yachties. Museums in this south coast county come packed with plenty of armour, military paraphernalia and submarines to keep little (and big) soldiers amused on rainy days. Become a knight of the round table or pay homage to Jane Austen in the cathedral city Winchester.

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Discover Jane Austen’s legacy in Hampshire

Celebrate Jane Austen at the Jane Austen Regency Festival in June and visit her much loved home in Hampshire and the countryside that inspired her.

Location: Alton, Hampshire

Follow the Shipwrights Way sculpture trail

Walk or cycle through beautiful English countryside along the Shipwrights Way, where sculptures tell stories of Hampshire’s history and culture.

Location: Bentley near Farnham to Portsmouth, Hampshire

Tracing the Titanic in Southampton

Venture back to 1912 and immerse yourself in the story of RMS Titanic at Southampton’s interactive, state-of-the-art SeaCity Museum.

Location: Southampton, Hampshire

Discover a foodie’s heaven on the quayside

Enjoy fine dining, traditional pubs and a long history of oyster fishing in Emsworth, near Portsmouth.

Location: Emsworth, Hampshire

Take part in a 900-year-old tradition

Walk along Winchester’s water meadows to a beautiful medieval almshouse and you are following in the footsteps of weary travellers through the ages.

Location: Winchester, Hampshire

Paranormal experiences at Tudor House and Garden

Wonder what life was like during Henry VIII’s reign? Step in to the past in an ancient Southampton home.

Learn about the bravery of England’s World War II heroes

A story of daring exploits and courageous acts, as commemorated along Hayling Island’s WWII heritage trail.

Location: Hayling Island, Hampshire

Travel across Hampshire’s countryside on the Watercress Line

Witness the sights, sounds, smells and magic of steam travel from a bygone age and journey through Hampshire’s countryside on a restored steam train.

Location: Alresford, Hampshire

Walk through 800 years of history in Southampton’s Old Town

Love history? Want to step back in time? Head to an area that has seen many famous faces pass along its streets.

Get up close with the farm animals at Staunton Country Park

Come and meet friendly farm animals, have a rainforest experience in Victorian glasshouses or get lost in the maze.

Location: Havant, Hampshire

Rainy Day Activities: Explore history at Winchester’s Military Museums

Broaden your knowledge of the British Army and the various battles fought throughout history at Winchester’s six Military Museums.

Travel back in time at Milestones Museum

A trip to Milestones in Basingstoke brings the past to life. The museum is home to over 20,000 objects that were either made or used in Hampshire, and is a record of the county's social, industrial and transport history.

Location: Basingstoke, Hampshire

Uncover the secrets of the last British WW2 submarine

Be prepared for the horrors of the deep, as you discover what life on board wartime submarines at the Submarine Museum.

Location: Gosport, Hampshire

Discover a seaside sporting paradise

The island where windsurfing was invented has got to be an ideal place for watersports, but Hayling has beautiful countryside as well.

Pedal along 100 miles of off-road cycling tracks

Pedal the extensive, year-round network of cycling routes criss-crossing the woodland, heathland and quiet country roads of the New Forest.

Location: New Forest, Hampshire

Sailing and watersports at Gosport

Discover an adventure playground on water at Gosport.

Visit the 17th Century at Little Woodham

Discover what life would have really been like in 17th Century England.

Go on safari in the New Forest

Explore the Forest in a unique and exciting way. Hop on and off at villages, attractions and forest walks, or just sit back, relax and enjoy the view…

Walking in the New Forest

Twist and turn through vibrant gorse, imposing woodland and bubbling streams as you stroll through the Forest’s 143 miles of trails.

A foodie break in the forest

Get a taste of the New Forest where locally produced and caught food takes pride of place on the menu.

Sabotage and subversion in the heart of the New Forest

Shhh! Your mission is to head to the Second World War Secret Army ‘finishing school’ in the serene New Forest village of Beaulieu.

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Ambles through woodland lanes pausing at thatch-roofed tearooms and village pubs, canoe trips down bubbling streams and canters across heathland; that's what days in the New Forest are made of.

There are some fantastic places to explore with your family in Wiltshire. Perhaps the most snapped attraction is the druid ring of standing stones at Stonehenge.

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Things to Do in Hampshire

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If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday, short break or day out with great attractions, beautiful scenery, stunning coastline, excellent shops, lively markets and fine food, Hampshire is a must. Read on to discover some of Hampshire’s top things to do.   

The county's acres of beautiful scenery and two National Parks are a delight for nature lovers and if it’s coastline, castles or cannons you're after, our beaches and heritage sites are second to none. From award-winning country parks and independent shopping in historic market towns to cosy pubs serving delicious local produce, a short break in rural Hampshire will leave you feeling refreshed.

Explore Hampshire’s rich history

The historic city of Winchester , former capital of England, has a wealth of attractions to explore, from its magnificent Cathedral to The Great Hall, home to King Arthur’s legendary Round Table and the only surviving part of Winchester Castle.  The maritime city of Southampton has strong links to RMS Titanic, a story which is told at state-of-the-art SeaCity Museum. Walk the 'Titanic Trail' and explore some key locations in the city which played a part in the infamous tragedy.  Both cities are dotted with historic buildings.  North Hampshire is home to the UK’s only working silk mill in Whitchurch. Discover how the 19th century machinery weaves English silk fabrics. If you enjoy living history, visit Milestones Museum  in Basingstoke and stroll along period streets with traditional shops and houses. And step back in down at Highclere Castle, where Downton Abbey was filmed. 

Jane Austen’s Hampshire

Discover Jane Austen’s extensive connections with Hampshire. Take a tour of Jane Austen’s House at Chawton, join in with some Jane Austen inspired events and see her final resting place at Winchester Cathedral.

Hampshire’s military museums 

Winchester is home to five superb military museums . Each museum is separately run and well worth a visit in its own right and you can easily combine a visit to all five to make a day out of them.  The naval city of Portsmouth is a treasure trove of museums with a buzzing, vibrant atmosphere. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a must see for anyone visiting the area. It is home to the HMS Warrior, The National Museum of the Royal Navy, Lord Nelson’s HMS Victory and the newly revamped, multi-million pound Mary Rose Museum. Not far away, you will also find more nautical history at the Royal Navy Submarine Museum at Gosport. 

Stately homes and gardens in Hampshire

The picturesque landscape of Test Valley has many great attractions, including the prized collections of the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens , near Romsey and the world famous rose gardens at the National Trust property, Mottisfont. Just outside Basingstoke sits the National Trust property The Vyne , a red-bricked Tudor mansion built in the 16th century and in Southampton, you can step back in time at Tudor House and Garden , one of the oldest buildings in the city. It's located in the city's historic Old Town, a network of cobbled streets and medieval buildings.  Natural history enthusiasts will love Gilbert White’s House & Garden and The Oates Collection. Find out about Reverend Gilbert White, the pioneering 18th century naturalist and Frank Oates, a 19th century explorer. Make a trip to the New Forest to explore Exbury Gardens and the gardens and grounds of Beaulieu’s Palace House.  Find out more about Hampshire's stately homes

Find out more about Hampshire's gardens

Outdoor activities in Hampshire

Quintessentially English, Hampshire’s countryside is the ideal rural escape, offering visitors the perfect place to relax and unwind away from urban life. The two National Parks, South Downs in the east and the New Forest in the west, are perfectly catered towards people who enjoy walking or cycling. The picturesque landscape of Test Valley boasts clear chalk streams and chocolate-box thatched cottages. To the north of the county sits the North Wessex Downs , an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which is home to Watership Down, the inspiration for the famous novel and film. The county also has an abundance of country parks dotted around the region. From coastal Lepe Country Park in the New Forest to Staunton Country Park in east Hampshire, take a picnic or enjoy a bike ride in one of these fabulous open spaces. If you like being outdoors there are plenty of activities to take part in across the county. From golf to horse riding and watersports to fishing, there is something from the calm to the exhilarating.  The county’s coastline is popular with walkers, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts and offers a variety of things to do in Hampshire. Hayling Island has one of the best beaches in the county, perfect for a fun day out by the seaside and an area well known for windsurfing and kitesurfing.  If you like outdoor activities, head to Calshot, which is home to one of the south's biggest outdoor centres, Calshot Activities Centre . You'll also find lots of brightly coloured beach huts lining the seafront.

Family days out and animal attractions in Hampshire

There are lots of family-friendly things to do here in Hampshire from animal attractions to thrilling theme park rides.  On the outskirts of Winchester, you will find 120 acres wildlife park at Marwell Zoo . Discover over 170 exotic and endangered species in this fabulous family friendly attraction as well as opportunities to get hands-on with pre-booked activities such as penguin encounters.  Further north in Andover, the Hawk Conservancy Trust is set in 22 acres of woodland and wildflower meadows and there are over 150 birds of prey. Along the southwest coast of the county, visitors can discover a host of exciting attractions in the New Forest National Park. Families will have the chance to meet Peppa Pig at Paultons Park – one of the most popular things to do with young children in Hampshire. Car fans can explore Beaulieu National Motor Museum and history enthusiasts can step back in time at Buckler’s Hard, an 18th century shipbuilding village.  Portsmouth’s cityscape is dominated by the 170-metre-tall Spinnaker Tower , which offers fantastic views across Portsmouth Harbour and the Isle of Wight. Are you brave enough to stand upon the glass viewing area?

Interactive and speciality museums

Get hands-on with the exhibits at the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium or step back in time and explore the cobbled streets and historic buildings of Basingstoke’s Milestones Museum.  Learn about the history of the countryside at Manor Farm or dive in at the new 4D experience at Portsmouth’s Mary Rose Museum.  Step back in time at the Charles Dickens’ Birthplace Museum, explore the Brickworks Museum and other speciality museums across our towns and villages. 

Find out more about Hampshire's museums

Walking in Hampshire

Embark on long distance walking trails along the South Downs Way, Test Way or Solent Way or take leisurely strolls and circular walks in our country parks or National Parks. There are walking routes to suit all abilities.

Cycling in Hampshire

Hampshire offers over 750 miles of off-road routes which are suitable for beginners through to passionate cyclists.  Explore the South Downs National Park and the New Forest National Park by bike, join an organised cycling tour or follow some of the designated cycling routes. 

Find out more about cycling in Hampshire

Train rides in Hampshire

Hop aboard the historic Watercress Line at Alresford to enjoy the golden age of steam. Or sweep your way around Exbury Gardens in style on the narrow gauge railway. 

Hampshire boat tours

Take to Hampshire’s waters and see the coastline from a different angle on a boat tour. Take a historic tour aboard SS Shieldhall from her dock in Southampton, charter a boat from various harbours along Hampshire’s coast or join an organised boat tour from Buckler’s Hard or Lymington . 

Shopping in Hampshire

There are plenty of opportunities to indulge in shopping across Hampshire. Shopaholics will love Westquay Shopping Centre in Southampton, Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth and Festival Place in Basingstoke. If you are looking for a more unique shopping experience discover the pretty market towns of Romsey, Alresford, Stockbridge, Lymington and Petersfield or the medieval city of Winchester.

Discover more things to do in Hampshire

Find out more about all of the amazing things to do here in Hampshire by exploring our website further. Whether you are looking for things to do for free or money saving ideas or are after a treat for a special occasion, you will find activities and days out to suit all budgets and tastes. 

Marwell Zoo

Hawk Conservancy Trust

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Sir harold hillier gardens, winchester science centre and planetarium, gilbert white’s house & gardens.

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• 3 Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
• 4 Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
• 5 Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium
• 6 Gilbert White’s House & Gardens

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Hampshire is home to 3,000 miles of footpaths, bridleways and byways across two National Parks, beautiful countryside, a coastline offering views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight and through villages, towns and cities.

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What’s on in Hampshire: July 2024

Summer is in full swing, the school holidays start at the end of the month, and jubilant July brings an abundance of festival fun, exciting events, and outdoor adventures.

Here are our top picks of the happenings in Hampshire this July.

English Wine Week 2024 in Hampshire

Bottoms up! Celebrate English Wine Week in Hampshire between Saturday 15 June and Sunday 25 June 2024 with special English Wine Week events, festivals, and vineyards to visit.

50 things to do this summer in Hampshire 2024

Sandy toes, gorgeous gardens, and outdoor fun – it feels like summer! Read on for beach bucketloads of ideas and inspiration for how to enjoy those warm summer days and nights here in Hampshire.

Foodie festivals and events in Hampshire

From scrumptious street food to lip-smacking local produce, if you enjoy your festivals with a side of tasty treats check out these foodie events on the menu in Hampshire this summer.

Top places for strawberry picking in Hampshire

In the summer months, there’s nothing better than the sweet taste of freshly picked strawberries. A lovely activity to do with all the family, create cherished memories together of summer days.

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15 of the Best Things to do in Dorset

• Last Updated 14 December, 2023

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If you want to know the best things to do in Dorset, the best person to ask is a local! Lucky for you, I was born and raised right here on Dorset’s glorious Jurassic Coast. So I’m here to share a few of the highlights of my home county.

There are a lot of amazing attractions in Dorset. Whether you’re looking for adventure, beautiful landscapes, peaceful countryside, or gorgeous beaches, this county has it all. Not to mention some top-notch seafood and lots of amazing restaurants.

From cliff walks with incredible coastal views to fun family days out at historic castles, there’s plenty to keep you busy while you’re exploring Dorset.

Relax on pristine sandy beaches, explore the county’s quirky history, go fossil hunting along the world-famous Jurassic Coast, or escape one of the several islands that dot the coastline.

Honestly, I could have included at least a hundred things to do in Dorset on this list! But in the interest of keeping things brief, I’ve stuck to the top sights and attractions for now.

Whatever you end up doing, you’re sure to enjoy this wonderful corner of the south coast. In fact, you may never want to leave! Enjoy…

Dorset Highlights: Interactive Map

15 Best Things to do in Dorset

Below, I’ve outlined the top highlights and must-see attractions in Dorset. This list is by no means extensive, of course. There’s so much more to see and do here! But this is a pretty good start!

Don’t have time to read the full post? Scroll on down to the quick Dorset checklist at the end of the page …

1. Marvel at Durdle Door

Durdle Door is perhaps the most famous attraction on the Dorset coast. This towering rock archway was created by erosion some 140 million years ago. It curves out into the sea in front of a sheltered bay, providing a stunning backdrop for a unique beach day.

It’s something of a “poster child” for the Jurassic Coast ; a 95-mile-long World Heritage Site famous for unique geographical formations and well-preserved fossils.

It’s not advised to swim through the arch as currents are pretty strong here, but you can take a guided kayaking tour for a chance to see Durdle Door from the water. For the best views on dry land, walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door along the cliff path (one mile each way).

READ MORE: How to Get to Durdle Door

2. Explore the Ruins at Corfe Castle

Perched on a low peak amidst the rolling hills on Dorset’s beautiful Isle of Purbeck ,  the dramatic ruins of  Corfe Castle  are an impressive sight.   This striking castle is over 1,000 years old – so there’s a LOT of history to discover here.

The castle was destroyed in 1646 during the English Civil War, and has a long – and often grisly – history to explore! And you can enjoy some fabulous views of Purbeck from between the ruined walls.

Be sure to visit the neighbouring village, also called Corfe Castle, for quaint stone cottages, cute cafes, and some fab independent shops and galleries.

3. Take a Walk on the South West Coast Path

Between the unique formations of the Jurassic Coast, the incredible beaches, and the exceptional seaside eateries, Dorset is an ideal place for a cliff walk.

The South West Coast Path ends right here in Dorset, 630 miles from its starting point in Minehead on the opposite coast. It’s a fabulous way to discover the local coastline.

You could walk the whole Dorset section in around a week, or choose a short section for a day or half-day walk. There are plenty of short circular walks along the coast that can be done in 1-2 hours, too. Here are a few of my favourites:

• Weymouth to the Smugglers Inn at Osmington Mills
• Swanage to Dancing Ledge
• Old Harry Rocks Circular
• Golden Cap (the highest point on the south coast)

4. Travel Back in Time Onboard Swanage Railway

Swanage Railway is one of the best-preserved steam railways in the country. For a hit of nostalgia, board one of their lovingly restored trains at Norden and take a return trip to the seaside town of Swanage.

The historic stations have all been beautifully restored to give the full vintage experience. Soak up views of the rolling Purbeck hills from the carriage windows – including a fantastic view of Corfe Castle as you pass.

You can also break your journey at Corfe Castle station to explore a small, free railway museum and pay a visit to the ruined castle.

READ MORE: Best things to do in Dorset with kids

5. Visit Old Harry Rocks by Land or Sea

Old Harry Rocks  is a row of chalk rock stacks which stretch out into the sea from the headland of Handfast Point, near Studland.

The Rocks were once part of the same chalk band as The Needles on the Isle of Wight, eroded over the ages until only a few stacks remain at either end.

To visit by land, you can walk the short coast path from Studland to Handfast Point . Take care near the edges of the headland as there are no railings or fences.

You can also get a fantastic view of Old Harry Rocks from the sea! Rent a kayak or SUP at Studland’s South Beach (or join a kayaking tour) and paddle out into the bay towards the stacks. At low tide, there’s a small beach at the foot of one of the stacks where you can stop for a rest. Keep an eye out for seals, who can sometimes be seen sunbathing here!

6. Wander Along Weymouth Harbour

The popular seaside town of Weymouth evolved around its fishing harbour, which today is lined with colourfully painted buildings, great pubs, and some quirky independent shops.

It also boasts a lot of history. Ships sailed from here to fight in the Spanish Armada in 1588, while in the 17th century Civil War the harbour was the centre for much of the fighting. There’s still a cannonball lodged into the side of one of the harbourside buildings! Weymouth Harbour was also one of the main embarkation points for troops heading to the D-Day beach during WWII.

History aside, the colourful harbour is a lovely spot for a walk. Or you can simply sit on the harbourside with some fish and chips (I recommend Bennetts or Fish n’ Fritz) and watch the boats go by.

7. Go Fossil Hunting at Lyme Regis

One of the things Dorset and the Jurassic Coast is famous for is fossil-hunting! They can be found at many spots along the coast, but the best place to go looking for them is the beach between Lyme Regis and Charmouth .

In fact, Lyme Regis is really the birthplace of British fossil hunting. Palaeontologist Mary Anning was born in this quaint seaside town, and became famous after discovering the first complete ichthyosaur to be found in England.

Visit the Ammonite Pavement, visible at low tide, or book a guided fossil hunting tour with either Lyme Regis Museum or the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre . Be sure to explore the collections in the museums, too.

8. Discover Thomas Hardy’s Dorchester

Historic Dorchester is our county town, so a visit here is definitely one of the top things to do in Dorset. It was also the hometown of the Victorian novelist Thomas Hardy, whose works include Tess of the D’Ubervilles and Far From the Madding Crowd.

You can visit Hardy’s birthplace – a pretty thatched-roof cottage in the village of Higher Bockhampton – as well as Max Gate in Dorchester, where he lived later in life.

But the real joy is in exploring the locations from Hardy’s novels . All his works were set in a fictionalised version of Dorset and southwest England, aka Wessex. Although the names were changed, the real-life locations are well known. Dorchester, Puddletown Forest, Stinsford, and Kingston Maurward House are some of the many real-life locations to have featured in Hardy’s works.

9. Get Windswept at Portland Bill

Joined to the mainland by the shingle arc of Chesil Beach, the Isle of Portland stretches out into the English Channel.  Portland Bill is its wildly rugged and rocky tip, where dramatic waves crash against the cliffs on rough days. The red-and-white lighthouse here dates from 1906.

Even if you’ve never heard of Portland, you may well have seen its stone somewhere! Some of the most famous buildings in London, including St Paul’s Cathedral, were built using Portland Limestone .

At Portland Bill, Pulpit Rock is an artificial stack leftover from one of the numerous quarries that once dotted the island. Nearby Tout Quarry is now a lovely sculpture park and nature reserve.

10. Escape to Brownsea Island

Brownsea Island is the largest of several small islands sheltered within the confines of Poole Harbour . At just 1.5 x 0.75 miles (2.4 x 1.2km), it’s small enough to walk around in less than a couple of hours!

This is a truly unspoilt nature reserve of woodland, heathland, and wetlands. Public vehicles are not allowed, and the only way to reach the island is as a foot passenger on a ferry. So the local wildlife thrives, undisturbed, including sika deer and numerous species of bird. You can also spot red squirrels, which are rarely found on mainland England.

Brownsea Island is also famous as the “birthplace of scouting”. This is where the first-ever scout camp was held, in 1907.

11. Soak Up the Views from Gold Hill

Often voted one of the prettiest streets in England, Gold Hill arguably offers one of the best views in Dorset. Made famous by the iconic Hovis bike advert in the 1970s, this postcard-perfect street is found in the small village of Shaftesbury in northern Dorset.

From the top of the cobbled street, you can look down across the thatched and brick cottages for sweeping views of Blackmore Vale.

12. Discover the Art Collection at Kingston Lacy

Fancy nosing around an English country manor? Head to Kingston Lacy, near Wimborne , a beautiful stately home designed to resemble a Venetian Palace. It sits on an 8,500-acre estate filled with gardens, heathland, and one of the loveliest bluebell woods in Dorset .

Much of the collection inside the house was amassed by William John Bankes in the mid 19th century. Although, sadly, there’s a good chance he never got to see it.

Bankes was caught in an “illicit act” with a guardsman at a time when homosexuality was punishable by death. This forced him into exile, and he spent the last 14 years of his life abroad. While he travelled, William John collected art and furniture and had it all sent back to the family home in Dorset, creating a fabulous collection with a surprising history.

13. Cerne Giant

This has to be one of the most unusual things to do in Dorset! The Cerne Abbas Giant is a giant chalk figure on the side of a hill in the Dorset Downs. It depicts a nude giant wielding a club and sporting a larger-than-life erection!

No one knows exactly how old it is or who built it. Historians have speculated that it could be a Celtic version of Hercules, while the most recent dating suggests it dates from Anglo-Saxon times. The earliest recorded mention of the Giant dates from the 17th century, so some experts have suggested that it may in fact be a 17th-century prank or political satire.

Follow this walk up Giant Hill and around the picturesque village of Cerne Abbas for great views.

14. Explore Sherborne’s Castles

Visit Sherborne in North Dorset for a quaint town centre, quiet countryside, and a tale of two castles.

Sherborne “New” Castle is a Tudor mansion built by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594, while the ruined Sherborne Old Castle dates from the 12th century.

The Old Castle was a Royalist stronghold during the English Civil War.  It was captured by the Parliamentarians, recaptured by the Royalists, survived two sieges,   and finally underwent heavy bombing which left it in ruins. 

The newer Sherborne Castle is one of the most stunning stately homes in Dorset ,  with a vast collection of furniture, paintings and porcelain. It’s also home to one of  Dorset’s best local vineyards !

15. Hit the Beach!

Without question, one of the best things to do in Dorset is to enjoy its beautiful beaches. From lively seaside towns such as historic Weymouth and bustling Bournemouth , to hidden coves that can only be reached by walking, there are plenty of incredible beaches to choose from in Dorset.

Sandbanks Beach is one of the most popular. This small peninsula near Poole is lined by a stunning white sand beach. It also happens to be the world’s most expensive seaside! The picturesque peninsula is home to a yacht-filled marina and some striking mansions along “Millionaires Row” (Sandbanks Street).

For something a little quieter, head across Poole Harbour to the beaches at Studland. The white sand dunes at Knoll Beach are usually relatively quiet, while Bramble Bush Bay is a bit of a hidden gem.

15 Things to do in Dorset: Quick List

• Durdle Door
• Corfe Castle
• Cliff Walks along the South West Coast Path
• Swanage Steam Railway
• Old Harry Rocks
• Weymouth Harbour
• Lyme Regis and Charmouth fossils
• Thomas Hardy’s Dorchester
• Portland Bill
• Brownsea island
• Gold Hill Shaftesbury
• Kingston Lacy
• Cerne Giant
• Sherborne’s Castles
• Beaches: Sandbanks, Bournemouth, Weymouth, and more!

I s there anything you’d add to this list of the best things to do in Dorset? Leave a comment with your recommendations!

4 thoughts on “15 of the Best Things to do in Dorset”

This site is great

Thanks so much Emma!

Absolutely fantastic site. HUGE thank you.

Thanks so much Trish – I’m glad you’re finding it helpful 🙂

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There are so many top things to do in Hampshire, a county famous for the home of Downton Abbey at Highclere Castle, and the iconic Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth.  A county where Bombay Gin is made and where Jane Austen lived, wrote and is now laid to rest.  Visit Hampshire and discover its rich with beautiful countryside, vibrant cities and towns and a diverse coastline providing dramatic views, great walks and places to enjoy tranquillity and nature.  

Hampshire is home to the New Forest  National Park, which stretches across 140,000 acres of ancient woodland and unspoilt grassland. It's one of the most beautiful national parks in the UK and home to the famous New Forest ponies, with dozens of walking and cycling trails to explore.  The South Downs  National Park lies at the heart of the county, with its rolling green pastures, ancient woodlands and river valleys.  It is the newest of the National Parks, stretching from Winchester in the west to Eastbourne in the east.

Hampshire is a county full of hidden gems and new discoveries, with its clear chalk streams, thatched cottages and cosy pubs, historic buildings, fascinating interactive museums, bustling market towns and three cities.

Portsmouth , the UK's only island city with its rich maritme history, award-winning attractions, historic fortifications and busy year round events calendar.

Southampton , this South coast port city  with links to the infamous Titanic and famous Mayflower. Home to the internationally renowned Boat Show with a large shopping and cultural centre, one of contenders for City of Culture 2025.

Winchester , once the ancient capital city of the UK with its cobbled streets, historic  Winchester Cathedral , links with Jane Austen and King Alfred the Great, one of England's smallest cities making it ideal to explore on foot.

East Hampshire includes the famous village of Chawton , home of Jane Austen and her brother Edward, and the ancient market town of Petersfield formally an important coaching stop between Portsmouth and London.

Find out more about the county's towns and villages including Gosport and Lee-on-the-Solent, with its 24 miles of waterfront, Basingstoke the largest town in Hampshire and many more using our interactive map of Hampshire .

Things to do in Hampshire this weekend

Many of Hampshire's tourist attractions and points of interest are open all year round making it an ideal location to visit any time of the year.  Find something to do today with activities listings each showing a map and opening times for your convenience. Or why not browse our events guide to find out what's on in Hampshire today or this week.

If you love to events, head to Farnborough International Exhibiton and Conference Centre .  Marvel at the supercars, be wowed by the stunt displays at The British Motor Show Live (15th - 18th August 24) or take in the awesome Farnborough Airshow that returns in 2024 (22nd - 26th July 24) - a definite date for the diary. 

Top 10 things to do in Hampshire

• Marwell Zoo , Winchester 
• Spinnaker Tower , Portsmouth
• Winchester Cathedral , Winchester
• Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery , Whitchurch 
• Beaulieu National Motor Museum , New Forest
• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard , Portsmouth 
• New Forest Activities, Beaulieu
• Jane Austen's House Museum , Alton 
• Hampshire Cultural Trust Museums and Galleries , Hampshire wide 
• Staunton Country Park,  Havant

From period dramas such as the hit ITV show Downton Abbey, to action movies including James Bond, Hampshire has set the scene for a wide variety of productions. Take a tour and find out more about some of the county's best known film locations .

For ideas and inspiration on where to stay, what's on and things to do in Hampshire visit the official website,  Visit Hampshire .

List of things to do & places to visit for days out in Hampshire

For more information about Hampshire, including ideas for days out, attractions and events, view the list below for information on things to do and towns and villages in Hampshire. Use the 'map view' button to find something near you.

Number of results:

Number of results: 169

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Winchester Cathedral Café and Gift Shop

The Cathedral Cafe is one of Winchester’s hidden gems

You can find the newly refurbished Cathedral Cafe sheltered behind an ancient flint wall opposite the Cathedral. Its award-winning contemporary design, large terrace with Cathedral views and…

Brockenhurst

Located in the heart of the New Forest National Park situated between Lyndhurst and Lymington, Brockenhurst is a bustling village, one of the largest in the area.

This small, quiet village overlooks the Solent and has lovely views of Hurst Castle and the Isle of Wight. Although there are no shops, there are two sailing clubs and a small pub.

Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre

Event Venue

Farnborough

Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre is a must-visit attraction in Hampshire. The venue is host to some of the UK’s largest events and attractions, including the British Motor Show, Homebuilding & Renovating Show, RYA Dinghy &…

Rural Destinations

Alton is a lively market town right in the heart of Jane Austen country. The surrounding landscape is picturesque and tranquil – which makes it all the more surprising that Alton was once most famous for the brutal murder of Sweet Fanny Adams in…

Barton-on-Sea

Barton-on-Sea boasts superb coastal walks, including the start of the Solent Way which spans the length of Keyhaven Nature Reserve.

The attractive village of Selborne is famous for its association with the 18th Century literary naturalist Gilbert White.

Petersfield

Set in the glorious countryside of the South Downs, Petersfield is an ancient market town originally built as a Norman 'new town' at the end of the 11th Century. It is now a pleasant place for shopping and eating out.

The picturesque village of Burley lies in the heart of the New Forest. With its pretty thatched cottages, old fashioned shops and cosy tea rooms, the village is a must-see for anyone visiting the area.

Gosport Museum and Art Gallery

Alongside exhibitions that showcase the very best of local and national art, Gosport Museum and Gallery runs a programme of talks, workshops, events and hands-on activities. Gosport Museum showcases the town's rich heritage, while the café offers a…

Portchester

Magnificent Portchester Castle overlooks the Solent near Fareham in Hampshire and is one of the best-preserved Roman fortresses in Europe.

Queen Elizabeth Country Park

Country / Royal Park

With over 2,000 acres of downland and woodland, Queen Elizabeth Country Park is the ideal place to explore, keep fit and enjoy the great outdoors.

Longdown Activity Farm

There’s farming fun for everyone at Longdown Activity Farm with a fabulous daily schedule of animal activities including bottle-feeding kid goats and calves, as well as the Animal Encounter Barn. There are so many exciting play areas too, including…

Hospital of St Cross

Historic House / Palace

Medieval almshouses, church, ambulatory, Brethren's Hall and kitchen, Master's garden.

Southampton Cruise Port

Discover Southampton Cruise Port, the UK's busiest cruise hub. Offering five impressive passenger cruise terminals. City, Horizon, Ocean, Mayflower & QEII Cruise Terminals. Enhance your next vacation by accessing our free Southampton Cruise Port…

Portsmouth International Port

Portsmouth International Port is perfectly positioned for ferries, cruise and cargo.

Explore the rich heritage of the Hampshire market town of Andover in the Test Valley at the Andover Museum and Museum of the Iron Age.

The Grange Festival

Opera House

The Grange Festival is dedicated to performing world-class opera in the heart of Hampshire. Our 2019 season promises a mixture of well-loved operatic gems and rarely-seen treats, the return of Dance@TheGrange, and The John Wilson Orchestra.

Flora Thompson Circular Walk

Flora Thompson, of Lark Rise and Candleford fame, inspired this circular walk on Weavers Down and Holly Hills near Liphook. Flora Thompson came to Liphook in August 1916, when her husband John was appointed postmaster here. In 1926 they bought a…

Beaulieu in Hampshire is one of the most beautiful villages in the New Forest, offering riverside walks, lovely gardens and the famous National Motor Museum.

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22 Amazing Places to Visit in Dorset: beaches and villages!

With a staggeringly beautiful ancient coastline and some of England’s most charming countryside, there are many places to visit in Dorset. It’s quite a large country, so you could be forgiven for feeling overwhelmed when planning a trip here. 

What are the best places to go in Dorset? This blog post will answer this question, detailing some of my – and other travel blogger’s – favourite attractions. 

If you’re planning a trip to Dorset, read on for some major travel inspiration to one of England’s most beautiful counties! 

Table of Contents

Places to Visit in Dorset

Bournemouth .

Situated on the southern coast of England, Bournemouth is a popular holiday destination for those seeking a beach getaway. Bournemouth is excellent for a longer break or a  day trip from London  or any other nearby city. 

The city’s main drawcard is the white sand Bournemouth beach that stretches over seven miles. For active visitors, there is a 10-mile-long promenade that starts at Sandbanks and finishes in Hengistbury.

The promenade is not only great for a long stroll but also is excellent for cycling. Don’t forget to visit the Bournemouth Pier, home to the typical British seaside attractions, including the amusement arcade, fish and chips and souvenir shops. 

Other activities include zip-lining, mini-golfing in the City’s Lower Park and a balloon ride that operates in the summer. Plus, there are rainy day attractions like laser quest and an indoor climbing wall.

Bournemouth also has some great seafront restaurants along the beach where you can have some fresh seafood and a glass of wine while watching the sun going down. 

By Mal from Raw Mal Roams 

Lyme Regis is one of the best places to visit in Dorset to find fossils on the Jurassic Coast.

The Dorset town was the birthplace of pioneering palaeontologist Mary Anning, whose work finding and preserving fossils was ground-breaking. Now visitors come from all over the world to go  fossil hunting in Lyme Regis , and anyone can find fossils on the beach to take home.

Lyme Regis Museum explains more about Mary Anning and her work and has some excellent examples of fossils on display.

They also run Fossil Walks, where a guide will take you along the beach to go fossil hunting, explaining why and what you might find here.

Entry to the Museum is £5.95 per adult, and the fossil walks are £12.75 per adult, both with discounts available for children.

While fossils are the main draw for most visitors, Lyme Regis also has a pleasant sandy beach, an aquarium and various independent shops to explore. 

By Claire from Tales of a Backpacker 

Durdle Door

Durdle Door is without a doubt one of the most iconic sights on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.

The natural limestone arch juts out of the cliffs between Swanage and Weymouth, near the village of West Lulworth.

The geological changes that formed Durdle Door happened around 25 million years ago when layers of hard limestone were pushed vertically upwards; the sea then eroded the softer layers of rock, leaving Durdle Door’s distinctive arch shape.

Visiting Durdle Door is easy and free.

Access by car is through the Durdle Door holiday park, then a sloping, downhill walk to the top of the cliff and the viewpoint.

You can also get here by walking along the South West Coastal Path from Lulworth Cove, about a mile away.

There is a beach at the base of the cliff which is very popular on sunny days; to enjoy the views without the crowds visit in the evening. 

By Helen from  Helen on her Holidays

Swanage is a small town located on the coast, and is one of the best places to visit in Dorset – and one of the most popular day trips from Bournemouth !

Every year thousands of tourists come to visit this town and its remarkable historic scenery.

The town lies between lime rocks, mountain landscape, and an incredible white sand beach and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast.

In the town, you will find many old buildings – some of them date back as far as the 18th century. You can also choose between lots of hiking trails along the cliffs and plenty of other nearby attractions.

By Victoria from  Guide Your Travel

Isle of Portland

A trip to Dorset wouldn’t be complete without visiting the stunning Isle of Portland. Located to the south of Weymouth, Portland is only connected to the mainland by a barrier beach called Chesil Beach.

Although it is an island, the Isle of Portland is part of the Jurassic Coast and has many unique and beautiful features to see.

The best part is that you can see most of its sights in one day if you complete the  Isle of Portland Loop , which is 16km (10 miles) and is part of the South West Coast Path. 

On the route, you’ll be able to visit Portland Bill Lighthouse, climb Pulpit Rock, and discover unique sculptures at Tout Quarry Sculpture Park.

You can admire the view from the Olympic Rings Lookout Point and visit the ruins of a church and castle. 

The best bit? You’ll be treated to dramatic cliffs and stunning views of the sandy beaches all day long.

By Kitti from Kitti Around the World

Charmouth is a pretty village in West Dorset in an area of outstanding beauty. If you’re thinking of  visiting Charmouth , you won’t be short of things to see and do. 

Fossil hunting on Charmouth beach is a very popular activity with visitors to the area. With ample parking in the seaside town and plenty of facilities, a visit to the beach is a whole day out.

In addition, you can visit the Heritage Coast Centre with fossil displays, and even book a fossil walk. 

The beach is separated by the river Char, providing a stretch of calm river which is perfect for paddling, paddle boarding, or even floating about in a dinghy. 

There are plenty of rock pools to discover when the tide goes out, ideal for entertaining the children. 

At the end of a busy day in Charmouth, you could enjoy fish and chips on the beach from the beach cafe, or there are various cafes and pubs in the village. It’s definitely one of the best places to go to in Dorset!

By Angela from Exploring Dorset

Weymouth is a seaside resort in Dorset and is a popular holiday location for families and others seeking a  UK staycation .

Not only are there plenty of things to do in Weymouth but its location in the middle of the Jurassic Coast make it the perfect destination for fossil hunters!

Amongst Weymouth’s attractions are its beautiful sandy beach which is 3 miles long and perfect for swimming and making sandcastles.

In fact, it’s so good for building sandcastles that a visit to Sandworld to see exhibitions of sand sculptures is a must every year. Tickets cost £7.50 for adults and £5.50 for children.

Nothe Fort is another popular attraction in Weymouth.

This historic sea fort consists of three levels which include a museum, café and gift shop.

Throughout the year events and exhibitions are held at the fort which are fun for all the family. Views from the fort across the harbours are also particularly memorable.

Other things places to visit in Weymouth include the SEA LIFE centre, shingle covered Chesil Beach, Portland Bill Lighthouse and Weymouth Harbour with its pretty painted houses.

By Tracy from UK Travel Planning

Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle is a National Trust property that is well worth visiting while you’re exploring Dorset. With 1,000 years of history, Corfe Castle sits imposingly atop a hill and is a fascinating place to explore.

Corfe Castle was constructed by William the Conqueror in the 11th century – it was one of the initial castles in England to be constructed with stone. It was instrumental in the Civil War when Parliamentarian forces besieged it two times. 

Nowadays, Corfe Castle is owned by the National Trust and is open to the public. It stands above Corfe village, not too far from Old Harry Rocks and the rest of the coastline.

Its unique structure makes it a fantastic place to visit in Dorset – and you can easily add a stop here to a trip to the coast! 

It costs £11 for an adult and £5.50 for a child – but if you are a National Trust member, you can enter for free. 

Despite not being a city, Poole claims to have the largest natural harbour in the world (which happened after Sydney in Australia built so much around its harbour!).

Poole Harbour is around 36 km 2  (14 square miles) – and although its claim to being the largest in the world is sometimes debated, there’s no denying that it’s enormous.

This means that it’s a definite must-visit place to go to in Dorset – there are so many opportunities for boating and watersports! 

Poole also has a lovely old town, with buildings from the 15th century, so there’s lots of history here. In addition, the town boasts some impressive museums, including the Poole Museum and the Old Lifeboat Museum. 

As it is one of the largest towns in Dorset, there’s a range of excellent dining opportunities available in Poole – and, of course, there’s no shortage of beaches here either! 

Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum is a charming place to visit in Dorset, sitting about 13 miles inland from Poole in the Blackmore Vale area. Situated on the banks of the River Stour, Blandford Forum is a historic place with plenty of charm. 

The historic town was destroyed by fire in the 18th century, so it was rebuilt in the classic Georgian style of the era. Modern Blandford Forum still looks like a step back three centuries.

It’s a wonderful place to walk around, and you can also visit the Fire Monument in the marketplace and go to the Blandford museum to learn a little more about its history.

There’s also the Blandford Fashion Museum which details historical fashion trends!

There are lots of independent shops around the main town and the Hall and Woodhouse brewery, which makes its own Badger Beer. 

If you want to enjoy some of Dorset’s beautiful nature, take a stroll from Blandford to either Stallbridge or Spetsbiry and the surrounding beautiful villages. 

Sturminster Newton

Sturminster Newton is one of the most beautiful towns in inland Dorset, sitting on the banks of the River Stour. This is Thomas Hardy’s country – if you’ve ever read his books and marvelled at the glorious descriptions of nature, make sure that you visit Sturminster Newton and the surrounding area! 

In particular, the 15th century bridge in Sturminster Newton has been featured in one of Hardy’s poems, “On Sturminster Bridge”. The author also lived in the town and took lots of inspiration from surrounding fields. 

It’s worth visiting the Sturminster Newton Water Mill, which dates back to the 17th century and is still a working mill.

Knowledgeable guides will show you around and detail the history and working of the building. The mill is open in the summer months (usually late March to late September) on Monday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. It is £4 for adults and £1 for children. 

There’s also the ruins of a 14th century castle that you might be able to find while walking around the town. The architecture of Sturminster Newton makes it a wonderful place to stroll around and there are a variety of pubs and restaurants in the town, as well as nature walks along the River Stour. 

Studland Bay

Located on the Isle of Purbeck, Studland Bay is a Dorset destination at the end of the South West Coast Path – making it a site of pilgrimage for many keen hikers. However, it’s well worth visiting in its own right as well! 

Studland Bay is a glorious beach with lots of watersports activities available. Out of season, it can be wonderfully deserted, with fantastic views over to Poole. 

If you want to try something different, Foreadventure runs foraging tours around Studland, and I highly recommend them.

We did the three-hour forest walk and forage tour, which ended with us making a wood-fired pizza with our foraged goods! 

They also run canoeing and fishing trips. 

Old Harry Rocks

Old Harry Rocks is the official terminus of the Jurassic Coast, which starts in Exmouth in Devon. These chalk formations are popular with hikers and people exploring the entire coast, but they are incredible on their own as well. 

Old Harry Rocks are brilliant chalk-white arches, stacks, and stumps, jutting out into the sea and running along the ocean. Although the whole area is known as Old Harry Rocks, only one is called Old Harry (and there’s also an Old Harry’s Wife!). 

From the rocks, you can enjoy epic views across the water into Poole and Bournemouth. 

Dorchester is the historic county town of Dorset and one of the largest towns in the county. Sitting on the River Frome, Dorchester is a town that very much sits in the heart of the countryside – and you can enjoy some of its epic nature as well as its more urban attractions while exploring the town. 

It’s worth visiting The Keep, Dorset County Museum and The Dinosaur Museum, where you can learn a little more about the Jurassic Coast.

There’s also a lovely historic art deco cinema in town, as well as the ever-popular Dorchester Market, an indoor and outdoor market. 

On the outskirts of Dorchester, there’s the 19th century Max Gate, which is run by the National Trust and is the former home of Thomas Hardy. 

Sherborne is a beautiful town with charming stone cottages and stunning surrounding scenery. Although the town isn’t huge, it’s packed with attractions, including two castles and an abbey – there’s so much to explore here!

The Abbey has a long history spanning back over a millennium – it has been a Cathedral and church over the years. Some people consider it to be the most beautiful building in Dorset. 

Sherborne Castle is a 16th century Tudor castle. It started its life as a Tudor hunting lodge but was expanded by Sir Walter Raleigh and was the subject of a siege in the Civil War. You can learn all about this at the castle! 

Sherborne Old Castle has a history spanning back to the 12th century and is the ruins of an old majestic fortress. You can still explore these ruins today. 

Christchurch

Christchurch is a coastal town on the Dorset/ Hampshire border, not too far from Bournemouth. With six beaches, it’s a popular spot for families! Activities that you can enjoy in Christchurch include stand up paddleboarding, swimming and beach games. 

Friars Cliff and Avon beaches are perhaps the most family-friendly, with plenty of facilities for people of all ages. Mudeford Sandbank also has amenities to enjoy. 

More nature-focused beaches are Highcliffe Castle Beach, with beautiful cliffs, and Gundimore, which looks over the Isle of Wight. 

Christchurch town has plenty of amenities, including shops, restaurants and Christchurch Castle which dates back to the 11th century. 

Highcliffe Castle

Highcliffe Castle is located near Christchurch and is a Grade I listed mansion, dating back from the Victorian era. 

Highcliffe Castle was destroyed by a fire in the 1960s and was left to ruin for two decades – before it was acquired by the Council in 1977 and received funding from the English Heritage and National Lottery Grants. 

Nowadays, it’s a popular tourist attraction in Dorset and has been the filming location of various shows, including The Antiques Roadshow and Mr Selfridge. 

Highcliffe Castle is open from Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. It costs £7 for adults and £3 for children.

Sitting between Lyme Regis and Weymouth, Abbotsbury is a small quintessentially English village with two stand out attractions: the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens and the Abbotsbury Swannery. 

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens are botanic gardens on the edge of Abbotsbury town.

Encompassing 30 acres, these gardens are famous for their range of flowers and exotic plants. The Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens are open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day, and tickets cost £10 for adults and £5 for children. 

Abbotsbury Swannery is also worth visiting. This is the only managed colony of mute nesting swans in the world. Spanning 25 acres and home to some 600 swans, walking through the colony is an unforgettable experience.

It is a Harry Potter filming location and has lots of other attractions, including the giant swan maze, a cafe and gift shop. 

Like the subtropical gardens, the swannery is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day, and tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for children. 

You can save 25% on ticket prices if you book a visit to both the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens and the Abbotsbury Swannery at the same time. 

Purbeck Hills

The Purbeck Hills is a ridgeway that runs from Durdle Door to Old Harry Rocks. A fantastic place for hiking, the Purbeck Hills encompass Corfe Castle and the inland area from the Jurassic Coast. 

Wimborne Minster

Wimborne Minster is an ancient market town on the Rivers of Allen and Stour.

There’s so much to see here, including a beautiful minster church (with the chained library which has a book dating back to the 14th century and a book that belonged to Catherine of Aragon!), a model town which resembles Wimborne Minster in the 1950s and Waterford Mill Crafts which has shops and exhibitions. 

There are also some beautiful walks and bike rides along the two rivers, so it’s a great place to enjoy nature as well! 

Burton Bradstock

Burton Bradstock is a popular holiday destination along the Jurassic Coast, with epic sandstone cliffs and charming villages. 

It’s a small village, but there’s plenty to enjoy here – including pubs, tearooms, a holiday park and there is a Spring Tide Food Festival every May. 

Also don’t miss Hive Beach, which is owned by the National Trust has some epic views over this stretch of coastline. 

Shaftesbury

Sitting near the Wiltshire border, Shaftesbury is one of the very best places to visit in Dorset. Shaftesbury is famous for Gold Hill, its postcard-perfect cobbled street which has been called “one of the most romantic sights in England” as well as “England’s most famous hill” (it has featured in numerous films and television programmes including the Hovis advert!).

With quaint cottages and rolling green hills in the background, Shaftesbury is a lovely place to stroll around – you can enjoy the many shops, restaurants, and cafes here and take in various viewpoints that look out over Blackmore Vale. 

Places to go to in Dorset!

With green valleys, beautiful villages and towns, popular sandy beaches on the world-famous Jurassic Coast and a hiking path with amazing views, there’s so much to love in Dorset!

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12 Amazing Things To Do In Hampshire

With buzzing cities, a sweeping coastline and serene countryside, there are plenty of great things to do in Hampshire.

I’m just back from a gorgeous few days exploring the English county of Hampshire. Do you know what, it’s a county I’ve been to several times before, but only to the same spots! So, if someone asked me what Hampshire is like, I’d talk about the New Forest and Portsmouth!

Finally, it was time to find out more about this large county in the south of England. There’s a huge variety of things to do in Hampshire, making it a great year-round destination. Summers can be spent out on the water around the coast, while places like the New Forest are ideal for frosty winter walks and cosy pub meals. 

City lovers will enjoy trips to Southampton, Portsmouth and Winchester. Each is filled with attractions, shops and great places to eat. Along the coastline of the Solent you can enjoy water sports, boat trips and beach time. Plus, there’s endless spectacular countryside to explore including the South Downs, New Forest and the North Wessex Downs.

From gin tours and pretty hikes to top attractions, our visit incorporated a little bit of everything! If you’re looking for ideas for staycations, here are a few of my favourite things to do in Hampshire.

Learn about gin (and drink some too!) at the Bombay Sapphire Distillery

Did you know Hampshire is the home of luxury gin brand Bombay Sapphire ? When we heard you could tour the distillery (located close to Whitchurch) we couldn’t wait! The Discovery Experience tour was an excellent way of learning not only about the gin production process, but also to gain a greater understanding of what makes this part of northern Hampshire unique.

The gin brand is located in the old Laverstoke Mill, right on the banks of the River Test. As well as several pretty red brick buildings, there’s a cute row of worker’s cottages which you walk around during the tour, seeing different stages of the production process as you go.

The most spectacular part? The stunning glasshouses designed by Thomas Heatherwick. They’re designed to look like gin is pouring out of the warehouse (if only!) Inside you can see the plants that make up the blend of 10 botanicals that give Bombay Sapphire its unique flavour.

After learning about the history of the buildings and how the brand distils its gin, we were taken to the Mill Bar to enjoy one of 11 signature cocktails. I’d recommend The Laverstoke, which is a tasty spritz with flavours of elderflower and mint. We also enjoyed a cocktail masterclass where we got to shake up a few of our own! A trip to the Bombay Sapphire Distillery is definitely one of the best things to do in Hampshire.

If you’d like to hear more about this tour, read the definitive guide to the Bombay Sapphire Tour on the Great British Bucket List.

Enjoy delicious Asian fusion cuisine in chic surroundings at The Palm Brasserie

If you’re looking for somewhere to line the stomach before or after your trip to Bombay Sapphire, I’d recommend booking a table at The Palm Brasserie . Located in Deane, just a 7-minute drive from the distillery, this is a chic, modern restaurant serving top quality food.

The interiors are lovely, with stylish glass pendant lights suspended over colourful booths, and smart marble and gold tables. The restaurant also has glass doors along one edge of the main dining area, allowing light to stream through into the dining area.

While you’ll find plenty of classics on the menu, there are Asian influences too, which I loved! For example, the sea bass roulade is served with pickled seaweed and a wasabi mayo. Meanwhile, the chicken burger has katsu flavours and is served with a Siracha relish.

I ordered the Thai chicken supreme which was absolutely divine. Tender charred and marinated chicken breast came with an indulgent Thai sauce which had hits of ginger, chilli and spice. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it again!

Relax with an overnight stay at The Watership Down Inn

One of my biggest recommendations if you’re visiting Bombay Sapphire, is not to drive! You’ll want to enjoy a few gins while you’re there, so think about booking a taxi from wherever you’re staying.

The Watership Down Inn would be my recommendation. It’s located half a mile away so you could even walk there and stagger back! This is an absolutely charming pub, dating back to the 1800s, with a beautiful outside area and cosy bar and restaurant. It also has seven bedrooms, including four garden rooms. It’s got an informal vibe, and you can even bring your dog!

Our garden room was very comfortable with a large en-suite bathroom. We heard great things about the food at this pub but couldn’t squeeze a meal in this time. That didn’t stop us from perusing the menu though, which features starters such as a whipped goats cheese tart with textures of beetroot, walnut and parmesan, and mains including confit pork belly with a smoked bacon and apple emulsion. It’s definitely somewhere that takes gastronomy seriously, so arrive hungry!

Another great thing about The Watership Down Inn is that it’s located on The Mill Trail – a fabulous circular walking route around Whitchurch, the old mills and the River Test. You can find out more about this walk here .

Take in the views from the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth

After a day exploring the northern side of Hampshire, it’s time to share a few highlights from the south coast.

At 170m, the architectural wonder that is Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower is designed to sway slightly in order to withstand high winds. To reach the viewing platform you hop in the high-speed internal lift which takes just 30 seconds, travelling at a whopping 4 metres per second.

It’s an incredible moment when you first step out of the lift and see the panoramic view stretching around the structure. From the main viewing deck you’ll be 100m up, with views of the city of Portsmouth, the Solent and the Isle of Wight all around. There are interactive screens and markers around the deck so you can identify key landmarks. I enjoyed watching the ferries and boats coming and going from the port too. A trip up the Spinnaker Tower is one of the most popular things to do in Hampshire and a great way to get your bearings too.

For a special occasion you could book brunch or high tea at The Clouds – the restaurant on the floor above the viewing deck. Or if you’re feeling brave, you could abseil down the tower. This is the perfect activity for adventurous types who love to live life to the full!

Enjoy the charm and character of Old Portsmouth

I’ve been to Portsmouth a few times before, and one of my favourite spots is The Point in Old Portsmouth. Walking the cobbled streets, looking at the pretty houses and quaint old pubs feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle around Gunwharf Quays. As well as stopping to take some photos looking back towards the Spinnaker Tower, I’d recommend stopping by The Still and West or The Spice Island Inn for a drink with a view.

After that, wander around the corner to the Hotwalls Studios , a row of art galleries and creative studios built into the arches. The largely disused buildings were transformed into a vibrant new creative quarter for the city back in 2014. Most of them are open at weekends, but even on the weekday we visited there were a few stores open. I thought it was lovely to see the artists at work, and catch a glimpse of the creative process first hand.

One of my favourite discoveries was artist Louise Braithwaite who paints fun and colourful scenes from familiar spots such as Brighton and London. I was so taken with her work I picked up a big stack of greetings cards to take home as a memento.

Relax on Southsea Beach

If you continue on around the coast from Old Portsmouth, you’ll eventually reach Southsea. When the weather is fine you’ll see Southsea’s wide beach dotted with families, swimmers and paddle boarders.

Definitely wander along South Parade Pier while you’re there. It’s a traditional pier with amusements, an ice cream store, a restaurant and some rides towards the end. The original was built back in 1875, but with an interesting history (involving 3 fires, use in the D-Day landings and a few old-fashioned beauty pageants!) the one you see today is a newer incarnation.

We bought ice creams from the store at the front, took ‘holiday snaps’ in the cut-out boards and wandered to the end looking at the water beneath the wooden slats!

If you get hungry, I’d recommend stopping for brunch or lunch at Southsea Beach Café . This adorable spot right on the beach has a varied menu featuring everything from fish and chips to buddha bowls and cakes. There’s a real buzz to this beach spot too! When we visited on a weekday lunchtime it was almost completely full, with a mix of young couples and families all enjoying great food by the seaside.

Shop for treasures in Southsea

Southsea is a town with a fiercely independent spirit… in the best way possible! For chain stores, go to Portsmouth, for one-offs, visit Southsea! I’d recommend heading to Albert Road and Elm Grove to mooch around the local stores and foodie spots.

Pigeon Books is one of the newest additions – an independent book store that seemed to be thriving when we popped in. Plus, there’s comic book store Room 237, skate shop Bored of Southsea and Head of Curios – a store filled with weird and wonderful treasures.

For food and drink, check out Gin & Olive . This independent restaurant has a menu featuring over 100 gins, sharing boards, small plates and steaks. Alternatively, stop by The Southsea Deli to pick up a range of items from small producers across Hampshire, Sussex, Dorset and Somerset.  

Relax in tranquil countryside at The Farley Hangar

One of the things I love about travelling in England is staying in unique and quirky accommodation. From safari tents to shepherd’s huts, there are so many cool places to stay. Set in the Hampshire countryside not far from Winchester, is The Farley Hangar . Resembling a Nissen hut on the outside, this quirky property is located right next to a private airfield, hence the name hangar!

Wow is this a spectacular place to stay! I loved walking through the doors and seeing the beautiful curvature of the ceiling, cosy interiors and cleverly fitted amenities. There’s a full bathroom with hot water, kitchenette, TV and even WiFi. One of the best parts? The countryside views from the outside deck. Looking out at the expanse of fields brought a wonderful feeling of escapism, as though any troubles could simply float away.

While it’d be easy to self-cater your stay at The Farley Hangar, you could also book in a treat while you’re there. Local gourmet dining company McCrimmon and Reid deliver ‘cook at home’ packages to the door. We enjoyed an incredible 3-course feast featuring king prawn kebabs with lemongrass and sweet chilli jam, followed by herb crusted cod with a mussel and saffron chowder, finished with a coconut panna cotta.

I thought it was an exceptional meal and could easily have been served in one of England’s top restaurants. How nice it was to sit out on the deck at our little home for the night too, enjoying the views with a tasty meal. This experience at The Farley Hangar was a highlight of my time in the county, and I’d say it’s one of the best things to do in Hampshire!

Learn about Hampshire’s wine scene at Black Chalk

I’m a huge fan of English sparkling wine and while we didn’t have time this trip, I’d love to return to this part of Hampshire and book onto a wine tour at Black Chalk . This family business has only been running a few years, but the wines have already started picking up numerous awards. The winery is located on the banks of the River Test in the rolling Hampshire chalk lands, so it looks like a lovely place to visit whether you’re a wino or not.

Explore the New Forest

I’ve visited the New Forest a few times before and I’d honestly say it’s one of my favourite places in England. It’s just stunning! Horses, donkeys and long-horned cows roam freely, there are miles and miles of gorgeous trails, plus it’s a great place for walking and cycling .

On this trip I headed to Brockenhurst, then took a drive along Rhinefield Ornamental Drive. This is one of those roads where you feel like you’re in your very own car commercial. It’s a flat road with grazing land on either side of the road, with lots of animals dotted around (and often in the road too!)

After a leisurely drive, I set out on foot on the Ober Water Trail . This trail has two options – a red trail (1.5 mile) and yellow trail (1 mile). It passes through pretty areas of forest, follows the Ober Water stream, crosses over bridges and takes you out onto areas of grassland. You should also see plenty of wildlife too. It’s a lovely route and doesn’t take too long, so you can visit some other spots in the New Forest too.

Enjoy lunch in the garden at Rosie Lea House

If you’re craving a bite to eat, whether that’s a cuppa and a sweet treat, or a heartier lunch or dinner to refuel pre or post hike, stop by Rosie Lea House . The speciality here is food cooked in the restaurant’s outdoor firepit. Expect smoky brisket, spiced cauliflower, flame fired mussels and more!

There are lighter options at lunchtime too. We enjoyed tasty ciabattas followed by an enormous slab of moist coffee cake. My favourite part about this restaurant is the huge garden area. Not only is it really pretty, with a terrace, patio and lawn, there’s also plenty of space so you can enjoy your meal in a peaceful setting.

Go paddle boarding with New Forest Paddle Sport Co

If you enjoy getting out on the water, I’d recommend booking a session with The New Forest Paddle Sport Co who are based down in Keyhaven Quay, close to Lymington. We went on an afternoon paddle boarding adventure to Hurst Castle, which is definitely one of the things to do in Hampshire. Rather than venturing out on The Solent (which can be treacherous with wind and tides to worry about) this area in Keyhaven is more sheltered and easier to SUP on.

There’s a spit leading out from Keyhaven to Hurst Castle. At one point we hopped onto the beach and over the other side to see the Needles! The Isle of Wight is so close, it’s amazing to see different views of it as you explore Hampshire.  

The paddle boarding trip was very relaxing, with calm water and a procession of small little dinghies and yachts passing by, practising their navigation.

I hope this guide to some of the best things to do in Hampshire has given you inspiration for your next UK staycation.

A big thanks to Visit Hampshire for inviting us to explore this beautiful part of England. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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10 Best Things to Do in Bournemouth, Dorset

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 24, 2023

The largest population center in the county of Dorset, Bournemouth also just so happens to be one of the newest. It was only established in 1810 in a largely uninhabited area of heathland known only to a few fishermen, farmers, and smugglers. Once word got out about its incredible beaches , the floodgates opened, with developers, railroads, and hotel owners rushing to stake their claim.

Fast forward 200 years, and Bournemouth is now known the world over as one of England's leading seaside destinations . The big draw remains its nearly 10-mile-long stretch of beaches. Running all the way from Sandbanks in the west to Hengistbury Head in the east, Bournemouth's beaches are set in a large, sheltered bay known for its clean, calm waters.

Just because it's relatively new compared to most other English seaside towns doesn't mean it's not without plenty of fun things to do when you eventually venture off the beach. The Victorians, first to arrive in droves with the introduction of the railway in 1870, have left many attractive architectural gems behind, from charming townhomes and cottages to its iconic beachfront pier.

More recent additions to this inventory of tourist attractions include state-of-the-art convention and entertainment complexes such as Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), an internationally recognized aquarium, and some of England's top dining experiences.

Whatever you enjoy doing at the seaside, be sure to refer to our guide to the top things to do in Bournemouth, Dorset.

1. Splash about on a Bournemouth Beach

2. russell-cotes art gallery & museum, 3. enjoy the tranquility of a bournemouth garden, 4. take the kids to the oceanarium, 5. bournemouth pier, 6. see a show at bournemouth pavilion theatre, 7. ride the west cliff funicular railway, 8. see the spectacular views from the bournemouth observation wheel, 9. st. peter's church, 10. take a drive to hengistbury head, map of things to do in bournemouth, dorset, bournemouth - climate chart.

When you first set eyes on Bournemouth's beautiful beaches, you can easily be forgiven for forgetting you're on England's south coast. This nearly 10-mile-long stretch of near perfect sand wouldn't look out of place on the Mediterranean or in Florida.

Bournemouth's beaches are known for their clean shorelines, clear waters, and gently sloping sands. What at first glance looks like a single stretch of beach disappearing into the distance is in fact made up of a number of individual beaches, each with their own unique charm. Named "chines" after the attractive river-forged gorges that dissect the cliff-faced coastline, these beaches offer something for everyone.

Those looking to be closest to the off-beach action should consider claiming a spot-on Durley Chine Beach . Set to the west of Bournemouth Pier, this Blue Flag beach is just steps away from amusement arcades, public washrooms, plenty of dining options, as well as major Bournemouth attractions such as the Oceanarium and the Observation Wheel .

Farther to the west, Alum Chine and Branksome Chine are superb locations for water sports activities such as surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing, while to the east, Boscombe Beach features fun for families with its own pier, volleyball courts, and a laid-back vibe.

It's worth noting that while dogs are permitted on the beach in the shoulder months, they're typically not allowed during peak summer months. Lifeguard services are available on most beaches, and you're never too far from public amenities such as washrooms, showers, dining, and beach hut rentals.

If you're looking for a cultural activity that's close to the beach, glance upward and slightly to the east of Bournemouth Pier, and you'll catch a glimpse of one of the town's best-known historic landmarks: the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum. Set in a former East Cliff mansion overlooking the beach, this world-class museum and art gallery houses a vast private collection donated, along with the home itself, to the town by the Russell-Cotes family.

It's a stunning property. Built in 1901 and opened as a museum and art gallery in 1922, this attractive Art-Nouveau-style seaside villa is chock-full of rare artworks and artifacts. Highlights include a large collection of Japanese, Russian, and Australian artworks; Victorian-era paintings; and numerous pieces by women artists.

The museum also features a variety of touring exhibits, often with accompanying lectures and workshops. Guided tours are available. Be sure to allocate time to explore the exotic garden area, too.

Address: Cliff Promenade, Bournemouth, Dorset

Official site: https://russellcotes.com

Thanks in part to its relatively mild climate, Bournemouth has a reputation for the quality of its public parks and gardens. The easiest for visitors to explore is the centrally located Lower Gardens. Stretching some distance from the pier head up to Bournemouth Square, this large swath of parkland offers plenty of shade and grassy spots perfect for a picnic.

Lower Gardens is a great place to hang out, and offers plenty of fun things to do. Attractions include crazy golf, a bandstand, and plenty of snack kiosks, plus a great little aviary housing a variety of exotic birds. It's also fun to visit in Christmas, when it's lit up with a spectacular festive light display.

Given its central location near the beach, Lower Gardens does get busy, so if you're craving a little less crowded space, keep walking up through Central Gardens all the way to Bournemouth Upper Gardens near Poole, a total of three kilometers in distance. It's a lovely way to spend a few hours in a relatively relaxing environment.

Also worth a visit, Boscombe Chine Gardens follows a ravine down to Boscombe beach and pier. Usually much quieter, it features a mini golf course, children's' playground, and tennis courts.

Address: Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset

Official site: www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/Leisure-culture-and-local-heritage/Parks-and-open-spaces/Parks/Parks-in-Bournemouth/Bournemouth-Gardens.aspx

Handily located just steps away from Bournemouth Pier, the Oceanarium opened in 1998 and is a must-visit for families. Highlights of a visit to this state-of-the-art aquarium include underwater tunnels, allowing a close-up look at thousands of sea creatures, including sharks swimming about their large tank.

Other popular sea creatures guaranteed to thrill the kids include loggerhead turtles, crocodiles, sea otters, penguins , and numerous colorful tropical fish species. A program of daily talks is provided, with an especially good time to visit being feeding time.

Other fun things to do at the aquarium include a play zone and participating in unique behind-the-scenes experiences. A great café with views over the beach is located on the premises along with a gift shop.

Address: Oceanarium Pier Approach, Bournemouth, Dorset

Official site: www.oceanarium.co.uk

Bournemouth Pier was constructed in 1880 just 10 years after Bournemouth welcomed its first rail passengers. Its opening was the icing on the cake for this still relatively new seaside destination. One of the longest surviving Victorian-era piers in England, it measures 1,000 feet in length and, at its widest point, is 110 feet wide.

It's a delightful place for a stroll, especially in early morning when it first opens, and before the crowds hit the beach. Fun things to do here include enjoying stunning views over the English Channel and back towards Bournemouth and its miles-long beaches, amusement arcades, as well as the country's first pier-based zipline and climbing experience.

There are also plenty of places to pick up food and beverages, including popular seaside sweet treats like ice cream and gelato .

If you've got time to cram another fun pier into your Bournemouth itinerary, take a 30-minute walk eastward to Boscombe Pier. Built just a few years later in 1886, this 750-foot-long structure offers an equally fun seaside experience.

Address: Pier Approach, Bournemouth, Dorset

Official site: www.thebournemouthpier.com

Located in the south end of Bournemouth Lower Gardens and featuring one of the largest terraces in the South West, Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre was constructed in the early 1920s and is widely regarded as one of the country's most attractive surviving Art Deco places of entertainment.

It's still a very popular venue. Check the attraction's official website for details of visiting rock and pop artists, cover bands, touring musicals, as well as ballet and operatic performances. Recently renovated and upgraded, its plush seating and attractive interior décor alone are worth the price of admission.

Official site: www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

Also referred to as the West Cliff Lift, the West Cliff Funicular Railway is located on Durley Chine Beach and connects the lengthy West Undercliff Promenade with the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) on the upper West Cliff Promenade. Constructed in 1908, this fun yet all-too-short ride offers riders fantastic views over the beach and shoreline.

Notable as one of the first all-electric funicular railways in England, its motors have since been replaced with modest gas-powered engines. Two other funicular railways are also located in Bournemouth and offer summer-only services: the East Cliff Railway and Fisherman's Walk Cliff Railway.

Address: West Cliff Promenade, Bournemouth, Dorset

Another world-class attraction to add to your list of fun things to do in Bournemouth, the Bournemouth Observation Wheel presents riders with some of the best views over a beach and seafront that's thankfully devoid of high-rise developments.

Initially set up on a temporary basis, this huge 100-foot-tall Ferris Wheel offers uninterrupted panoramic views over Bournemouth's beautiful beaches, its pier, the Pavilion Theatre, and over Lower Gardens.

For a memorable experience, consider coming back for a sunset or night-time ride, when the seafront is bathed in the warm glow of both natural and artificial light. Cameras at the ready, of course.

While obviously not one of England's oldest churches, St. Peter's Church is still well worth a visit. Built in 1879 and Bournemouth's first major church, St. Peter's Church has a Gothic Revival style and a picture-perfect hillside setting.

Notable interior features include its richly decorated chancel, along with elaborate flourishes to its high ceiling. It also boasts a 202-foot-tall spire, which dominates the surrounding busy downtown core of the town.

Be sure to spend at least a little time exploring its picturesque graveyard. Climbing up beside and behind the church, you won't have to walk too far to find the gravesite of its best-known resident: Mary Shelley. The author of Frankenstein was interred here in 1851.

Address: Hinton Rd, Bournemouth, Dorset

Official site: www.stpetersbournemouth.org.uk

A 15-minute coastal drive east from downtown Bournemouth , and you'll find yourself at the Hengistbury Head Visitors Centre. Not only is it one of England's most unique and important coastal landmarks and nature reserves, Hengistbury Head is also a popular place to visit for those who enjoy the great outdoors.

Leaving your car at the visitor center, a nearly four-mile-long circular trail will introduce you to some of the best bits of this scenic coastal spit. If you prefer, a fun land train carries visitors down to Mudeford . Guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the area from an expert guide.

In addition to great views over the English Channel, the Isle of Wight, and Christchurch Harbour, you'll have access to the soft sands of the beach at Mudeford Sandbanks. This excellent Blue Flag beach doesn't get as busy as the main beaches closer to Bournemouth and is an extremely popular place to visit among water sports enthusiasts for this reason. All told, the beach here extends for nearly 10 miles, making it one of the longest in Southwest England.

Explore the nature reserve, and you'll find a variety of different habitats that shelter numerous animal species. In addition to over 500 plant species, this mixed geology is a bird-watcher's paradise and home to over 300 different bird species. Numerous rare amphibians and reptiles also make their home here, and information about them, and the area's plant life, can be found at the visitor center.

Other amenities include two cafés, beach hut rentals, and public washrooms.

Address: Hengistbury Head, Broadway, Southbourne, Bournemouth

Official site: www.visithengistburyhead.co.uk/home.aspx

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The distant past is perhaps more tangible in Hampshire (often abbreviated to “Hants”), Dorset and Wiltshire than in any other part of England. Predominantly rural, these three counties overlap substantially with the ancient kingdom of Wessex, whose most famous ruler, Alfred, repulsed the Danes in the ninth century and came close to establishing the first unified state in England. And even before Wessex came into being, many earlier civilizations had left their stamp on the region. The chalky uplands of Wiltshire boast several of Europe’s greatest Neolithic sites, including Stonehenge and Avebury , while in Dorset you’ll find Maiden Castle , the most striking Iron Age hill fort in the country, and the Cerne Abbas Giant , source of many a legend.

Around Salisbury

Avebury and around, bournemouth and around, dorchester and around, the isle of purbeck, the isle of wight, the new forest, shaftesbury, southampton, stourhead and around, weymouth and around.

The Romans tramped all over these southern counties, leaving the most conspicuous signs of their occupation at the amphitheatre of Dorchester – though that town is more closely associated with the novels of Thomas Hardy and his distinctively gloomy vision of Wessex. None of the landscapes of this region could be described as grand or wild, but the countryside is consistently seductive, not least the crumbling fossil-bearing cliffs around Lyme Regis , the managed woodlands of the New Forest and the gentle, open curves of Salisbury Plain . Its towns are also generally modest and slow-paced, with the notable exceptions of the two great maritime bases of Portsmouth and Southampton , a fair proportion of whose visitors are simply passing through on their way to the more genteel pleasures of the Isle of Wight . The two great cathedral cities in these parts, Salisbury and Winchester , and the seaside resort of Bournemouth see most tourist traffic, and the great houses of Wilton , Stourhead , Longleat and Kingston Lacy also attract the crowds; but you don’t have to wander far off the beaten track to encounter medieval churches, manor houses and unspoilt country inns.

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Walking the Jurassic Coast is one of the best ways to truly appreciate the spectacular scenery. Walks range from easy to challenging. 6 days walking are included in this itinerary, as is an extensive pre-program in London and a last night back in the capital.

North of Salisbury stretches a hundred thousand acres of chalky upland, known as Salisbury Plain ; it’s managed by the Ministry of Defence whose presence has protected it from development and intensive farming, thereby preserving species that are all but extinct elsewhere in England. Its empty expanses are home to the country’s only colony of Great Bustards , the world’s heaviest flying bird, which became extinct in the UK in the 1840s. Chicks were re-introduced from Russia in 2004 to a secret location on Salisbury Plain, and the first Great Bustard to be born in the UK in nearly two hundred years appeared in 2009.

Though now largely deserted, in previous times Salisbury Plain positively throbbed with communities. Stone Age, Bronze Age and Iron Age settlements left hundreds of burial mounds scattered over the chalklands, as well as major complexes at Danebury, Badbury, Figsbury, Old Sarum , and, of course, the great circle of Stonehenge , England’s most famous historical monument. To the west, Salisbury’s hinterland also includes one of Wiltshire’s great country mansions, Wilton House .

No ancient structure in England arouses more controversy than

, a mysterious ring of monoliths. While archeologists argue over whether it was a place of ritual sacrifice and sun-worship, an astronomical calculator or a royal palace, the guardians of the site struggle to accommodate its year-round crowds. Conservation of Stonehenge is an urgent priority, and unless you arrange for special access (book by phone or online), or come during the summer

– when crowds of 35,000 or more gather to watch the sunrise – you must be content with walking around, rather than among, the stones.

Brief history

Some people may find

underwhelming, but understanding a little of its history and ancient significance gives an insight into its mystical appeal. What exists today is only a small part of the original prehistoric complex, as many of the outlying stones were probably plundered by medieval and later farmers for building materials. The

construction

of Stonehenge is thought to have taken place in several stages. In about 3000 BC the outer circular bank and ditch were built, just inside which was dug a ring of 56 pits, which at a later date were filled with a mixture of earth and human ash. Around 2500 BC the first stones were raised within the earthworks, comprising approximately forty great blocks of dolerite (bluestone), whose ultimate source was Preseli in Wales. Some archeologists have suggested that these monoliths were found lying on Salisbury Plain, having been borne down from the Welsh mountains by a glacier in the last Ice Age, but the lack of any other glacial debris on the plain would seem to disprove this theory. It really does seem to be the case that the stones were cut from quarries in Preseli and dragged or floated here on rafts, a prodigious task that has defeated recent attempts to emulate it.

The crucial phase in the creation of the site came during the next six hundred years, when the incomplete bluestone circle was transformed by the construction of a circle of 25 trilithons (two uprights crossed by a lintel) and an inner horseshoe formation of five trilithons. Hewn from Marlborough Downs sandstone, these colossal stones (called sarsens), ranging from 13ft to 21ft in height and weighing up to thirty tons, were carefully dressed and worked – for example, to compensate for perspectival distortion the uprights have a slight swelling in the middle, the same trick as the builders of the Parthenon were to employ hundreds of years later. More bluestones were arranged in various patterns within the outer circle over this period. The purpose of all this work remains baffling, however. The symmetry and location of the site (a slight rise in a flat valley with even views of the horizon in all directions) as well as its alignment towards the points of sunrise and sunset on the summer and winter solstices tend to support the supposition that it was some sort of observatory or time-measuring device. The site ceased to be used at around 1600 BC, and by the Middle Ages it had become a “landmark”. Recent excavations have revealed the existence of a much larger settlement here than had previously been thought – the most substantial Neolithic village of this period to be found on the British mainland in fact – covering a wide area. Nothing is to be seen of the new finds as yet, though there are plans to re-create a part of the ancient complex.

Wilton House

The splendid

dominates the village of Wilton, renowned for its carpet industry. The original Tudor house, built for the First Earl of Pembroke on the site of a dissolved Benedictine abbey, was ruined by fire in 1647 and rebuilt by Inigo Jones, whose classic hallmarks can be seen in the sumptuous Single Cube and Double Cube rooms, so called because of their precise dimensions.

The easel paintings are what makes Wilton really special, however – the collection includes works by Van Dyck, Rembrandt, two of the Brueghel family, Poussin, Andrea del Sarto and Tintoretto. In the grounds, the famous Palladian Bridge has been joined by various ancillary attractions including an adventure playground and an audiovisual show on the colourful earls of Pembroke.

The village of AVEBURY stands in the midst of a stone circle that rivals Stonehenge – the individual stones are generally smaller, but the circle itself is much wider and more complex. A massive earthwork 20ft high and 1400ft across encloses the main circle, which is approached by four causeways across the inner ditch, two of them leading into wide avenues stretching over a mile beyond the circle. The best guess is that it was built soon after 2500 BC, and presumably had a similar ritual or religious function to Stonehenge. The structure of Avebury’s diffuse circle is quite difficult to grasp, but there are plans on the site, and you can get an excellent overview at the Alexander Keiller Museum , at the western entrance. The nearby Barn Gallery has an exhibition on Avebury and the surrounding country.

Renowned for its pristine white beach (one of southern England’s cleanest) and its gardens, the resort of BOURNEMOUTH dates from 1811, when a local squire, Louis Tregonwell, built a summerhouse on the wild, unpopulated heathland that once occupied this stretch of coast, and planted the first of the pine trees that now characterize the area. The mild climate, sheltered site and glorious sandy beach encouraged the rapid growth of a full-scale family-holiday resort, complete with piers, cliff railways and boat trips. Today Bournemouth has a rather genteel, slightly geriatric image, counterbalanced by burgeoning numbers of language students, clubbers and surfers , attracted by Britain’s only artificial reef in the neighbouring suburb of Boscombe .

In the centre of town, on Hinton Road, the graveyard of St Peter’s church is where Mary Shelley, author of the Gothic horror tale Frankenstein , is buried, together with the heart belonging to her husband, the Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley. The tombs of Mary’s parents – radical thinker William Godwin and early feminist Mary Wollstonecraft – are also here.

Kingston Lacy

The glorious seventeenth-century mansion of

stands in 250 acres of parkland grazed by a herd of Red Devon cattle. Designed for the Bankes family, who were exiled from Corfe Castle after the Roundheads reduced it to rubble, the brick building was clad in grey stone during the nineteenth century by Sir Charles Barry, co-architect of the Houses of Parliament. William Bankes, then owner of the house, was a great traveller and collector, and the

Spanish Room

is a superb scrapbook of his Grand Tour souvenirs, lined with gilded leather and surmounted by a Venetian ceiling. Kingston Lacy’s

picture collection

is also outstanding, featuring Titian, Rubens, Velázquez and many other old masters.

Ten miles west of Abbotsbury is the pretty town of BRIDPORT , mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 and an important port before the rivers silted up in the early 1700s, leaving it stranded a mile or so inland today. It’s a pleasant old town of solid brick buildings with very wide streets, a hangover from its days as a major rope-making centre when cords were stretched between the houses to be twisted and dyed. Today, it’s a lively market town (Wed and Sat) with an arty, alternative vibe. The town’s harbour lies a mile or so south at West Bay , which has a fine sandy beach sheltered below majestic red cliffs – the sheer East Cliffs are a tempting challenge for intrepid walkers.

For many, DORCHESTER , county town of Dorset, is essentially Thomas Hardy ’s town; he was born at Higher Bockhampton, three miles east, his heart is buried in Stinsford, a couple of miles northeast (the rest of him is in Westminster Abbey), and he spent much of his life in Dorchester itself, where his statue now stands on High West Street. The town appears in his novels as Casterbridge, and the local countryside is evocatively depicted, notably the wild heathland of the east (Egdon Heath) and the eerie yew forest of Cranborne Chase.

The real Dorchester – liveliest on Wednesday, market day – has a pleasant central core of mostly seventeenth-century and Georgian buildings, though the town’s origins go back to the Romans, who founded “Durnovaria” in about 70 AD. The Roman walls were replaced in the eighteenth century by tree-lined avenues called “Walks”, but some traces of the Roman period have survived. On the southeast edge of town, Maumbury Rings is where the Romans held vast gladiatorial combats in an amphitheatre adapted from a Stone Age site.

Cerne Abbas giant

The village of

CERNE ABBAS

has bags of charm, with gorgeous Tudor cottages and abbey ruins, but its main attraction is the enormously priapic

carved in the chalk hillside just north of the village, standing 180ft high and flourishing a club over his disproportionately small head. The age of the monument is disputed, some believing it to be pre-Roman, others thinking it might be a Romano-British figure of Hercules. Either way, in view of his prominent feature it’s probable that the giant originated as some primeval fertility symbol. Folklore has it that lying on the outsize member will induce conception, but the National Trust, who now own the site, do their best to stop people wandering over it and eroding the 2ft-deep trenches that form the outlines.

Maiden Castle

One of southern England’s finest prehistoric sites, MAIDEN CASTLE stands on a hill southwest of Dorchester. Covering about 115 acres, it was first developed around 3000 BC by a Stone Age farming community and then used during the Bronze Age as a funeral mound. Iron Age dwellers expanded it into a populous settlement and fortified it with a daunting series of ramparts and ditches, just in time for the arrival of Vespasian’s Second Legion. The ancient Britons’ slingstones were no match for the more sophisticated weapons of the Roman invaders, however, and Maiden Castle was stormed in a massacre in 43 AD.

What you see today is a massive series of grassy concentric ridges about 60ft high, creasing the surface of the hill. The main finds from the site are displayed in the Dorset County Museum.

Though not actually an island, the ISLE OF PURBECK – a promontory of low hills and heathland jutting out beyond Poole Harbour – does have an insular and distinctive feel. Reached from the east by the ferry from Sandbanks , at the narrow mouth of Poole Harbour, or by a long and congested landward journey via the bottleneck of Wareham , Purbeck can be a difficult destination to reach, but its villages are immensely pretty, none more so than Corfe Castle , with its majestic ruins. From Swanage , a low-key seaside resort, the Dorset Coast Path provides access to the oily shales of Kimmeridge Bay, the spectacular cove at Lulworth and the much-photographed natural arch of Durdle Door .

The whole coast from Purbeck to Exmouth in Devon – dubbed the Jurassic Coast – is a World Heritage Site on account of its geological significance and fossil remains; walkers can access it along the South West Coast Path.

Durdle Door

A mile west of Lulworth Cove the iconic limestone arch of Durdle Door can be reached via the steep uphill path that starts from Lulworth Cove’s car park. The arch itself sits at the end of a long shingle beach (which can be accessed via steep steps), a lovely place for catching the sun and swimming in fresh, clear water. There are other steps to a bay just east of Durdle Door, St Oswald’s Bay , with another shingle beach and offshore rocks that you can swim out to.

East of Swanage, you can follow the Southwest Coast path over Ballard Down to descend into the pretty village of STUDLAND at the southern end of Studland Bay . The most northerly stretch of the beach, Shell Bay , is a magnificent strand of icing-sugar sand backed by a remarkable heathland ecosystem that’s home to all six British species of reptile – adders are quite common, so be careful. On Middle Beach, you can hire kayaks from the Studland Sea School or take one of their excellent guided kayak tours round Old Harry Rocks, through cliff arches and sea caves.

The lozenge-shaped ISLE OF WIGHT has begun to shake off its old-fashioned image and attract a younger, livelier crowd, with a couple of major annual rock festivals and a scattering of fashionable hotels. Despite measuring less than 23 miles at its widest point, the island packs in a surprising variety of landscapes and coastal scenery. Its beaches have long attracted holiday-makers, and the island was a favourite of such eminent Victorians as Tennyson, Dickens, Swinburne, Julia Margaret Cameron and Queen Victoria herself, who made Osborne House , near Cowes, her permanent home after Albert died.

Osborne House

The only place of interest in East Cowes is Queen Victoria’s family home, Osborne House , signposted one mile southeast of town. The house was built in the late 1840s by Prince Albert and Thomas Cubitt in the style of an Italianate villa, with balconies and large terraces overlooking the landscaped gardens towards the Solent. The state rooms, used for entertaining visiting dignitaries, exude formality as one would expect, while the private apartments feel homely in a manner appropriate to an affluent family holiday residence that Osborne was. Following Albert’s death, the desolate Victoria spent much of her time here, and it’s where she eventually died in 1901. Since then, according to her wishes, the house has remained virtually unaltered, allowing an intimate glimpse into Victoria’s family life.

LYME REGIS , Dorset’s most westerly town, shelters snugly between steep, fossil-filled cliffs. Its intimate size and photogenic qualities make this a popular and congested spot in high summer, with some upmarket literary associations – Jane Austen summered in a seafront cottage and set part of Persuasion in Lyme (the town appears in the 1995 film version), while novelist John Fowles lived here until his death in 2005 (the film adaptation of his book, The French Lieutenant’s Woman , was shot here).

Colourwashed cottages and elegant Regency and Victorian villas line its seafront and flanking streets, but Lyme’s best-known feature is a practical reminder of its commercial origins: the Cobb , a curving harbour wall originally built in the thirteenth century. It has suffered many alterations since, most notably in the nineteenth century, when its massive boulders were clad in neater blocks of Portland stone. On Bridge Street, the excellent Lyme Regis Museum displays artefacts related to the town’s literary connections, including John Fowles’ office chair, and provides a crash course in local history and geology, while Dinosaurland on Coombe Street, fills out the story of ammonites and other local fossils. Foodies should head to the Town Mill Complex in Mill Lane, just off Coombe Street, where as well as a working mill, pottery and art gallery there’s a fantastic cheese shop, local brewery and café/tearoom.

Lyme’s Jurassic Coast

The cliffs around Lyme are made up of a complex layer of limestone, greensand and unstable clay, a perfect medium for preserving fossils , which are exposed by landslips of the waterlogged clays. In 1811, after a fierce storm caused parts of the cliffs to collapse, 12-year-old Mary Anning, a keen fossil-hunter, discovered an almost complete dinosaur skeleton, a 30ft ichthyosaurus now displayed in London’s Natural History Museum.

Hands-off inspection of the area’s complex geology can be enjoyed all around the town: as you walk along the seafront and out towards The Cobb, look for the outlines of ammonites in the walls and paving stones. To the west of Lyme, the Undercliff is a fascinating jumble of overgrown landslips, now a nature reserve, where a great path wends its way through the undergrowth for around seven miles to neighbouring Seaton in Devon. East of Lyme, a huge landslip in 2008 closed the Dorset Coast Path to Charmouth (Jane Austen’s favourite resort), as well as blocking the two-mile beach route to the resort, which was previously walkable at low tide. At Charmouth, you can rejoin the coastal path leading to the headland of Golden Cap , whose brilliant outcrop of auburn sandstone is crowned with gorse.

Covering about 220 square miles, the NEW FOREST is one of southern England’s favourite rural playgrounds, attracting some 13.5 million day-visits annually. The forest was requisitioned by William the Conqueror in 1079 as a game reserve, and the rights of its inhabitants soon became subservient to those of his precious deer. Fences to impede their progress were forbidden and terrible punishments were meted out to those who disturbed the animals – hands were lopped off, eyes put out. Later monarchs less passionate about hunting than the Normans gradually restored the forest-dwellers’ rights, and today the New Forest enjoys a unique patchwork of ancient laws and privileges alongside the regulations applying to its National Park status.

The trees of the forest are now much more varied than they were in pre-Norman times, with birch, holly, yew, Scots pine and other conifers interspersed with the ancient oaks and beeches. One of the most venerable trees is the much-visited Knightwood Oak , just a few hundred yards north of the A35 three miles southwest of Lyndhurst, which measures about 22ft in circumference at shoulder height. The most conspicuous species of New Forest fauna is the New Forest pony – you’ll see them grazing nonchalantly by the roadsides and ambling through some villages. The local deer are less visible now that some of the faster roads are fenced, although several species still roam the woods, including the tiny sika deer , descendants of a pair that escaped from nearby Beaulieu in 1904.

Britain’s foremost naval station, PORTSMOUTH occupies the bulbous peninsula of Portsea Island, on the eastern flank of a huge, easily defended harbour. The ancient Romans raised a fortress on the northernmost edge of this inlet, but this strategic location wasn’t fully exploited until Tudor times, when Henry VII established the world’s first dry dock here and made Portsmouth a royal dockyard. It has flourished ever since and nowadays Portsmouth is a large industrialized city, its harbour clogged with naval frigates, ferries bound for the continent or the Isle of Wight, and swarms of dredgers and tugs.

Due to its military importance, Portsmouth was heavily bombed during World War II, and bland tower blocks now give the city an ugly profile. Only Old Portsmouth , based around the original harbour, preserves some Georgian and a little Tudor character. East of here is Southsea , a residential suburb of terraces with a half-hearted resort strewn along its shingle beach, where a mass of B&Bs face stoic naval monuments and tawdry seaside amusements.

SALISBURY , huddled below Wiltshire’s chalky plain in the converging valleys of the Avon and Nadder, sprang into existence in the early thirteenth century, when the bishopric was moved from nearby Old Sarum . Today, it looks from a distance very much as it did when Constable painted his celebrated view of it, and though traffic may clog its centre, this prosperous and well-kept city is designed on a pleasantly human scale, with no sprawling suburbs or high-rise buildings to challenge the supremacy of the cathedral’s immense spire. The city’s inspiring silhouette is best admired by taking a twenty-minute walk through the water meadows southwest of the centre to the suburb of Harnham .

Salisbury Cathedral

Begun in 1220,

was mostly completed within forty years and is thus unusually consistent in its style, with one prominent exception – the

, which was added a century later and, at 404ft, is the highest in England. Its survival is something of a miracle, for the foundations penetrate only about 6ft into marshy ground, and when Christopher Wren surveyed it he found the spire to be leaning almost 2.5ft out of true. He added further tie rods, which finally arrested the movement.

The interior is over-austere, but there’s an amazing sense of space and light in its high nave, despite the sombre pillars of grey Purbeck marble, which are visibly bowing beneath the weight they bear. Monuments and carved tombs line the walls. Don’t miss the octagonal chapter house , which displays a rare original copy of the Magna Carta, and whose walls are decorated with a frieze of scenes from the Old Testament.

Surrounding the cathedral is the Close , a peaceful precinct of lawns and mellow old buildings. Most of the houses have seemly Georgian facades, though some, like the Bishop’s Palace and the deanery, date from the thirteenth century. Mompesson House , built by a wealthy merchant in 1701, contains some beautifully furnished eighteenth-century rooms and a superbly carved staircase. Also in the Close is the King’s House , home to the Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum – an absorbing account of local history.

Fifteen miles east of Sherborne on the A30, SHAFTESBURY perches on a spur of lumpy hills, with severe gradients on three sides of the town. On a clear day, views from the town are terrific – one of the best vantage points is Gold Hill , quaint, cobbled and very steep. At its crest, the local history museum displays items ranging from locally made buttons, for which the area was once renowned, to a mummified cat.

Pilgrims used to flock to Shaftesbury to pay homage to the bones of Edward the Martyr, which were brought to the Abbey in 978, though now only the footings of the abbey church survive, just off the main street. St Peter’s Church on the marketplace is one of the few reminders of Shaftesbury’s medieval grandeur, when it boasted a castle, twelve churches and four market crosses.

Tucked away in the northwest corner of Dorset, ten miles north of Cerne Abbas, the pretty town of SHERBORNE was once the capital of Wessex, its church having cathedral status until Old Sarum usurped the bishopric in 1075.

A glance at the map gives some idea of the strategic maritime importance of SOUTHAMPTON , which stands on a triangular peninsula formed at the place where the rivers Itchen and Test flow into Southampton Water, an eight-mile inlet from the Solent. Sure enough, Southampton has figured in numerous stirring events: it witnessed the exodus of Henry V’s Agincourt-bound army, the Pilgrim Fathers’ departure in the Mayflower in 1620 and the maiden voyages of such ships as the Queen Mary and the Titanic . Despite its pummelling by the Luftwaffe and some disastrous postwar urban sprawl, the thousand-year-old city has retained some of its medieval charm in parts and reinvented itself as a twenty-first century shopping centre in others, with the giant glass-and-steel West Quay as its focus.

Landscape gardening was a favoured mode of display among the grandest eighteenth-century landowners, and

is one of the most accomplished examples of the genre. The Stourton estate was bought in 1717 by Henry Hoare, who commissioned Colen Campbell to build a new villa in the Palladian style. Hoare’s heir, another Henry, returned from his Grand Tour in 1741 with his head full of the paintings of Claude and Poussin, and determined to translate their images of well-ordered, wistful classicism into real life. He dammed the Stour to create a lake, then planted the terrain with blocks of trees, domed temples, stone bridges, grottoes and statues, all mirrored vividly in the water. In 1772 the folly of

King Alfred’s Tower

was added and today affords fine views across the estate and into neighbouring counties. The house is less interesting, though it has some good Chippendale furniture.

If Stourhead is an unexpected outcrop of Italy in Wiltshire, the African savannah intrudes even more bizarrely at

. In 1946 the sixth marquess of Bath became the first stately-home owner to open his house to the paying public on a regular basis, and in 1966 he caused even more amazement when Longleat’s Capability Brown landscapes were turned into England’s first drive-through

safari park

, with lions, tigers, giraffes and rhinos on show, plus monkeys clambering all over your car. Other attractions followed, including a large hedge maze, a Doctor Who exhibition, high-tech simulators, and the seventh marquess’s saucy murals (children not admitted). Beyond the razzmatazz, there’s an exquisitely furnished Elizabethan house, built for Sir John Thynne, Elizabeth’s High Treasurer, with an enormous library and a fine collection of pictures, including Titian’s

Holy Family

Whether George III’s passion for sea bathing was a symptom of his eventual madness is uncertain, but it was at WEYMOUTH that in 1789 he became the first reigning monarch to follow the craze. Sycophantic gentry rushed into the waves behind him, and soon the town, formerly a busy port, took on the elegant Georgian stamp that it bears today.

A lively family holiday destination in summer, Weymouth reverts to a more sedate rhythm out of season. The highlight, of course, is its long sandy beach, but there are also a number of “all-weather” attractions in town. A few buildings survive from pre-Georgian times: the restored Tudor House on Trinity Street and the ruins of Sandsfoot Castle , built by Henry VIII, overlooking Portland Harbour. But Weymouth’s most imposing architectural heritage stands along the Esplanade , a dignified range of bow-fronted and porticoed buildings gazing out across the graceful bay. The more intimate quayside of the Old Harbour is linked to the Esplanade by the pedestrianized St Mary’s Street . In Lodmoor Country Park, at the eastern end of the promenade, the excellent Sea Life Park is a splendid family attraction.

Just south of the town stretch the giant arms of Portland Harbour, and a long causeway links Weymouth to the Isle of Portland . The causeway stands on the easternmost section of the eighteen-mile bank of pebbles known as Chesil Beach , running northwest towards the fishing port of West Bay .

Nowadays a tranquil, handsome market town, WINCHESTER was once one of the mightiest settlements in England. Under the Romans it was Venta Belgarum, the fifth largest town in Britain, but it was Alfred the Great who really put Winchester on the map when he made it the capital of his Wessex kingdom in the ninth century. For the next two hundred years or so Winchester ranked alongside London, its status affirmed by William the Conqueror’s coronation in both cities and by his commissioning of the local monks to prepare the Domesday Book . It wasn’t until after the Battle of Naseby in 1645, when Cromwell took the city, that Winchester began its decline into provinciality.

Hampshire’s county town now has a scholarly and slightly anachronistic air, embodied by the ancient almshouses that still provide shelter for senior citizens of “noble poverty” – the pensioners can be seen walking round the town in medieval black or mulberry-coloured gowns with silver badges.

Jane Austen in Chawton

A mile southwest of Alton – accessible on the “Watercress line” steam train, – lies the village of CHAWTON , where Jane Austen lived from 1809 to 1817, during the last and most prolific years of her life, and where she wrote or revised almost all of her six books, including Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice . A plain red-brick building in the centre of the village, Jane Austen’s House contains first editions of some of her greatest works and provides a fascinating insight into the daily life of the author. A short walk from the house is Chawton House , which belonged to Jane’s brother, Edward Austen Knight. It remained in the Austen family until 1987, when it was bought by American IT millionairess Sandy Lerner who opened the Chawton House Library , containing an impressive collection of women’s writing in English from 1600–1830. The house, which has now been fully restored, can be visited on a guided tour , or you can look round the gardens independently. The library is open by appointment only.

The Watercress Line

ALRESFORD , six miles east of Winchester, is the departure-point for the Mid-Hants Watercress Line , a steam-powered train so named because it passes through the former watercress beds that once flourished here. The train chuffs ten miles to Alton , with gourmet dinners served on board on Saturday evenings, plus real ales from local breweries and traditional Sunday lunches.

Winchester Cathedral

The first minster to be built in Winchester was raised by Cenwalh, the Saxon king of Wessex in the mid-seventh century, and traces of this building have been unearthed near the present

, which was begun in 1079 and completed some three hundred years later. The exterior is not its best feature – squat and massive, it crouches stumpily over the tidy lawns of the Cathedral Close. The interior is rich and complex, however, and its 556ft

makes this Europe’s longest medieval church. Outstanding features include the carved Norman font of black Tournai marble, the fourteenth-century misericords (the choir stalls are the oldest complete set in the country) and some amazing monuments –

William of Wykeham’s Chantry

, halfway down the nave on the right, is one of the most ornate.

Jane Austen

, who died in Winchester, is commemorated close to the font by a memorial brass and slab beneath which she’s interred, though she’s recorded simply as the daughter of a local clergyman. Above the high altar lie the mortuary chests of pre-Conquest kings, including

(though the bones were mixed up after Cromwell’s Roundheads broke up the chests in 1645);

William Rufus

, killed while hunting in the New Forest in 1100, lies in the presbytery. Behind the impressive Victorian screen at the end of the presbytery, look out for the memorial shrine to

. Originally buried outside in the churchyard, his remains were later interred inside where the “rain of heaven” could no longer fall on him, whereupon he took revenge and the heavens opened for forty days – hence the legend that if it rains on St Swithun’s Day (July 15) it will do so for another forty. His exact burial place is unknown.

Accessible from the north transept, the Norman crypt – often flooded – is home to Anthony Gormley’s contemplative figure Sound II , reflected in the waters. The cathedral’s original foundations were dug in marshy ground, and at the beginning of last century a steadfast diver, William Walker, spent five years replacing the rotten timber foundations with concrete.

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Hampshire and Dorset

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• Things to Do

Things to Do in Hampshire and Dorset

You're in Hampshire and Dorset , two shires jealously guarded as special rural treasures. Everybody knows of Southampton and Bournemouth, but less known is the hilly countryside farther inland, which is best previewed in the New Forest . Discover tiny villages and thatched cottages untouched by the industrial invasion at Chideock and Charmouth .

Jane Austen wrote of Hampshire's firmly middle-class inhabitants. Her six novels, including Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility , earned her a permanent place among the pantheon of 19th-century writers and unexpected popularity among 1990s film directors and producers. You can visit her grave in Winchester Cathedral and the house where she lived, Chawton Cottage .

Hampshire encompasses the South Downs , the Isle of Wight (Victoria's favorite retreat), and the naval city of Portsmouth . More than 36,421 hectares (90,000 acres) of the New Forest were preserved by William the Conqueror as a private hunting ground; this vast woodland and heath remains ideal for walking and exploring. We concentrate on two major areas: Southampton , for convenience, and Winchester , for history.

Dorset is Thomas Hardy country. Born in Dorset in 1840, this celebrated novelist disguised the county of his birth as "Wessex" in his novels. "The last of the great Victorians," as he was called, died in 1928 at age 88. His tomb occupies a position of honor in Westminster Abbey.

One of England's smallest shires, Dorset encompasses the old seaport of Poole in the east and Lyme Regis (known to Jane Austen) in the west. Dorset is a southwestern county and borders the English Channel. It's known for its cows, and Dorset butter is served at many an afternoon tea. This is mainly a land of farms and pastures, with plenty of sandy heaths and chalky downs.

The most prominent tourist center of Dorset is the Victorian seaside resort of Bournemouth . If you don't stay here, you can try a number of Dorset's other seaports, villages, and country towns; we mostly stick to the areas along the impressive coastline.

You'll find the most hotels, but not the greatest charm, at Bournemouth. If you're interested in things maritime, opt for Portsmouth, the premier port of the south and home of HMS Victory , Nelson's flagship. For history buffs and Austen fans, Winchester, the ancient capital of England, with a cathedral built by William the Conqueror, makes a good base for exploring the countryside.

The best beaches are at Bournemouth, set among pines with sandy beaches and fine coastal views; and Chesil Beach , a 32km-long (20-mile) bank of shingle running from Abbottsbury to the Isle of Portland -- great for beachcombing. However, the most natural spectacle is New Forest itself, 375 sq. km (145 sq. miles) of heath and woodland, once the hunting ground of Norman kings.

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These 19 Seaside Towns In Dorset Are Perfect For A Daytrip

The Dorset coastline does not disappoint with its vast beaches with white sand, crystal clear water, and quaint fishing harbour villages. Rich with history, classic British seaside entertainment and picturesque villages, Dorset is the place to visit. 

Here is a full list of Dorset Seaside Towns you don’t want to miss!

19 Charming Dorset Seaside Towns and Villages

West of the Dorset coastline sits the ‘pearl of Dorset’, named the best seaside town in Dorset .

Lyme Regis is on the Devon/ Dorset border and is full of beautiful boutiques, delicious bakeries and a beautiful beach with views of the cliffs in the distance. 

Lyme Regis has the ‘Lyme Regis and Dinosaur Fossil Museum’, which provides lots of information and history of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.

In this Dorset coastal town, you can visit the Lyme Regis brewery, relax in the shoreline sauna, or enjoy a day at the beach with the family, offering great value for a memorable experience.

There are lots of places to eat and lots of beautiful buildings and houses to admire and dream about living in, each with its unique location charm.

Certainly, not one to miss if you’re exploring the coastal towns and villages in Dorset.

Charmouth 

Charmouth is a beautiful destination that is well known for drawing in visitors due to its wealth of fossils and stunning beach shoreline.

It is a little village with lots of shops, a market every Monday, and lovely country pubs where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while visiting under the watchful eyes of local seagulls.

Fun fact : Charmouth is also a great spot for sea glass collectors. 

This lovely rural village in west Dorset is perfect if you want to visit somewhere quaint and ‘untouched’ from all the modern ways of busier towns. 

Burton Bradstock

Burton Bradstock is a very rural, picturesque village just southeast of Bridport. 

Surrounded by vast, beautiful, green countryside rife with thatched cottages, they look like they’re right out of an Enid Blyton story. 

There are very few shops, but there are a variety of pubs, cafes, and tea rooms. There is also a beautiful beach and a holiday park (FreshWater Beach Holiday Park) packed with lots of entertainment for families and people who want to holiday in a beautiful and quiet part of the world. 

Eype is a quiet part of Dorset and is situated just west of Bridport.

There are several hotels and caravan/ campsites. Although it is a tiny village, it is worth mentioning because of the beautiful scenery and stunning sandy beach. 

It is also home to the highest cliff on the south coast, ‘The Golden Cap’, which is a staggering 191 m above sea level. A perfect hidden gem for hikers exploring the south coast. 

Seatown has been identified to be an Area of Outstanding Beauty. With a stunning and quieter beach compared to surrounding ones and the vast green countryside as a picturesque backdrop, it is ideal for swimming.

There is a pub practically on the beach, which makes for a perfect place for lunch and possibly a glass of wine! 

Seatown is popular for fishing, fossil hunting, and country walks, and it is the starting point for the Golden Cap hike. 

Bridport is a lovely seaside market town and fishing port. The market takes place along three streets on Wednesdays and Saturdays, making it perfect for anyone who loves to shop in gorgeous boutique shops and various market stalls. 

There’s a vast selection of pubs and cafes to enjoy, and the local people are friendly and love to chat. 

West Bay is close by with stunning beaches and cliff-top views, a picturesque harbour, amusements, and great places to eat. 

Many TV shows have been filmed around here, the most recent one being ‘Broadchurch.’ There is also a holiday park, which is perfect for family getaways. 

Chickerell is a town close to Chesil Beach and Weymouth. It’s home to Bennetts Water Gardens, an 8-acre garden with many beautiful ponds and lakes that hold international collections of water lilies. 

Chickerell is a beautiful place to visit and hosts weddings because of its beautiful surroundings. It also has a great selection of places to eat, whether you fancy a takeaway or a pub lunch. 

If you’re looking for a seaside town with shops, Chickerell isn’t the place for that. However, what it lacks in boutique shops, it makes up for with its beautiful countryside surroundings and vast beaches nearby. 

When you think of Dorset towns, the Isle of Portland doesn’t stand out as much as Bournemouth, Poole, or Swanage. However, it offers a lot in the way of beautiful scenery, excellent walks, and history. 

Portland is the most southern point on the famous Jurassic coast and is joined to the mainland by Chesil Beach. 

It boasts not 1 lighthouse but 3! And also a castle and is home to the local landmark Pulpit Rock. It is also popular for water-based sports such as kite surfing and is an excellent place for sailors. 

Definitely worth a visit for the quaint village feel and beautiful surroundings. 

Weymouth is packed with things to do with the family or just for quiet trips without the kids! 

The beach is a blue flag-winning bay bursting with natural beauty and themed family fun, such as a Punch and Judy show or a traditional donkey ride. 

It also wouldn’t be a traditional British seaside town with amusement parks nearby packed with games and coin machines. There are plenty of places to eat, including fresh seafood restaurants, bakeries, pubs, and takeaways. 

Weymouth has a stunning harbour and is home to Nothe Fort, which is full of history and tales of the area. A great place for photographers and people looking for a stunning view of Portland in the distance. 

Weymouth is the perfect seaside town—it really has it all! If you’re not interested in the beach, a lively high street with lots of independently run shops and some of your high street favourites is close by. 

The town also hosts lots of exciting seasonal festivals and days to enjoy throughout the year. 

Nestled between the bustling Weymouth and the scenic Chesil Beach, Wyke Regis is a delightful blend of traditional charm and modern comforts. 

This quaint village, known for its stunning views over the Fleet Lagoon and Portland Harbour, offers a tranquil escape from the busier tourist spots. 

Wyke Regis is proud of its historic church, St. Andrew’s, which dates back to the 15th century and stands as a testament to the village’s rich heritage. 

The area is perfect for those who love outdoor activities, with numerous walking and cycling paths showcasing the best of Dorset’s natural beauty. 

The village itself, with its blend of old and new architecture, invites leisurely exploration, and you can find cosy pubs and cafes perfect for a restful break. 

Wyke Regis may not boast the extensive amenities of larger towns, but its serene atmosphere and picturesque setting make it an unmissable stop for anyone seeking a peaceful seaside experience.

Abbotsbury is one mile inland from the sea and is a charming little village with pretty thatched-roof cottages and vast countryside surrounding it. 

There are a few independent shops, pubs, and bnb’s. It is also home to St Catherine’s Chapel and Abbotsbury Swannery . 

Walking through nesting mute swans makes it a unique day out. You can also visit the subtropical gardens, which are home to some of the most amazing plants and gardens. 

There’s a tea house there and amazing Christmas and winter lights to enjoy on those colder winter nights. 

Osmington is a little village close to Osmington Bay. The beach is stunning with its clear blue water, and the village has pretty thatched cottages, charming gardens, and countryside. 

Osmington is famous for having King George III carved into the hillside, riding his horse Adonis. It was carved on the hill to commemorate the royal visits to Weymouth. 

Lulworth is home to one of the most picturesque beaches in Dorset. The water is crystal clear, and the beach is mostly shingles and stones, perfect for exploring rock pools. 

The beach has a secluded feel, and there are some excellent walks around the area, including a great hike to Durdle Door. 

In the small village of Lulworth, there are a few independent shops, a few places to eat, and some B&Bs. 

Although Lulworth is small, it makes up for it by being a fantastic place to visit and having cheap, natural, and genuine fun at the beach. 

Swanage is a beautiful seaside town that is underrated in its beauty and attractions. 

There is a stunning Victorian pier to stroll along, multiple amusements, and great restaurants. Swanage also has beautiful beaches and various water activities. You even have the stunning Old Harry Rocks a short walk away.

The town is charming and full of history. 

There are a number of beautiful spots and places to camp in Swanage that are suitable for families or quieter places for people who wish to camp alone.

There are also a number of breathtaking beaches around the Purbecks, such as Studland, and the historical Corfe Castle is not too far away. 

Poole is one of Dorset’s larger seaside towns and is home to Europe’s largest natural harbour. 

It has the luxury of many high-street shops but is also a beautiful old town with its historical Georgian houses. 

Along the quay, there are a mixture of independent shops and restaurants, the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon drink or lunch in the sun. 

There are a number of stunning beaches in Poole , including the award-winning Sandbanks Beach, with gorgeous white sand and amazing views of the Purbecks. 

You can also enjoy a boat trip to Brownsea Island, home to the red squirrels and Brownsea Castle. 

The National Trust owns the island, which is bursting with wildlife and stunning views from every aspect. 

Bournemouth

Bournemouth is renowned for its glorious beaches and being a classic seaside town. 

Probably the most well-known in Dorset and the busiest. 

There is a bust high street, great nightlife and is packed with restaurants with cuisine from all over the world. 

Bournemouth’s lively pier is home to restaurants, fun fair attractions, and a zip wire that runs from the pier to the beach.

To reach the beachfront from the town, you can take a walk through Bournemouth Gardens (pictured above), which hosts various festivals and attractions, such as Pride and a Christmas market, every year. 

The seafront provides entertainment for families in the summer months, especially on Friday nights, when there is a fireworks display throughout the summer holidays. 

Bournemouth is also an excellent place to catch a show or a live performance, with the BIC and Pavillion close to the seafront. 

Bournemouth offers a range of activities outside, such as surfing by the pier and inside, such as the cinemas and the oceanarium.

A fantastic place to visit if you prefer somewhere more lively with a mixture of Dorset beauty. 

Boscombe is a lively Bournemouth suburb with its 1890s Royal Arcade, independent shops and high street favourites. 

Taking a walk around Boscombe, you will see some amazing Art Deco buildings, and there’s lots to see for anyone interested in architecture. 

Boscombe is home to beautiful beaches and stunning gardens, which are close to the beach, with crazy golf and a play park. 

It is also where you would find the Vitality Stadium, home to Bournemouth Football Club. 

Southbourne

Southbourne is a pretty suburb in Bournemouth but is worth noting for its lively high street with its independent bars and restaurants. 

It’s a clean, welcoming area full of exciting little shops selling unique boutiques and vintage finds.

There is a lovely walk to the clean, family-friendly beach close to Hengistbury Head. This natural, unspoiled beach is popular for its beauty and picturesque beach huts along Mudeford.

Christchurch 

Christchurch is a place of natural beauty on the edge of Dorset. 

It has the luxury of being close to Bournemouth and The New Forest in Hampshire. 

Surrounded by beautiful beaches such as Avon, Highcliffe and Mudeford, Christchurch is popular for water sports enthusiasts such as kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing. 

There is an outdoor door splash park for the hotter months, and there’s a great feeling of community with food and wine festivals held yearly. 

A truly beautiful park of Dorset with lots to offer for people who like quieter towns with lots of wildlife, castles and country walks.

So there you have 19 seaside towns you must visit in Dorset. 

Some are much smaller and quieter than others, but all offer the benefits of beautiful coastal walks and beaches.

From quaint little towns that make you feel like you’re in an old-fashioned famous five-book to bustling busy towns with the added bonus of being in beautiful seaside surroundings but also having the modern world to hand in. 

I hope you enjoyed this article and it has helped you book your next trip to Dorset. 

Thanks for reading. 

Harriet Young

I am a mother of two beautiful boys and wife to Alan, with whom I started Dorset Explored. My passion for Dorset runs deep, as it's an incredible place that I love to explore and experience anew. Every day brings a new discovery about Dorset, deepening my love for my home county.

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with Swanage Railway

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Top 10 Child Friendly Days Out in Dorset

Wondering how best to spend a day out in Dorset with the kids? You don’t need to worry, Dorset offers many great days out for all ages.

Whatever the weather, you’ll find plenty of ways to keep the whole family entertained.

Cruise to the coast

With the sun shining there really is no better family day out than a day at the beach. Dorset has a whole host of  beaches  to enjoy from, sandy, pebbly and even secret ones to discover.

Traditional seaside fun, swimming and fishing can all be enjoyed at lots of location along Dorset’s coastline and even in the summer months, some beaches are open to our  four legged friends .

Explore our Dorset towns

We’ve got a number of fabulous towns in Dorset, each with their own character and charm.

British seaside favourite  Weymouth  offers a full day of fun packed family entertainment. The golden sands and safe shallow bathing waters have been a favourite of families for generations. 

Head north to  Shaftesbury  and enjoy a slice of quintessential Dorset. Home to Gold Hill made famous by the 70’s Hovis TV advert Shaftesbury provides a day out full of history and heritage.

Experience the vibrant events and art scene in  Bridport and West Bay . The town boasts a year round events calendar including food and drink, live music and not forgetting the unique hat festival. The vintage quarter is home to a number of local artists’ and creative independent businesses.

With over a dozen  towns within Dorset  to discover we’re confident you’ll have a fab day out wherever you go.

Hunt for fossils along the Jurassic Coast

Discover Dorset’s world famous  Jurassic Coast , England’s only natural World Heritage Site.  Fossil hunting  is a great low cost day out that everyone can experience.

Comb the shoreline with eagle eyes and unearth your own piece of natural history. Joining in with a professional guided tour can help you to learn everything you need to know to be the next Mary Anning.

Head to the  Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre  where you can learn more about the 95 miles of Jurassic Coast and uncover 185 million years of the Earth’s history.

The Etches Collection  in Kimmeridge is home to one of the finest displays of fossils to be found anywhere, with interactive displays you’ll learn everything there is to know about early life on earth.

There’s plenty of fun down on the farm

Little ones can enjoy all the fun of the farm here in Dorset. We’ve got a number of great farm parks such as  Farmer Palmers , the  Dorset Heavy Horse Centre  and  Foxdown Children's Farm .

The kids can get up close and personal with the animals helping with feeding and grooming, from Guinea pigs and lambs to horses and Llamas.

Dorset’s animal parks offer all kinds of animal encounters with more than just the animals to enjoy, with soft play areas, adventure playgrounds and tractor rides there’s plenty for kids to enjoy!

Burn off some energy and hit the trail

Dorset has an abundance of parks and open spaces with acres of room for everyone to stretch their legs.

Follow the cycling and walking trails at  Moors Valley Country Park  and explore the woodland, meadows and waterways. Bikes are available to hire on site or you can take your own along.

At  Durlston Country Park National Nature Reserve  you can explore 320 acres of countryside bursting with exciting wildlife and follow the four waymarked trails. Woodland Explorer Rucksacks are available to hire and are jam-packed with fun activities for families with children aged from 4 to 12.

Fairs, fetes and festivals

There’s always something going on in Dorset, whether it's small country fairs or large scale festivals we’ve got it all.

The spring and summer months really see the events calendar explode into life! With carnivals, food festivals, live performances and more! 

When planning your visit make sure you check out our What’s On guide and find exciting family events happening during your stay.

Nostalgia on the railways

Enjoy a calming, gentle ride back in time on-board the  Swanage Railway . The leisurely 12 mile round trip will take you through the beautiful Purbeck countryside and includes stunning views of the iconic remains of William the Conqueror’s Corfe Castle and the Purbeck coast. 

Enjoy an ice-cream at the seaside town of  Swanage  and take in the sights and sounds of seaside life. It’s not hard to see why it’s a favourite location for many visitors to Dorset.

Steam trains run most weekends throughout the year and daily from April to October. There’s special galas and themed events too. All aboard!!

Active adventures

Dorset is home to some wonderful activity providers that offer fantastic experiences for the whole family.

Hit the trail on foot or bike and follow our endless miles of  walking routes  and  cycle paths . This is a great way to enjoy Dorset’s ever changing landscape and offers a number of incredible photo opportunities on route.

Dorset’s stunning coastline gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy some of the very best  watersports and adventure activities . Blistering boast rides, sea kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and coasteering can all be enjoyed amongst the most stunning backdrop of the Jurassic Coast.

Have a look at our  family friendly activities  and start planning your next family adventure.

Rain needn’t dampen spirits

We understand that the sun can’t shine every day here in Dorset but that doesn’t mean you won’t find wonderful rainy day family fun.

Head to one of our fun indoor play areas such as  Lemur Landings , fly down the waterslides at  Splashdown  or reach new heights climbing at Rock Reef and Pier Zip in Bournemouth.

Dorset also has an incredible selection of indoor attractions; if its cars, tanks, military history or even dinosaurs you’re sure to find something to keep your gang entertained. Have a look at our full list of  wet weather days out .

Storm the Castle

Learn more of Dorset’s history dating back to the Bronze Age and the Romans. Encourage your little knights and princesses to explore the past at Dorset’s castles and forts .

Corfe Castle  is a favourite haunt for adults and children alike and you can't fail to be captivated by the dramatic ruins with breathtaking views across the stunning Dorset countryside. The castle also hosts an active events calendar with great experience days for children and bigger kids to enjoy.

Start planning your perfect family break today

We’ve got accommodation to suit all budgets right across Dorset, use the links below to find your perfect home from home.

• Self Catering
• Camping and Caravan Parks

We look forward to seeing you soon!

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The Best Places to Visit in New Hampshire

T he beautiful state of New Hampshire, in the heart of New England, offers something for everyone. Whether you are a downhill skier, a cross-country skier, a thrill-seeker, a hiker, a camper, a shopper, a swimmer, a nature lover, or a theme park lover, there are activities for families in every season. Combined with the tax-free shopping, it is a fantastic family destination.

A trip to New Hampshire can be combined with a trip to other destinations in New England. However, there’s enough to do on its own, if you’d prefer to just stay in New Hampshire.

You may want to stay in one hotel/region or travel around to several, depending on your plans. Although you can take a day trip to New Hampshire from Boston, we’d generally recommend staying there.

As you drive through the state, you’ll want to look around at the scenery. It is one of the most beautiful places, with mountains, covered bridges, rivers, lakes, historic buildings, ski resorts, and more.

If you are flying to New Hampshire, an airport in Manchester is serviced by American, Spirit, Northwest, and United. Boston’s Logan International Airport is also fairly convenient. You will want to rent a car if you are flying because you need a car to get around.

Disclosure: I’ve visited some of these destinations at limited/no cost, and have paid my way many other times. This post contains affiliate links and a purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to me at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own.

Lakes Region of New Hampshire

The Lakes Region of New Hampshire is the area containing Lake Winnipesaukee, Lake Winnisquam, Squam Lake, and Newfound Lake. In addition to many lakefront activities in the area, like swimming and boating, there are lots of other things to do here. As you’d expect, the best time to visit the Lakes Region is in the summer, when you can take advantage of the lakes in warmer weather.

Popular activities include Weirs Beach (including FunSpot, the largest arcade in the world), Kellerhaus (German-themed ice cream and candy shop), horseback riding, M/S Mt. Washington Cruises, the Bretton Woods Adventure Center, Castle in the Clouds, Gunstock Mountain Resort, the Tilton Outlet Mall (take advantage of that tax-free shopping), and Polar Caves Park.

Expect to find a variety of lodging options in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. If you want to stay right on the waterfront, you’ll find resorts, inns, and vacation homes to reserve. There are also chain hotels and independent hotels in the area.

Popular hotels and resorts in the Lakes Region include:

• The Summit Resort
• Mill Falls at the Lake
• The NASWA Resort

North Conway

North Conway, a town located in the White Mountain National Forest, is one of my favorite places in New England. It’s the larger town surrounding other destinations including Bartlett and Glen, NH, and offers many shops, restaurants, and hotels.

Story Land , a fairy-tale theme park in Glen, NH is the most popular attraction in the area among families with young children. It’s open in the summer and can generally be visited in one day. Story Land offers rides, character greetings, themed dining, and so much more.

The rides at Story Land are generally best for younger kids (elementary-aged and younger). Many generations of families have enjoyed visiting this theme park for years. It’s a lot of fun.

There’s also an aquarium adjacent to Story Land that recently opened. You can purchase combo tickets including both if you’d also like to visit the aquarium.

Attitash Mountain Resort is a popular ski mountain area located in Bartlett, NH, a short drive from North Conway. During the winter, you can ski on the two connected mountains (Attitash and Bear Peak) which offer 68 trails and 9 lifts. In the past, it offered summer activities, but that is no longer the case.

Cranmore Mountain is located right in North Conway. In the winter, it offers 56 trails and 8 lifts for skiing, along with a snow tubing park. During the summer months, there is a summer adventure park.

Departing from a historic train station in the heart of downtown North Conway is the Conway Scenic Railroad. There are several different train journeys offered, including an hour journey that is great for families with train-loving kids. The main street area is also such a quaint town, with shops and restaurants.

Travel about an hour from North Conway to Jefferson, NH, home of Santa’s Village. This Christmas-themed park is so much fun and is excellent for families with young kids. I recommend doing a day trip to Santa’s Village from North Conway because there are more hotel and restaurant options there.

Santa’s Village is a popular destination that offers character interactions, Christmas and North Pole-themed rides, shops, and more. We especially love to see the real reindeer that live there. There’s also a water park on the property, which is included in your admission ticket. Pack your water park bag , and plan to spend almost a full day at Santa’s Village.

Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast United States, is located about 25 minutes outside of North Conway. If you want to travel to the top, you can either drive yourself on the Mt. Washington Auto Road, or book a 2-hour guided tour. The auto road is open seasonally and is closed in the winter months. As the highest peak, it offers spectacular views.

Love to shop? Settler’s Green Outlet Village offers outlets and restaurants in a huge complex. You’ll find some of your favorite brands here, including Kate Spade, New Balance, Adidas, and more.

We typically stay at a hotel in North Conway, but there are also motels, inns, B&Bs (not as kid-friendly), and vacation home rentals in the area. Popular hotels include:

• North Conway Grand
• Hampton Inn and Suites
• Adventure Suites
• Comfort Inn and Suites
• Residence Inn North Conway

Cross the scenic Kancamagus Highway on a short scenic drive from North Conway to the beautiful small town of Lincoln. This town offers several tourist attractions for visitors in all four seasons.

If you enjoy skiing, Loon Mountain Resort is a great place to visit. In the winter, it offers cross-country skiing, snow tubing, shoe showing, and gondola rides, in addition to downhill skiing.

In the spring and summer, the Loon Mountain Resort offers other activities. These include an activity center with a bungee trampoline, climbing wall, and zipline, along with mountain biking, disc golf, and a gondola sky ride.

For families with younger kids, Clark’s Bears (formerly known as Clark’s Trading Post) is a must-visit. It offers a beloved show featuring trained black bears. There are also other fun things to do there, including the White Mountain Central Railroad, a water raft ride, a gift shop, five mini-museums, and water blaster boats. It’s a New Hampshire institution, and kids love it.

Looking to cool off? The Whales Tale water park is also located in Lincoln and offers a wave pool, numerous thrill waterslides, and splash areas for younger kids. It’s a great place to visit during the hot summer months.

Located down the street from Lincoln in North Woodstock, NH is the popular tourist destination, Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves. This beautiful attraction includes a mile of boardwalk trails and eleven boulder caves, so be sure to dress appropriately (with comfortable , sturdy shoes).

One of the most popular places to go in New Hampshire is Franconia Notch State Park . This beautiful park, located in the White Mountain National Forest, includes several attractions including the Flume Gorge, the New England Ski Museum, and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway. There are also lots of outdoor activities and lake activities, such as swimming, kayaking, and boating, on Echo Lake. It’s perfect for nature lovers

Popular hotels and resorts in Lincoln include:

• The Mountain Club on Loon
• Indian Head Resort
• RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain

Portsmouth, NH

Along the Piscataqua River, tucked between the Massachusetts and Maine borders, is Portsmouth, NH. This seaside town offers shops, restaurants, and museums in a beautiful waterfront location.

Much of downtown Portsmouth can be explored on foot, so it’s nice to stay in a downtown hotel and then walk to the shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Popular attractions in the area include Strawbery Banke Living History Museum, Water Country Water Park, the USS Albacore Museum, the Isles of Shoals, and Prescott Park.

You’ll also be located very close to Kittery Maine, which offers restaurants and outlet shopping.

Popular hotels in Portsmouth, NH include:

• Residence Inn Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront
• AC Hotel by Marriott Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront
• Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel

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