Destination: Dorset – Thomas Hardy country
Dorset offers the ‘best of England’ - delightful rolling countryside, World Heritage coastline, pretty villages, historic market towns, colourful events and attractions and quality accommodation. With one of England’s sunniest climates and a mix of lively resorts and peaceful countryside, Dorset offers you an unforgettable holiday at any time of year.
“Dorset is a truly beautiful area. It’s got the best of everything. Wonderful countryside and stunning coast.”
Sarah, south London
Culture & Heritage
Famous as the setting for Thomas Hardy’s novels, the county will be forever associated with the author of Tess of the d’Ubervilles. But you’ll find Dorset’s history stretches way back – ancient fossils await discovery at the Jurassic Coast (www.footscape.co.uk/jurassic_coast_west.htm), crooked thatched cottages dot sleepy villages and Iron Age remains peep from beneath dense forest and wild flowers.
Attractions
Whether you’re looking for traditional seaside pleasures at Weymouth or Bournemouth or unique attractions like the Tank Museum (www.tankmuseum.org/), the fossil-strewn Jurassic Coast or the naughty, naked Cerne Abbas Giant (www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-chl/w-countryside_environment/w-archaeology/w-archaeology-places_to_visit/w-archaeology-cerne_abbas_giant.htm), you’ll find Dorset packed with things to see and do. For a full run-down of top attractions check out Visit Dorset.
Sport
With Weymouth and Portland set to host the Olympic sailing events in 2012, Dorset is the place to experience sailing, windsurfing and other watersports. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at kitesurfing or wakeboarding? For something a little more relaxing take a walk along the gloriously scenic South West Coast Path (www.southwestcoastpath.net/).
Food & Drink
With fertile seas, verdant pasture and a warm climate, Dorset produces delicious food including some unique local specialities. Visit the Eat Dorset Food Fair (www.eatdorsetfoodfair.co.uk/) in the autumn to test the best, eat in traditional pubs or try the excellent restaurants in Weymouth and Bournemouth.
Music & Nightlife
Country pubs or the bright lights of Bournemouth’s clubs – Dorset has a great range of night-time treats to suit all comers. Try the restored Brewers Quay (www.brewers-quay.com/) in Weymouth for pubs and restaurants or Bournemouth for clubs and cocktails.
Buy before you fly
To make your trip to Dorset easier, you can buy tickets to attractions, travel passes, and much more at our online shop, and avoid the queues! The BritRail GB Flexi Pass (www.visitbritaindirect.com/en-GB/detail.aspx?ProductCode=T3) allows you to explore the country at your own pace, and the Great British Heritage Pass (www.visitbritaindirect.com/en-GB/detail.aspx?ProductCode=Tp1) gives you free entry to nearly 600 of Britain’s finest historic houses, gardens and monuments. For more great offers, go to VisitBritain Direct (www.visitbritaindirect.com).
Must see and do
Top day time see & dos
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- Hit the beach at Bournemouth and surf on Europe’s first artificial reef
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- Scour the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site for primeval fossils
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- Learn to sail in Poole Harbour, one of the largest and shallowest natural harbours in the world
| - Find the perfect Dorset hotel or guesthouse with our accommodation search
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| - Sample the award-winning ale from the Dorset Brewing Company in Weymouth
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| - Have a night on the town in Bournemouth’s pubs, bars and clubs
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