Dorset

Dorset

Places in Dorset

Abbotsbury

Abbotsbury

Abbotsbury is an enchanting Dorset village known for its golden stone cottages and thatched roofs. Visitors can explore subtropical gardens, the world's only managed colony of nesting mute swans at the Swannery, and St Catherine's Chapel for views over Chesil Beach. This hidden gem is located near the Jurassic Coast and Weymouth.
Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum is an elegant Georgian town in rural Dorset. Situated along the River Stour in the Blackmore Vale, it is known for its handsome market square, stunning church, and independent boutiques. Visitors can stroll its historic streets or use the town as a peaceful base to explore the region's rolling hills, stately homes, and golden coast.
Bournemouth

Bournemouth

Bournemouth is a sunny Dorset resort blessed with seven miles of golden Blue Flag sands and a mild south-coast climate. Stroll the pier, relax in the lush seafront gardens, and enjoy lively shops, restaurants and nightlife in the buzzing town centre. With clifftop walks, the New Forest and the Jurassic Coast within reach, Bournemouth combines classic beach holiday appeal with plenty to see and do.
Bridport

Bridport

Bridport is a charming market town known for its rope-making heritage. Visitors can explore eclectic independent shops, galleries, and vibrant street markets. The town also offers access to the picturesque harbour at West Bay, a filming location for Broadchurch situated on the Jurassic Coast.
Christchurch

Christchurch

Christchurch is a historic town on the Dorset coast where two rivers meet the sea. Visitors can explore the ruins of a Norman castle, stroll along quaint quaysides, or visit the Priory, England's longest parish church. The town offers harbour boat trips, nearby sandy beaches at Mudeford and Bournemouth, and easy access to the New Forest.
Dorchester

Dorchester

Dorchester is the historic county town of Dorset. Visitors can explore charming Georgian streets, local markets, and museums, or visit the massive Iron Age hillfort of Maiden Castle. The town is also a gateway to the Dorset countryside, the Jurassic Coast, and the sandy shores of Weymouth.
Poole

Poole

Poole is a vibrant Dorset town situated beside one of the world's largest natural harbours. Visitors can explore the historic quay with its restaurants and boat trips, spot red squirrels on Brownsea Island, or relax on the golden sands of Sandbanks. The town also provides easy access to Bournemouth and the Jurassic Coast.
Portland

Portland

Portland is a dramatic peninsula off the Dorset coast. Visitors are drawn to its rugged landscape, historic quarries and the white stone used to build St Paul's Cathedral. Key attractions include the Portland Bill lighthouse, the vast Chesil Beach and breathtaking views across the Jurassic Coast, with the nearby resort of Weymouth offering further activities.
Swanage

Swanage

Swanage is a traditional resort on the Isle of Purbeck at the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast. Visitors are drawn to its safe sandy bay, Victorian pier and heritage steam railway. The area also offers dramatic coastal scenery, including the cliffs at Durlston and the ruins of Corfe Castle.
Weymouth

Weymouth

Weymouth is a classic Georgian seaside town on Dorset's Jurassic Coast, with a beautiful curving beach of golden sand and safe, shallow waters. Stroll the historic harbour lined with pubs and seafood restaurants, enjoy the traditional esplanade, and explore the fossil-rich coast and Portland nearby. Sunny, sheltered and full of old-fashioned charm, Weymouth is a perennial favourite for a relaxing coach break.

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