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Durdle Door
Kimmeridge Sunset
Osmington Mills
Portland Bill Lighthouse
Kimmeridge Bay
Weymouth Harbour
Poole Harbour
Durdle Door Kimmeridge Sunset Osmington Mills Portland Bill Lighthouse Kimmeridge Bay Weymouth Harbour Poole Harbour

Things to do in Dorset

Dorset is a county full of beautiful contrasts: rolling green hills, fertile farmland, golden beaches, rugged cliffs and open heaths make up nature’s own patchwork creation.

The beauty of its coastline is equally matched by its geological importance: 185 million years of the Earth's history is revealed in the 95 miles of Jurassic Coast that stretch from Orcombe Point in East Devon to Old Harry Rocks near Swanage. If you enjoy exploring, then you'll find places of interest right across the county.

Things to do in Dorset

Looking for things to do in Dorset? There's a huge choice of visitor attractions, including beautiful gardens, national treasures such historic houses, nature reserves, theatres and fascinating museums, offering something for all the family.

There's a jam-packed events programme all year round and visiting sport lovers can take their pick from a range of activities both on and off the water.

The county is fast becoming a food-lover's dream - you'll find some excellent pubs and restaurants making the most of the fantastic local produce.

If your holiday just isn't complete without some retail therapy, then shopping can be a rewarding experience with lots of local independant gems to be found alongside larger nationwide stores.

And if after reading about the delights of this fascinating county you find yourself wondering where to stay, you'll find a great selection of holiday parks and campsites to suit your needs.

Dorset and its World Heritage Coast offers something for everyone, from Durdle Door to Weymouth Beach and Portland Bill, enjoy exploring what's on offer.

As a highly photogenic county, our website features lots of photography courtesy of Scoop of Dorset. More photos are available to view and purchase here: Dorset photography prints.

Destinations

Places to Go

Find places to go and things to do in Dorset using the options below.

Dorset Events

30 Jun 2025 to 03 Jul 2025
Hallow Road (Film)
Weymouth
28 Jun 2025 to 03 Jul 2025
Karate Kid (Film)
Weymouth
Wimborne

Latest Dorset Features

26 Jun 2025
Discover Camp Bestival Dorset 2025 Spend a Day at Dorset’s Biggest Family Music Festival – Camp Bestival! Whether you're here on holiday or a local resident, if you love great music and fun days out, Camp Bestival promises an experience to remember! Many have heard of Camp Bestival, but did you know it's now in its 17th year? Founded in 2008 by husband and wife duo Josie and Rob Da Bank (photo below), the pair brought their years of experience in the party scene to create a legendary family ... Read more...
23 Jun 2025
Dorset's Ultimate Summer Holiday! 18 Family-Friendly Dorset Attractions for 2025 From sandy beaches to historical hideouts, animal encounters to adrenaline-fuelled adventures, Dorset is packed with places to make this summer unforgettable. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents in tow, there’s something for everyone on this list. Dorset Museum & Art Gallery Here are 18 top Dorset attractions that deserve a place on your summer must-visit list! 1. Dorset ... Read more...
23 Jun 2025
The Great Garden Trail of Dorset The Great Garden Trail of Dorset — showcasing the very best in English garden design, planting and history. World famous for its camellia groves and magnolias and with its own micro climate, Abbotsbury Sub Tropical Gardens cover more than 30 acres and has a plant collection of over 6,000 species from around the world. Highlights include the Mediterranean bank and lily ponds, the Burma Rope Bridge and stunning views of the Jurassic Coast. Situated close to Dorchester, ... Read more...
9 Jun 2025
Dog-Friendly Dorset A fully-fledged member of the family, your four-legged friend doesn’t need to feel left out of the holiday loop and will be well-catered for when you come to dog-friendly Dorset. Dog-Friendly Accommodation When it comes to finding somewhere to stay, there’s no shortage of dog and pet friendly accommodation to choose from. Whether it’s camping, a caravan, cottage or lodge you’re after, Dorset has plenty of dog-friendly options to choose from to make the ... Read more...
5 Jun 2025
Splashdown Water Park Flumin’ Fantastic! Looking for an unforgettable family day out? Splashdown Water Park, located at Tower Park, Poole, is the South of England’s largest and most thrilling water park! This action-packed water playground has become a firm favourite in our family. After our son’s first visit, it quickly became his top Dorset destination, and he’s already counting down the days to celebrate his next birthday there! What Awaits You at ... Read more...

More articles available in the features section.

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