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.
.jpg)
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.
Destinations
Places to Go
Browse excellent places to go and things to do in Dorset using the options below.
Attractions
Activities
Pubs & Restaurants
Holiday Parks
Shops & Services
Vouchers & OffersYou can also explore all of the Dorset venues on our Dorset Map.
What's On
Dorset Vouchers
Latest Dorset Features
Our village fairs pay homage to the rural culture that Dorset is built upon. It’s a way of celebrating Dorset that involves fun for everyone.
Dorset village fairs, fetes and festivals range from large to small, such as the Dorset County Show which has been running for more than 175 years and attracts over 60,000 visitors each year! Then, we have local fairs that celebrates life in the smaller villages such as the Milton Abbas Street Fayre which demonstrates the strength of our ... Read more...
Portland Bill is quite literally a place like no other. Combining all the weird and wonderful aspects of the Isle, here you can roam freely over large, open stretches of land set to a backdrop of fishermen’s huts, spectacular lighthouses, and rocky shoreline that make up this unique part of the Jurassic Coast.
You’ll also find the famous Pulpit Rock – an instantly recognisable stack and relic of quarrying at the site, formed in the 1870s when quarrymen cut away ... Read more...
Durdle Door is one of the most photographed landmarks along Dorset's famous Jurassic Coast. The name Durdle derives from an Old English word 'thirl' meaning bore or drill. Eventually the arch will collapse to leave a sea stack such as those that can be seen at Ladram Bay in East Devon.
Below the cliffs lies a sweeping shingle beach that was once three separate coves. This popular beach has no facilities although during the summer a mobile kiosk on the path ... Read more...
When it comes to golden beaches, stunning coastlines and picturesque harboursides, Dorset is first on the list for many. Escaping the urban lifestyle, all of this makes for a dreamy getaway.
The 285km stretch of Jurassic coast is home to both vibrant and relaxing locations with offerings nothing short of spectacular. From world-famous landmarks including Durdle Door to hidden gems such as Eype Beach that sits next to West Bay, looking for special places to stay in Dorset by the ... Read more...
Edging closer to summer, we all know the one that’s thing for sure in England – the warm weather doesn’t last forever. That’s why going to a music festival during the summer is something many of us Brits take advantage of. They’re fun, you get to soak up the sun (most of the time), you get to watch some cracking music and enjoy lots of fantastic food and drink.
If you’re a festival go-er, Dorset has something for you. We’ve got larger ... Read more...