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.
Looking for things to do in Dorset? There's a huge choice of visitor attractions, including beautiful gardens, 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, enjoy exploring what's on offer.
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Vouchers & OffersYou can also explore all of the Dorset venues on our Dorset Map.
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Latest Dorset Features
The popular Resort Dorset magazine for 2018 is out today. Our free title offers visitors the chance to discover all the best things to see and do across the county.
Resort is packed with great attractions, activities, food and drink, shopping, events and more ideas for great days out. You'll also find lots of money-saving vouchers!
Keep an eye out for the bright yellow dispensers and pick up your copy soon - they'll be found in many hotels, holiday parks, shops, ... Read more...
If you're looking for live music in Dorset during 2018 then you're in luck! The county has a host of festivals celebrating the best of rock, pop, jazz, folk, blues... whatever your taste in music, there's bound to be a music festival or event featured here for you!
Many of the events are free to attend, so there's no excuse not to take in some of the best sounds the county has to offer this year.
Take a look at the schedule below and start planning your summer ... Read more...
Durdle Door is one of the most photographed landmarks along Dorset's famous Jurassic Coast. This rock arch in the sea (or is it a dragon drinking water?!) was formed as a result of the softer rocks being eroded away behind the hard limestones, allowing the sea to punch through them. The name Durdle is derived 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 ... Read more...
Dorset is blessed with more beauty spots and landmarks per square mile than anywhere else (ok we just made that up, but it's got a lot).
With its stunning countryside, breathtaking coastal views, historic monuments and spectacular natural features, you don’t have to look far to see why visitors just can’t get enough of what Dorset has to offer.
One of the great advantages is just how accessible everything is – many sights are close together and you could ... Read more...
The tiny ghost village of Tyneham was requisitioned along with the surrounding Purbeck hills for army training just before Christmas in 1943. Villagers were assured that their homes would be returned to them after the war, but under pressure from the War Office these promises were broken and the village remains under MoD control to this day.
The site, close to Lulworth, is now open to the public and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Many buildings have suffered ... Read more...