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Things to do inPortland

Visitor information for Portland in Dorset

  • Portland
  • Portland
  • Portland
  • Portland

When you visit the Isle of Portland, stop off at the Chesil Beach Visitor Centre on the causeway, where you’ll find lots of information about Chesil Beach and the wildlife that it supports. 

You’ll also pass the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy, which hosted the Olympic sailing events of London 2012 and still hosts top sailing events throughout the year.

There are several attractions on the island which offer something for all ages: The D-Day Centre offers an immersive, interactive visitor experience that tells the story of embarkation from what the Americans called: ‘The world's biggest little port’; Portland Castle is one of Henry VIII’s finest coastal forts with views over Portland Harbour; the animals at Fancy’s Farm will delight the children and as it’s free to wander around it will no doubt delight the adults too; and Portland Museum is packed with artefacts that chart the history, people and culture of the island, and, surprisingly, it has a connection to family planning! 

To the right of the Museum is a path and steps that lead down to Church Ope Cove, a sheltered beach that is popular with local residents and was once a smuggling hot spot. The walk down to the beach offers stunning views and it’s usually quiet. 

Portland Stone has been used in prestigious buildings all around the world, including London’s St Paul’s Cathedral, and the United Nations Headquarters in New York. Quarrying continues but Tout Quarry, now disused, has become a sculpture park with more than seventy sculptures to be found by walking around the site. 

The South West Coast Path goes right around the island and on a clear day you can see the longest stretch of coastline than from any other point on the Path’s 630-mile length.

The Visitor Centre at Portland Bill Lighthouse gives an insight into the work of Trinity House, the organisation responsible for the operation of our lighthouses. During the summer, visitors are able to climb the lighthouse steps and marvel at the views.

Close to the Lighthouse is the Portland Bird Observatory: Portland has many sightings of rare birds as they use the island as a stop off point on their migration to warmer climes. Swallows, oystercatchers, short-eared owls and the UK’s smallest bird of prey, Merlins, have all been spotted off Portland Bill. The Observatory is open all year round for you to visit and to spot the local wildlife. 

With horse riding fabulous sea views, pubs, cafes and restaurants ready to fulfil your foodie requirements, Portland really does have a lot to offer its visitors.

Things to do in Portland

Portland Places of Interest

Places to Go

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

You can also explore all of the venues on our Portland Map.

Portland Events

Latest Portland Features

1 Nov 2023
Whether you call him Santa Claus, Father Christmas, St Nicks or simply Santa, your little ones will want to meet the real deal this year. Lucky for you, many of Dorset's businesses have arranged magical experiences for you and your family to do just that. So why not take a look at the festive fun to be found in Dorset this year. Read more...
1 Oct 2023
Half-term Fun in Dorset So, it’s the half term and you may be wondering how you’re going to keep the kids entertained! Well don’t worry, whether you are local resident or are staying in Dorset on a break, there’s lots to do throughout the seasons. Our Resort family has children of different ages and here are some of the things we plan to enjoy; perhaps you will too! Fossil Hunting – you may just discover the next big thing! Do be aware of the tide times, stay away from ... Read more...
2 Aug 2023
Things to do on a rainy day in Dorset Dorset is blessed with countless scenic locations to explore in the summer months, from Durdle Door to Portland Bill there are plenty of beauty spots and outdoor activities to enjoy. But what about those rainy days in Dorset when the number one priority is keeping dry? We’ve compiled a list of fantastic Dorset attractions and activities to keep you and your family entertained when the rain takes hold. Rainy Day Attractions & Activities in Dorset What else ... Read more...
13 Jul 2021
Hidden gems - secret places to visit in Dorset Get off the beaten track in Dorset, and explore some of these hidden locations. Dorset is well-known for some spectacular places to visit, but there’s much more just waiting to be discovered. Some of these are more secret than others, but most are free and well worth adding to any itinerary – there are lots of great hidden things to do here, especially if you’re looking to escape! 1. Chapman’s Pool A pretty little hidden cove nestled in the Isle of ... Read more...
18 Feb 2021
Plan your Dorset Staycation We’ve all had better years. If you’re looking for a much-needed break, look no further - here are 10 good reasons you can’t go wrong with a Dorset staycation in 2021. Dorset has lots of outside space. Whether on the coast or out in the country, there’s room to spread out and enjoy the great outdoors. Accommodation – there’s plenty of choice, and accommodation providers, from campsites and B&Bs to luxury cottages and hideaways, ... Read more...

More articles available in the features section.

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