Dorset is the perfect destination for those tired of the busy urban life, especially since you won’t spot a single city building in sight. Instead, what will surround you is the calming horizon and peaceful countryside. You can climb on top of a cliff or go to the beach to unwind and find your inner peace. Go back in time and witness history for yourself as you explore its historic attractions and architectural landmarks. Hunt for fossils and discover hidden dinosaur remains or enter a tank that once belonged to a soldier. Feed your curiosity and try out things that you’ve never tried before. Let yourself loose and have a fun here. Read on to know about the top things to do in Dorset, United Kingdom.
1. Marvel at beautiful paintings in the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Job Opportunities at the Russell-Cotes! We are looking for a Catering General Assistant to help with our bright and...
Posted by Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum on Wednesday, February 23, 2022
Founded at the turn of the 20th century, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum was once the residence of a private Victorian collector. Today, it stands as a famous historical museum that attracts visitors with its impressive collection of period paintings and artworks. The gallery features not only typical middle-class pieces but also paintings that the War Artists Advisory Committee gave. It also accepts local compositions by modern artists.
After browsing through the colorful displays, visitors can take a coffee break at the Museum Café. The hotel also features temporary exhibitions, special events, and informative workshops for creative souls.
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Address: East, W Cliff Promenade, Bournemouth BH1 3AA, United Kingdom
Website: Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 8.50 GBP (10.48 USD)
2. Taste delicious wine at the Little Waddon Vineyard
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Little Waddon Vineyard on Thursday, August 16, 2018
Little Waddon Vineyard is nestled on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast and offers lovely views and beautifully crafted wine. Each bottle is a product of a sustainable, eco-friendly, and pesticide-free growing process with low intervention. The vineyard also features host-tailored events where visitors can experience its unique ‘Grape-to-Glass’ ethos. The Tasting Room and Terrace are thoughtfully refurbished to accommodate tastings and events throughout the year.
Visitors, especially couples, who want to experience the vineyard for a little longer can stay in The Hide. The year-round hideaway is tucked into the vineyard’s corner and features a cozy sleeping area, lounge, and attached shower room. It also boasts a private hot tub, where couples can enjoy intimate soaks with award-winning wine in hand.
Little Waddon Vineyard
Address: Winter’s Ln, Waddon, Weymouth DT3 4ER, United Kingdom
Website: Little Waddon Vineyard
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm
3. Enjoy outdoor adventures at Moors Valley Country Park & Forest
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Know before you go If you're planning to visit over the Bank Holiday weekend, we've put together a list of all the...
Posted by Moors Valley Country Park and Forest on Friday, August 28, 2020
Moors Valley Country Park & Forest is the place to visit, especially if you’re one for exciting outdoor adventures and peaceful nature views. Nestled in over 800 acres (323.75 hectares) of managed woodland, this country park welcomes all kinds of visitors, including families and pets, for free. Only parking fees apply.
During their time here, visitors can explore numerous nature trails, play a round of golf, and check out the Moors Valley Railway. There is also a play area for children, not to mention a laser tag arena for the whole group. Visitors can even explore the forest riding on a horse. After all the adventures, takeaway kiosks and a restaurant on-site provide a quick energy recharge.
Moors Valley Country Park & Forest
Address: Horton Rd, Ashley Heath, Ringwood BH24 2ET, United Kingdom
Website: Moors Valley Country Park & Forest
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
Price: Free
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4. Be surrounded by nature at Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens on Saturday, April 16, 2022
Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of blooming flowers and rare plants when you visit Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens. This walled Victorian garden features a unique microclimate that houses exotic flora and fauna. It also boasts the Wonderland Sculpture Trail that displays bronze-cast characters based on the beloved classic. Apart from nature trails, visitors can also explore sunken gardens with golden pheasants, and the Sir Simon Hornby Magnolia Walk with coast views. Children can enjoy endless fun at the designated play area.
A gift shop selling souvenirs is found on-site. There is also a plant center where visitors can purchase some high-quality plants to bring back home.
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Address: Buller’s Way, Abbotsbury, Weymouth DT3 4LA, United Kingdom
Website: Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 6 GBP (7.40 USD)
5. Follow the dinosaur trail at The Jurassic Coast in West Lulworth (from USD 60.0)
The Jurassic Coast is a beautiful landscape that serves as a heritage site for prehistoric remains. It was granted the title of World Heritage Site due to its vast collection of rocks and fossils. Learn a thing or two about collecting fossils by joining a fossil hunt and finding remnants of vanished dinosaurs. Who knows? You might even discover some new fossils. Take a tour of the area and watch stunning views while listening to stories of ancient history.
Exploring the Jurassic Coast on foot
Duration: 5 hours
6. Visit the color-changing Blue Pool in Wareham
Nature lovers should visit the Blue Pool to unwind and witness a sight unlike any other. Sit at one of the benches surrounding the pool and watch the pool changing its colors from green to turquoise. This is caused by the light refracting on the fine clay in the water. Relish the beauty of the outdoors and walk along the trails. Catch a glimpse of squirrels hidden in the trees or take a quick bite at the old-fashioned Tea House. Forget about all your stress as you immerse yourself in this breathtaking haven. The Blue Pool is temporarily closed until further notice.
The Blue Pool
Address: Furzebrook Rd, Wareham BH20 5AR, United Kingdom
Website: The Blue Pool
7. Ride back in time on Swanage Railway
If you’ve always been curious about how things used to look like in the past, then you definitely need to ride Swanage Railway. Go on a trip in this vintage railway and enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere. Travel around Purbeck and watch the countryside pass by. Stop by each station and visit different attractions such as the remains of Corfe Castle. You will have access to lunch and afternoon tea on board so you can fill your stomach while on the road.
Swanage Railway
Address: Swanage BH19 2PH, United Kingdom
Website: Swanage Railway
8. Taste Dorset Blue Vinny Cheese at Woodridge Farm
Cheese enthusiasts, foodies, and curious cats, come on over to Woodbridge Farm. You get your fresh supply of cheese, milk, butter, and other dairy products at the pop up vending machines. Don’t forget to grab the farm’s specialty, which is the unique Dorset Blue Vinny Cheese. What makes this 300-year-old cheese stand out from the rest is its crumbly texture and the blue veins that run across it. Try it out and pair it with handmade chutneys and pickles.
Woodbridge Farm
Address: Woodbridge Farm, Sturminster Newton, DT10 2BD
Website: Woodbridge Farm
Opening hours: 7am - 8pm (daily)
9. Paddle along Studland Bay to the Old Harry Rocks (from USD 66.0)
Old Harry Rocks is the go-to destination for those looking for an adventure. It’s a place filled with stories of myths and legends as well as pirates and smugglers. Explore this legendary landmark on your kayak. You’ll start off by paddling at Studland Bay and then reach the Old Harry Rocks, where you will enter mystical sea caves and discover hidden gems. This activity is best enjoyed with a company. Bring your family and friends along and bond over mystery and adventure.
Kayaking Adventure to Old Harry Rocks
Duration: 3 hours
10. Have an extraordinary stay at Clavell Tower in Wareham
Climb on top of a hill to see the exquisite Clavell Tower and the best views of Dorset’s coastline. Located on top of a cliff, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of where the sky meets the sea. The tower itself has four floors with a bedroom each. The bedroom on the first floor leads into a balcony. Feel like royalty as you enjoy its amenities and its impressive architecture. This is a great spot for those looking for a luxurious and peaceful place to hang out for a while. Sit back, relax, and cherish the calming horizon.
Clavell Tower
Address: Kimmeridge, Wareham BH20 5PF, United Kingdom
Website: Clavell Tower
Price: 64 GBP (84 USD)
11. Get a glimpse of World War I at The Tank Museum
Take a history lesson in the Tank Museum, where you’ll be given a quick insight of what went on during the war. This museum has a collection of almost 300 war vehicles from 26 countries. Listen to courageous tales from the First World War as you walk around and see the vehicles and equipment for yourself. You’ll also find out how these vehicles are maintained and restored. There are quizzes, interactive games, and exhibits that will both teach and entertain you. Join a tour and you’ll be able to experience entering a real tank. The best way to learn about history is getting close and personal with it.
The Tank Museum
Address: Linsay Rd, Bovington, Wareham BH20 6JG, United Kingdom
Website: The Tank Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Adult: 14 GBP (18 USD); Child: 8.75 GBP (11 USD); Two adults + two children: 38.50 GBP (50 USD); One adult + two children: 27.50 GBP (36 USD)
12. Treat your taste buds to delicious drinks at a Cider farm (from USD 10.0)
Treat your taste buds to delicious drinks at this cider farm tour. You’ll start off by sampling an organic apple juice and learning about the history of producing cider. Then, you will proceed to the orchards, where you will receive a detailed explanation of how they turn the apples into a sweet refreshment. Taste up to 12 kinds of ciders while talking and walking around. Afterwards, you’ll get an idea of what kind of cider you want to bring home.
Tour & Tasting of a Cider farm
Duration: 1.5 hours
13. Experience open-air cinema at Lulworth Castle
Located in a tranquil countryside is a 17th-century hunting lodge that now serves as a museum. Step inside and marvel at the majestic interior. Visitors can wander around the castle’s surrounding fields or settle down on a patch of grass and have a picnic. Grab some homemade cakes or choose a souvenir at the Castle Tearoom. Families and groups of friends often stay at night for Luna Cinema, which is an outdoor film-viewing event. Watch blockbusters with your family and friends while enjoying the night breeze.
Lulworth Castle Wareham
Address: East Lulworth, Wareham BH20 5QS, United Kingdom
Website: Lulworth Castle Wareham
Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 10:30am - 4pm (closed on Sat)
Price: Lulworth Castle entrance fee - 6 GBP (8 USD) per adult; 4 GBP (5 USD) per child. Luna Cinema admission fee - 15 GBP (20 USD) per adult; 10 GBP (13 USD) per child
14. Create your own wood art design at Collaborator's Cabin in Poole (from USD 30.0)
Join this wood art-making session and craft your own souvenir that you can keep for yourself or gift to someone else. For three hours, you will study the art of pyrography and apply your design on a piece of wood. Choose from working on a box, a bookmark, a magnet, or other wooden trinkets. Talk to other people and share your ideas with one another. Rather than focusing on perfection, this class is all about expressing yourself and creating something new. You will end up with your own masterpiece and maybe even a couple of new friends.
Enjoy the tranquility of art on wood
Duration: 3 hours
Live the fairy tale life in Dorset
Believe it or not, there’s a place on earth where all your worries don’t exist. Take all the time that you need to explore every nook and cranny of Dorset and you’ll feel like you’re living in an exciting fairy tale. Your journey will involve stepping inside mysterious caves or climbing the highest cliff. It doesn’t end there, you can discover an enchanting pool or dig up the remains of extinct dinosaurs. What sounds like a fantasy book can be a reality. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Dorset.
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