Things to do in Dorset
Discover the best attractions and experiences Dorset has to offer
Historic Monuments
Dorset's ancient fortifications and castles rise above towns and coast, telling stories of centuries past.
Corfe Castle
A dramatic ruined fortress perched above the village of Corfe Castle with a thousand year history.
Maiden Castle
One of Europe's largest Iron Age hill forts with expansive ramparts and sweeping views.
Portland Castle
A 16th century coastal fortress guarding Portland's harbour and coastline.
Museums
Learn about Dorset's people, farms, and sea through well-curated local museums.
Dorset County Museum
Dorchester's museum with natural history and local archaeology displays.
The Tank Museum
Comprehensive collection spanning tanks from different eras and theatres of war.
Poole Museum
Maritime history and local culture told through interactive exhibits.
Sherborne Museum
Local history museum in the historic town of Sherborne.
Religious Monuments
Historic churches and religious sites dot Dorset, often with striking architecture and story.
Sherborne Abbey
Gothic abbey church with a long ecclesiastical history and impressive architecture.
Wimborne Minster
A medieval church known for its tall spire and parish traditions.
Christchurch Priory
Grand riverside church with Romanesque arches and long-standing history.
National & Theme Parks
Dorset's coast and countryside are protected in part by a World Heritage coastline and scenic parks.
Jurassic Coast
World Heritage coastline famed for dramatic cliffs, fossils, and coastal walks.
Durlston Country Park
Coastal park near Swanage with cliff paths, wildlife and a hilltop castle.
Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door
Iconic limestone formations with dramatic sea views along the Jurassic Coast.
Neighborhoods
Explore characterful towns and seaside quarters that feel like small Dorset worlds.
Dorchester Old Town
Historic center with narrow lanes, riverside walks, and market charm.
Weymouth Old Town & Seafront
Quaint lanes, harbor views and an inviting seaside promenade.
Poole Quay & Old Town
Harbor-side streets with shops, pubs and family-friendly vibe.
Free Things to Do
Dorset offers many cost-free ways to soak up its coastal character and rural scenery.
Walk the Jurassic Coast cliff tops
Take in dramatic sea views along the UNESCO coast.
Relax on Weymouth Beach
Long sandy shore with plenty of space to unwind.
Explore Maiden Castle hill fort ridge
Open-air ancient earthworks offering sweeping views.
Gastronomy
Eat local specialties—coast, countryside and village markets provide tasty picks.
Dorset Cream Tea
Scones with clotted cream and jam, a quintessential Dorset treat.
Dorset Knob biscuits
Crumbly, traditional biscuits baked to a local recipe.
Portland Oysters
Fresh oysters from Poole Harbour with seaside flavor.
Dorset Blue Vinney cheese
Sharp, creamy blue cheese made in the county.
Nightlife
Coastal towns offer relaxed pubs, bars and live music along the seafront.
Weymouth seafront pubs
Casual pubs and bars with ocean views and live music.
Poole Quay bars
Harbor-side spots to sip and watch boats come and go.
Bournemouth Triangle nightlife
Vibrant clusters of bars and clubs popular with locals.
Entertainment
The region hosts theatres and arts venues offering performances year-round.
Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne
Historic venue offering plays, music and performances.
Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre
Seaside theatre with touring shows and concerts.
Lighthouse Arts Centre, Poole
Ongoing arts programming including theatre and exhibitions.
Sports
Active travelers can get on the water, cliff paths, and coastal trails.
Kayaking on Poole Harbour
Paddle through calm waters with harbour views.
Coasteering along the Jurassic Coast
Adventure on sea cliffs with jumps and swims.
Sailing at Weymouth & Portland
Learn or compete on one of the UK's premier sailing waters.
Off the Track
Delve into Hardy country and lesser-known landscapes beyond the tourist spots.
Thomas Hardy's Cottage, Higher Bockhampton
Birthplace and preserved cottage of the famed novelist.
Max Gate, Dorchester
Hardy's later home, designed by Thomas Hardy himself.
Cerne Abbas Giant
Ancient hill figure carved into the chalk hillside.