Map Of South Dorset

Explore the Best of South Dorset

South Dorset is a beautiful region in southern England that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, South Dorset has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, and much more.

Top Attractions

One of the top attractions in South Dorset is the Jurassic Coast, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning coastline stretches for 95 miles and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and cliffs in England. Another must-visit attraction is the Cerne Abbas Giant, a 180-foot-tall chalk figure that dates back to the 17th century. For history enthusiasts, the Tank Museum in Bovington is a great place to learn about the history of tanks and armored vehicles.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, South Dorset has plenty to offer. The Hardy Monument, located on the top of Blackdown Hill, is a hidden gem that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Another hidden gem is the Tout Quarry Sculpture Park, which features sculptures and carvings made by local artists.

Food Scene

South Dorset is known for its delicious seafood, especially its famous Dorset oysters. The Crab House Café in Weymouth is a must-visit for seafood lovers, as it offers some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in the region. If you’re looking for something a bit more traditional, head to The Blue Vinny in Puddletown for some hearty pub food.

Outdoor Adventures

South Dorset is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water sports. The South West Coast Path runs along the Jurassic Coast and offers some of the most stunning coastal hikes in England. For cycling enthusiasts, the Isle of Purbeck offers some great mountain biking trails. And if you’re a water sports enthusiast, head to the beaches of Weymouth and Portland for some of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing in the country.

Historical Landmarks

South Dorset is steeped in history, with plenty of historical landmarks to explore. The ruins of Corfe Castle, which date back to the 11th century, are a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Another historical landmark is the Maiden Castle, which is an Iron Age hillfort that dates back to 800 BC. And for a glimpse into Roman history, visit the Roman Town House in Dorchester.

Family-Friendly Activities

South Dorset is a great destination for families, with plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. The Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre in Wareham is a must-visit for families with kids, as it offers a chance to see and learn about a variety of different primates. Another family-friendly activity is the Abbotsbury Swannery, which is home to hundreds of swans that you can feed and interact with.

Natural Wonders

South Dorset is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in England. Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch that juts out into the sea, is a must-visit for nature lovers. Another natural wonder is the Chesil Beach, a 18-mile long shingle beach that is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Vibrant Nightlife

South Dorset may not be known for its nightlife, but there are still plenty of options for those looking to let their hair down. The bars and clubs of Weymouth and Bournemouth offer a lively atmosphere and plenty of good drinks and music.

Local Markets

South Dorset is home to a variety of local markets where you can buy fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs. The Bridport Market, which takes place every Wednesday and Saturday, is a must-visit for anyone looking for local produce and crafts. Another great market is the Wimborne Minster Market, which takes place every Friday and offers a variety of goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Beaches and Mountains

South Dorset offers a unique blend of beaches and mountains, making it a great destination for both sun-seekers and hikers. The beaches of Weymouth and Bournemouth are some of the most beautiful in England, with soft sand and crystal-clear waters. For hikers, the Purbeck Hills offer some of the most stunning views in the region.

Cultural Immersion

South Dorset is home to a rich cultural heritage, with plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture. The Dorset County Museum in Dorchester is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. Another great cultural experience is the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne, which offers a variety of performances, from theater to music.

Art and Music Scene

South Dorset has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries and venues to explore. The Lighthouse in Poole is a must-visit for music lovers, as it offers a variety of performances, from classical to pop. For art enthusiasts, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum in Bournemouth is a great place to see a variety of different art styles and periods.

Walking Tours

Walking tours are a great way to explore the history and culture of South Dorset. The Thomas Hardy Society offers tours of the locations that inspired the works of the famous author. Another great walking tour is the Dorchester Town Walk, which takes you on a journey through the history and landmarks of the town.

Architectural Marvels

South Dorset is home to some of the most beautiful and unique architectural marvels in England. The St. Catherine’s Chapel, located on a hilltop in Abbotsbury, is a stunning example of medieval architecture. Another architectural marvel is the Sandbanks Ferry, which is a unique way to travel between Sandbanks and Studland.

Historical Sites

South Dorset is home to a variety of historical sites, from castles to museums. The Portland Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the region, as it offers a variety of exhibits and artifacts. Another historical site is the Lulworth Castle, which dates back to the 17th century and offers a glimpse into the history of the region.

Biking Routes

South Dorset offers some great biking routes for enthusiasts of all levels. The Isle of Purbeck offers a variety of mountain biking trails, from easy to challenging. For road cycling enthusiasts, the Jurassic Coast offers some stunning coastal routes.

Wellness Retreats

South Dorset is a great destination for wellness retreats, with plenty of options for yoga, meditation, and spa treatments. The Moonfleet Manor Spa in Weymouth is a great place to relax and rejuvenate, with a variety of treatments and packages available. Another great option is the Lulworth Cove Inn, which offers yoga and meditation classes and a variety of wellness treatments.

Adventure Sports

South Dorset is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts, with plenty of options for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. The beaches of Weymouth and Portland are some of the best spots in England for these sports. Another great option is rock climbing, with plenty of opportunities to climb along the cliffs of the Jurassic Coast.

South Dorset is a region that offers something for everyone, from history buffs to nature lovers to foodies. Use this travel guide to plan your trip and explore all that this beautiful region has to offer.