Places to Visit - Days Out in Dorset UK

Discover the best Places to Visit on Day Trips in and around Dorset. From the legendary Stonehenge, to Dorset's own Durdle Door, there are plenty of beautiful sites to explore. 

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Guide to Museums in Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Museums

Guide to Museums in Dorset

Discover Dorset's rich past and culture through its many museums and galleries. Whether you want to explore military history at Nothe Fort and the Tank Museum, or the onset of trade unions brought by the Tolpuddle Martyrs, there is an abundance of fascinating history to be found in Dorset's museums.

Discover the Jurassic Coast

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Discover the Jurassic Coast

Discover the Jurassic Coast that stretches along Dorset's coastline, offering a living timeline of 185 million years of Earth’s history, laid bare in its cliffs, beaches, and fossils.

Boscombe Beach - Bournemouth

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Beaches & Coves

Boscombe Beach - Bournemouth

Discover the plethora of things to see and do at Boscombe Beach, whether that's a walk along its iconic pier, or enjoying its wide range of amenities. With there always being something to do, it's perfect for a day out.

Best Places to Visit in Christchurch, Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Best Places to Visit in Christchurch, Dorset

Discover what Christchurch, Dorset, has to offer in our guide to the best places to visit. Located in beautiful south-west England, this charming location is sure to have something for everyone.

Compton Acres Poole

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Compton Acres Poole

Compton Acres are one of the UK’s finest privately owned historic gardens located in Canford Cliffs in Poole,Dorset. Compton Acres is made up of five distinctly beautiful gardens, from the Italian to the Wooded Valley, Rock & Water, Heather and Japanese Gardens. The gardens are open all year round with many rare, colourful and interesting plant species on show through all seasons. Providing a truly special and unique experience, you can also visit their bright and airy Cafe & Tearooms, dedicated Plant Centre and adjoining Gift Shop.

Guide to Family Attractions in Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Family Days Out & Holidays

Guide to Family Attractions in Dorset

Dorset's attractions have everything you need for fun-filled family days out. From waterparks and wildlife sanctuaries, to museums and climbing centres, there's something for everyone in Dorset.

Brewery Square Dorchester

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Brewery Square Dorchester

Brewery Square is a vibrant shopping and eating complex in the heart of Dorchester town centre. Explore the range of eateries, the perfect mix of classic and independent clothes stores, and so much more. There is something for everyone to enjoy at the Brewery Square.

Christchurch Quay

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Christchurch Quay

Find out more about what you can see and do at Christchurch's beautiful quay, from relaxing boat trips along the River Stour, to a fun family day at the splash park.

Picture Perfect Bike Rides in Dorset

*Sports & Leisure » Cycling

Picture Perfect Bike Rides in Dorset

Dorset, with its rolling hills, quaint villages, and breathtaking landscapes, is a dream destination for cyclists. The county features a variety of routes, from meandering country lanes to challenging off-road paths, suitable for all levels of experience. So, hop on your bike and prepare to explore one of England’s most picturesque locations!

Guide to the Best Beaches in Christchurch, Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Beaches & Coves

Guide to the Best Beaches in Christchurch, Dorset

Find details of the many beautiful beaches and coves that Christchurch has to offer along the coastline of Dorset, England. From the ancient headland of Hengistbury Head to the picturesque sandbanks at Mudeford Beach, the coastline offers many stunning views at each of the beaches in Christchurch.

Top Places to Visit in Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Top Places to Visit in Dorset

Dorset offers a mix of stunning coastlines, charming villages, and historic sites. Visit our guide to some of the best places to visit in Dorset.

Visiting Purbeck Park in Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Visiting Purbeck Park in Dorset

Purbeck Park, located near Norden in the Isle of Purbeck, Dorset, is a visitor hub for exploring the Jurassic Coast and nearby attractions. Here is a detailed overview of its highlights & attractions, opening times, parking, and public transport options.

Family Weekend Getaways in Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Family Days Out & Holidays

Family Weekend Getaways in Dorset

With its Jurassic Coast, rolling countryside, and charming villages, Dorset is a fantastic destination for a family weekend getaway. Here we highlight 10 carefully selected locations and activities for a memorable family break in late April 2025, focusing on family-friendly accommodations, attractions, and sunset viewpoints for a well-rounded experience. Each option includes practical details to help you plan, tailored to families seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty.

A Trip on Swanage Railway

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » *Tourist Attractions

A Trip on Swanage Railway

Swanage Railway is a heritage railway operating from Norden Station at Purbeck Park to Corfe Castle, Harman’s Cross, and Swanage in Dorset’s Isle of Purbeck.

Hengistbury Head Beach

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Beaches & Coves

Hengistbury Head Beach

Discover more about Hengistbury Head Beach, a natural, preserved pebble and sand beach perfect for getting away from the crowds.

Top Nature Reserves in Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Nature & Countryside

Top Nature Reserves in Dorset

Dorset is a haven for nature lovers with some of the best nature reserves in Dorset. Here is our list of nature reserves, selected for their rich biodiversity, family-friendly features, and unique habitats.. These reserves are managed by organisations like Dorset Wildlife Trust, RSPB, and National Trust, and offer opportunities to spot rare wildlife, enjoy scenic walks, and engage in conservation activities.

Mudeford Beach Christchurch

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Beaches & Coves

Mudeford Beach Christchurch

Find out more about the popular Mudeford Beach, well-known for its quaint, vibrant beach huts and nearby harbour. Complete with a ferry to the harbour and a lovely café, this white, sandy beach is bursting with character and is definitely worth exploring.

Hengistbury Head

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Beaches & Coves

Hengistbury Head

Hengistbury Head is a stunning stretch of headland on the south coast. With both the trail and beach providing beautiful views, and the visitor center showcasing some of the artefacts from its fascinating past, it is a wonderful spot the spend the day.

Guide to the Best Beaches in Southbourne, Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Beaches & Coves

Guide to the Best Beaches in Southbourne, Dorset

Discover the many beautiful beaches that Southbourne offers along the coastline of Dorset, England. Whether you prefer sunbathing, watersports, or just a walk along the promenade, there's something on these beaches for you.

Exploring Dorset - Highlights of Inland Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Exploring Dorset - Highlights of Inland Dorset

To explore inland Dorset, consider visiting charming towns like Sherborne and Dorchester, exploring the Blackmore Vale, or visiting historical sites like Corfe Castle and the Cerne Abbas Giant, all offering a mix of history, nature, and culture.

Abbotsbury Swannery

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » *Tourist Attractions

Abbotsbury Swannery

Abbotsbury Swannery, located near the village of Abbotsbury in Dorset, England, is the world’s only managed colony of nesting mute swans. Spread over 25 acres along the Fleet Lagoon, sheltered by Chesil Beach, it hosts around 600 free-flying swans.

Wild Chesil Centre Portland

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Wild Chesil Centre Portland

The Fine Foundation Wild Chesil Centreis a family-friendly visitor centre managed by Dorset Wildlife Trust, located on Portland Beach Road, halfway along the causeway between Weymouth and Portland. It serves as a gateway to the iconic Chesil Beach and Fleet Lagoon, an 18-mile shingle beach and wildlife-rich tidal lagoon, part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.

Popular Places to Visit in Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » *Tourist Attractions

Popular Places to Visit in Dorset

See our list of popular landmarks in Dorset, all offering amazing experiences - these attractions range from natural wonders to historical sites and family-friendly outings.

Discover the Best Sunset Viewpoints in Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Scenic Views & Viewpoints

Discover the Best Sunset Viewpoints in Dorset

From ancient ruins glowing in the evening light to serene cliffs with sweeping coastal views, Dorset’s sunsets showcase unmissable natural beauty. With its rolling countryside, dramatic cliffs, and historic landmarks, there are no shortage of stunning vantage points on offer.

Sandy Beaches in Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Beaches & Coves

Sandy Beaches in Dorset

Dorset’s sandy beaches are some of the finest in England, offering golden sands, clear waters, and a mix of lively and laid-back vibes. Dorset’s sandy beaches cater to every taste—Studland’s wild dunes, Weymouth’s classic bustle, Swanage’s gentle charm, Bournemouth’s long beaches, and Lyme’s fossil opportunities.V

March Activities in Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide

March Activities in Dorset

March in Dorset heralds the arrival of spring, with blooming landscapes, milder weather, and a fresh vibrancy that makes it an ideal time to explore this stunning county. From coastal wonders to countryside gems, here are the five best activities to enjoy in Dorset this March, each offering unique experiences tailored to different tastes. We’ll compare their locations, ambience, atmosphere, and suitability for children and pets, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Unmissable Days Out in Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Unmissable Days Out in Dorset

Dorset, a captivating county on England's southern coast, is brimming with things to see and do. From the rugged beauty of the Jurassic Coast to the quaint charm of its coastal villages, this article unveils five must-do experiences that will leave you breathless.

Guide to Historical Sites in Christchurch, Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Guide to Historical Sites in Christchurch, Dorset

Find out more about Christchurch's long, rich history, and the monuments to that past that can still be seen today. From the impressive Christchurch Castle, to the ancient ducking stool, Christchurch has a wealth of fascinating historical locations bound to inspire wonder.

Ancient Trails in Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Walking & Hiking Guide

Ancient Trails in Dorset

See our choice of Dorset’s ancient trails, that wind through the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), are steeped in history and shaped by millennia of human and natural forces. These paths often trace Iron Age routes, Roman roads, and medieval byways, and offer a connection to the past while showcasing the region’s inland and coastal splendour.

Exploring the Hills of Dorset

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Nature & Countryside

Exploring the Hills of Dorset

Dorset’s hills offer a captivating mix of chalk downs, rugged ridges, and gentle slopes that define the county’s inland and coastal character.

Christchurch Castle and Norman House

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » History, Art & Culture

Christchurch Castle and Norman House

Christchurch Castle is the remains of a large Norman castle, part of the important history of Christchurch, Dorset. The mound-top keep and tower once dominated the town. Norman House is a 12th century riverside chamber block located close to the Christchurch Castle, and is a great example of domestic Norman architecture. Norman House is part of English Heritage - it was built around 1160 and provided living quarters for the Lord of Christchurch.

Mudeford Quay

*Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Mudeford Quay

Discover the charming Mudeford Quay and the host of seaside activities it offers, from crabbing with the family, to attending one of its annual seafood festivals.