Art, Culture & History in Dorset

Lose yourself in the rich and fascinating history of Dorset. With countless museums covering all 10,000 years of Dorset's past, and iconic sites like Corfe Castle and Kingston Lacy, there are plenty of places for history enthusiasts to uncover.

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Arts and Culture Venues in Dorset

Visitor & Tourism Guide » History, Art & Culture

Arts and Culture Venues in Dorset

Whether you have a passion for art, a keen interest in history, or simply enjoy live performances, Dorset provides a range of venues that highlight creativity and tradition. From modern galleries to historic theaters and lively community spaces, these locations reflect the county’s rich cultural spirit.

Visiting Corfe Castle: Why Dorset's Most Iconic Ruins Are an Unforgettable Day Out

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Visiting Corfe Castle: Why Dorset's Most Iconic Ruins Are an Unforgettable Day Out

Discover why Corfe Castle is one of Dorset's most iconic attractions. Explore the dramatic thousand-year-old castle ruins, enjoy breathtaking views across the Purbeck Hills and uncover fascinating stories of kings, battles and betrayal. With family-friendly trails, seasonal events, beautiful countryside walks and the charming village of Corfe Castle on its doorstep, this unforgettable National Trust destination is a must-visit for anyone exploring Dorset.

Overbury's Fine Art Supplies: Westbourne's Independent Art Shop for Creative Minds

Guide to Shops & Boutiques » Art Shops & Art Galleries » Fine Art Supplies & Art Shops

Overbury's Fine Art Supplies: Westbourne's Independent Art Shop for Creative Minds

Tucked away inside the charming Westbourne Arcade, Overbury's Fine Art Supplies is more than simply a place to buy paints and sketchbooks. It's an independent art store created by an artist, for artists, with a genuine passion for helping creativity thrive. Whether you're an experienced professional, an art...

Sculpture by the Lakes: One of Dorset's Most Peaceful Escapes

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Parks & Gardens

Sculpture by the Lakes: One of Dorset's Most Peaceful Escapes

Discover Sculpture by the Lakes, one of Dorset's most unique attractions where contemporary sculpture, beautiful gardens and tranquil lakes combine to create an unforgettable day out. Wander through an accredited botanic garden, explore inspiring outdoor artworks, browse The Makers Yard and relax in peaceful surroundings. Perfect for art lovers, photographers, gardeners and anyone looking to escape into nature in the heart of the Dorset countryside.

Tree of Strings Festival: A New Music Celebration in Abbotsbury

Events Guide | What’s On » Festivals & Events

Tree of Strings Festival: A New Music Celebration in Abbotsbury

Discover Tree of Strings Festival in Abbotsbury, where world-class musicians, emerging talent and a passion for music education come together for a unique weekend of live performances, creativity and community in the heart of Dorset.

Bournemouth’s CULTURAL LANDMARKS

Visitor & Tourism Guide » History, Art & Culture

Bournemouth’s CULTURAL LANDMARKS

Bournemouth boasts a rich cultural heritage reflected in its landmarks, which blend historical significance, architectural beauty, and artistic vibrancy. Bournemouth’s cultural landmarks offer a compelling mix of heritage, art, and community spirit, making the town a dynamic destination for cultural exploration. Each site, from the intimate Westbourne Arcade to the grand Russell-Cotes Museum, contributes to a rich tapestry that celebrates both past and present.

I Visited Poole Museum and Scaplen's Court - One of Dorset's Most Fascinating Hidden Gems

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Museums

I Visited Poole Museum and Scaplen's Court - One of Dorset's Most Fascinating Hidden Gems

Discover Poole Museum & Scaplen's Court, one of Dorset's most fascinating cultural attractions, where centuries of local history come to life in beautifully restored historic buildings. Explore engaging exhibitions, medieval architecture, the tranquil walled garden and the remarkable maritime story of Poole, all just moments from Poole Quay and Europe's largest natural harbour. Perfect for families, history lovers and anyone looking to uncover one of Dorset's best hidden gems.

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.

A Visit to PLACE MILL in Christchurch, Dorset - A Charming Historical Gem

Visitor & Tourism Guide

A Visit to PLACE MILL in Christchurch, Dorset - A Charming Historical Gem

Place Mill offers a delightful slice of Christchurch’s history. Tucked away on the picturesque Christchurch Quay, this Anglo-Saxon mill, with roots in the Domesday Book, exudes charm with its weathered Saxon and Tudor brickwork

Visiting Nothe Fort - The Multi Award-Winning Museum & Visitor Attraction.

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Tourist & Visitor Attractions

Visiting Nothe Fort - The Multi Award-Winning Museum & Visitor Attraction.

Discover why Nothe Fort is one of Weymouth's most underrated attractions. Explore atmospheric underground tunnels, a secret Cold War nuclear bunker, interactive exhibitions and spectacular 360-degree views across Weymouth Harbour, Portland Harbour and the Jurassic Coast. With family-friendly activities, seasonal events, beautiful surrounding gardens and over 150 years of history, Nothe Fort offers one of the most unique and memorable days out in Dorset.

Ancient Trails in Dorset: Discover Historic Walking Routes Through Time

Activities & Experiences » Walking & Hiking Guide

Ancient Trails in Dorset: Discover Historic Walking Routes Through Time

Explore Dorset's ancient walking trails, from prehistoric ridgeways and Iron Age hillforts to peaceful river paths and coastal routes, discovering thousands of years of history alongside spectacular countryside.

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.

Christchurch Priory

Visitor & Tourism Guide » History, Art & Culture

Christchurch Priory

A central part of Christchurch's history, and one of the longest parish churches in the country, Christchurch Priory is a physical monument to Christchurch's rich cultural and religious heritage.

Sculpture by the Lakes

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Parks & Gardens

Sculpture by the Lakes

Discover Sculpture by the Lakes, one of Dorset's most unique attractions, where contemporary sculpture, stunning botanical gardens and tranquil lakes create an unforgettable day out. Wander through beautifully landscaped grounds, admire over 120 sculptures, explore The Makers Yard and enjoy delicious seasonal food in peaceful surroundings. Perfect for art lovers, garden enthusiasts, photographers and anyone seeking a relaxing escape in the heart of the Dorset countryside.

The Tank Museum - Bringing History To Life

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Museums

The Tank Museum - Bringing History To Life

Plan your visit to The Tank Museum, one of Dorset's top-rated family attractions near Wareham. Home to the world's finest collection of almost 300 historic tanks, the museum offers interactive exhibitions, live tank displays, family activities and inspiring wartime stories. Discover ticket prices, opening times, accessibility, facilities, annual passes and everything you need to enjoy one of the best indoor days out in Dorset.

Exploring Poole Museum & Scaplen's Court: Maritime Museum, Gallery and Cultural Centre

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Museums

Exploring Poole Museum & Scaplen's Court: Maritime Museum, Gallery and Cultural Centre

Plan your visit to Poole Museum & Scaplen's Court, one of Dorset's most fascinating heritage attractions. Explore interactive exhibitions, beautifully restored medieval buildings, peaceful historic gardens and the rich maritime story of Poole, all just moments from Poole Quay. Whether you're interested in local history, architecture or looking for a free family-friendly attraction, this visitor guide includes everything you need to plan an unforgettable visit.

Corfe Castle: The Thousand-Year-Old Royal Castle Shaped by Warfare

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Corfe Castle: The Thousand-Year-Old Royal Castle Shaped by Warfare

Plan your visit to Corfe Castle, one of Dorset's most iconic National Trust attractions. Discover the dramatic thousand-year-old castle ruins, breathtaking views across the Purbeck Hills, fascinating royal history and family-friendly activities. From ticket prices and opening times to facilities, accessibility and nearby attractions, this guide includes everything you need to enjoy one of the best historic days out in Dorset.

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.