Things to Do in Dorset I UK I Stay in a Pub I Find Out More

Rural Dorset

Rural Dorset is an area of picturesque natural countryside, fields, rivers and heathland. Rural Dorset is made up of Wimborne Minster, Blandford Forum, Shaftesbury and Sturminster Newton. Lose yourself in these olde-worlde English market towns and discover the countryside that inspired the renowned author, Thomas Hardy.

Visitors can explore the sweeping downland of Cranborne Chase and the Dorset Downs to the River Stour. Outdoor enthusiasts won’t be bored in Dorset. The county has some of the best outdoor activities in the country and adrenaline junkies can enjoy everything from coasteering, abseiling, quad biking, white water rafting to kite surfing.

For those looking for something more relaxing, there are lots of idyllic walking trails, guided walks and hiking routes around the beautiful countryside.

For more information on walking in Dorset, take a look at our Walking in Dorset guide.

Swanage and Purbeck

Swanage & Purbeck is situated on the south coast of Dorset and offers some of the most incredible coastal scenes. Visitors can walk along the award-winning beach at the Victorian resort of Swanage or take a trip to Lulworth Cove, which is the eastern gateway to World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast.

If you’ve come to discover the vast wildlife and learn more about the unique landscape, Durlston Country Park is a perfect place to start. The national nature reserve is situated on the southeast corner of the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset. The country park stretches across 320 acres of heath, woodland and cliffs and is home to various birds, wildflower and invertebrates. For those hoping to do a bit of cycling whilst in Dorset, there are some peaceful cycle trails in Wareham Forest. Consisting of open heathland, the forest is home to Sika deer, woodlarks and various other unique species.

A trip to Moors Valley Country Park and Forest is a great day out for all the family. Children of all ages can experience the ‘Play Trail’, which consists of unique wooden play structures that allow visitors to crawl through the belly of a snake, climb the Bewildernest and find their way through the Crocodile Crossing.

For the thrill seekers, the Go Ape Tree Top Challenge allows you to swing through the trees using ladders and various walkways. The exhilarating zip wires allow you to wiz through trees and view the forest from high above.

For families with small children, a visit to Farmer Palmers Farm Park or Dorset’s famous ape rescue centre, Monkey World are great days out.

West Dorset

West Dorset is an area that is perfect for walkers and cyclists. With brilliant coastline and flowing fields of countryside, West Dorset is just spectacular. Traditional market towns of Bridport and Dorchester are well worth the visit, as they are rich in heritage and history. If you head to the coast you can visit seaside resorts, Lyme Regis and West Bay.

Weymouth & Portland

Weymouth is known for its sandy beaches and for being a fun destination for the whole family. From sand sculptures to an underwater world of impressive sea creatures, Weymouth has attractions to suit all ages.

The Isle of Portland, which is part of the World Heritage Coast, is steeped in maritime history. The island is home to various museums, castles and lighthouses. For outdoor enthusiasts, there is a whole host of activities on the island, including rock-climbing, abseiling, kite surfing, diving and sailing.

Poole

Poole has its own harbour and due to its size, has become a popular place to visit for watersports and sailing enthusiasts. Known for its sandy beaches, Poole is home to Sandbanks Beach, which is known for being one of the best beaches in Britain, with its fine golden sand and clear blue waters.

Due to its picture perfect location and gorgeous sandy beach, Sanbanks is home to the rich and famous, including former football managers Harry Redknapp and Tony Pulis.