Top 10 Dorset Destinations

Dorset has long been one of the most popular tourist locations in the UK. Offering some of the most breathtaking views and rugged coastlines, pretty rivers through gently rolling countryside, sleepy villages and bustling market towns.  With so many beautiful locations to visit you may just want to experience them first hand in one of our Dorset Holiday Cottages. Take a look at the Top 10 Dorset Destinations you must visit.

Lyme Regis

From ancient rocks to high-tech yachts, bustling streets to golden sands, Lyme Regis has it all. Surrounded by unspoilt countryside, Lyme’s golden, south facing beaches, clean safe water and landscaped seafront gardens make it an ideal place for a traditional seaside holiday. Captivating visitors for centuries, Lyme Regis’ rich history and a medieval trading centre, Tudor port and 18th century sea spa town has attracted royalty, painters, poets and more throughout the ages.

Take a day to wander through the town and you’ll find artisan shops, eye catching galleries, historic buildings and of course the famous Cobb and harbour. Refresh yourself in one of the many traditional tea rooms and cosy pubs or treat yourself to fantastic food in one of Lyme’s quality restaurants. Read our blog: “7 Impressive National Trust places near Lyme Regis” to discover iconic sites nearby.

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Charmouth

Considered the gateway to the World Heritage Site, Charmouth has one of the finest and most famous fossil beaches in Europe. The Heritage Centre on the seafront is the best place to discover more about the area’s dramatic geology, pick up fossil-hunting tips or get involved in the many natural history activities ideal for couples and families. This sleepy seaside village is beautiful and relaxed with a pretty seafront, clean beaches, plenty of pubs and restaurants and acres of playing fields to explore.

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West Bay

For some this picturesque fishing village will be familiar for its the setting for the Bafta award-winning drama Broadchurch. West Bay was originally the harbour for the nearby, bustling market town of Bridport but with its beautiful marina, south facing beaches, pubs and restaurants it has forged an identity for itself and is popular for couples or families offering something for all ages.

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Beaminster

There is always plenty going on in the pretty market town of Beaminster. An important area of conservation and also the setting for Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the d’Urbervilles Beaminster is an idyllic place to stroll and shop. Located at the head of the River Brit’s hidden valley, a memorable area known for its wildlife and water mills, there is an abundance of beautiful and tranquil walks on to enjoy.

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Burton Bradstock

The dramatic beauty of Burton Bradstock’s cliffs as they glow in the evening sunlight is a sight to behold. This peaceful Dorset village boats an award winning beach restaurant serving local seafood and is full of quaint 16th Century thatched cottages and traditional pubs.

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Bridport

The bustling market town of Bridport with its Georgian buildings and 13th Century church is well worth a visit. The farmers and street markets showcase the best of all local goods and produce and are not to be missed. A relaxed artisan atmosphere is complimented by some of the best local restaurants in the area with diversity and fusion served up with quality and style.

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Chideock and Seatown

Chideock is a village steeped in history and along with the neighbouring hamlet of Seatown lies at the heart of this designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The beach at Seatown with its award winning pub and restaurant offers some stunning views of the slopes of Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast.

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Studland Bay

Studland Bay is a stunning tourist location to visit all year round offering some of the best of Dorset’s sandy beaches  and of course the famous Old Harrys Rocks a unique rock formation on the Dorset coast. A National Trust nature reserve, Studland Bay is one of the most beautiful natural landmarks on the south coast.

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Weymouth

With its seafront of golden sand and the beautiful, historic harbour, Weymouth has long been one of the most popular locations for a traditional British seaside holiday.  The iconic deckchairs of Weymouth beach have long been favoured for watching the coming and goings from the harbour whilst enjoying a Dorset ice cream.

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Dorchester

The historic market town of Dorchester has a unique charm and vibrancy with an array of museums (of which it has eight!), cafes, restaurants and shops. Once the home of Thomas Hardy the town has a popular Arts Centre, two cinemas and a range of daily markets showcasing the best of Dorset’s goods and produce.

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