Nearly 200 local clubs have been formed by National Trust members. These clubs are called 'Associations' or 'Centres' and exist to enable members of the National Trust to gain more enjoyment from their membership and to assist the Trust with fund raising and publicity.

The South Dorset Association was established in 1994 when the original Dorset Centre was divided into two parts. The area extends from Farnham in the north-east to Evershot in the north-west, with the south-east corner at Ringstead Bay on the coast and West Bexington at the south-westerly corner.

National Trust members living in the geographical area outlined above are normally sent an invitation to join us, but members from other areas are also most welcome.

The majority of our 700 or so members live within a 15 mile radius of Dorchester and as a result, many of our activities originate in and around Dorchester and Weymouth. Whenever possible, day trips are planned to allow appropriate pick-up and drop-off points across the area.