Dorset
Discover a captivating castle, a magical island, a treasue-filled mansion, literary homes, fun-packed beaches and glorious countryside.
Stepping out
Dorset has miles of footpaths with great walks and trails to suit all abilities. We care for some of the most inspiring coast and countryside.
Don't forget to join us for our Walking Festival this autumn.
Download one of our walks here - flip flops, wellies, trainers or walking boots?
Rain or shine
Things to see and do
This section of the page features an image gallery, so if you're using a screen reader you may wish to jump to the main content.
-
An island for adventure and wildlife
An island for adventure and wildlife
A harbour cruise to this magical island is a true adventure. Thriving natural habitats create a haven for wildlife, such as the rare red squirrel and a wide variety of birds. Whether you love nature or want to escape from the stress of modern life, Brownsea is the perfect place to explore and enjoy.
-
Discover a captivating castle
Discover a captivating castle
A favourite haunt for adults and children alike, you won't fail to be captivated by these romantic ruins with breathtaking views over Purbeck. With fallen walls and secret places, there are tales of treachery and treason around every corner. Why not indulge in a homemade cream tea in the 18th-century tea-room.
To find out more about Corfe Castle
© National Trust
-
Explore a treasure filled mansion
Explore a treasure filled mansion
If you are an art lover you will be dazzled by this striking 17th-century house with lavish interiors, a huge collections of paintings including Rubens, Van Dyck and Titian and a large collection of Egyptian artifacts. Outside you can explore extensive gardens, parkland, woods and an Iron Age hillfort.
To find our more about Kingston Lacy
© NTPL
-
Literary links
Literary links
Dorset's literary legends include Enid Blyton who drew inspiration from Brownsea Island (Whispering Island), Corfe Castle (Kyrin Castle) and Studland. Thomas Hardy was born nr Dorchester and then moved to Max Gate and T E Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) lived in his isolated cottage at Clouds Hill.
© Courtesy of Dorset County Museum
-
50 things to do before you're 11¾
50 things to do before you're 11¾
Are you up for our 50 things to do before your're 11¾ challenge? You can hunt for bugs in the wood, skim a stone across the sea, build a den or climb a tree. Discover the full list of things to do and places in Dorset to do them, and start earning you're badges.
©
-
Purbeck Art Weeks (PAW) Festival
Purbeck Art Weeks (PAW) Festival
Come along to the opening of the PAW Festival at Corfe on May 26 from 5.30 to 7.30pm. Rock, rattle and roll in a dazzling procession from the common to the castle with music, masks and flags. Create a Jubilee crown from stones and 'capture the castle' in a communal work of art. Admission free, donations welcome.
Find all the festival details here
© Sky Cell
An island for adventure and wildlife
Discover a captivating castle
Explore a treasure filled mansion
Literary links
50 things to do before you're 11¾
Purbeck Art Weeks (PAW) FestivalStay a while - holiday cottages
Quay Cottage has stunning views across Poole Harbour
© Brian Whitlcok
We have some great places to stay in Dorset. From converted farmhouses and an old isolation hospital to an island retreat on Brownsea or a former tennis pavilion at Studland.
We can help you find your perfect spot and it's the perfect opportunity to explore the area in depth and discover its special places.
Stay a while - camping
Get closer to nature with a family camping expedition
Be inspired by a night under canvas. Why not get closer to nature and the outdoors at one of our campsites?
For something different our Golden Cap bunkhouse, once a post-war MOD radar station, sleeps eight and has wonderful views over Lyme Bay.
Stay a while - working holidays
Meet new friends on a working holiday
© National Trust
On your bike
This gentle circular route will enable you to explore the Studland Peninsula, taking in the views across Brands Bay and Little Sea, the expanse of Godlingston Heath and the amenities at Knoll Beach.
Our e-newsletter
Be the first to know what's going on in Dorset, every month, by email. If you live in a BH or DT postcode why not sign up for our local e-newsletter.
Find us on facebook
Local links
We are delighted that local law firm, Coles Miller, are supporting a programme of events in Dorset.
These include Shakespeare on Brownsea and a photographic competition in Bournemouth featuring our special places.