national trust places to visit in dorset

National Trust Places To Visit In Dorset

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Having had a National Trust membership for a few years, it’s decided you can definitely save money by purchasing the membership. Finding National Trust places to visit in Dorset isn’t a difficult task as there are plenty of options available.

Many of these National Trust locations are dog friendly which is a bonus for dog owners.

Kingston Lacy

Address: Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 4EA

Kingston Lacy is a popular day out in Dorset for adults and children alike. There is so much for all the family to do including taking your four legged friend along too.

A country house and estate located near Wimborne, Dorset, designed to resemble an Italian palace. If you wish to tour the house you can book online free of charge, but availability can run out during busy days. The house is well worth a visit, with plenty of history and information to be soaked up.

The woodland trail is a great place to explore, and it’s a popular National Trust walk. The views that it provides are stunning and all the while providing lots of exercise for everyone.

You can spot bluebells in the Spring and snowdrops in the Winter months. The trail has some uneven ground in places, but generally is an easy walk.

Related Post – Woodland walks in Dorset

Whilst dogs aren’t allowed on the front lawn and some of the gardens , its well worth a visit without the pets to explore all the amazing scenery Kingston Lacy has to offer.

At Christmas time, a night time visit to one of their popular events is a tour along the illuminated garden. Enjoy a wander along the lit paths before stopping for a hot chocolate near the Christmas tree. Very festive!

Kingston Lacy is often opened for free for non members during September as part of the Heritage Open Days .

Address: Alington Avenue, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 2AJ

Max Gate is one of the popular places to visit in Dorset, located a short walk from Dorchester town centre.

A Victorian home designed by Thomas Hardy in 1885 who wanted to show he was part of the wealthy middle class in the area. The house was named after a nearby tollgate keeper named Mack.

Exploring Max Gate, you can expect to see the rooms where Hardy lived until his death, find the pet cemetery and the large garden where Hardy would spend a lot of his time.

Hardy’s Cottage

If you wanted to visit the birthplace of Thomas Hardy, then you’ll want to discover Hardy’s cottage near Dorchester. It was here that Thomas Hardy was inspired to write Far From The Madding Crowd. He lived in the cottage until he was around 30 years old, when he moved away from Dorset.

Max Gate, another National Trust property in Dorset then became Hardy’s home until he did.

You can tour the cottage and see the rooms both downstairs and upstairs as well as touring the beautiful gardens.

Hardy Monument

Address: Black Down, Portesham, Dorset, DT2 9HY

The Hardy Monument can be found above the village of Portesham in Dorset. Built in 1944 in memory of Vice-Admiral Sir Thomas Mastermind Hardy, Flag Captain of HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar.

The location of the Hardy Monument is very dog friendly, but be mindful of cattle grazing in the area. The carpark opens from Weds to Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm between Easter and September weather permitting.

Studland Bay

Address: Studland, near Swanage, Dorset

There are plenty of walks to be taken near Studland Bay including walking to the famous Old Harry rocks where you can see amazing views of the Jurassic Coast.

There is also a family friendly circular walk through the dunes at Studland Bay where you can spot a seahorse sculpture, amazing views across the sea and plenty of wildlife.

Related Post – Things to do in Swanage

Corfe Castle

Address: The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5EZ

Corfe Castle is a great place to visit during the different seasons. There is always something different happening with games and events for the children.

Corfe Castle is the setting Enid Blyton based Kirrin Castle on in her stories of Famous Five, and it doesn’t take a lot of imagination to see how much fun the character would have had when you explore the grounds.

Related Post – Dog friendly days out in Dorset

Corfe Castle is located in Corfe, Dorset, and there is a large free car park for National Trust members at the bottom of the hill which is a great bonus. A short walk from the car park and you can spend hours exploring the ruins.

Address: Golden Cap Estate, Morcombelake, Bridport, Dorset

Golden Cap is one of the National Trust places near Lyme Regis and Charmouth in Dorset. It provides stunning views from the highest point on the south coast, and gets it name from the golden colour of the cliffs.

Brownsea Island

Address: Poole Harbour, Poole, Dorset, BH13 7EE

Brownsea Island is accessed via ferry from Poole Quay and Sandbanks. I remember visiting Brownsea Island for the first time when I was on a school trip years ago, and couldn’t wait to go back as an adult.

Related Post – Visiting Brownsea Island

Brownsea Island is a full day out by the time you factor the ferry times in. Ferry’s do leave at frequent intervals but expect queues during the nicer weather.

On Brownsea Island you can see some amazing peacocks, they do like to show off for the visitors. You may also be able to spot red squirrels as they go about their business on the island.

Ringstead Bay

You’ll find approximately half a mile of beach at Ringstead Bay in Dorset. It’s a perfect location for exploring some of the South West Coast path, or flying a kite and visiting the beach.

A popular Jurassic Coast walk is between Ringstead Bay and Osmington Mills . National Trust members can park for free in the car park at the top of the hill. This also provides amazing views across the sea, the perfect place for a picnic.

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Dorset National Trust Great Places To Visit

• 30th August 2022

Geoff Moore

• Blog , Discover Dorset , Featured Slider , Latest News

National Trust properties of Dorset vary from a scraggy sheep grazed hillside field to an elegant lawn trimmed rural mansion.

And in between even more choices!

Clouds Hill home of TE Lawrence.

Touring the county you also have the chance to visit the former home of a world famous author.

Plus that of another author and soldier who incidently both were knew to each other.

Firstly starting with the stately pile of Kingston Lacy.

Kingston Lacy. Manor house and country estate.

Located like a tiny stone island in a sea of 8,500 acres of lush and very rural Dorset countryside.

The former home of the Bankes family was  remodelled several times in its history.

Like Many This Too Was Touched By Slavery

Although, like many similar homes of that period sadly touched by involvement in the Caribbean slave trade.

A striking building of Chilmark stone clad in 1830, but before just in brick. Its most well known owner William John Bankes who became engulfed by the Egyptian history trend. He became an enthusiastic collector of artefacts from Egypt.

One giant obelisk still stands in the garden came from the later Ptolemaic period when Cleopatra ruled Egypt. The inscription also played a part in deciphering hieroglyphics along with the Rossetta stone.

A red granite sarcophagus that once housed the body of Amenemope, Chief Steward of Amun of  Thebes can also be found in the extensive grounds.

The house offers a glimpse of stately upper-class life furnished with period items and decor.

Shabti’s sent back to the house from Egypt.

However, William Bankes continued to travel to his favoured country and sent back many artefacts from Egypt for the house.

As an absent estate owner due to being labelled a homosexual he lived for many years in Italy, France and he died in Venice in 1855.

Encompassed in the extensive grounds are yet two more additional National Trust properties to visit.

Badbury Rings an iron-age hill fort with its beech tree lined approach plus the White Mill a corn mill located on the River Stour near Shapwick.

An almost buy one get two free. However, signing up for Trust membership they would be free anyway! Just at one location you could be getting some of your fee back!

There is also a foreign visitors pass available for 7 or 14 days Admit one – £37, Admit two – £65 or Admit family – £71. 14 days option is Admit one – £43, Admit two – £77 or Admit family – £91.

Touring Pass https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/features/touring-pass

Dorset national trust encompasses grand and humble.

Heading west the next location is miniscuel and humble compared to the grandeur and size of Kingston Lacy.

The former home of Lawerence of Arabia, T.E. Lawrence or sometimes known as Air-craftsman Shaw.

Air Craftesman Shaw.  Former RAF mat at Clouds Hill home of TE Lawrence.

His Clouds Hill cottage was handed over to the National Trust by his family after his mysterious death in motorcycle crash just yards from his oasis of calm in the forested woodland close to the modern Army tank driving ranges of Bovington Camp.

An Inscription Over The Door In Greek… Don’t Worry

Painted brick cottage where Lawrence was surrounded by hundreds of books and music that he played on a giant early record player with the sound emanating from a huge papier-mâché horn.

He even had a hand in the fireplace design at Clouds Hill home of TE Lawrence.

A humble place that was visited by leading figures, writers and even politicians of the mid 20’s to mid 30’s till he died in 1935.

Most of the furnishings are from that time. A number items around the cottage were designed by him or modified by him.

A Greek inscription over the entrance at Clouds Hill letter cut by TE Lawrence.

Four small rooms make up the cottage and the grounds of around five acres provide a chance to experience why Lawrence loved this escape to the country. Mainly after his bitter disillusionment of his war in Arabia and the political decisions that followed after.

Dorset Author’s House Under National Trust Ownership

One of the eminent visitor to Clouds Hill was Dorset author Thomas Hardy at a time when Hardy was himself nearing the end of his life.

He travelled over to see Lawrence from his home at Max Gate in Dorchester. And that is the next place on this National Trust trail.

Max Gate. Home designed and built by Thomas Hardy.

Designed by the author himself Max Gate grew as the author’s finances grew with his book sales.

Books for bricks. As Hardy was able to extend the house over time as sales of his novels went from strength to strength.

Trained as an architect, Hardy had the house built in 1885 and he lived there until his death in 1928.

Here Tess of the d’Urbervilles, Jude the Obscure, The Mayor of Casterbridge and hundreds of poems were penned in various studies dotted  around the house. I counted three studies on my visit.

Books Turned Into Bricks For Thomas Hardy

Certainly from the rear of the property you can see how the house expanded in time with additional rooms added over a number of years.

Addotional rooms added at the rear of Max Gate.

A new kitchen, scullery and food stores were built in and after 1895. Extra rooms upstairs as well, one of which was the Poetry or Third Study. Plus, his first wife Emma tended to live apart in a set of third floor attic rooms created for her.

Hardy’s original study was moved to The Dorset County Museum in Dorchester.

The red brick atmospheric home has a pleasant walled garden in which Hardy drew inspiration from for his writings. A place where he walked most days and the garden is still in the same form as it was for him.

Hardy’s Third study at Max Gate.

Not the prettiest of houses. At the time of ifs construction it was very much more isolated than it is today. However, exploring the interior does give you an insight into the man and a chance to see where such famous books and writings were created.

The extended kitchen looking like it would have in Hardy’s time .

Not currently available but there is also a chance to learn from one of the volunteers about local food and witness a cooking demonstration in the kitchen within the newer extension.

Birthplace Of Hardy Also Under National Trust Ownership

As well as the home of his death. The Trust also own the home of his birth, at Higher Bockhampton. Located in a tiny hamlet to the east of Dorchester well within Thorncombe Woods.

Higher Bockhampton. The Birthplace of Thomas Hardy.

From wooded countryside to the open fields of the rolling hills of rural Dorset. Here also the Trust has its reach.

A giant solitary figure carved on the hill above Cerne Abbas is all part of the inventory of the National Trust.

Cerne Abbas Giant Dorset.

The 55 metre high Cerne Giant cut into the chalk hill looks down onto the village complete with its Medieval timber and thatched buildings.

Situated in the middle of a rough pasture field, the club wielding figure complete with male erection has been said to date back to the Roman times or before. However, recent modern science has dated the work from much later times.

Volunteers re-chalking the giant at Cerne Abbas Giant Dorset.

It’s possible to view the giant from afar in a special viewing area on the edge of the village. But every few years the Trust do provide access when they carry out re-chalking the outline of the giant.

Rude Giant Also Owned By The Trust

Volunteers and families help out carrying new material or re-cutting the lines on the very steep hillside location.

This rather rude artwork is now thought to be from the Saxon period .

Perhaps if you fancy a chance to stay in a National trust property for a holiday then head to Portland House overlooking Portland harbour.

Portland House can be rented from the National Trust.

With 7 bedrooms and parking for up to 6 cars this Art Deco house furnished in that same style could be yours for a minimum of 3 days for around £3,000.

Portland House furnished in Art deco style.

Hark back to the days of Agatha Christie in this cliff top property. That has a Mediterranean feel with views beyond to the Jurassic Coast of the county too.

Award winning blogger and travel writer/photographer, I have travelled the world in one way or another for 30 years. I am a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers for over 13 years. In the ever-changing world of publishing and online media it now requires that I have media skills across all areas. That now also includes video production. My travel images appear in magazines, newspapers and publications all over the world I am now blogging about all aspects of travel.

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Top 10 National Trust Sites in Dorset

June 3rd, 2021

There are almost 20 National Trust sites in Dorset that can be enjoyed during a stay at our holiday park in Swanage . These include opulent stately homes, immaculately landscaped gardens and beautiful beaches along the Jurassic Coast.

If you’re a National Trust member, entry is free, making a trip to one of the National Trust sites a cost effective day out. Here we list just a handful of our favourites to discover during your stay at Ulwell Holiday Park.

1. Corfe Castle, Corfe

Postcode: BH20 5EZ

Distance from Ulwell: 4 miles

The ruins of Corfe Castle are not to be missed during your stay at Ulwell Holiday Park . They are situated in the picturesque village of Corfe and can be accessed by car, steam train or scenic walk from our site. The historic castle is perched high on a hilltop, offering commanding views of the surrounding Dorset countryside. As you walk around the site, you’ll be transported back in time and can learn more about its turbulent past.

There’s plenty of activities to keep even the youngest members of the family entertained, including dressing up clothes, reenactments and various themed events throughout the year. Visitors can pay a visit to the on-site tea room and gift shop on the way out, to pick up a souvenir to commemorate the fun-filled day out. Dogs are welcome on lead.

2. Clouds Hill, Wareham

Postcode: BH20 7NQ

Distance from Ulwell: 15 miles

Photo credit: Terry Ballard, Flickr

Pay a visit to Clouds Hill and tour the home of T.E. Lawrence, or Lawrence of Arabia as he is more commonly known. The small cottage occupies a delightful woodland setting and remains largely untouched, even after all this time. As you walk around the various rooms you can peruse the unique decor and treasures from around the world. There’s a library with a large collection of leather bound books alongside a music room, bunk room and motorbike shed.

A team of volunteers are on hand to regale stories from the past. The house has has been kept intentionally dark to preserve the historic interior, so the National Trust advise visiting during the summer months.

3. Kingston Lacy, Wimborne Minster

Postcode: BH21 4EA

Distance from Ulwell: 23 miles

Kingston Lacy is one of the most picturesque country estates in Dorset. The venetian style stately home is situated in sprawling parkland grounds and features opulent decor and an impressive fine art collection. It is home to the largest private collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts in the UK. Guided tours are available to view the lavish furnishings up close.

The gardens are as impressive as the home itself. The estate boats 8,500 acres of expertly landscaped grounds including woodland, wildflower, heathland and Iron Age hill forts. Our personal favourites are the Japanese garden and kitchen garden – which is thought to have inspired Queen Victoria!

Kingston Lacy is the perfect family day out in Dorset. Pack a picnic and spend a leisurely afternoon exploring everything there is on offer.

4. Spyway, Langton Matravers

Postcode: BH19 3HG

Enjoy a scenic walk along part of the South West Coast Path at Spyway , Langton Matravers. The limestone cliffs bear the scars of hundreds of years of quarrying and boast spectacular views along the Jurassic Coast. As you walk along the well trodden route keep your eyes peeled for unusual plant species and the various wildlife that calls this rugged location home. You’ll often see seabirds soaring high in the sky, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of dolphins jumping in the waves below.

5. Studland Bay, Studland

Postcode: BH19 3AX

Distance from Ulwell: 2 miles

Photo credit: Harry Lawford, Flickr

Studland Bay is just a short walk from our holiday park in Swanage. This magnificent stretch of coastline is among the best in the county, offering beautiful views towards Old Harry Rocks and the Isle of Wight in the distance. There are 4 beaches to choose from here (Shell Bay, Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach), each with a slightly different offering. Knoll Beach is perhaps the most popular boasting watersports hire facilities , a cafe and gift shop.

The beaches are flanked with rugged sand dunes and a nature reserve to explore. Take some time to follow the footpaths and see what you can find. A range of wildlife can be spotted including insects, deer and various species of birds.

6. White Mill, Wimborne Minster

Postcode: BH21 4BX

Distance from Ulwell: 20 miles

Photo credit: Jackpeasephotography, Flickr

White Mill is a historic corn mill that dates back to the 18th century. It occupies a tranquil riverside setting on the Kingston Lacy Estate in Wimborne. It has undergone major renovations in recent years and is now open to the public to explore. If you decide to visit, we highly recommend participating in a guided tour with one of the National Trust’s knowledgable guides. They will give you an up close look at the original wooden machinery and highlight the stories of local families that once worked in the mill.

Make sure you take some time to explore the local scenery. Pack a picnic to share on the banks of the river or enjoy a leisurely walk across the bridge to the water meadows beyond. The area is rich in wildlife, so you never know what you might see.

7. Brownsea Island, Poole

Postcode: BH13 7EE

Distance from Ulwell: 18 miles

Brownsea Island is one of the most interesting National Trust sites in Dorset. As the name would suggest, it is only accessible by boat, which only adds to the adventure in our opinion. The island is the largest in Poole Harbour and famed as the founding place of the Scout movement. It is home to plenty of wildlife, including the elusive red squirrel.

There’s lots for children to do during a day out on Brownsea . They can explore the woodland in search of animals, complete an activity trail or let off some steam in the natural play park. Keen bird watchers can spend time in some of the hides watching the migrating birds.

8. Ringstead Bay, Ringstead

Postcode: DT2 8NQ

Distance from Ulwell: 22 miles

Photo credit: Mark, Flickr

Ringstead is the perfect destination for a lazy beach day. While away a couple of hours relaxing on the shingle and taking in the views along the coast. The beach is ideal for swimming, kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding . It’s also a popular with snorkellers and spear fisherman thanks to the underwater reef a couple of metres from the shore.

One of our favourite things about this beach is that it’s relatively quiet in comparison to others in the area. The National Trust car park is situated at the top of the hill, so there’s a bit of a walk to the beach, but you can reward yourself with an ice cream at the bottom! There’s a small kiosk selling beach goods as well as hot and cold snacks. There is also a children’s play park and toilet facilities.

If you’d like to park closer and avoid the walk, there is a pay and display car park at the bottom of the hill, just a couple of minutes walk from the beach. This is not a National Trust car park, so you will be charged. There is usually a car park attendant at the entrance. The price is around £5 for the whole day.

(Price correct as of November 2022)

9. Hardy’s Cottage, Dorchester

Postcode: DT2 8QJ

Distance from Ulwell: 25 miles

Photo credit: Paul Snelling, Flickr

Visit the birthplace and childhood home of acclaimed novelist, Thomas Hardy whilst exploring Dorchester, Dorset’s county town. Little has changed in the property over the years, allowing you to look into the various rooms and imagine Hardy’s life here all those years ago.

Hardy’s Cottage is set in an idyllic woodland setting with a stunning garden and access to an abundance of beautiful walking trails. After visiting the house, we encourage you to take a walk around Thorncombe Woods and see for yourself the natural landscapes that inspired some of Hardy’s earliest works. There’s a lovely pond and wild ponies.

10. Golden Cap, Bridport

Distance from Ulwell: 47 miles

Photo credit: Robert Mulligan, Flickr

Take a walk to the highest point on the South Coast and enjoy far reaching views across Lyme Bay. From the elevated position you can see Portland Bill in the distance and as far as Start Point to the West. It’s a bit of a climb to the top of Golden Cap , but the panoramic views certainly make up for the energy spent. Pack a hot drink and snacks to refuel at the top.

We personally recommend combining a trip to this Jurassic Coast beauty spot with a walk around Langdon Forest. The circular route cuts through ancient woodland and offers a glimpse of stunning bluebells during the spring.

Ulwell Holiday Park is a family friendly holiday park in Swanage. Stay in our caravan holiday homes or bring your own motorhome , caravan or tent . We have plenty of facilities to enjoy throughout your stay, including an indoor swimming pool , children’s playpark , bar and restaurant and on-site shop . We’re ideally placed for exploring National Trust properties throughout the county as well as towns and villages along the Jurassic Coast.

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We want our you to get the best out of your holiday in Dorset when staying at Ulwell Cottage Caravan Park.

Find out more about our latest offers, local events and all the best sights and attractions that are within striking distance of our Purbeck campsite.

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What our guests say, a lovely quiet site.

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A lovely quiet site, nice warm amenities with good sized shower cubicles, shop not open yet as it’s too early but the local pub is ideal. Staff were very friendly and helpful. If you’re reasonably fit you can walk into Swanage but the bus service is great so why would you want to. Overall a very nice break, we will be back.

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Fantastic site, we have had a brilliant holiday. Super swimming pool and changing facilities. Site really handy to get to Swanage and Studland. Will definitely return. Thanks to all the staff for a lovely holiday.

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Excellent quality caravan site, top quality, small and friendly, location fantastic. Been visiting Ulwell for over 25 years now and every year is special.

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We have just returned back from our weeks stay at Ulwell Holiday Park with our 2 small children and dog. It was an absolute brilliant week! The site has everything you need, and more! A lovely comfy pub on site for drinks and a bowl of chips, a small shop, swimming pool, large play are with park, and the bus stops right outside.. what more could you want

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We have just returned after a brilliant Easter break. Couldn’t fault anything at all and we didn’t want to leave. We didn’t visit the pub but the shop is stocked with local produce and essentials. The facilities are great and the location convenient. Our van was spotless and had everything we needed. We will definitely be back

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From Bournemouth via the Sandbanks chain ferry and following the B3351 into Swanage.

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The park is situated on the main bus route from Bournemouth to Swanage.

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Ultimate Guide To All National Trust Places To Visit In Dorset

Kingston Lacy

Clouds hill, pepperbox hill, corfe castle, hardy monument, cerne giant.

Dorset is a beautiful county, with a wide variety of National Trust attractions that we think are must-see.

If you're wanting a day out with the kids or to meet a relative for a social distance walk in Dorset, you should really consider visiting one of these beauty-spots.

The county has everything from an island, ancient coasts and hidden gems - to a castle, cottages and an Italian inspired palace. There's something for every member of the family to enjoy, and you may be able to cover a couple of them in a day.

While most attractions from the National Trust in Dorset are shut, they have announced on their website that they're reopening the places you love, gradually, safely and in step with government advice - starting with their coast and countryside car parks.

Their houses, gardens and parklands remain closed for now, in line with the rules, and updates on these attractions can be found on their website. However, we know that once lockdown sanctions lift further, these outdoor attractions will be popular with families across the south wanting to make the most of the summer.

So, read on to plan your trip to one of these Dorset National Trust properties this summer.

Kingston Lacy is a lavish historic home re-imagined as a Venetian Palace in the rural Dorset countryside. There's plenty to see, from rich, beautifully detailed carvings, to intimate souvenirs and even strange curiosities such as an 'I owe you' note from a king.

It's an art lover's dream, while also providing a good day out for the whole family, as you can enjoy a summer picnic on the south lawn or let the children run wild in the nearby play areas.

Where? Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 4EA

Closest train station? Poole, 8.5 miles away

Why visit? They are currently doing refurbishments on the property, which they are appealing to the public for help with. This could be a great project to get older kids involved with.

Amenities and important information: Dogs are welcome on a short lead due to livestock grazing. There is a baby changing room on site.

This was once the rural home retreat of T. E. Lawrence (better known as Lawrence of Arabia) - in the form of a tiny isolated cottage in the heart of Dorset. Lawrence's furnishings have stayed as he left them, for the most part, so see what your kids think of his interior design.

There is low lighting and rules to follow to preserve the ancient cottage.

Where? King George V Road, Bovington, near Wareham, BH20 7NQ

Closest train station? Wool, 3.5 miles away

Why visit? It is an authentic and unique place that young kids would find fascinating, as the house has been preserved to feel like a real-life museum.

Amenities and important information: The cottage is accessed from the car park via a flat 90-yard footpath. Light levels in the cottage are low, which may not suit some visitors. There are refreshments available for donation only.

Pepperbox Hill is an ancient chalk ridge landmark with far-reaching views and rich in natural history and heritage. Pepperbox Hill is one of the rare places in the UK that includes an early brick folly example.

Believed to have been built by Giles Eyre of Brickworth House, the use is under debate. The surrounding grounds are supporting several rare or uncommon species including orchids, juniper and rare butterflies.

Where? Pepperbox Hill, SP5 3QL

Closest train station? West Dean, 5 miles away

Why visit? It's a great educational trip out for young children interested in wildlife, as there are information points dotted around - detailing the vast array of wildlife you can see there.

Amenities and important information: Plenty of space to enjoy a picnic if you bring your own rug and take away rubbish. Dogs and bikes are also welcome but are asked to be kept under control as cattle graze the site. The ground is somewhat level along the brow of the hill, meaning it is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

One of the most popular and famous of Dorset's attractions is this thousand-year-old royal castle shaped by warfare; not just Dorset's, but one of Britain's most iconic and evocative survivors of the English Civil War. A favourite haunt for adults and children to visit, with incredibly beautiful views across Purbeck, and a fascinating history to discover.

Where? The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham, BH20 5EZ

Closest train station? Wareham, 4.5 miles away

Why visit? There are lots of activities that can be set up for young visitors such as so that they can genuinely feel history come to life while appreciating the wildlife that has set up home here. Can you find the 'murder holes' and arrow slits?

Amenities and important information: Suitable for school groups. Dogs are welcome on a short lead. There are many information points available. Picnics are welcomed. There is a campsite, a shop with locally made gifts and a tearoom.

This National Trust area is a prominent landmark with incredible views. It is the highest point in the Cranborne Chase, meaning it provides panoramic views from the Isle of Wight and Purbeck Hills to Blackmore Vale and Salisbury Plain.

Win Green is surrounding by beautiful beech trees growing in a circle - with a distinctive ridge around the edge, and this stunning sight can be seen for miles.

Where? Donhead Hollow, Near Ludwell, SP7 0ES

Closest train station? Gillingham Station, 9 miles away

Why visit? The trust recommends this area for kite flying, as the ridge can get quite windy. Otherwise, it is just a great place to explore on foot or by mountain bike if you're not afraid to cycle uphill!

Amenities and important information: The site is wheelchair accessible, and their car parks are currently open.

A monument to Vice-Admiral Hardy, it stands on an exposed hill above the village of Portesham in Dorset. Built in 1844 in memory of the Battle of Trafalgar, it was taken over by the National Trust in 1938.

It was restored in 2011, so should still be around for hundreds of years to come, as well as for your visit.

Where? Black Down, Portesham, Dorset, DT2 9HY

Closest train station? Dorchester, 6.5 miles away

Why visit? A great place to walk to with more stunning views over the county, this monument would attract older kids who would appreciate the complex history behind the space.

Amenities and important information: Minimal amenities due to the remote and preserved nature of the site. There are no toilets, changing rooms, wheelchair or pushchair access routes.

An ancient naked figure sculpted into the chalk hillside above Cerne Abbas, standing at 180ft tall, Britain's largest chalk hill figure. The history of the Cerne Giant is muddied, but appears to be from the Iron Age, and is still used for May Day celebrations today.

Where? Cerne Abbas, Dorset, DT2 7AL

Closest train station? Maiden Newton, 6 miles away

Why visit? There is lots of nature to see along the way, and once you reach the giant, it really is an amazingly unique sight to behold.

Amenities and important information: Dogs are welcome on leads, there are information points, and free parking too (also parking for coaches). It is described as a gentle stroll along footpaths, so would be suitable for pushchairs.

Dorset South West England England United Kingdom

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Annabelle Beaumont Bachelor's degree specializing in Interior and Spatial Design

With a childhood spent traveling and exploring, Annabelle moved to Bahrain at 13 and then to London at 19 to attend Chelsea College of Arts, UAL to study Interior and Spatial Design. She has a passion for all things creative, particularly recycling materials. Outside of art, Annabelle enjoys walking her dogs and cooking for loved ones.

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22 Amazing Places to Visit in Dorset: beaches and villages!

With a staggeringly beautiful ancient coastline and some of England’s most charming countryside, there are many places to visit in Dorset. It’s quite a large country, so you could be forgiven for feeling overwhelmed when planning a trip here. 

What are the best places to go in Dorset? This blog post will answer this question, detailing some of my – and other travel blogger’s – favourite attractions. 

If you’re planning a trip to Dorset, read on for some major travel inspiration to one of England’s most beautiful counties! 

Table of Contents

Places to Visit in Dorset

Bournemouth .

Situated on the southern coast of England, Bournemouth is a popular holiday destination for those seeking a beach getaway. Bournemouth is excellent for a longer break or a  day trip from London  or any other nearby city. 

The city’s main drawcard is the white sand Bournemouth beach that stretches over seven miles. For active visitors, there is a 10-mile-long promenade that starts at Sandbanks and finishes in Hengistbury.

The promenade is not only great for a long stroll but also is excellent for cycling. Don’t forget to visit the Bournemouth Pier, home to the typical British seaside attractions, including the amusement arcade, fish and chips and souvenir shops. 

Other activities include zip-lining, mini-golfing in the City’s Lower Park and a balloon ride that operates in the summer. Plus, there are rainy day attractions like laser quest and an indoor climbing wall.

Bournemouth also has some great seafront restaurants along the beach where you can have some fresh seafood and a glass of wine while watching the sun going down. 

By Mal from Raw Mal Roams 

Lyme Regis is one of the best places to visit in Dorset to find fossils on the Jurassic Coast.

The Dorset town was the birthplace of pioneering palaeontologist Mary Anning, whose work finding and preserving fossils was ground-breaking. Now visitors come from all over the world to go  fossil hunting in Lyme Regis , and anyone can find fossils on the beach to take home.

Lyme Regis Museum explains more about Mary Anning and her work and has some excellent examples of fossils on display.

They also run Fossil Walks, where a guide will take you along the beach to go fossil hunting, explaining why and what you might find here.

Entry to the Museum is £5.95 per adult, and the fossil walks are £12.75 per adult, both with discounts available for children.

While fossils are the main draw for most visitors, Lyme Regis also has a pleasant sandy beach, an aquarium and various independent shops to explore. 

By Claire from Tales of a Backpacker 

Durdle Door

Durdle Door is without a doubt one of the most iconic sights on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.

The natural limestone arch juts out of the cliffs between Swanage and Weymouth, near the village of West Lulworth.

The geological changes that formed Durdle Door happened around 25 million years ago when layers of hard limestone were pushed vertically upwards; the sea then eroded the softer layers of rock, leaving Durdle Door’s distinctive arch shape.

Visiting Durdle Door is easy and free.

Access by car is through the Durdle Door holiday park, then a sloping, downhill walk to the top of the cliff and the viewpoint.

You can also get here by walking along the South West Coastal Path from Lulworth Cove, about a mile away.

There is a beach at the base of the cliff which is very popular on sunny days; to enjoy the views without the crowds visit in the evening. 

By Helen from  Helen on her Holidays

Swanage is a small town located on the coast, and is one of the best places to visit in Dorset – and one of the most popular day trips from Bournemouth !

Every year thousands of tourists come to visit this town and its remarkable historic scenery.

The town lies between lime rocks, mountain landscape, and an incredible white sand beach and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast.

In the town, you will find many old buildings – some of them date back as far as the 18th century. You can also choose between lots of hiking trails along the cliffs and plenty of other nearby attractions.

By Victoria from  Guide Your Travel

Isle of Portland

A trip to Dorset wouldn’t be complete without visiting the stunning Isle of Portland. Located to the south of Weymouth, Portland is only connected to the mainland by a barrier beach called Chesil Beach.

Although it is an island, the Isle of Portland is part of the Jurassic Coast and has many unique and beautiful features to see.

The best part is that you can see most of its sights in one day if you complete the  Isle of Portland Loop , which is 16km (10 miles) and is part of the South West Coast Path. 

On the route, you’ll be able to visit Portland Bill Lighthouse, climb Pulpit Rock, and discover unique sculptures at Tout Quarry Sculpture Park.

You can admire the view from the Olympic Rings Lookout Point and visit the ruins of a church and castle. 

The best bit? You’ll be treated to dramatic cliffs and stunning views of the sandy beaches all day long.

By Kitti from Kitti Around the World

Charmouth is a pretty village in West Dorset in an area of outstanding beauty. If you’re thinking of  visiting Charmouth , you won’t be short of things to see and do. 

Fossil hunting on Charmouth beach is a very popular activity with visitors to the area. With ample parking in the seaside town and plenty of facilities, a visit to the beach is a whole day out.

In addition, you can visit the Heritage Coast Centre with fossil displays, and even book a fossil walk. 

The beach is separated by the river Char, providing a stretch of calm river which is perfect for paddling, paddle boarding, or even floating about in a dinghy. 

There are plenty of rock pools to discover when the tide goes out, ideal for entertaining the children. 

At the end of a busy day in Charmouth, you could enjoy fish and chips on the beach from the beach cafe, or there are various cafes and pubs in the village. It’s definitely one of the best places to go to in Dorset!

By Angela from Exploring Dorset

Weymouth is a seaside resort in Dorset and is a popular holiday location for families and others seeking a  UK staycation .

Not only are there plenty of things to do in Weymouth but its location in the middle of the Jurassic Coast make it the perfect destination for fossil hunters!

Amongst Weymouth’s attractions are its beautiful sandy beach which is 3 miles long and perfect for swimming and making sandcastles.

In fact, it’s so good for building sandcastles that a visit to Sandworld to see exhibitions of sand sculptures is a must every year. Tickets cost £7.50 for adults and £5.50 for children.

Nothe Fort is another popular attraction in Weymouth.

This historic sea fort consists of three levels which include a museum, café and gift shop.

Throughout the year events and exhibitions are held at the fort which are fun for all the family. Views from the fort across the harbours are also particularly memorable.

Other things places to visit in Weymouth include the SEA LIFE centre, shingle covered Chesil Beach, Portland Bill Lighthouse and Weymouth Harbour with its pretty painted houses.

By Tracy from UK Travel Planning

Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle is a National Trust property that is well worth visiting while you’re exploring Dorset. With 1,000 years of history, Corfe Castle sits imposingly atop a hill and is a fascinating place to explore.

Corfe Castle was constructed by William the Conqueror in the 11th century – it was one of the initial castles in England to be constructed with stone. It was instrumental in the Civil War when Parliamentarian forces besieged it two times. 

Nowadays, Corfe Castle is owned by the National Trust and is open to the public. It stands above Corfe village, not too far from Old Harry Rocks and the rest of the coastline.

Its unique structure makes it a fantastic place to visit in Dorset – and you can easily add a stop here to a trip to the coast! 

It costs £11 for an adult and £5.50 for a child – but if you are a National Trust member, you can enter for free. 

Despite not being a city, Poole claims to have the largest natural harbour in the world (which happened after Sydney in Australia built so much around its harbour!).

Poole Harbour is around 36 km 2  (14 square miles) – and although its claim to being the largest in the world is sometimes debated, there’s no denying that it’s enormous.

This means that it’s a definite must-visit place to go to in Dorset – there are so many opportunities for boating and watersports! 

Poole also has a lovely old town, with buildings from the 15th century, so there’s lots of history here. In addition, the town boasts some impressive museums, including the Poole Museum and the Old Lifeboat Museum. 

As it is one of the largest towns in Dorset, there’s a range of excellent dining opportunities available in Poole – and, of course, there’s no shortage of beaches here either! 

Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum is a charming place to visit in Dorset, sitting about 13 miles inland from Poole in the Blackmore Vale area. Situated on the banks of the River Stour, Blandford Forum is a historic place with plenty of charm. 

The historic town was destroyed by fire in the 18th century, so it was rebuilt in the classic Georgian style of the era. Modern Blandford Forum still looks like a step back three centuries.

It’s a wonderful place to walk around, and you can also visit the Fire Monument in the marketplace and go to the Blandford museum to learn a little more about its history.

There’s also the Blandford Fashion Museum which details historical fashion trends!

There are lots of independent shops around the main town and the Hall and Woodhouse brewery, which makes its own Badger Beer. 

If you want to enjoy some of Dorset’s beautiful nature, take a stroll from Blandford to either Stallbridge or Spetsbiry and the surrounding beautiful villages. 

Sturminster Newton

Sturminster Newton is one of the most beautiful towns in inland Dorset, sitting on the banks of the River Stour. This is Thomas Hardy’s country – if you’ve ever read his books and marvelled at the glorious descriptions of nature, make sure that you visit Sturminster Newton and the surrounding area! 

In particular, the 15th century bridge in Sturminster Newton has been featured in one of Hardy’s poems, “On Sturminster Bridge”. The author also lived in the town and took lots of inspiration from surrounding fields. 

It’s worth visiting the Sturminster Newton Water Mill, which dates back to the 17th century and is still a working mill.

Knowledgeable guides will show you around and detail the history and working of the building. The mill is open in the summer months (usually late March to late September) on Monday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. It is £4 for adults and £1 for children. 

There’s also the ruins of a 14th century castle that you might be able to find while walking around the town. The architecture of Sturminster Newton makes it a wonderful place to stroll around and there are a variety of pubs and restaurants in the town, as well as nature walks along the River Stour. 

Studland Bay

Located on the Isle of Purbeck, Studland Bay is a Dorset destination at the end of the South West Coast Path – making it a site of pilgrimage for many keen hikers. However, it’s well worth visiting in its own right as well! 

Studland Bay is a glorious beach with lots of watersports activities available. Out of season, it can be wonderfully deserted, with fantastic views over to Poole. 

If you want to try something different, Foreadventure runs foraging tours around Studland, and I highly recommend them.

We did the three-hour forest walk and forage tour, which ended with us making a wood-fired pizza with our foraged goods! 

They also run canoeing and fishing trips. 

Old Harry Rocks

Old Harry Rocks is the official terminus of the Jurassic Coast, which starts in Exmouth in Devon. These chalk formations are popular with hikers and people exploring the entire coast, but they are incredible on their own as well. 

Old Harry Rocks are brilliant chalk-white arches, stacks, and stumps, jutting out into the sea and running along the ocean. Although the whole area is known as Old Harry Rocks, only one is called Old Harry (and there’s also an Old Harry’s Wife!). 

From the rocks, you can enjoy epic views across the water into Poole and Bournemouth. 

Dorchester is the historic county town of Dorset and one of the largest towns in the county. Sitting on the River Frome, Dorchester is a town that very much sits in the heart of the countryside – and you can enjoy some of its epic nature as well as its more urban attractions while exploring the town. 

It’s worth visiting The Keep, Dorset County Museum and The Dinosaur Museum, where you can learn a little more about the Jurassic Coast.

There’s also a lovely historic art deco cinema in town, as well as the ever-popular Dorchester Market, an indoor and outdoor market. 

On the outskirts of Dorchester, there’s the 19th century Max Gate, which is run by the National Trust and is the former home of Thomas Hardy. 

Sherborne is a beautiful town with charming stone cottages and stunning surrounding scenery. Although the town isn’t huge, it’s packed with attractions, including two castles and an abbey – there’s so much to explore here!

The Abbey has a long history spanning back over a millennium – it has been a Cathedral and church over the years. Some people consider it to be the most beautiful building in Dorset. 

Sherborne Castle is a 16th century Tudor castle. It started its life as a Tudor hunting lodge but was expanded by Sir Walter Raleigh and was the subject of a siege in the Civil War. You can learn all about this at the castle! 

Sherborne Old Castle has a history spanning back to the 12th century and is the ruins of an old majestic fortress. You can still explore these ruins today. 

Christchurch

Christchurch is a coastal town on the Dorset/ Hampshire border, not too far from Bournemouth. With six beaches, it’s a popular spot for families! Activities that you can enjoy in Christchurch include stand up paddleboarding, swimming and beach games. 

Friars Cliff and Avon beaches are perhaps the most family-friendly, with plenty of facilities for people of all ages. Mudeford Sandbank also has amenities to enjoy. 

More nature-focused beaches are Highcliffe Castle Beach, with beautiful cliffs, and Gundimore, which looks over the Isle of Wight. 

Christchurch town has plenty of amenities, including shops, restaurants and Christchurch Castle which dates back to the 11th century. 

Highcliffe Castle

Highcliffe Castle is located near Christchurch and is a Grade I listed mansion, dating back from the Victorian era. 

Highcliffe Castle was destroyed by a fire in the 1960s and was left to ruin for two decades – before it was acquired by the Council in 1977 and received funding from the English Heritage and National Lottery Grants. 

Nowadays, it’s a popular tourist attraction in Dorset and has been the filming location of various shows, including The Antiques Roadshow and Mr Selfridge. 

Highcliffe Castle is open from Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. It costs £7 for adults and £3 for children.

Sitting between Lyme Regis and Weymouth, Abbotsbury is a small quintessentially English village with two stand out attractions: the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens and the Abbotsbury Swannery. 

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens are botanic gardens on the edge of Abbotsbury town.

Encompassing 30 acres, these gardens are famous for their range of flowers and exotic plants. The Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens are open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day, and tickets cost £10 for adults and £5 for children. 

Abbotsbury Swannery is also worth visiting. This is the only managed colony of mute nesting swans in the world. Spanning 25 acres and home to some 600 swans, walking through the colony is an unforgettable experience.

It is a Harry Potter filming location and has lots of other attractions, including the giant swan maze, a cafe and gift shop. 

Like the subtropical gardens, the swannery is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day, and tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for children. 

You can save 25% on ticket prices if you book a visit to both the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens and the Abbotsbury Swannery at the same time. 

Purbeck Hills

The Purbeck Hills is a ridgeway that runs from Durdle Door to Old Harry Rocks. A fantastic place for hiking, the Purbeck Hills encompass Corfe Castle and the inland area from the Jurassic Coast. 

Wimborne Minster

Wimborne Minster is an ancient market town on the Rivers of Allen and Stour.

There’s so much to see here, including a beautiful minster church (with the chained library which has a book dating back to the 14th century and a book that belonged to Catherine of Aragon!), a model town which resembles Wimborne Minster in the 1950s and Waterford Mill Crafts which has shops and exhibitions. 

There are also some beautiful walks and bike rides along the two rivers, so it’s a great place to enjoy nature as well! 

Burton Bradstock

Burton Bradstock is a popular holiday destination along the Jurassic Coast, with epic sandstone cliffs and charming villages. 

It’s a small village, but there’s plenty to enjoy here – including pubs, tearooms, a holiday park and there is a Spring Tide Food Festival every May. 

Also don’t miss Hive Beach, which is owned by the National Trust has some epic views over this stretch of coastline. 

Shaftesbury

Sitting near the Wiltshire border, Shaftesbury is one of the very best places to visit in Dorset. Shaftesbury is famous for Gold Hill, its postcard-perfect cobbled street which has been called “one of the most romantic sights in England” as well as “England’s most famous hill” (it has featured in numerous films and television programmes including the Hovis advert!).

With quaint cottages and rolling green hills in the background, Shaftesbury is a lovely place to stroll around – you can enjoy the many shops, restaurants, and cafes here and take in various viewpoints that look out over Blackmore Vale. 

Places to go to in Dorset!

With green valleys, beautiful villages and towns, popular sandy beaches on the world-famous Jurassic Coast and a hiking path with amazing views, there’s so much to love in Dorset!

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Top 10 prettiest places to visit in Dorset

With so much natural beauty in Dorset, this county is a popular destination of choice for those wanting to escape the everyday. 

Immerse yourself in the past by visiting a wealth of historic castles, explore endless miles of unspoilt countryside, enjoy wonderful seaside towns and villages like Swanage and Weymouth or spend lazy days on the beach with the sand between your toes. 

We have compiled a list of the 10 prettiest places to visit whilst in Dorset to make sure you get as much from your staycation as possible…

Durdle Door

Durdle Door is one of Dorset’s most photographed and iconic landmarks. It is part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and is an extremely popular beauty spot too. It was created when the sea pierced through the limestone around 10,000 years ago. The coastline is of such international geological importance that it was designated England’s first natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001 and is now part of a family of natural wonders including America’s Grand Canyon and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

It is accessible from above via a car park and the South West Coast Path, from which it is a 15-minute walk to the view point and then another 140-plus steps down onto the beach. Durdle Door is just one of the great places to visit in Lulworth - why not seek out a few more during your stay?

Where to stay nearby

For couples: The Cowshed (sleeps 4)

For families :  Sea Thrift   (sleeps 6)

For groups:  The Old Forge (sleeps 8)

Corfe Castle

The dramatic ruins of Corfe Castle are situated halfway between Wareham and Swanage and no trip to the Isle of Purbeck would be complete without a visit to this picturesque village. Corfe Castle stands on a natural hill overlooking the village and guarding the main route through the Purbeck Hills; it can be seen from miles around from all directions.

Corfe Castle was constructed by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and is one of Britain's most iconic and evocative survivors of the English Civil Wars, partially demolished in 1646 by the Parliamentarians. Nowadays, Corfe Castle is owned by the National Trust and is open to the public with daily tours available too.

The village is easily accessible by public transport and is a stop on the Swanage Railway. Click here and discover even more things to do in Corfe Castle too!

For couples:  Honeypot Cottage - Corfe Castle (sleeps 4)

For families:  Rose Castle Cottage (sleeps 5)

For groups:  St Edmunds House (sleeps 8)

Lulworth Cove

Lulworth Cove is world famous for its beautiful beach and clear blue water, surrounded by unique geology and landforms including Lulworth Crumple and Stair Hole. Whilst here, a visit to the Lulworth Cove visitor centre is worthwhile for a better appreciation of the outstanding geology.

Lulworth Cove is one of the highlights of the Jurassic Coast, a designated World Heritage Site. The rock arch of Durdle Door is just a 10-minute drive away or a breath-taking 30-minute walk along the coastal path. Did you know, Stair Hole is reputed to be the inspiration for the location of Enid Blyton’s book, The Rubadub Mystery ? 

Click here and discover some of our other favourite things to do at Lulworth Cove too!

For couples: Carefree Cottage (sleeps 4)

For families:  Sea Holly (sleeps 6)

For groups:  Moonfleet (sleeps 10)

Highcliffe Castle

Located just 3 miles from Christchurch, Highcliffe Castle has been described as arguably the most important surviving house of the Romantic and Picturesque style of architecture, which flourished towards the end of the 18th century. Its significance is recognised nationally by its Grade I status on the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural and Historical Interest. 

The grounds surrounding Highcliffe Castle are perfect for a stroll or family picnic on the lawns. There is also direct access to a wonderful sandy beach and the unspoilt nature reserve of nearby Steamer Point. Within the grounds, there are tearooms too which serve hot and cold drinks along with delicious snacks and homemade cakes. 

For couples: Chewton Den (sleeps 2)

For families: Daisy Cottage (sleeps 4)

For groups: Island View (sleeps 12)

Old Harry Rocks

Old Harry Rocks are brilliant chalk-white arches, stacks and stumps, jutting out into the sea and running along the ocean on Handfast Point, at the southern end of Studland Bay. Although the whole area is known as Old Harry Rocks, Old Harry refers to the single stack of chalk standing furthest out to sea. Until 1896, there was another stack known as Old Harry’s Wife, but erosion caused her to tumble into the sea, leaving just a stump.

These chalk formations are popular with both walkers and cyclists and this area is part of the South West Coast Path. From the rocks, you can enjoy views across the water to Poole and Bournemouth. On a clear day, you can even see The Needles (another well-known chalk rock formation) on the Isle of Wight. Check out our ultimate guide to the Dorset coast here for more inspiration! 

For couples:  Old School House (sleeps 2)

For families: Heath Lodge (sleeps 7)

For groups:  Chalross (sleeps 10)

Shaftesbury

Located near the Wiltshire border, Shaftesbury is a small market town with a fascinating history going back to the Saxon times. The town is the home of Gold Hill, a steep cobbled street lined with pretty cottages (made famous by the Hovis bread advert) and has magnificent views over Thomas Hardy’s Blackmore Vale.  

The town is a lovely place to spend an afternoon and stroll around with a variety of independent shops, restaurants and cafes here.

For couples:  No 1 Curwens (sleeps 2)

For families:  Bears Den (sleeps 6)

For groups:  Chase House (sleeps 17)

Brownsea Island

Brownsea Island can be found inside Poole Harbour – which is one of the largest natural harbours in the world – and is only accessible via boat from either Poole Quay or Sandbanks. Brownsea Island is a nature reserve owned by the National Trust, and one of the only places in the UK where you can spot red squirrels, which are very scarce and endangered on the mainland. 

With dramatic views to the Purbeck Hills, Brownsea Island is a haven for wildlife with a huge variety of birds, including the sandwich tern, peacocks and hens. There is also a café serving hot and cold drinks, lunches, cakes and ice cream as well as natural play area, trails, visitor centre and daily guided tours (subject to volunteer availability).

For couples:  The Studio Barn (sleeps 2)

For families: Woodridings (sleeps 8)

For groups:   Hilltop Harbour View (sleeps 14)

Kingston Lacy

Kingston Lacy is an elegant 17th-century Italianate mansion, set in attractive formal gardens and extensive parkland, now owned by the National Trust. The mansion was once owned by William John Bankes, but after being caught in an ‘illicit act’ with a guardsman at a time when being gay was punishable by death, he was forced to exile himself and spent the last 14 years of his life abroad. 

Whilst he travelled, he collected art and furniture, and had it all sent back to the family home, Kingston Lacy, creating a fabulous collection with a surprising history. These paintings included those by Rubens, Van Dyck, Titian and Brueghel as well as the largest private collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts in the UK.

The Kingston Lacy Estate stretches for 8,500 acres and takes in Holt Heath National Nature Reserve and Badbury Rings. There are 12 way-marked footpaths around the estate and the National Trust runs regular guided walks.Click here and discover some of our other favourite National Trust places to visit too!

For couples:  Dorset View (sleeps 2)

For families:  The Hayloft - Winterborne Zelston (sleeps 4)

For groups:  Drongstyle Cottage (sleeps 5)

Swanage is a pretty, coastal town and within striking distance of most Dorset attractions . Swanage has been one of England’s iconic seaside resorts since the Victorian era and, to this day, retains much of its Victorian-style architecture. The seafront is home to an array of colourful beach huts, making Swanage a textbook example of the best of the English coast.

Swanage Bay Beach is at the heart of the town and its golden sands and clean sea are always a hit with families. There’s no shortage of things to do here either - hire out a deckchair or beach hut for ultimate relaxation or hop in a kayak or pedalo in the water for a mini aquatic adventure. 

For more inspiration, read our blog post on the top ten things to do in Swanage .

For couples:  Porthole Penthouse (sleeps 2)

For families:  Seaside Cottage (sleeps 6)

For groups:  Providence Terrace (sleeps 8)

Weymouth is a beautiful seaside resort and popular holiday destination. Weymouth was made famous over 200 years ago by none other than King George III himself, who visited the seaside town often to bathe in its waters, which were said to have medicinal powers.

Weymouth was also home to the sailing events in the 2012 London Olympics and has since seen become popular for its sports scene. Weymouth is just a stone’s throw away from the beautiful Isle of Portland and right next to the world-famous Chesil Beach. Chesil Beach is part of the Dorset AONB and has lots of wildlife and natural beauty to discover.

Chesil Beach was made popular by Ian McEwan’s novella On Chesil Beach with beautiful scenes of the beach featured in the 2017 film adaptation of the book. 

For even more inspiration, read our blog post on the top ten things to do in Weymouth .

For couples:  Dragonfly (sleeps 4)

For families:  Sun Beam (sleeps 6)

For groups:  Cowleaze Cottage (sleeps 8)

Map of Dorset's prettiest places

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Plan your visit to Dorset

Have you been inspired to visit Dorset and some of the region’s prettiest places for yourself? To inspire your Dorset adventures further, you may also enjoy the best beaches in Dorset to visit and Dorset coastal walks . 

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

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National Trust sites in Dorset to visit this Jubilee weekend

Some might be seeking some respite between all of the partying

• 17:37, 30 MAY 2022
• Updated 13:49, 31 MAY 2022

People across the county are gearing up towards what looks to be a fun-filled weekend ahead of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. To mark Her Majesty's 70 year reign, Dorset will be seeing in the celebrations with street parties and festivals.

However, with it being a longer weekend, some might be seeking some respite between all of the partying. Dorset is home to plenty of scenic walks and beaches, but our county is also home to plenty of National Trust sites worthy of a visit.

Next week also marks half-term which can leave some families wondering what to do to pass the time. Luckily, many of these sites offer fantastic family-friendly activities for all to enjoy as well as great opportunities to explore more of the county.

Read more: Tesco, Aldi, Asda and other supermarket opening times across Dorset over Queen's Platinum Jubilee weekend

Below is a list of National Trust sites across Dorset that you can visit this Jubilee weekend, with relevant opening times and what the area has to offer ahead of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Brownsea Island

Famous for its rare red squirrels, Brownsea Island in Poole Harbour is open again for visitors to enjoy the local wildlife. With the Queen's Jubilee celebrations fast approaching the island will also be hosting special half-term activities for all to enjoy this Bank Holiday weekend.

The National Trust site has also introduced an activity called 50 Things which encourages children to visit some of the top places on the island. The Bank Holiday weekend will include crafts, quizzes, scavenger hunts and paddling.

Starting from June 2 and for every Thursday in June, the site will also host a Supper and Safari for a chance to see Dorset's nocturnal wildlife. The events starts at 6.30pm and ends at 11pm, and visitors will need to book in advance.

To get to the island, boat services only operate from Poole Quay between 10am and 5pm and the countryside has the same opening hours.

Studland Bay

Home to the iconic Old Harry Rocks, it forms part of the South West Coast Path which makes for scenic walks this Jubilee weekend. The sheltered bays also make for ideal conditions to part take in water sports.

It is also home to perhaps one of the most well-known beaches in the UK. Rated one of the best nudist beaches in Britain, Knoll Beach is a 900m stretch designated for naturists. We took a trip to the area to see what the famous beach is really like .

It seems the opening times for the beach, car park and shops remain the same across the Bank Holiday weekend. Below is a list of opening for key area of Studland Bay.

• Beach, open all day
• Car Park, 8.30am - 8pm
• Café, 9.30am - 5.30pm
• Shop, 9.30am - 5.30pm

Spyway, Swanage

This area is perhaps better known for being the home to the Dancing Ledge and the more hilariously named Scratch Arse Ware. Both are dubbed as much-loved walking spots along the Purbeck Coast making it an ideal pass time this Jubilee weekend.

It is also an ideal place for our inner archaeologists in us to explore the fossilised tracks of the area. Keates Quarry is a flat layer of rock with dinosaur footprints for visitors to admire. Access to the Purbeck Heaths and Downs is open all day between 9am and 8pm.

• Corfe Castle

With a weekend full of royal history, what better way to indulge in all things royalty than to visit the famous ruins of Corfe Castle , near Wareham. The site has introduced a new trail which is in collaboration with children's book publisher, Nosy Crow.

The trail is designed to look discover the characters from The Castle the King built where children and adults can take part in puzzles and riddle solving. The event is free to attend, but standard admission applies. The castle is open every day from 10am to 6pm.

Clouds Hill, near Wareham

Known as the rural retreat of T. E. Lawrence, author of Lawrence of Arabia, the legendary Clouds Hill offers a tranquil place away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Nestled away is an isolated cottage once home to T. E. Lawrence, which currently has no events on at the moment, but can be viewed during normal opening hours.

Clouds Hill is open Wednesday to Sunday but for pre-booked guided visits only. Both Clouds Hill and the house will be open during the Jubilee weekend between 10am and 4pm.

White Mill, Wimborne Minster

Nestled on the River Stour near Wimborne Minster stands White Mill - the last remaining mill along this river stretch when there had previously been eight. Guided tours of the

Typically, the corn mill is only open at the weekends, but to mark the Jubilee weekend it will be open on June 2 and June 3 for visitors. The opening times from June 2 to June 5 are 12pm to 5pm.

Kingston Lacy

The opulent family home designed with the Venetian Palace in mind. The house is set within a whopping 8,500 acres of unspoilt grounds where you can visit Iron Age hill forts, colourful heathland, water meadows and the world’s oldest pedigree herd of Red Ruby Devon cattle, according to the National Trust.

Kingston Lacy is also said to be the place where Queen Victoria sent her own gardeners to seek inspiration from its Japanese Garden to the Kitchen Garden. You can find out more about all of the fun things you can do at Kingston Lacy here .

Opening times appear to be the same during Jubilee weekend celebrations. The house is open between 10.30am and 3pm while the garden and park is open from 9.30am until 5pm.

Badbury Rings

There are plenty of destinations on this list that make for ideal walking spots this Jubilee weekend and Badbury Rings near Blandford Forum is no different. The iron age hillfort is rich in history and offers stunning views of Dorset's rolling countryside.

It is a dog-friendly area, so it makes for a great place to take your four-legged friends for a walk, although visitors are reminded that dogs must be kept on leads.

It is said to be Dorset's largest hill fort where you can imagine what the area would have looked like thousands of years ago during the Roman and Iron Age periods. Hod Hill is situated in Stourpaine near Blandford Forum which offers scenic views of Dorset's countryside.

There is also the chance to walk along a mile-long butterfly trail to see the variety of species in our area. The walk takes around 30 to 40 minutes to complete and it is a dog-friendly walk.

Hambledon Hill, near Shaftesbury

Considered one of the most iconic sites in Dorset, the National Trust site is also a Site of Special Scientific Importance (SSSI). Being a National Nature Reserve, it is also known for being one of the best-preserved hill forts in Britain and the best-preserved Neolithic landscapes in Europe.

The hill sits 190 metres above the Blackmore Vale, near Sturminster Newton and the river Stour offering fantastic views of neighbouring counties Wiltshire and Somerset. The Jubilee weekend so happens to mark prime time to see glow worms in the area. I It is said that the best display of glow worms can be seen towards Compton Down and Melbury Hill.

Ringstead Bay

For those looking for a bathe or dip in the sea, then this National Trust site could be for you. Ringstead Bay near Weymouth offers stunning views of Dorset's historic Jurassic Coast. Visitors can also enjoy scenic views of Burning Cliff which once caught fire due to its natural composition of oil shale and iron pyorites.

The beach is free to use for anyone at anytime so it could make for a quiet break away from the street parties and other Jubilee celebrations.

If you're into delving into and learning more about Dorset's history, then Max Gate could be an ideal weekend activity for the family. Nestled in the heart of Dorchester , the Victorian home as owned by author and poet Thomas Hardy who designed the house in 1885.

Step inside the poet's home and learn how he lived back in the day. Both the house and garden will be open all Jubilee weekend from 10am to 4pm.

Hardy's Cottage

Not far from Max Gate lies Thomas Hardy's birthplace which was a cob and thatch cottage built by his great-grandfather. Learn more about the poet's history by taking a stroll through this quaint cottage. The home is open across all four days this Jubilee weekend from 10am to 4pm.

Cerne Abbas Giant

We simply couldn't make a list about Dorset's National Trust sites without giving our friendly giant a mention. The chalk figure sits at an impressive 180ft tall and is considered Britain’s largest chalk hill figure.

The site is well-known but is site that often divide people's opinions. You don't have to take our word for it as these reviews offer an honest take on their thoughts on the giant . The giant is available view all year round for all to visit.

Hardy Monument

Another way to learn more about Dorset's history is through seeing the Hardy Monument located above the village of Portesham, near Weymouth. Not to be confused with famous author and poet, Thomas Hardy, this monument is in memory of Vice-Admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, who was Flag Captain of HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar.

Though there appears to be no official opening times, it is likely that the monument can be seen best between dawn and dusk.

Eggardon Hill, Bridport

This just one of Dorset's many Iron Age hill forts, and this one date back to around 2,500 years old. It is also known as an old smuggling spot where Isaac Gulliver created a planation to act as a landmark for his ships in the 18th century.

It is an area that families can tick off of their aforementioned 50 Things list with plenty of walking areas that highlight the seasonal nature and wildlife of Dorset's countryside.

Burton Bradstock

Another iconic area located in Bridport is Burton Bradstock which forms part of the Chesil Beach. It is one of the main gateways to the Jurassic Coast and the South West Coast Path creating it an ideal beach walking spot.

The area is dog-friendly, though it is important to check before your trip as there may be restrictions . Though there are not official opening and closing times, there is no overnight parking or camping at the site.

Staying in the Bridport but steering away from the coastline is the beautiful sites of Golden Cap - England's only natural World Heritage Site. At the site lies Stonebarrow Hill which is considered a good starting point for the area's 25 miles of footpaths.

If you're into hiking, then this trek up the steep hills are worth it for views of Lyme Regis and Dartmoor. The area is also rich in wildlife where you can see large numbers of 'blue' butterflies in the summer.

Lambert's and Coney's Castle

Two Iron Age hill forts are located within a mile of each other and both lie within the Bridport area. Another chance to tick something off the 50 Things list, the area is ideal to take in breathtaking views of Marshwood Vale.

It is also a great chance to be at one with nature and spot the rich wildlife in the area.

Pilsdon Pen

Tucked away near the town of Beaminster - considered the best seaside town by the Times - this National Trust site offers far-reaching views of rural Dorset. It is here that you can catch views of some of the above landmarks including Marshwood Vale, Golden Cap and the Hardy Monument.

Dogs are welcome on leads and the car park is located at the bottom of the fort.

Lewesdon Hill

Last, but certainly not least, on our list is Lewesdon Hill near Beaminster which is said to be the highest point in Dorset with stunning views over Devon and Somerset. The dog-friendly area provides an ideal spot for hiking and walking, which could be great for those seeking respite from the Jubilee weekend celebrations.

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