25 Wonderful Things to Do in Dorset, England in 2024

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Looking for the best things to do in Dorset? It’s one of my favourite places in England and these are all of my top tips for exploring the Jurassic Coastline, pretty towns and villages, and so much more.

Dorset is a beautiful county and one of the most incredible seaside destinations in southwest England. Having spent plenty of summers exploring the coastline of Dorset, the country has a special place in my heart.

We first visited Dorset on part of our road trip around southern England. We’ve since returned a lot to explore the area more in-depth. From discovering beautiful hilltop castles to many coastal walks, I cannot get enough of how beautiful this part of the UK is.

If you are looking for somewhere new to explore in England, or just want some inspiration on what places to visit, then Dorset is one of the places I always recommend to people. And I’m pretty sure you’ll fall in love with it too!

My Favourite Things to Do in Dorset

Although the county is best known for its miles of beautiful coastline and picturesque views, Dorset has many fantastic attractions. These are some of my favourites, and all of my top tips.

1. Admire Durdle Door

Cost: Free to visit. £12 to park for all-day parking or £6 per 4 hours.

The Durdle Door is the most famous attraction in Dorset and possibly the most well-known natural stone arch in Europe. As such, it has been a popular destination for many years.

Located near Lulworth on a beach that’s a mixture of pebble and sand, the archway dates back to the Jurassic Period, roughly 190 million years ago. It’s pretty impressive and towers 200 meters above sea level.

The beach next to Durdle Door is a great place for swimming in the summer months or exploring on foot at any time of year. There are lots of coastal walks in this area.

You can technically walk along the coast to West Bay and see reach like Old Harry Rocks by following the South West Coastal Path. But, that’ll take around 6 hours! If you want a slightly more doable day hike, I recommend the walk between Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.

Durdle Door can be visited any time of day for free, although you will need to pay a parking charge. It’s £12 for all-day parking.

It can also (understandably) get rather busy, as it’s a beautiful and popular spot so, if you want photographs without lots of tourists, I recommend visiting early morning or later in the evening.

✅ I recommend this Jurassic Coast Islands tour

2. Explore Corfe Castle

Cost: £12 off-peak time, £13 peak time per adult

Corfe Castle is one of the finest Norman castles in England. Located near Wimborne and Corfe, it can be found on a hilltop overlooking Purbeck District in Dorset. The castle was originally built by William the Conqueror as part of his invasion during the 11th century.

The castle is incredibly impressive to look at. Even from the ground, you can see just how impressive it must’ve looked back in the day.

You will find a strong reminder that this castle has seen conflict: battlements were reinforced with guns during Cromwell’s time and some scars remain from World War II. 

This site offers an excellent day out for those who love exploring places with history. The entrance is £12-£13 per adult.

3. Visit Lulworth Cove

Cost: Free to visit. 4 hours parking is £6.

Another treasure of the Jurassic Coast, Lulworth Cove is one of the best things to do in Dorset for those who love the sea or want a nice coastal walk.

As you arrive, you will walk down a slop lined with coastal pubs and taverns. If you want to eat here I suggest booking in advance as they get very busy.

At the bottom, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of Lulworth Cove and its multi-coloured cliffs leading out into the blue water beyond.

This cove offers visitors many places to explore: from rock pools that harbour starfish, urchins, and other wonders of nature; to places where people can enjoy cliff-diving (with care) in warm weather.

Lulworth Cove is also free to enter, but you’ll once again need to pay a parking fee if you go there by car.

4. Wander Around The Isle of Portland

Cost: Free to explore.

Portland is a limestone island and the only place in England where natural Portland stone can be found. The island is surrounded by water on three sides, and the unique barrier beach of Chesil Beach joins it to the mainland.

There’s plenty to do here if you’re looking for something active. With bike paths through beautiful countryside, and hikes through the scenic Forest Park.

There is a selection of historical sites too like the Portland Museum and the Portland Plateau. It’s no surprise why this is such a popular place to visit in Dorset. 

5. Visit Portland Castle

Cost: £7 per adult

If you’re a history-lover, be sure to visit Portland Castle. This impressive striking coastal fort on the Isle of Portland dates back to the early 17th century. It’s very well-preserved and inside, you can learn a lot about England’s maritime history.

Originally constructed by Henry VIII to defend against invasion from France and Spain, Portland Castle has an intriguing hexagonal design. From the towers and gun platforms, you can see over the English Channel.

Over the centuries, the castle has played a vital role in safeguarding the shores of the UK. Today, you can explore reconstructed rooms showing what things used to be like on the island, the gun rooms, weapons, and more.

6. Explore the Town of Weymouth

Cost: Free to explore.

I love Weymouth. This was where we stayed last time we visited Dorset and I absolutely loved it there. It’s an enchanting blend of coastal charm, family-friendly attractions, and historical attractions, nestled along the stunning Jurassic Coast.

It also has a picturesque sandy beach, lined with colourful beach huts and backed by an elegant Georgian seafront. The town’s bustling harbour is well worth a visit with its lively quayside cafes and seafood restaurants. It’s the perfect perfect spot to watch fishing boats bobbing in the water and soak up the vibrant maritime atmosphere.

You can also explore the historic Old Town where you’ll find narrow streets lined with quaint shops, traditional pubs, and historic buildings.

You can enjoy lots of typical English seaside attractions here like donkey rides on the beach or thrilling rides at the bustling Weymouth Pleasure Pier. It’s a great spot for a family day out.

7. Explore the Nothe Fort

Cost: £9.95 per adult

If you do decide to travel to Weymouth (I highly recommend it), take a trip to the Nothe Fort. This is one of the best places to visit in Dorset, as it offers another fantastic glimpse into England’s history.

The Fort hosts many exhibitions, tours, and activities for those who arrive. This includes everything from exploring World War II battlefields to demonstrations of how soldiers used to live here during wartime. To top it all off, there are fantastic views across the Weymouth coast from the top. 

The entrance fee is £9.50 for adults or free for English Heritage members.

8. Explore Bournemouth Oceanarium

Cost:

Travel a little further down Dorset’s coast and you’ll find Bournemouth. For those who love marine life and want to see what it’s like below the waves, take a trip to Bournemouth Oceanarium.

This aquarium is home to over 20 habitats. You’ll see places that mimic coral reefs, tidal pools with starfish and crabs, and even a shark tunnel where you watch the sharks swimming above you.

There are many opportunities for visitors to get up close and personal with creatures of all shapes and sizes here. As well as this, there are live interactive shows every day which make an excellent experience even better.

It’s a great experience for a rainy day in Bournemouth and one of the best things to do in Dorset with kids.

✅ I recommend this tour of the Jurassic Coast from Bournemouth

9. Visit Portland Bill Lighthouse

Cost: £8 per adult to enter the lighthouse.

I absolutely loved it here, despite the slightly dreary weather when we visited, and it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Dorset.

You’ll find the iconic Portland Bill Lighthouse perched dramatically on top of the rugged cliffs of Portland Bill. First lit in 1906, this lighthouse has guided sailors safely along the treacherous coastline of the English Channel for over a century.

It’s an impressive 41 meters (135 feet) tall and has a very powerful light that can be seen up to 25 nautical miles away!

When you visit, you can explore the lighthouse itself, and the surrounding area. One of my favourite parts of the area was a tall structure of rocks that juts out from the main cliffs to the right of the lighthouse.

This is known as Pulpit Rock, and you can actually climb up the side of it for stunning views over the coastline.

I recommend this with caution though. There’s no support up there, and the grooves in the rock are a little bit precarious. So, tread carefully, and I don’t recommend doing this in bad weather.

10. Go for a Walk in Upton Country Park

Cost: Free

For those who fancy exploring the outdoors, take a trip to Upton Country Park.

It’s just 30 minutes away from the centre of Bournemouth and offers visitors some fantastic places to explore in nature. This includes woodland, heathland, ponds, and even a set of small caves.

This country park also offers many different route options for those who like exploring by bike, or if you are feeling more adventurous try out one of their many hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty. 

11. Visit The D-Day Center

Cost: £10 per adult

Another spectacular historical attraction located in Portland, the D-Day Cente is easily one of the best things to do in Dorset. If you love history, this is a must-see since it showcases one of the most pivotal moments of modern history.

Situated in a former military building overlooking Weymouth Harbour, the centre is a tribute to the thousands of Allied troops who departed from the town’s shores to participate in the D-Day landings during World War II. Inside, you’ll find immersive exhibits, artefacts, and interactive displays, you can gain insight into the planning, execution, and legacy of D-Day.

You can also read personal stories of bravery and detailed accounts of the equipment and strategies they used at the time. It’s fascinating, but also incredibly sobering.

12. Go Wild at The Tunnel Tree Tops

Cost: £17.50 per adult for an hour session

This award-winning treetop adventure is one of the best places to visit in Dorset for adrenaline junkies. It’s also a great place to visit if you’re looking for something that the whole family will love.

Tunnel Tree Tops offers an exciting adventure activity and places of natural beauty in one. The high ropes course is located in West Dorset, just outside Charmouth, and 2 miles from the Jurassic Coast.

The forest is also an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and you’ll find stunning views, breathtaking moments of joy, and the opportunity to get up close and personal with nature.

The high-ropes course consists of 11 wooden elements that can take you up into the trees. There are aerial walkways, rope bridges, tree swings, and 3 zip wires as part of their course. The price is £15 per adult.

13. Explore Dorset’s Natural Parks

Cost: Free to visit.

Dorset has some of the most beautiful national parks in the UK. These are some of the best places to visit in Dorset for those who love nature, rural communities, or even historic buildings.

Some of the best National parks in Dorset include:

• The Jurassic Coast AONB,
• The New Forest,
• Durlston Country Park,
• Holes Bay,
• Studland Bay Nature Reserve

For those looking for more than just one day out, there’s also National Trust’s Kingston Lacey, which is a beautiful country house. It houses Egyptian artefacts, a Japanese garden, and a beautiful woodland park.

14. Explore the Village of Abbotsbury

Cost: Free to explore

If you love adorable little English villages, you’re going to love it here! Easily one of the best places to visit in Dorset, you can explore the charming streets and picturesque countryside of Dorset.

Steeped in history and surrounded by rolling green hills, Abbotsbury is a really peaceful spot. The village is known for its stunning views, quaint thatched cottages, and winding streets lined with local shops and tea rooms.

One of Abbotsbury’s most famous attractions is the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, a beautiful collection of paradise of exotic plants and vibrant floral displays nestled in a sheltered valley.

Nearby, you can also explore the ruins of Abbotsbury Abbey, a medieval monastery with a rich and fascinating history.

15. Explore the Bournemouth Aviation Museum

Cost: £10 per adult

For those who are interested in aviation history, the Bournemouth Aviation Museum is one of the best things to do in Dorset.

This museum has an interesting mix of exhibits which include planes from World War II; jets – including Concorde and many others; and helicopters that visitors can view up close for themselves too. You can also see collections of aviation memorabilia, trophies, and photographs.

16. Go for a Walk Along Chesil Beach

Cost: Free to visit

One of the most beautiful and dramatic landscapes in Dorset, Chesil Beach is a natural wonder of the region. In fact, it’s also one of the natural wonders of the entire UK!

Stretching for approximately 18 miles along the Jurassic Coast, Chesil Beach is a stunning shingle barrier beach that separates the Fleet Lagoon from the open waters of the English Channel.

Its unique formation and dramatic landscape make it a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor adventurers. You can explore the beautiful pebble ridge, which rises to heights of up to 15 meters (49 feet) in some places, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.

The beach is also a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot a variety of bird species, marine life, and rare plants along its shores. There is a small visitor centre in the car park too, where you can learn about the wildlife in the area.

17. Visit Abbotsbury Swannery

Cost: £12.50 per adult.

Another one for the bird-lovers, Abbotsbury Swannery is one of the most famous attractions in Dorset. Located in the village of Abbotsbury, this historic swannery is the only place in the world where you can walk among hundreds of free-flying mute swans.

Established over 600 years ago by Benedictine monks, the swannery is steeped in years of history and surrounded by lush gardens and ponds. You can get quite close to these majestic birds and learn about their habitat nesting habits.

If you look in the reed beds, you can quite often see their nests and watch them tend to their cygnets during the breeding season.

There are several guided talks and feeding sessions throughout the day at the Swannery. These provide further insights into the behaviour and conservation efforts of these beautiful birds.

18. Visit Monkey World Ape Rescue

Cost: £16.50 online and £18.50 at the door

Another chance to explore the natural world, Monkey World is home to over 400 rescued primates of many different species.

Visitors can get up close and personal with these creatures in their natural enclosures, whilst learning about the work they do here. This rescue centre has developed massively since it was founded.

It’s now home to more than twenty species of monkeys, all of whom were rescued from labs, circuses, pet shops, or even television. Entry is £16 per adult.

19. Take a Trip to Brownsea Island

Cost: £9.50 per adult for entrance to the island and £13 for the ferry

For a day trip away from the coast, take a ride to Brownsea Island. This is just off of Poole and it’s actually the largest island in Poole harbour.

The island is owned by the National Trust and there are some fantastic places to explore on this island. This includes woodland walks, nature reserves, lakes with beautiful views, and you can even see rare red squirrels.

To get there, you’ll need to take the foot ferry from Poole Quay. It takes about 20 minutes and costs £13 per person for one-way travel. It’s open all year round too, so it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Dorset.

✅ I recommend this Poole Islands Cruise

20. Visit The Tutankhamun Exhibition

Cost: £16 per adult

The Tutankhamun Exhibition is a must-see for anyone visiting the west coast of England. It’s located in Dorchester and offers visitors an incredible chance to explore ancient Egypt.

This is a must-see for anyone with an interest in history and culture. It places the famous discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb into a social context.

This beautiful museum tells the story of this ancient pharaoh, with some incredible interactive exhibits and immersive displays. You’ll also find artefacts from this period. This includes everyday items as well as some of the world’s most famous treasures.

21. Go Fossil Hunting at Lyme Regis

Cost: Free

One of the most intriguing and beautiful beaches in the UK, Lyme Regis is also home to an incredible Jurassic past. Finding fossils on the area’s beaches is one of the top things to see in Dorset.

The fossils found here date back as far as 350 million years ago. This is the perfect place for those who enjoy geology or simply want to learn more about our past. 

22. Go for a Game of Crazy Golf

Cost: Varies by company. Expect to pay around £8 per game.

Sometimes, you just can’t beat a round of crazy golf. And it’s one of the best things to do in Dorset as the county is home to plenty of courses.

Most places have 18-hole courses and have everything from Dinasour-themed golf to complicated obstacles. There are also both indoor and outdoor courses. A few of the best ones are:

• Sandbanks Crazy Golf – Poole
• Weymouth Pirate Adventure Golf – Weymouth
• Mr Mulligans – Bournemouth
• Smuggler’s Cove – Bournemouth
• Santa Fe Fun Park – Swanage

23. Enjoy the Watersports

Cost: Varies depending on what you do. Expect to pay at least £30 per person.

As well as fun to be had on dry land, you can also participate in plenty of watersports in Dorset. You can go kayaking around Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, take a boat ride, explore places like Bournemouth Pier, or even go windsurfing.

There are also places to visit that offer some more unusual sports too – like indoor surfing.

24. Hike to the Old Harry Rocks

Cost: Free

The Old Harry Rocks are a great place for anyone looking to explore the coast. The three chalk formations are similar to the Needles on the Isle of Wight. They’re located at Handfast Point, on the Isle of Purbeck.

The rocks mark the most easterly point of the Jurassic Coastline. The walk to the rocks is about a mile long. It takes roughly 35 minutes (depending on your pace and how many photographs you stop to take!).

These rocks offer up an unforgettable view from this stretch of coastline and it’s a must-see spot on any visit to Dorset.

25. Attend Dorset’s Festivals

Cost: Depends on the festival

The county of Dorset has festivals all year round. Places like Bournemouth and Poole host some of the most popular in this part of England.

Some of the best festivals to visit in Dorset:

• Dorset Seafood Festival,
• Bestival and Camp Bestival,
• The AONB’s Great Dorset Steam Fair,
• Swanage Music Festival + Carnival,
• Sidmouth Folk Week,
• Weymouth Blues Weekend

With a range of activities from culture through to live music, these festivals are some of the best things to do in Dorset.

How Long Do You Need in Dorset?

Put it this way, I’ve visited Dorset 4 times, spent weeks there and I still haven’t seen everything! If you really want to explore the county in-depth, you could spend a month in Dorset easily. However, for a first-time visit, I recommend spending around a week there.

This will give you time to explore the Jurassic Coastline, go on a few countryside walks, explore Corfe Castle, and a few of the towns like Weymouth and Portland. You’ll also have time to explore Abbostbury and visit some of the beaches nearby.

How to get to Dorset

Dorset is located in the southwest of England and it’s about 3 hours southwest of London. If you’re travelling from the capital, there are several ways to get there:

• By Car: If you’re travelling by car, it’s a pretty straightforward drive. Major roads such as the M3, M27, and A31 provide access to Dorset from London and other parts of England.
• By Train: Dorset is served by several railway stations, including major hubs like Bournemouth, Poole, and Dorchester. Direct trains run from London Waterloo to these stations, with journey times typically ranging from 2 to 3 hours.
• By Bus: National Express and local bus services connect Dorset with other towns and cities across the UK. Bus routes often terminate at major towns like Bournemouth, Poole, and Weymouth.
• By Air: The nearest major airport to Dorset is Bournemouth Airport (BOH), which offers domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi or public transportation to reach your final destination in Dorset.

Once you’ve arrived in Dorset, it’s much easier to get between destinations with a hire car. This will also give you the freedom to visit some of Dorset’s more remote areas as some of the historic sights aren’t the easiest to reach via public transport.

However, if you don’t want to hire a car, you can get around with a combination of buses and taxis.

✅ I recommend this company for hiring a car in the UK

Where to Stay in Dorset

Since Dorset is quite a large area, it can be tricky to know where to base yourself if you plan to explore the county. However, here are a few of my favourite places to stay:

• Jurassic Coast: The Jurassic Coast is one of the reasons you’ve come to Dorset, right? But there are actually plenty of places to stay along the World Heritage coastline. Towns like Lyme Regis, Charmouth, and West Bay offer plenty of options with easy access to the coast.

• Bournemouth: As one of Dorset’s largest coastal resorts, Bournemouth offers a wide range of accommodation options. With its sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Bournemouth is perfect for families, couples, and groups looking for a lively seaside destination.
• Dorchester: This historic market town, located inland, serves as the county town of Dorset. Dorchester has a rich heritage, with attractions like Maiden Castle, the Dorset County Museum, and Thomas Hardy’s Cottage. It’s a great base for exploring both the countryside and coastal areas.
• Weymouth: Another popular coastal town, Weymouth is known for its picturesque harbour, sandy beach, and family-friendly attractions like the Sea Life Adventure Park and Sandworld Sculpture Park. You can stay in waterfront hotels, holiday parks, campsites, and much more.
• Lulworth Cove and Wareham: These areas provide access to some of Dorset’s most iconic landmarks, including Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, and Corfe Castle. Accommodation options include hotels, B&Bs, and holiday cottages, offering a peaceful setting amidst breathtaking scenery.

✅ Discover more of the best places to stay in Dorset

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Dorset

Dorset is one of my favourite counties in the UK. There is so much to see here, from fossil-filled coastlines to natural wonders, charming villages, and beautiful walking trails.

You can explore historic castles one minute and then laze on a beautiful beach the next. It’s a stunning part of England, and I hope this post has inspired you to visit Dorset.

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