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Dorset is a foodie’s paradise with a host of fantastic restaurants, cafés and pubs – so make sure you bring a healthy appetite.
here for the weekend? Fear not! Here are some ideas for a memorable short break.
vultures assemble! Dorset offers the perfect mix of galleries, museums, exhibitions and festivals.
Although Dorset has more than enough to keep you busy, a journey further afield can make for an exciting new adventure.
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This wonderful county draws visitors back like a magnet year after year
Welcome, visitor!
Dorset truly is a destination you can return to time and time again. From the rich prehistoric pickings of the Jurassic Coast to the rustic pleasures of Hardy country, Dorset is jampacked with places to visit.
The 86 miles of stunning coastline running from Lyme Regis to Poole Harbour is England’s first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the Jurassic Coast. With more than 185 million years of history embedded in its cliffs and beaches, you can take a boat trip to admire incredible rock formations or hunt for fossils on the shore.
Dorset isn’t all about the seaside though –there are plenty of picture-perfect towns and villages throughout the county just waiting to be discovered. It’s also dotted with an abundance of historic attractions including Corfe Castle, Nothe Fort, Lulworth Castle and Portland Castle, meaning history buffs will be in their element.
Travelling with the family? Monkey World is an ape rescue centre that’s home to rescued and endangered primates from around the globe, while at SEA LIFE Weymouth, you can come face-to-face with sharks, rays, turtles and penguins.
In the last few years there’s been a foodie revolution in Dorset, with respected chefs opening cafés, restaurants and bistros. Whatever tickles your tastebuds – whether it’s elegant fine dining, fish and chips or hearty roasts in relaxed country pubs – this coastal county has everything covered.
Keen shoppers will be happy in Dorset too. The county offers quirky towns and equally quirky shops, but it’s easy to find the big highstreet brands and shopping malls as well.
So whether you’re a first-time visitor or you’re returning for more of everything Dorset has to offer, here’s hoping you have a wonderful stay. Enjoy yourself in this wonderful part of England and never stop exploring. ■
The pebble beach and blue waters of Lulworth Cove make it an extremely popular destination
Dorset offers an abundance of things to do with days out and top attractions for the whole family to enjoy
Great days out
From the rugged cliffs of the Jurassic Coast to the literary landscapes of Hardy country, Dorset has no shortage of fun-filled days out. Check out hillside chalk figures, explore atmospheric castles and soak up the sun on the county’s many stunning beaches. You’ll never run out of things to do in Dorset!
More than anything else, it’s Dorset’s beautiful countryside and coastal landscapes that draw people back here again and again. So pull on your boots and get exploring those hillsides, hiking trails and seaside paths.
The 86 miles of stunning coastline running from Lyme Regis to Poole Harbour
The coves are fantastic for rock pooling and fossil hunting
is England’s first and only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though it’s known as the Jurassic Coast, it actually spans three time periods – the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous – with more than 185 million years of history on display. You’ll find several coves that are fantastic for rock pooling and fossil hunting, and special fossil tours are available in Lyme Regis and Charmouth.
To get acquainted with this area on foot, try walking some stretches of the South West Coast Path, which links coastal villages and towns such as West Bay, Lulworth Cove and Swanage. Alternatively, you can ride the Jurassic Coaster buses – which run the full length of the coast every two hours in the
Dorset has some of the best beaches in the UK, from quiet Southbourne and trendy Sandbanks to the natural limestone arch of Durdle Door.
At PierZip you can be adventurous and leap from a 60ft launch tower at the end of the pier and fly 820ft over the waves back to the beach.
summer – or you could venture off the beaten track with one of Jurassic Safari’s offroad Land Cruiser trips through the Bride Valley. The attractive village of Abbotsbury offers subtropical 18th-century gardens, a 600-year-old swannery and a hilltop chapel. On rainy days, seek out some fossil facts at the Dinosaurland Fossil Museum in Lyme Regis, which holds a stunning collection of ammonites.
The county’s golden sands and pebbled coves are some of the best beaches in the UK, from quiet Southbourne and trendy Sandbanks to the natural limestone arch of Durdle Door. Thousands flock to these beaches during the summer months, but come on a weekday in late spring and they’re refreshingly clear, save for a few locals hitting the sand on warmer days.
During high season, lifeguard stations at Bournemouth offer safety for families looking to enjoy a dip in the water. A great addition is PierZip at RockReef, the world’s first pier-toshore zipwire, which sees adventurous types leap from a 60ft launch tower at the end of the pier and fly 820ft over the waves back to the beach. Weymouth Beach is another lovely sandy stretch, featuring donkey rides and one of the UK’s last surviving seaside Punch and Judy shows.
The beautiful sandy beach of Sandbanks in Poole draws thousands of tourists every year and is known throughout the world for its exclusive atmosphere and glamorous properties. The peninsula itself covers less than half a square mile but includes some of the county’s most expensive real estate, home to sports stars, entrepreneurs and other celebrities.
Poole’s natural harbour is one of the largest in Europe and comprises nine islands, including Brownsea. This National Trust attraction is only accessible by boat, with several tour operators offering ferry services from Poole Quay or Sandbanks. The island shelters sika deer and an indigenous population of red squirrels.
Brownsea Island is famous all over the globe because Robert Baden-Powell used it for his first experimental Scout camp in 1907. And you can see why, because out here you feel as if you’ve truly escaped the pressures of the ordinary world. Make an adventure of the day and find hidden beaches, rock pools and forest dens. Stop at the café on the way out and enjoy a fabulous cream tea overlooking the mainland.
While you’re at Poole Harbour, why not book onto boat tour with Coastal Cruises? l
Arundells, 59 Cathedral Close, Salisbury, SP1 2EN info@arundells.org 01722 326546 arundells.org
Discover a hidden gem within Salisbury's historic Cathedral Close
Arundells, the fascinating former home of former Prime Minister, Sir Edward Heath, where history, art, and culture intertwine. See his impressive art collection, featuring works by Sargent, Sickert, and Lowry, alongside intriguing political memorabilia, quirky curios and personal treasures.
“A thoroughly amazing place”
“One of the best house visits we have ever done” “Forget which political persuasion you sway to, this property is a gem to visit”
Self Catering Holiday Homes
Riverside Park is a lovely collection of nine holiday townhouse homes, all furnished to a high standard and equipped with everything to ensure you have an enjoyable stay.
All our holiday homes offer excellent self catering accommodation. Each lounge has patio doors on to the well-kept garden area for guests to relax in and enjoy the sunny Dorset weather.
We are located on the banks of the River Stour in the heart of the beautiful town of Christchurch and within easy reach of stunning beaches, the Quay, Christchurch Harbour, High Street shops, restaurants, bars and The New Forest.
Riverside Park, 28 Willow Way, Christchurch, BH23 1PB
Tel: 01202 471090 | email: info@riversidepark.co.uk www.riversidepark.co.uk
Tivoli Theatre Wimborne
The Tivoli Theatre is an Art Deco theatre holding audiences up to 483 and has a mixture of film, drama, ballet, comedy and some of the best performers in live music.
The Tivoli was built in 1936 as a cine/theatre and the tradition of showing both films and live stage shows continues to the present day. Big audiences for major shows were traditional at the Tivoli and the theatre has once again achieved the status of a major venue. Local people enjoy the finest and latest films available with full surround sound.
Embark on a 70-minute harbour and islands tour or spend a couple of hours on a longer coastal cruise to Swanage and back, admiring the big skies, open ocean views and striking chalk formations.
Just outside Wareham, Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre is home to over 250 rescued and endangered primates from 25 different species, including the largest group of chimpanzees outside Africa. It’s also Europe’s official crèche for orphaned orangutan infants. Many of the park’s residents have been neglected, kept in unnatural conditions, or experienced unbelievable cruelty. At Monkey World, they can now enjoy the company of their own kind in a safe and natural environment.
Combining fun with conservation and animal education, self-guided audio tours explain all about man’s closest living relative. Visitors can see the stars of TV’s Monkey Life, while smaller visitors can monkey around themselves in the Great Ape Play Area with its huge variety of swings, slides, and climbing frames.
With its relatively warm climate, this part of the south coast is a hotspot for wine production, and many English vineyards have picked up top international awards, including for English sparkling wine.
Fantastic Dorset vineyards include the Furleigh Estate and English Oak, both of which offer tours and tastings.
And there can’t be many counties with such a rich offering for history buffs. From stunning castles to military museums, Dorset is one of the best spots in the UK to immerse yourself in the past.
Medieval Lulworth Castle, which dates to the early 17th century, opened its doors to the public in 1998 and has been a major attraction ever since. Both the castle and its grounds are open seasonally, with occasional special events scheduled in the summer. Make your way up to the top of the tower for breathtaking views or visit nearby Lulworth Cove for lunch in one of the seaside cafés, where you can sample fresh crab sandwiches and homemade ice cream.
Corfe Castle’s dramatic ruins dominate the village of the same name. Originally a wooden structure, the castle was rebuilt in stone by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and offers a rare insight into the life of a medieval castle. The National Trust puts on a huge range of events throughout the year including tours, food festivals, family activity quests and re-enactment weekends.
Portland Castle on the Isle of Portland is a handsome artillery fort built for Henry VIII in the 1540s, to help protect England from l
Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre, just outside Wareham, is Europe’s official crèche for orphaned orangutan infants.
Aerial Obstacle Course
Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre Longthorns, Wareham, Dorset BH20 6HH
English Heritage’s Maiden Castle is one of Europe’s largest Iron Age hill forts and is vast in extent and covers an area the size of 50 football pitches
continental invasion. Today it provides a great day out for visitors – and its audio tour, included in the admission price, tells of the castle’s history and the part it played in the two world wars.
Dorchester’s impressive Maiden Castle sits to the west of the county town. This English Heritage site is one of Europe’s largest Iron Age hill forts and is vast in extent. Covering an area the size of 50 football pitches, the ridged defences are still very evident. It’s free to visit all year round.
Set in beautiful woodland on the outskirts of Dorchester, Thorncombe Woods houses the simple thatched cottage where Thomas Hardy was born, and where he penned early works including Far from the Madding Crowd. Set in an appealing cottage garden and offering regular tours, you can see Hardy’s writing desk or follow in his footsteps with a stroll through his beloved woods. There are walking routes taking 15 or 35 minutes, and an informative visitor centre near the cottage has all-terrain mobility scooters for rent. There’s also a dog-friendly café at the visitor centre, where you can refuel with home-baked treats or a warming bowl of soup.
While you’re on your Hardy pilgrimage, it’s worth venturing just a few miles closer to Dorchester, where you’ll come across another
Dorset is home to a clutch of picture-perfect towns
National Trust property called Max Gate. Designed by the man himself and built in 1885 by Hardy’s own father and brother, he lived there until his death – and it’s where he wrote some of his most famous novels, including Tess of the d’Urbervilles and Jude the Obscure, as well as much of his poetry.
Dorset is home to a clutch of pictureperfect towns such as Sherborne, Shaftesbury and Wimborne. Sherborne, to the north of the county and on the border with Somerset, is a small town renowned for its abbey and boutique shops and cafés. The 16th-century Sherborne Lodge was built for Sir Walter Raleigh, while the town’s castle is a romantic 12th-century ruin.
Charming Wimborne is located on the eastern side of the county and lies just north of Poole. This small town hosts several cafés and shops and a handful of delightful restaurants. l
Explore
Bournemouth’s Conker Gin
Distillery
Distillery Tours
Fridays and Saturdays
14:00 to 16:00
Take a tour of Dorset’s first Gin Distillery in Bournemouth. Learn how we handcraft our award-winning spirits, and enjoy a guided tasting of our Dorset Gins and Cold Brew Coffee Liqueurs.
Book online for just £30 per person.
Distillery Tap Room
Fridays and Saturdays
16:00 to 22:00
Join us every Friday and Saturday from 4pm for cocktails, music and delicious food from a local food truck. The whole family is welcome and there’s no need to book ahead.
See you soon!
Scan here for more info & to book on a Tour.
‘’What a wonderful, magical place!!! Everyone is so lovely and the drinks are incredible. Good vibes, good drinks, good people, what more could you want?!’’
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Shaftesbury, meanwhile, is set on a North Dorset hilltop at over 700ft above sea level, offering views towards Glastonbury Tor on clear days. One particular street in Shaftesbury – Gold Hill – is instantly recognisable thanks to that old Hovis TV advert featuring a young boy pushing his bike up a cobbled street.
Only a few minutes’ drive from Bournemouth is the picturesque town of Christchurch. Surrounded by sandy beaches and the New Forest National Park to the east, it’s a perfect destination for a day’s sightseeing. Within the town are two main tourist attractions – the castle ruins and the priory. Both are free to enter and date back to the late 11th century.
Take a trip back in time with a steam train ride, courtesy of the Swanage Railway. Running from Norden (next to Purbeck Park) into Swanage town centre, there’s no better way to park and ride into the seaside resort. The six-mile journey takes in some outstanding views of Corfe Castle, and there are special on-board events including afternoon tea trains and driving experiences. Once at Swanage, sample tasty fish and chips on the pier and watch the locals try their luck at crabbing.
For an alternative way to see the county’s fabulous sites, why not take to the air? There
are a number of companies in the county offering short flights by aeroplane, helicopter or even hot air balloon.
If you’re into military history get down to the fascinating Tank Museum. Located at Bovington Camp, 12 miles west of Poole, this family-friendly museum holds arguably the finest and most historically significant collection of fighting armour in the world. Unrivalled in scope and depth, it cares for 300 vehicles from 26 nations.
On the subject of military history, one of Dorset’s more unusual visitor experiences is the deserted village of Tyneham. In 1943, the villagers were evacuated so that the area could be used for D-Day training, and sadly they were never allowed to return. To this day, it’s still part of Lulworth Ranges MOD training area, but there’s limited public access to the village and nearby Worbarrow Bay (normally open from 9am to dusk during weekends and public holidays, but check Gov.uk to be sure). Frozen in time, some original buildings still remain, and there are exhibitions in the church and school.
From fossil hunting on glorious beaches and exploring centuries-old castles to riding steam trains and meeting monkeys, you’ll find a wealth of fantastic activities to keep you busy in Dorset, no matter your age or interests! ■
Take a trip back in time with a steam train ride, courtesy of the Swanage Railway.
DON’T MISS
1
Foodie destination I
Dorset features some of the best seafood in the UK as well as spectacular rural producers. In the last few years there’s been a food revolution here, with respected chefs opening cafés, restaurants and bistros. Many focus on using excellent local suppliers to keep the food miles low and provide the freshest produce from field to plate.
2
Durdle Door
Durdle Door is considered one of the most famous attractions on the 88-milelong Dorset coast. Created by erosion some 140 million years ago, this rock archway curves out into the sea from a sheltered bay, providing a stunning backdrop for the most unique of beach days. It’s not advised to swim through the arch due to the currents, but you can take a guided kayaking tour to see it from the water.
Ice cream
3
Bournemouth alone serves up more than 2,000 ice creams a day in the summer. Every year an average of 750,000 ice creams are bought on the seven miles of Bournemouth’s seafront. If you venture to Weymouth you must try Rossi’s Ice Cream parlour – they’ve produced legendary ice cream there since 1937.
4
Sculpture by the Lakes
Just seven miles west of Dorchester, this 26-acre sculpture park on the banks of the Frome is the work of artist/gardener couple Simon and Monique Gudgeon. Near the entrance, the Makers’ Yard features a café, deli and shop, plus a gallery housing smaller sculpted works as well as paintings, drawings and other twodimensional artwork.
5
Monkey World
Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre is home to more than 250 rescued monkeys and apes from 25 different species. Visitors can watch the primates interact, enjoy daily keeper talks and let the kids run wild in the Great Ape Adventure Play Area.
6
Castles galore
There are so many castles, houses and forts to explore in Dorset that you’ll never fit them all in. One of the most iconic is the ruin of Corfe Castle, which has more than 1,000 years of history and is situated in an idyllic village. Other castles of note include Lulworth, Portland and Maiden, all steeped in rich and exciting histories
7
Set sail to Brownsea Island
Located in Poole Harbour and famous as the location of the first ever Scout camp in 1907, Brownsea Island’s habitats include heathland, woodland and a lagoon. Why not see if you can spot rare red squirrels and a wide variety of birds, such as dunlin, kingfishers, sandwich terns, common and oystercatchers? There are free trails that can help you explore the island – and with a natural play area and fantastic picnic spots, there’s an adventure waiting for the whole family
Bournemouth alone serves up more than 2,000 ice creams a day in the summer
8
A fresh perspective l
If you’re in Bournemouth and see yourself as a bit of an adventurous type, then make sure to take a turn on the PierZip at RockReef. It’s the world’s first pier-toshore zipwire, where you can leap from a 60ft launch tower at the end of the pier and fly 820ft over the waves back to the beach. Its dual zip line means you can ride with family and friends and challenge them to a heartthumping race to the shore!
9
Go fossil hunting
Lyme Regis is famous for its fossils – and its fossil hunters! The local Blue Lias clay found to the east and west of Lyme contains the remarkable fossil remains of marine creatures from the Jurassic seas of 180 million years ago.
10
Camp Bestival I
The family-friendly Camp Bestival takes place each July at Lulworth Castle, showcasing a variety of performers from big-name musicians and DJs to comedians and cabaret acts. There’s a real family feel to it all, with circus workshops, immersive theatre journeys and all the food and drink you could ever need. ■
SHOPPING
Dorset is a unique county overflowing with a range of quirky and independent stores to suit every taste
Dorset may not be a county of big cities, but that doesn’t mean its shopping game isn’t seriously strong. From bustling high streets and offbeat independent stores to out-of-town shopping malls, you’re sure to find something to fulfil your retail dreams.
Dorset is full of quirky towns and equally quirky shops but it’s easy to find high-street labels and shopping centres here too. For a day of hardcore shopping, make your way to Bournemouth – the heart of the county’s retail action. There are enough shops here to keep you busy for days, with all the hustle and
There are enough shops here to keep you busy for days
bustle of a large town.
The high street offers a mix of well-known stores including Zara, Lush, Primark and River Island, and there are a ton of restaurants and cafés to choose from if you want to make a day of it. If you’d prefer to stock up on provisions for a picnic, the main shops are just a short stroll from a lovely al fresco lunch in the Lower Gardens or on the beach.
Shopping malls in Bournemouth include the Sovereign Shopping Centre, which has top names including Boots, JD Sports and Holland & Barrett. There’s also the Arcade –
Born in Poole, Lush offers a range of quirky and unique handmade bathing and cosmetic products with signature ‘Lush’ scents
an elegant Victorian covered shopping street where you’ll find a mix of big players like Waterstones and Space NK nestled alongside independent boutiques like Charles Fox jewellers and Fantastic Things Emporium. This last shop is a market-style store where a variety of smaller sellers offer everything from antique toys to handmade jewellery.
If a massive shopping mall is more your style, just four miles from the town centre sits Castlepoint – a sprawling shopping centre home to eateries, supermarkets and chain stores. Browse your heart out at shops including Marks & Spencer, Monsoon, H&M, Mountain Warehouse and TK Maxx.
Charismatic, historic Poole has a nice line in high-street shops. Most are based inside the covered Dolphin Shopping Centre, home to more than 110 stores including Clarks, Next, Primark and Trespass for shoes and clothing and Boots and The Body Shop for beauty and skincare. It’s a handy destination to travel to, with Poole’s main bus station just outside the door and the train station over the road.
Fancy some department store browsing? Head to Poole Retail Park and you’ll find a large John Lewis, as well as a Decathlon for all your sporting goods needs.
Arriving at the train station in Dorchester, you’ll see Brewery Square, a £100 million development on a former brewery site. There are chain stores including Hobbs and Phase Eight as well as restaurants such as Wagamama and Zizzi – but it’s also a great place to just hang out. There’s plenty of amphitheatre-style stone seating, an outdoor ‘Screen on the Square’ which shows big events such as Wimbledon, and large fountains that are a big hit with overheated kids in the summer! In the winter (normally from November to early January) a temporary ice rink pulls in the punters both day and night.
The square leads to Dorchester South Station, directly on the London line, which can also take you either to Weymouth or Bournemouth. Over the road, the market comes alive on a Wednesday morning with traditional stalls selling fruit, vegetables, meat, plants and more.
The famous seaside destination of Weymouth offers a selection of high street and family-run independent stores. Along the main pedestrianised thoroughfares of St Thomas Street and St Mary Street you’ll find major chains including JD Sports, Boots, Trespass, Weird Fish and M&S. If you’re here at lunchtime head to the harbour where there are plenty of cafés and restaurants to choose from as well as the town’s famous fish and chip shops. Along bunting-lined St Alban’s Street
there’s a selection of gift shops, cafés, vintage stores and fascinating souvenir outlets.
In fact, if you love browsing independent boutiques, markets and antique stores, you’ll love shopping in Dorset. Not only will you find plenty of unique gems, but you’ll also get to do so in beautiful surroundings – from pretty-asa-picture villages to handsome market towns.
Dorset’s biggest town, Bournemouth, boasts an array of vintage shops and fancy boutiques for those unique finds. A lot of the vintage and antiques action is centred around Christchurch Road in Pokesdown, which is home to a selection of retro bookshops, boutiques and antique stores. For more high-end stuff, most of the town’s jewellers are either on Westover Road or in the Arcade.
Just a few miles away, Southbourne is the place to go to enjoy café culture at its best. Head along Southbourne Grove to soak up an eclectic mix of indie stores and visit busy delis and cafés. Bonus points for the beautiful beach, located just a short walk from the shops. l
L Picturesque shopping in Sherborne I Dolphin Shopping Centre, Poole
Weekly Markets take place in Bridport’s three main streets throughout the year.
If you’re planning a Christmas shopping trip, Bournemouth is a fabulous destination. The town pulls out all the stops with lights, decorations and the annual German-style bar and market. In recent years the Lower Gardens has put on events and an ice-skating rink for maximum festive atmosphere.
Heading towards Poole, Westbourne is an ‘urban village’ packed full of trendy independent stores. It’s also home to more than 50 eateries. The beautiful undercover Victorian arcade is worth a visit for its individual shops, homewares and fashion stores. If you fancy a night off from dining out, grab a treat from COOK, where you can get a fantastic selection of tasty hand-made dishes to heat up at home.
The county town of Dorchester has a selection of independent shops and a load of historic charm. Wander along cobblestone Antelope Walk to find gifts, foodstuffs, clothing and fashion. Shops include Naturalife for whole foods and organic body care products, Mirari Lingerie for underwear and swimwear, and Joey’s Family Food for nutritious and fresh-cooked kids’ meals.
At the Dorchester Curiosity Centre, around 100 traders sell everything from hand-made furniture to refurbished shabby chic items and vintage collectables. This 12,000sq ft
Dorchester has a selection of independent shops and a load of historic charm
warehouse in an old bus depot is a regular haunt for antiques enthusiasts and has a charming little café in the middle that’s perfect for a refreshing cup of tea and cake.
Poundbury, a modern extension of Dorchester, is well worth a visit for its independent shops. For kids’ toys try traditional Boo’s Toy Shop. Or head to Cath Kidston specialist shop Magpie, which offers gifts and colourful homewares. For a serious style injection visit Cherryade Life Store which has an extensive range of toys, cards, presents and homewares sourced from all over Europe and the UK. Award-winning YARD is a chic women’s boutique that stocks brands such as French Connection and Great Plains. If it’s antiques you’re after, get straight down to Bridport. Most of the action is centred around St Michael’s Trading Estate, home to a dizzying number of artist’s studios, l
bric-a-brac and antique stores, vintage clothing boutiques and vinyl record shops. At the heart of it is the Alleyways antique centre, where more than 50 traders sell an eclectic mix of artefacts from the 1700s through to the mid-20th century. In the far corner of this charismatic shopping area is the charming Red Brick Café, serving food from local suppliers. It’s also home to Bridport Arts and Vintage Market, which normally takes place on the last Sunday of the month.
In nearby West Bay (just one mile from Bridport), The Customs House is another buzzing venue set in a Grade 2 listed building. Over 100 traders offer a selection of antique and vintage goodies, plus a variety of crafts and an on-site café too.
The beautiful seaside town of Lyme Regis is crammed full of independent retailers selling everything from beautiful jewellery to delicious Dorset produce. Take a hike (it’s pretty steep) up and down Broad Street where you’ll find lots of gift and homeware shops. Then branch off to explore the numerous side streets, where you’re sure to find an offbeat gem or two. At the Lyme Fossil Shop or Jurassic Gems you can purchase beautiful jewellery made from ancient stone from the Jurassic Coast.
Dorset has plenty of small towns that are very much worth a trip for their retail treats. Lucy’s Farm in Swanage is an art gallery and gift shop decked out with quirky images of cows painted by Lucy – she also creates pet portraits on commission. West of Swanage, Winfrith Village Stores is an old-time grocery with a striped awning and plenty of tasty Dorset fare on offer. For stylish homewares and toys crafted from wood, make for Dansel Gallery in nearby Abbotsbury.
The rural towns of Blandford, Sherborne, Wimborne Minster and Shaftsbury are also crammed full of independent retailers and regular markets. Foodies will be delighted with the wealth of delicious local produce on offer in Dorset. To sample some of the goods, Dorset Farmers’ Markets are an excellent bet. Markets run most Saturdays but at different venues every week – check online for the most up-to-date information. If markets are your bag, Poole’s bustling high street has a lively street market every Thursday, Friday and Saturday too.
From large shopping malls to characterful high streets, Dorset is a fantastic place for some retail action, particularly if you’re after unique gifts or souvenirs. There’s a wealth of independent boutiques, vintage shops and markets to explore. ■
Lucy’s Farmin Swanage is an art gallery and gift shop decked out with quirky images of cows painted by Lucy –she also creates pet portraits on commission
EATING OUT
Dorset is a foodie’s paradise with a host of fantastic restaurants, cafés and pubs –so make sure you bring a healthy appetite
Satisfy your seafood and shellfish cravings
When it comes to eating out in Dorset, you’re in for a treat. This county features some of the best seafood in the UK as well as spectacular rural producers. In the last few years there’s been a food revolution here, with respected chefs opening cafés, restaurants and bistros. Many focus on using excellent local suppliers to keep the food miles low and provide the freshest produce from field to
plate. From fine dining to fish and chips to hearty roasts in cosy country pubs, Dorset has everything covered.
The jewel in Dorset’s crown is its glorious 88-mile coastline, where hundreds of restaurants, bistros and stalls feature heavenly fresh-caught fish. You’ll find everything from hand-picked cockles to succulent sea bass and crab.
For some of the best seaside
dining in Dorset, head to the Harbour Hotel and Spa in Christchurch and its two restaurants, the Upper Deck and the Jetty. Both offer spectacular views across the harbour, and both are headed by one of Dorset’s most respected chefs, Alex Aitken, who’s passionate about seasonal, local food. The award-winning Jetty is a stone’s throw from the water’s edge and serves the most delicious
at the rustic seaside hut that is The Crab House Café in Wyke
seafood. It receives rave reviews from food critics and offers a varied and original seafood menu – try the turbot ‘T-bone’ with pink prawns and chicken wings or the Singaporestyle mixed fish grill.
Poole Quay and its bustling cobblestone streets offer a range of seafood eateries, including the fabulous Rockfish which is set in a beautiful old pottery building. Here you’ll be able to enjoy local fish landed that day, cooked to order for you on the chargrill or crispfried, served with unlimited chips or a salad. If the sun’s out, try and nab a table outside for views over the water.
For no-fuss pub grub, make a beeline for The Jolly Sailor or The Portsmouth Hoy, also on Poole Quay. If you’re after something simple, Nick the Fish – on Penn Hill, just east of Poole – serves legendary fish and chips that has the punters queuing around the block in high season.
Take the chain ferry over to Studland, where as well as beautiful beaches you’ll find Shell Bay Restaurant and Bistro, one of the most picturesque dining locations in Dorset. Book a table here and you can soak up stunning views across to Brownsea Island and Poole Harbour. The menu changes with the day’s catch but there’s always a large variety of dishes –and they can usually get you a lobster or crab if you give them a couple of days to put an order in with the fisherman.
Heading along the Jurassic Coast, stop off at the acclaimed Limestone Hotel & Restaurant in West Lulworth, which serves lobsters caught in Lulworth Cove. Or try the Crab House Café, a cute eatery right on the seafront between Weymouth and Portland, which serves seafood so fresh that you might spot fishermen bringing in the day’s catch. All the food is delicious, but the Portland Pearl oysters are particularly special. They’re farmed right in front of the café, so they’ll be on your plate within minutes of leaving the water.
Around Weymouth harbour you’ll find a cluster of great higher-
The seafood is so fresh you might spot fishermen bringing in the day’s catch
end seafood restaurants including the Hatch on the Harbour and Catch at the Old Fish Market –but for many visitors, Weymouth is all about good old-fashioned fish and chips. Try Marlboro or Bennett’s, both long-standing harbourside chippies.
Along the coast, head for the incredibly popular Hive Beach Café at Burton Bradstock for its unshowy restaurant and excellent seafood. Further up the cliff perches the Seaside Boarding House, which was opened in 2015 by the founders of the famous Groucho Club in Soho. Their restaurant serves fabulous seafood and other local produce, from roasted fresh-caught brill to Devon duck with bone-marrow bread sauce.
In nearby Beaminster, Brassica is a real highlight. The awardwinning restaurant is housed in a Grade 2-listed building on Beaminster Square, and is run by chef and author Cass Titcombe. With a menu that changes daily, you might find mouthwatering dishes including spinach and ricotta malfatti or organic Devon Ruby steak frites with black garlic. During winter, they also do fantastic lunchtime pasta and wine specials.
As one of the most popular destinations in Dorset, Lyme Regis is a must for foodies. The view from Rockfish is simply stunning. Sitting in the restaurant you overlook fishing boats coming into the harbour along the famous Cobb. Formerly the site of the celebrated Oyster and Fish House, Rockfish is a brand new opening for 2025, bringing the same fresh, seasonal and sustainable seafood that’s made its other coastal restaurants such a huge hit.
Many Dorset pubs and restaurants are passionate about championing local fish, meat and vegetables in their modern British dishes. If you fancy something more international, it’s also easy to find. There’s everything from Thai to Caribbean on offer in this gastronomic country.
In Bournemouth you’ll find restaurants to suit all tastes, with l
Come for the food, then stay for live music later on
Italian, Indian, Caribbean and Thai options. Cream of the crop is fine-dining star Roots, where the tasting menu dishes are true works of art. Alongside meaty options, there’s a full tasting menu for vegetarians, featuring kombu potato with buttermilk, chives and seaweed caviar amongst other goodies.
For a taste of the east, try Koh Thai, where you can order classic Thai curries and other specialities or order from their tapas-style small plates menu – perfect for sharing with a group of friends. Another Asian option is Oishii, located within 1812 bar and restaurant in the Royal Exeter Hotel. Operated by award-winning chef, Cheryl Tio, it offers sushi and Asian fusion small plates. Come for the food, stay for drinks and live music later on.
Urban Reef along Boscombe Promenade has a double-height ceiling and is a stylish and relaxed place to soak up some sea views. During the day you can visit the decking to people watch, just metres from the golden sands, or in the evening enjoy their candlelit upper deck restaurant.
Between Bournemouth and Poole lies the village of Westbourne, which has become a popular foodie destination over the past few years. Despite its small size, it boasts a huge number of places to eat and drink. For a lively buzz in Westbourne head to Camden Bar & Kitchen, which has food l
L Brassica in Beaminster I Urban Reef on Boscombe Promenade
to suit all tastes, including generously sized burgers. Le Petit Prince is a patisserie serving tempting cakes and pastries, while newcomer, the Hutch, won local café of the year 2024. Offering coffee, cakes, pastries and lunch, this quirky joint features rabbit-themed décor and hosts occasional events and live music.
Wine and cheese lovers should head straight to award-winning Renoufs Cheese & Wine Bar, which prides itself on matching the perfect wine with succulent cheeses. There are more than 30 wines to enjoy by the glass, so it’s perfect for an evening of tasting. The charcuterie boards are also spectacular, and in fact Renoufs is so popular that it’s expanded to four more locations including Poole and Wimborne.
Still in Westbourne, Indi’s is fantastic for contemporary Indian cuisine and is packed out with a crowd of hungry locals every evening. There are lots of
dishes unique to Indi’s chefs, who pride themselves on pushing the boundaries of Indian restaurants in the UK. The results are fresh, eye-catching and delicious. Try the whole crab garlic balti or the Chennai machli curry – sea bass, prawns and calamari in a Bengali coconut broth. You might not find UK classics such as korma or tikka masala on the menu but if that’s what you’ve got your heart set on, just let them know and the chefs will make it for you.
Just two miles away in Ashley Cross is another hub of restaurants well worth heading to. The stylish area is right on the Weymouth to London train line and is a firm favourite with the after-work crowd for cocktails and dinner. For serious comfort food, Chicken and Blues on Commercial Road does what it says on the tin, serving up Southern-inspired spicy fried chicken and fortifying tortilla wraps. For a relaxed and fun night of dinner and drinks make your way
to the Dancing Moose. This stylish joint is a buzzing brunch and lunch venue by day and a trendy restaurant by night. There’s a wide choice of food – including a killer burger menu – and a firm favourite is their signature mac and cheese that you can load up with chorizo, pulled pork or crispy bacon.
A few miles along sits the Pig on the Beach, a boho-chic hotel which champions local food and has an impressive kitchen garden where they grow a lot of their own produce. In fact, they say that pretty much everything on their menu is sourced within 25 miles of the hotel. If you can bag an outdoor table in summer, then do, because the view from the Pig’s garden is breathtaking. You’ll take in the open sea with Old Harry Rocks and the Isle of Wight in the background. For a fabulous afternoon spread, head inland to Yalbury Cottage, Lower Bockhampton, where the oak-beamed restaurant serves up an ever-changing menu of delicacies
Freshly made cuisine, prepared in the open kitchen at Urban Reef in Boscombe, where you can watch their skilful chefs prepare your dishes
Pretty much everytihng on the menu is sourced within 25 miles of The Pig on the Beach in Studland
including chalk stream trout pastrami, Lulworth venison or double-baked Dorset cheese soufflé. Also highly recommended are their generous farmers’ market Sunday roasts.
If you fancy a country pub with roaring log fires, fine ales and tasty food, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Dorset. One of the best is The King’s Arms in Portesham, which has a sprawling garden that’s perfect for a pint on a summer’s day. The interior is cosy and the food is fabulous, sourced from local Dorset producers. Meanwhile, the Langton Arms in Tarrant Monkton is a 17th-century thatched pub which sits in a small idyllic hamlet surrounded by gorgeous countryside. The award-winning inn has a reputation for its range of ales, great food and beer garden.
Just outside Dorchester, in the village of Plush lies the Brace of Pheasants, an award-winning traditional 16th century grade II-listed thatched inn. Pop in
If you fancy a country pub with fine ales and tasty food you’ll be spoilt for choice in Dorset
for a drink or any lunchtime or evening to enjoy cask beers, tasty local ciders and a renowned menu of traditional and contemporary cuisine with a real flavour of Dorset, utilising many ingredients sourced from local suppliers.
And we can’t wrap up a list of favourite Dorset Sunday roast pubs without mentioning the Greyhound, literally next to iconic Corfe Castle. They’ve got a huge menu of pub classics and more unusual offerings like savoury carrot and almond cakes – plus they get extra brownie points for letting you pick two or even three different meats to put on your roast dinner.
From seaside dining to countryside gastropubs, it’s easy to eat your fill of seasonal Dorset produce. Tuck into a traditional pub meal, sample modern British cooking in a trendy restaurant, enjoy innovative international dishes, or get your teeth into some of the freshest seafood in the business. The choice is yours. ■
Only here for the weekend? Here are some ideas for a memorable short break to Dorset
WEEKENDER
DAY ONE
Begin your first day with a trip to Mudeford Quay, where you can watch the hustle and bustle of the harbour in the morning as the fishing vessels return and the quay is filled with lobster pots and the early morning catch. From there, you can head up into Christchurch for a nose around the castle ruins or the priory. Enjoy a cup of Joe at Coast Coffee on Christchurch High Street, then head on into central Bournemouth for a spot of shopping or a walk along the promenade. You could hire a bike during spring and summer, but bear in mind that the beach is bike and dog-free during the summer. There are plenty of eateries along and around the promenade, so settle in for a spot of lunch with beachside views.
In the afternoon, it’s time to head over to Poole, where you can jump on board a ferry tour to Brownsea Island and relax in the south coast sunshine. Dock at the island and take a relaxing stroll around the island (keep an eye out for red squirrels) or enjoy a drink at the Villano Café.
As the ferry returns to Poole Harbour, enjoy an evening meal at one of the many restaurants on the quay, such as Rockfish for fresh and seasonal fare or the family-run Oriel on the Quay.
DAY TWO
Settle in for a spot of lunch on and around the promenade with beachside views
Kick off your second day by parking up at Norden railway station and boarding a steam train to Swanage, admiring the stunning Corfe Castle on your way. Following the 20-minute journey, take a stroll around the seaside resort of Swanage and grab yourself an ice cream from one of the kiosks along the beach.
After returning on the train, it’s only a short drive to the 17thcentury grandeur and rolling parkland of Lulworth Castle. Or if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you could visit the abandoned village of Tyneham, deep in the heart of Lulworth Ranges training area. It’s owned by the Ministry of Defence, but is often open to the public at weekends (check your dates on Gov.uk), and you can walk from the village to the secluded beach at Worbarrow Bay, a mile away.
Next, head deeper into Dorset to the village of Cerne Abbas where you won’t be able to miss the iconic Cerne Abbas Giant – a 55-metrehigh chalk figure set in the hillside. It is best seen from the viewpoint car park, but you can walk right up the hill if you prefer. Refuel at the award-winning New Inn where you can dine on delicious pub grub in the cosy surroundings of this 16th-century former coaching inn.
Heading on to Bridport, you can either explore the town itself
– with its quirky shops, vintage quarter and cafés – or head to the coast at West Bay. Fans of Harbour Lights or Broadchurch may recognise locations and buildings from the television series.
Wind up your day with a tour of Furleigh Estate vineyard, sampling sparkling wines overlooking the fields as you decide which of the area’s fantastic restaurants to spend your evening at. A good bet will be in nearby Beaminster, where the food is divine. ■
Watch the hustle and bustle of the harbour in the morning at Mudeford Quay
Culture vultures assemble! This county offers the perfect mix of galleries, museums, exhibitions and festivals
Culture Club
Dorset’s lush landscapes and dazzling coast have inspired artists and writers for centuries and continue to do so today. In every corner of the county, you’ll find art galleries, theatres and festivals celebrating the best of Dorset life. A whole host of writers have based themselves in Dorset over the years. Wander around the mythic coastlines, rolling hills and rural villages and it’s easy to see why!
The most celebrated of Dorset’s literary stars is novelist and poet Thomas Hardy, who wrote some of the most quintessential novels
about English rural life, including Far from the Madding Crowd, The Mayor of Casterbridge and Tess of the d’Urbervilles. The son of a stonemason, Thomas Hardy was born near Dorchester, and his imagined county of Wessex is parly based on Dorset.
You can follow Hardy’s life right from the little thatched cottage in Higher Bockhampton where he was born, on to the famous home he built in Max Gate and to his final resting place at St Michael’s Church in Stinsford. (Well, actually it’s only his partial resting place – when he
died in 1928, his body was interred in Poet’s Corner, Westminster Abbey, but his heart remained in Dorset and was buried in his wife’s grave at Stinsford.)
If you’re a serious Hardy fan, visit the reconstruction of his study within the Dorset Museum and Art Gallery in Dorchester, where you can also see a stunning red bustle gown worn by his sister Kate and other exhibits associated with Hardy’s Dorset. Other galleries in the museum deal with natural history, art and local people, while the graceful wrought-iron arches,
Wander around the mythic coastlines, rolling hills and rural villages that have inspired artists and writers for centuries. Opposite, Camp Bestival
Roman mosaics and rose window of the museum’s Victorian Hall make it a must-visit attraction.
Other famous authors who loved Dorset include JRR Tolkien – who visited Lyme Regis regularly from childhood and lived in Poole for many years – and Enid Blyton, whose work was inspired by the characters and landscapes of Dorset. Robert Louis Stevenson, meanwhile, wrote The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde while living at Skerryvore House in Westbourne for a few years in the 1880s. Writers John Cowper Powys and Theodore Francis Powys feature Dorset heavily in their work –including Weymouth Sands and Maiden Castle.
The beautiful seaside town of Lyme Regis provided Jane Austen with a key location for her novel Persuasion, and John Fowles’s dazzling novel The French Lieutenant’s Woman is also partly set in the town. Beatrix Potter spent a holiday in Lyme in 1904 and used views of the town for her story, Little Pig Robinson.
Camp Bestival offers hundreds of things for families to do from circus skills to science explorations
Oddly, Frankenstein author Mary Shelley’s dying wish was to be buried in Bournemouth, despite the fact she’d never lived in the town. Her wish was granted – as was her desire for her already deceased parents to be re-buried with her. The family plot at St Peter’s Church in Bournemouth also includes the remains of her husband’s heart.
If you’re in Dorset to soak up some culture, you won’t run out of things to do. There are enough art galleries, concerts and festivals to keep you going all year!
Back in the 1960s The Beatles loved Bournemouth. After London and Liverpool, they played there the most often! The town has been firmly on the touring circuit ever since – these days bands play at the Bournemouth International Centre. Bridport and Weymouth also have strong reputations for live music.
Taking place in July at Lulworth Castle, Camp Bestival offers hundreds of things for families to do from circus skills, science explorations, bushcraft and immersive theatre journeys to l
Sturminster Newton Mill
Sturminster Newton Mill is one of the few remaining working mills on the Stour. Visitors can tour the mill on their own or, at no extra cost, choose a guided tour by the miller who will explain the history of the Mill, the machinery and how it works.
There are regular milling weekends throughout the season when visitors can see how grain is turned into flour and can purchase the flour produced. There is a car park at the mill and tables and benches with riverside views for picnics.
Open from last weekend in March to the last weekend in September Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Thursday 11am - 5pm Entry fee: £5 Adult, £1 Child, Under 5s go free
Just off the A357 Sat. Nav. DT10 2HW
Visits by parties are welcome and these can also be arranged to take place outside normal opening hours, by prior arrangement on 01258 473178
amazing live acts and DJs, family raves, comedy, cocktails, awardwinning street food and flamboyant evening cabaret acts, all shared with like-minded people.
For opera lovers, the Dorset Opera Festival (which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024) puts on seven performances of two fully staged operas each July.
Internationally renowned opera stars mix with a chorus of mainly young aspiring singers and a full orchestra. The productions take place in the Coade Theatre in the grounds of the dramatic neoGeorgian Bryanston School at Blandford Forum. Buy a picnic or bring your own and enjoy it in the picturesque grounds during the interval – or you can even opt for a four-course Opera Dinner.
For some of the best music, drama, comedy, cinema and dance that Dorset has to offer, get down to Lighthouse in Poole. It’s the home of the acclaimed Bournemouth Symphony , and music groups and touring ballets perform here
regularly. Don’t miss the visual art gallery, which features everything from painting and printmaking to design and sculpture.
Elsewhere, prominent exhibition spaces include the commercial Westover Gallery in Bournemouth, which represents artists worldwide and always exhibits a variety of work by modern and graffiti artists.
Over in Bournemouth is the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, overlooking the pier. Completed in 1901 – the year that Queen Victoria died – it’s one of the last Victorian houses ever built. Wander through the stunning house with its panelling and galleries to soak up the beautiful architecture and glamour: a particular treasure is the iconic Venus Verticordia, a Pre-Raphaelite beauty painted by Dante Gabriel Rossetti. The gardens have statues too, plus a fountain and a stone grotto.
Some seven miles north of Bournemouth, Wimbourne is home to a Walford Mills Crafts – a contemporary crafts gallery housed
in a beautiful old red-brick mill building. On-site artists work in disciplines ranging from silk weaving to printmaking.
To pick up some jewellery, homewares or antiques try the Mulberry Tree Gallery in Swanage. This friendly gallery was set up by four friends with a passion for all things beautiful and creative and it’s always beautifully presented and full of enticing gifts.
Set in 26 acres of the county’s beautiful countryside seven miles west of Dorchester, Sculpture by the Lakes is an oasis for art lovers and collectors created by renowned artist Simon Gudgeon. Meander through the gardens to spot the sculptures in their lovely natural setting. The gallery houses smaller sculpted works as well as paintings, drawings and other twodimensional artwork.
The historic market town of Bridport and its surrounding villages are home to many artists, craftspeople and writers, and the Bridport Arts Centre is a focal point for this rich l
Soak up the beautiful Victorian architecture and stunning gardens at the Rsussell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum
Bridport hosts an astonishing variety of festivals and events, including the fun-filled Bridport Hat Festival
cultural scene. Housed in an old Wesleyan church, it comprises a gallery, theatre and cinema. The centre also runs a prestigious annual creative writing competition.
A couple of miles south of town on the coast, Sladers Yard is a private gallery which shows and sells modern British art, alongside cutting-edge ceramics, glassware and leather goods and elegant handmade wooden furniture designed by Petter Southall.
West Dorset is practically heaving with wonders. Head to Osmington, Weymouth, and you’ll see a dramatic white horse figure sculpted into the limestone hillside, standing an impressive 98m high and 85m long. Created in 1808, it depicts King George III. The figure was restored on the TV show Challenge Anneka and then again before the Olympics in 2012.
Just 16 miles away, the famous Cerne Giant is a unique destination for a day trip. The ancient naked chalk figure has caused quite the
controversy over the years, standing erect for everyone to see above the picturesque village of Cerne Abbas. Many theories surround the giant’s origin, and local folklore has long held it to be an aid for fertility, hence the famous pilgrimages by couples hoping for a child.
For more historical hijinks, head for the iron age hill fort of Maiden Castle, near Dorchester. It dates to 1800 BC and features impressive ridge ramparts covering an area the size of 50 football pitches.
During the summer months, outdoor cinemas tour the county, and some years there have been outdoor film events at Lulworth Castle. Then, of course, there’s the magical experience of watching open-air theatre on Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour. The tradition of performing Shakespeare has been going on for more than 50 years here, with performances taking place in late July and into August.
If you’re a festival fan you won’t leave Dorset disappointed,
especially during the summer months when they seem to happen every weekend! One of the best is the Christchurch Food Festival in May – a weekend of foodie events and tastings all over the delightful riverside town.
The Dorset Food and Arts Festival Market, usually held on the first weekend of August in Poundbury, is a celebration of everything Dorset. More than 50 food producers from Dorset farmers’ markets come together with artists and musicians to put on a fine one-day festival.
Arty Bridport hosts an astonishing variety of festivals and events, including the funfilled Bridport Hat Festival, the Bridport Gig Rowing Club Regatta and the annual carnival and torchlight procession.
From its dramatic hillside chalk figures and storied literary history to its busy calendar of theatre, art and festivals, Dorset has bags to offer in terms of culture. So get ready to explore, experience and be inspired! ■
Arty
It might be more famous for chilled-out summer days on the beach, but when the sun goes down, Dorset has a spectacular nightlife all of its own
After dark
Whether you want to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand or dress up and hit the clubs, Dorset has plenty to offer. And if the bright lights of Bournemouth and Poole get a bit too much, then the rural charm of a village pub could be the perfect antidote.
If you’re after a big night out, Dorset doesn’t disappoint. From cocktail bars and sprawling nightclubs to sophisticated cheese and wine bars, you won’t go short of entertainment.
For all-night partying, Bournemouth is your best bet.
No longer known as a retirement spot for the silver set, it’s home to a thriving community of students and young professionals who pack out the bars and clubs late into the night. They’re often joined by tourists and stag and hen parties, particularly in the summer. And if those big, brash nights out aren’t your thing, never fear. There are venues to suit every vibe.
Clubbers should head to Bournemouth town centre, where one of the newest (re)openings is the decadent Lost nightclub on Commercial Road. Think cocktails,
resident DJs and a dressed-up, youngish crowd in a temple-style venue. For something a little more quirky and informal, Sixty Million Postcards has an impressive line-up of live music in the evenings as well as a unique interior. This homely little venue was created to display returned mail from the Post Office, hence the postcards plastered all over the walls!
Further up the road and you’ll come across swanky Bar So. It’s a favourite of Bournemouth’s fashionistas and serves more than a few bottles of prosecco on any given
Try the cocktails at Urban Reef in Boscombe. Opposite, Bourneouth Pier comes alive at night
night. Along the same lines, one of the most stylish restaurants and bars in Bournemouth is 1812, just a few doors down. Contemporary, glamorous and elegant, it serves fantastic cocktails and fine wine and blasts music until the early hours.
On the pier, you’ll find Aruba. With its 180-degree panoramic views, tropical-themed bar and beach shack vibe it feels more like Barbados than Bournemouth. The bar plays crowd-pleasing tunes until late so you can settle in and make a night of it. You can even take a cocktail-making masterclass here if you want to brush up on your hosting skills!
Looking for a bar that’s both lively and friendly? A short walk away from Aruba, Smokin’ Aces Cocktail Bar and Whiskey Lounge is all about atmosphere. Owner JJ Adams travelled around the United States cherry-picking great ideas and bringing them back to form his dream bar. There are open mic sessions, gigs, Motown nights and more.
If you don’t mind the crowds head to Cameo, Bournemouth’s
With its 180 degree views and tropicalthemed bar it feels more like Barbados than Bournemouth
biggest nightclub. Sip drinks in the sophisticated Myu Bar, dance to urban music in the basement or head for the disco room, where a night of retro tunes and an unpretentious crowd awaits.
Bournemouth has a wellestablished gay scene, based in an area called the Triangle. The most popular bar is DYMK Bar & Club (an abbreviation of Does Your Mother Know) which has regular drag nights, karaoke, live music and serves great oversized cocktails. Flirt Café & Bar is also in the Triangle. It’s a chilled place that dishes up delicious homemade food and puts on regular quiz nights and live entertainment.
Between Bournemouth and Poole is Westbourne, which is home to absolutely loads of restaurants and bars. Nights out here are less frenetic than in the town centre, and you’ll be mingling with a friendly, stylish crowd. Try Camden Bar & Kitchen for its stylish interior, bare brick walls and wooden bar. Or, if you want to make like you’re in France, Renoufs Cheese & Wine l
Bar could be a winner. More than 30 wines are available to try by the glass, and the cheese and charcuterie selection is superb.
Still in Westbourne, the Duck has a cool contemporary vibe and relaxed atmosphere, as does Circo Lounge, with its funky wooden furnishings, kitsch canvases and cocktail menu.
For more evening hijinks, head to Ashley Cross, a few miles away. There’s a healthy clutch of bars and pubs here, and it’s conveniently on the London train line if you’ve got travelling to do afterwards. Fancy a drink while you’re waiting for the train? The Avocet pub is right at Parkstone station.
If it’s a sea view you’re after, Poole Quay is just what you need. It’s always lively and fun, and in the summer months, there’s often live music plus outdoor dining and drinking.
If clubbing isn’t your bag, don’t worry! There are lots of ways to have a fun night out in Dorset without giving yourself tinnitus. Settle in
At the weekend the pubs come alive with a great range of local bands and a lively crowd
It hosts live music and comedy by big-name acts, as well as the odd political party conference. The smaller O2 Academy Bournemouth is in nearby Boscombe and is a beautiful old venue with incredible acoustics.
Weymouth is well known for its live music venues. On any given Friday or Saturday, you’ll find over 20 pubs featuring local live bands. Check out the online listings and set out on a mini musical pub crawl to get a real feel for the area. These traditional old pubs are proper boozers, so don’t expect champagne and canapés!
for a pint at a country pub, have an evening at the theatre or cinema or catch a live band at one of many topnotch music venues.
Dorset’s biggest concert hall is the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), which has a 10,000 capacity.
For a quirky art scene and live music, Bridport is another great choice. At the weekend the pubs come alive with a great range of local bands, and often with a lively crowd that’s up for some dancing. The 18th-century Ropemakers is a particularly good haunt, as is the Bridport Electric Palace – a beautiful venue built as a picture house in the 1920s that now features brilliant live music, theatre and
The Avecet is right next to Parkstone Station in Ashley Cross if you fancy a drink while waiting for your train home
comedy, including national tours. Bridport Arts Centre also has a fantastic reputation for supporting local music and artists – catch a live gig or the latest movies here.
For a quirky venue in the middle of rural Dorset, head to the Square & Compass in Worth Matravers. This hidden gem serves an incredible range of ciders and beers and features live music in the evenings and on Sunday afternoons. It’s a bit of a trek, but life doesn’t come much better than listening to a live band in a country pub with a hot pasty in one hand and a glass of the landlord’s homemade cider in the other.
There are a few venues worth checking out for comedy buffs. Jaggers Comedy Club in Bournemouth has a late licence. Saturday nights are the main stand-up night and tickets can be purchased in advance. Over in Wimborne, the Wimborne Comedy Club at the Royal British Legion has earned itself a reputation as a place where big-name acts can appear as a warmup for their larger gigs.
If theatre and movies are up your street you won’t be disappointed, especially if you like them with a side order of history.
The Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne Minster features a gorgeous Art Deco interior with chrome and Bakelite fittings and puts on both plays and film screenings.
The Regent Centre in Christchurch, meanwhile, is a restored 1930s Art Deco cinema that puts on films and live entertainment from latest Hollywood releases to the local Scouts gang show. The Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis is a performance venue and cinema dating back to the 1800s, with a balcony bar and sea views.
Real ales are a big deal in Dorset. Bars up and down the county are very proud of their ale choices and many pubs have their own on-site microbreweries. CAMRA beer festivals run from June to September all over Dorset, often with live music and a staggering number of ales to try.
Living up to its West Country
roots, cider has never been out of fashion in Dorset, but with its recent national boom in popularity, cider events are definitely on the up.
The Dorchester Cider Festival takes place in Dorchester’s Borough Gardens in August and many pubs serve local ciders for tasting. Excellent local brands to try include Cranborne Chase Cider and Purbeck Cider.
Although Dorchester has a sleepy reputation, there are a few great bars and pubs for an evening out. The Brewhouse and Kitchen in Brewery Square has a great buzz (as well as beautiful old copper vats), and so does the laid-back Vivo Lounge, a few doors down.
Dorset’s nightlife is as varied as the county itself. One evening you could be living it large at a frenetic club in the heart of Bournemouth, and the next you could be sampling local cider and listening to a folk band, deep in the bucolic countryside. Whatever you choose, you’ll be in for a fun and memorable night out. ■
Bridport Electric Palace a beautiful venue built as a picture house in the 1920s that now features brilliant live music, theatre and comedy
Although Dorset has more than enough to keep you busy, a journey further afield can make for an exciting new adventure
Time to explore
Wherever you’re staying in Dorset, there will always be something different to discover if you venture a little over the border. This coastal county borders Devon, Somerset, Wiltshire and Hampshire.
To the west of Dorset, you’ll find the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). At just under 40 miles, the East Devon Way passes through the heart of the East Devon AONB, taking in hills, woods, rivers, commons and picturesque rural villages. Made up of footpaths, bridleways and quiet country lanes, the route is well marked and can be walked in sections. You could also take a trip to one of the area’s stunning local nature reserves. Tranquil woodland spaces, meadows, heath and wetland are a haven for wildlife, making it an ideal family outing.
If you’re looking for more than just a picture-perfect day out, Somerset leaves you spoilt for choice. Vast limestone gorges, hidden grottoes, sweeping beaches and ancient castles dot a county entrenched in its own fascinating folklore.
Scenery may be Somerset’s calling card, but its creative spirit always shines through. Art and music combine in the region’s towns and villages, promising bucketloads of culture right on your doorstep. Just some of the county’s highlights include Glastonbury Tor; Wookey Hole Caves, Wells; Cheddar Gorge and Caves; The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens and Dunster Castle.
Travelling further East you’ll come to Wiltshire, home to arguably the most famous of all British landmarks, Stonehenge. Constructed in 3100 BC, this English Heritage site is a must for any visitor to the south. Whether you believe the
construction was for human sacrifice or astronomical purposes, you can stand back in amazement and awe at the estimated 30 million hours of labour it took to build the great monument.
Although Dorset doesn’t have any cities, a short drive or train journey will take you to the nearest one –Southampton. There you’ll find Westquay, which is home to more than 100 outlets, including Zara, M&S, Apple, Superdry and John Lewis. You’ve also got a huge range of restaurants including favourites like Bill’s and Five Guys. For an action-packed afternoon, there’s a 16-lane Hollywood Bowl, an escape room and a multiscreen cinema with state-of-the-art features.
If you’d prefer to get back to nature over the eastern border, the New Forest National Park is accessible by car, bus or train. The New Forest is perfect for either day visits or short breaks. Filled with idyllic villages with classic British country pubs and hotels, the New Forest has something for everyone.
A vast network of cycle routes act as veins through the national park allowing cyclists to access all areas of the park. Cycle hire stations can be found in the larger villages of Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst but can be very busy during the school summer holiday periods. New Forest Water Park in Fordingbridge features a giant inflatable sports aqua park and the south’s only 5-corner full cable wakeboard system. ■
This coastal county borders Devon, Somerset, Wiltshire and Hampshire
Cheddar Gorge has awe-inspiring cliffs and fascinating subterranean stalactite show caves
Aerial Obstacle Course
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