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Durdle Door
Kimmeridge Sunset
Osmington Mills
Portland Bill Lighthouse
Kimmeridge Bay
Weymouth Harbour
Poole Harbour
Durdle Door Kimmeridge Sunset Osmington Mills Portland Bill Lighthouse Kimmeridge Bay Weymouth Harbour Poole Harbour

Things to do in Dorset

Dorset is a county full of beautiful contrasts: rolling green hills, fertile farmland, golden beaches, rugged cliffs and open heaths make up nature’s own patchwork creation.

The beauty of its coastline is equally matched by its geological importance: 185 million years of the Earth's history is revealed in the 95 miles of Jurassic Coast that stretch from Orcombe Point in East Devon to Old Harry Rocks near Swanage. If you enjoy exploring, then you'll find places of interest right across the county.

Things to do in Dorset

Looking for things to do in Dorset? There's a huge choice of visitor attractions, including beautiful gardens, national treasures such historic houses, nature reserves, theatres and fascinating museums, offering something for all the family.

There's a jam-packed events programme all year round and visiting sport lovers can take their pick from a range of activities both on and off the water.

The county is fast becoming a food-lover's dream - you'll find some excellent pubs and restaurants making the most of the fantastic local produce.

If your holiday just isn't complete without some retail therapy, then shopping can be a rewarding experience with lots of local independant gems to be found alongside larger nationwide stores.

And if after reading about the delights of this fascinating county you find yourself wondering where to stay, you'll find a great selection of holiday parks and campsites to suit your needs.

Dorset and its World Heritage Coast offers something for everyone, from Durdle Door to Weymouth Beach and Portland Bill, enjoy exploring what's on offer.

As a highly photogenic county, our website features lots of photography courtesy of Scoop of Dorset. More photos are available to view and purchase here: Dorset photography prints.

Destinations

Places to Go

Find places to go and things to do in Dorset using the options below.

Dorset Events

26 March 2025
Macbeth
Weymouth
Lyme Regis
28 March 2025
The Clive Ashley Trio
Bridport
Weymouth

Latest Dorset Features

17 Mar 2025
Towns of Culture - Reveal Portland & Weymouth Portland & Weymouth Revealed! Reveal - Portland & Weymouth Towns of Culture 2025 is a celebration of the vibrant cultural scene in Portland and Weymouth. Showcasing the rich tapestry of artistic expression, local talent, and diverse events that define the two towns. Join in, exploring the unique stories, traditions, and creativity that make Portland and Weymouth the cultural gems of 2025. What to expect! Thanks to funding from the Arts Development Company, Portland ... Read more...
12 Mar 2025
Bridport Market Bridport's Historic Street Market One of our favourite weekend treats is a visit to the fabulous year-round Bridport Market, which runs on Wednesday and Saturdays, the latter being the busier of the two days. Stalls offer a mix of everything and anything, with furniture, antiques, collectables, toys, chocolate brownies, vinyl records, local prints, vintage fashion, socks, walking sticks, organic fruit and vegetables, macramé, rugs, hand-made goods, cheese, local ... Read more...
7 Mar 2025
Family Fun at Nothe Fort We’ve been talking to Fiona Elliott from Dorsetmums. When her children were quite young, Fiona started up her own website, social media and blog to share her family's experiences visiting Dorset attractions and businesses. Fiona’s children are now 8 and 12 years old, and have visited many of the area’s tourist attractions and activity centres, so as a family they know what makes for a good day out! Last summer they visited the Nothe Fort in Weymouth: check out how ... Read more...
4 Mar 2025
Stampede by the Sea A Trunkload of Fun! Have you ‘herd’ about the trunkload of fun stampeding to West Dorset this spring? To support the brilliant Weldmar Hospicecare, local businesses have kindly sponsored an exciting and eye-catching art sculpture trail of 30 beautifully decorated elephants, individually and uniquely designed by local & national artists. Small and giant elephant sculptures can be found at coastal locations, in historic towns and at family-attractions for eight weeks ... Read more...
26 Feb 2025
Unusual Things to do in Dorset One of the big appeals to visiting Dorset is that it feels rather like a secret waiting to be discovered. With hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, unusual place names and unique hobbies, it is ‘THE’ destination to anyone who is looking for quirky things to do, places to explore or a special experience to enjoy. Dorset is rich in history, culture and its beauty is undeniable. Come for the day, the weekend, or make it your go-to holiday location. Many choose Dorset as their ... Read more...

More articles available in the features section.

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