Top 10 things to do in Dorset
Dorset packs England’s Jurassic Coast, chalk hills and castle ruins into a small county. Most visitors head for the coast first, then add a castle or a steam train. Roads and car parks near the coast fill quickly in summer.
- 1
Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove
📍 Near Lulworth, Jurassic CoastCoast, walksA famous limestone arch and a horseshoe-shaped bay about a mile apart, linked by a coast path. Part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Arrive early in summer.
- 2
Corfe Castle
📍 Corfe Castle village, Isle of PurbeckHistory, viewsDramatic hilltop castle ruins that rise above the village. Great views over the Purbeck hills, and easy to pair with a ride on the steam railway.
- 3
Fossil hunting at Lyme Regis and Charmouth
📍 Lyme Regis & CharmouthFamilies, coastFossil-rich beaches on the Jurassic Coast. Guided fossil walks are worth booking for beginners. Check tide times and heed cliff warnings.
- 4
Kingston Lacy
📍 Near Wimborne MinsterHouse, gardensA grand country house with gardens and parkland near Wimborne Minster. A good option away from the coast, or for a wet-weather day.
- 5
Portland Castle
📍 Isle of Portland, near WeymouthHistory, viewsOne of the best-preserved coastal forts from the Tudor period, with sweeping views over Portland Harbour. Combine it with the rest of the Isle of Portland.
- 6
Studland Beach
📍 Studland, Isle of PurbeckBeach, walksA long, sandy stretch with dunes and nature reserve, facing Poole Bay. Good for families and for walks to Old Harry Rocks.
- 7
Brownsea Island
📍 Poole HarbourWildlife, day tripA small island in Poole Harbour reached by boat, known for red squirrels, birdlife and woodland walks. Check ferry and opening times first.
- 8
Abbotsbury Swannery
📍 Abbotsbury, West DorsetWildlife, familiesA swannery in West Dorset beside the lagoon behind Chesil Beach. Best known for its nesting season, so check what is on when you visit.
- 9
The Tank Museum
📍 BovingtonWet weather, familiesA large museum of tanks and armoured vehicles at Bovington, with indoor halls and live demonstrations on certain days. Good for a rainy day.
- 10
Swanage Railway
📍 Swanage to Corfe CastleFamilies, scenicA heritage steam railway running through the Purbeck countryside, stopping at Corfe Castle. Check the timetable, as services vary by season.
Where to base yourself
Last checked: October 2026.