The Dorset Handbook

Fascinating film locations in Dorset

Find out where some of classic and underground films were made on your holiday to Dorset. Our list contains blockbusters, forgotten gems, and cult classics.

A fossil finding guide

The world-renowned Jurassic Coast is an incredible UK destination to go fossil hunting. Discover ammonites, bivalves and brachiopods at the beaches lining beautiful Dorset.

2018 Christmas Markets in Dorset offer a lovely festive experience that are perfect for enjoying with the family. Shop for unique and unusual gifts, decorations, handmade trinkets, fantastic local produce, and enjoy entertainment and activities to really get you in the Christmas spirit. There are plenty of different Christmas markets and events across the county and we have listed a few of our favourites below.

Things to do in Dorset

Before heading off on your Dorset holiday, we’d really suggest planning your trip - because there is so much to do that you wouldn’t want to miss out on! We’ve put together our suggested things to do covering activities all over the county, including the stunning Jurassic Coast and its beaches, the wonderful attractions for families, the various wonderful walking routes, and more…

Interactive map of Dorset

Dorset is a beautiful county, featuring a mix of coastal and rural locations, found in the South West of England on the English Channel coast. Dorset shares its four borders with the counties of Devon which is to the west, Somerset to the north-west, Wiltshire to the north-east, and Hampshire to the east. Use our map of Dorset above to discover the perfect location for your holiday in Dorset.

Our pick of things to do in North Dorset

Blessed with stunning landscapes, the North of Dorset is an idyllic and tranquil destination to spend your next holiday in the county. Set in the rolling rural countryside, there are great opportunities to soak up the fresh country air and discover the great outdoors as well as plenty of things for the whole family to enjoy. We’ve picked out a few of our favourite things to do in North Dorset.

Amazing views of Dorset

Dorset is the ultimate coastal county, having more iconic, picture worthy and outstanding cliffs, beaches and eye-catching features than any other county in the UK. The Jurassic Coast is the dominant attraction of Dorset, stretching along the length of the county, combine this with some attractive and busy harbours, means the most amazing views of can be found across this beautiful county.

Top Dorset holidays with dogs

Holiday with dogs are some of the most exciting and memorable experiences giving everyone the chance for some adventure and a fabulous excuse to explore the great outdoors. So when choosing a location what do you look out for? If dog-friendly beaches, charming market towns and spectacular dog-friendly accommodation are top of the list, then a visit to Dorset is a perfect choice.

Top places to visit in Dorset during 2018

With an abundance of beautiful areas and locations to discover across the county of Dorset, you're guaranteed to find an area that will suit everyone and offer plenty to keep every member of the family entertained. If you are after a large group getaway, romantic retreat or coastal escape, Dorset has it all. With areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Dorset has to feature in your holiday plans and we've rounded up our top destinations in Dorset for 2018 to help you begin planning your next visit to this interesting and diverse county.

Guide to Christmas events in Bournemouth

There is lots to look forward to in Dorset this winter – not least the huge variety of Christmas events in Bournemouth! From pantomimes starring soap stars to Christmas markets; we've rounded up nine of the best Bournemouth Christmas events:

Pub walks in Dorset

Spend a day discovering Dorset by foot and welcome local havens serving up warming meals and locally brewed ales that provide great rest spots. There are some fantastic traditional pubs across the county that are perfect for a break when you are on a stroll across the countryside, rambling across the cliffs, or exploring one of the many pretty villages Dorset has to offer.

10 brilliant family days out in Dorset

As much as holidays are relaxing and the perfect time for family and friends to come together, parents are often faced with the dilemma of how to fill their days without it costing the earth! There are so many activities now available for families but they do add up, especially if you have three or four children. Luckily, the beautiful county of Dorset has a whole host of free or affordable options.

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