Dorchester Travel Guide

Discover the best of Dorchester, England with our comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to natural wonders, find out everything you need to know before visiting this charming town.


Introduction to Dorchester

Dorchester is a small town located in Dorset, in West Country. Famous for its stunning architecture and rich history, this charming town is a must-visit for travelers exploring England. Dorchester offers a perfect blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and modern conveniences, making it an ideal destination for all kinds of travelers.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know before planning your trip to Dorchester.

List of Places to Visit in Dorchester

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dorset County Museum: This award-winning museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and displays, from prehistoric to contemporary times.
  • Roman Town House: This well-preserved Roman house is one of the most important archaeological sites in Dorchester.
  • Tutankhamun Exhibition: This world-famous exhibition features replicas of the treasures found in the tomb of Tutankhamun in Egypt.
  • The Keep Military Museum: This museum showcases the history of armed forces in Dorset and houses the largest collection of armaments in the county.
  • The Teddy Bear Museum: This family-friendly museum features a collection of antique and modern teddy bears and offers workshops and activities for kids.

Natural Attractions of Dorchester: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Maiden Castle: This Iron Age hill fort is one of the largest and most impressive in Europe, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Hardy’s Cottage: This historic cottage was the birthplace and childhood home of renowned writer Thomas Hardy and now offers scenic walking trails and a museum.
  • The Jurassic Coast: This UNESCO World Heritage site stretches for 95 miles and offers stunning landscapes, coastal walks, and dramatic cliffs.
  • Sculpture by the Lakes: This beautiful sculpture park features a collection of sculptures created by renowned artist Simon Gudgeon and is the perfect place to unwind and relax.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dorchester

  • The Hardy Way: This 220-mile trail connects Dorchester to Devon and features scenic views of the countryside and coastlines.
  • South West Coast Path: This 630-mile trail passes through Dorchester and offers stunning ocean views and dramatic coastal landscapes.
  • The Wessex Ridgeway: This 62-mile trail meanders through the Dorset countryside and offers picturesque views of the rolling hills and lush fields.

Best Things to Do in Dorchester: Activities and Tours

  • Weymouth Bay Rib Charters: This thrilling boat tour takes you on a high-speed rib ride along the rugged Jurassic Coast.
  • Gold Hill Museum: This charming museum showcases the history of Shaftesbury, a nearby town, and is located in the picturesque Gold Hill, famous for the Hovis Bread advertisement.
  • The Dorchester Wednesday Market: The weekly market in Dorchester is a must-visit for foodies, with a wide range of local produce and international cuisine.
  • Cerne Abbas Giant: This iconic hill figure is carved into the chalk hillside and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dorset.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dorchester

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the historic town center and visit the Dorset County Museum
Day 2 Hike the Wessex Ridgeway and visit the picturesque village of Cerne Abbas
Day 3 Discover the Jurassic Coast on a boat tour and visit the Tutankhamun Exhibition
Day 4 Visit the stunning Maiden Castle and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Sculpture by the Lakes
Day 5 Cycle the Hardy Way and visit Thomas Hardy’s Cottage
Day 6 Dive into the local culture at the Wednesday Market and visit the Gold Hill Museum
Day 7 Explore the Keep Military Museum and take a leisurely stroll through the Dorchester countryside

Food and Drink Scene of Dorchester

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dorset Apple Cake: This traditional cake is made with locally grown apples and served with cream or custard.
  • Dorset Jugged Steak: This hearty dish features slow-cooked beef in red wine sauce, served with mashed potatoes and vegetables.
  • Famous Dorset Bangers and Mash: This classic British dish features local sausages, mashed potatoes, and onion gravy.

Local Beverages

  • Badger Ale: This locally brewed ale is a must-try for beer aficionados.
  • Dorset Dry Gin: This award-winning gin is made from locally sourced botanicals and has a distinct flavor profile.
  • Dorset Tea: This refreshing tea blend is made from the finest tea leaves and is perfect for tea lovers.

Where to Stay in Dorchester: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Duchess of Cornwall Inn: This cozy guesthouse is located in the heart of Dorchester and offers comfortable rooms and delicious food.
  • Wessex Royale Hotel: This elegant hotel offers luxurious rooms and first-class amenities, including a spa and restaurant.
  • YHA Lulworth Cove: This affordable hostel is located near the Jurassic Coast and offers stunning sea views and comfortable dorms and private rooms.

What to Buy in Dorchester: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Dorset Knob: This iconic biscuit is a must-buy for foodies and is made from locally grown wheat and a blend of herbs and cheese.
  • Thomas Hardy Novels: These classic novels are available at many bookstores in Dorchester and make for the perfect souvenir for literature lovers.
  • Jurassic Coast Fossils: This famous coastline is home to many fossils, and you can buy replica fossils and souvenirs at many shops in Dorchester.

Local Culture and Customs of Dorchester

Dorchester has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to respect local traditions and customs. The town celebrates many festivals and events, including the Dorchester Literary Festival, Dorset County Show, and the Dorchester Carnival.

Best Time to Visit Dorchester

Dorchester can be visited all year round, with different seasons offering unique experiences. Summer is the busiest period, with warm weather and many outdoor events and activities. Autumn and spring offer milder weather, colorful foliage, and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for hiking and sightseeing. Winter is the quietest time, with fewer visitors and a peaceful atmosphere.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dorchester

Do:

  • Respect local traditions and customs.
  • Explore the town on foot or by bike.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Visit the local markets and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural and cultural sites.
  • Disturb the local wildlife.
  • Ignore safety guidelines when hiking or participating in outdoor activities.
  • Engage in inappropriate behavior at cultural events.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dorchester

Dorchester is a safe destination with low crime rates. However, visitors are advised to take necessary precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables safe.

Health in Dorchester

Dorchester has excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Visitors can avail of emergency services if needed, and it is recommended to purchase travel insurance before traveling to cover any medical expenses.

Getting to Dorchester: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dorchester

  • Bournemouth Airport: Located 36 miles away from Dorchester, this airport is serviced by major airlines, including Ryanair and British Airways.
  • Southampton Airport: Located 47 miles away from Dorchester, this airport is also serviced by major airlines, including Flybe and Easyjet.

Bus Stations Near Dorchester

  • Dorchester South: The main bus station is located in the town center and offers regular services to major destinations across Dorset.

Other Options

  • Train: Dorchester has two train stations, Dorchester South and Dorchester West, which are serviced by major rail companies, including South Western Railway and GWR.
  • Car: Dorchester is easily accessible by car, with major highways connecting the town to London and other major cities.

How to Get Around in Dorchester

Dorchester is a small town and is best explored on foot or by bike. The town also has an excellent bus service, with regular services connecting major attractions and nearby towns and villages. Taxis and car rentals are also available for visitors.

Where to Go Next from Dorchester: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The Isle of Portland: This picturesque island is located just 7 miles from Dorchester and is famous for its stunning cliffs and lighthouse.
  • Weymouth: This popular seaside town is located 9 miles from Dorchester and offers beautiful beaches and many water sports activities.
  • Lulworth Cove: This stunning cove is located just 12 miles from Dorchester and offers dramatic landscapes, coastal walks, and a picturesque village.

Conclusion

Dorchester is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque town. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now ready to plan your perfect trip to Dorchester.

The Corn Exchange, Dorchester The Corn Exchange, Dorchester