Looking for some ideas of things to see and do in Dorchester?
If you’re here for just the day or staying a little longer, you’ll find so much to see and do in Dorset’s county town. No matter your age, interest or budget, you'll find a fantastic range of attractions and activities available.
For those looking to get active and enjoy the great outdoors, Dorchester provides it all. Whether you love to swim, hit the gym or exercise in the great outdoors you’ll find plenty to keep you busy.
For some extra help planning your trip, you can download a map of the town from the Dorchester Visitor Guide.
Delve into Dorset’s jurassic past
Meet Dorset’s real dinosaurs as you uncover the Mesozoic Era in the Jurassic Coast Gallery at Dorset Museum. Here, you’ll be immersed into the UNESCO Coast’s fascinating geological heritage and come face to face with the Weymouth Bay Pliosaur.
If you've got children in tow, Dorchester’s Dinosaur Museum will enthral young minds with its life-sized reconstructions of dinosaurs, fossils and skeletons, as well as its exciting hands-on multimedia experience.
Dorchester museums you must visit
Towering over the town, The Keep is one of Dorchester’s most impressive buildings and should definitely be on your itinerary. This state of the art museum tells the engaging story of the Dorset and Devon Regiments - climb to the top of the museum for superb rooftop views over Dorchester!
Pay a visit to Dorchester's Shire Hall Museum where 200 years of justice, injustice, crime and punishment are brought to life. Walk in the footsteps of everyday people who were tried and sentenced in this old courthouse.
Walk through a tomb filled with fabulous treasures, where sight, sound and smell combine to recreate one of the world’s greatest discoveries – Tutankhamun. If you want to find out even more about Ancient Egypt, the unique Mummies exhibition displays exact facsimiles of some of the Royal Mummies and thrilling facts about this popular cult in Ancient Egypt.
Relax and unwind on a spa day in Dorchester
For a luxurious spa day near Dorchester, be sure to visit Monart Spa Poundbury.
This premium day spa offers a quiet and tranquil experience. You'll be allocated your own dedicated relaxation space as well as access to the hydrotherapy pool and state-of-the-art thermal spaces. Soothe your mind, body and soul in the sanarium, caldarium, sauna, salt grotto, infrared pro cabin, aroma steam room and unique experience showers.
You can book for a full day, half day or evening package as well as treatments, and you will receive a robe and slippers on arrival to use during your visit.
Be astounded by Dorchester’s ancient sites
Dorchester’s Roman origins are displayed at the Roman Town House, which is the finest example of its kind in Britain. Step inside the grounds and you’ll be instantly whisked back to a time of gladiators and togas. Stroll the tree–lined walks which marked the old Roman boundary and visit Maumbury Rings - Dorchester’s very own Roman Amphitheatre!
Just outside the town is Maiden Castle, a spectacular hill fort the size of 50 football pitches. Climb its Iron Age ramparts and you’ll be rewarded with the most spectacular, windswept views over Dorchester and nearby Poundbury.
Fun and fitness for all in Dorchester
Dorchester’s sports centre offers a 50 station fitness suite, dance studio, sports pitches, a state of the art sports hall and two swimming pools.
Whatever your fitness needs whilst visiting the town, Dorchester Sports Centre will be sure to provide what you’re looking for. If its high octane dance classes, group training sessions or if a relaxing evening swim is more your thing, it’s all here to enjoy. Plus the indoor pool is perfect for families on wet weather days!
Woodland adventures
Insight Activities gives you the chance to try authentic woodland weaponry. Nestled in woodland near the village of Tolpuddle, you can try your hand at axe throwing, crossbow shooting and even zombie archery!
Book your woodland adventure with friends and family and see who comes out on top in surviving the wild.
Gardens, parks and riverside walks
The Borough Gardens and Salisbury Fields offer children's play parks and plenty of open space the whole family can enjoy.
During the summer months, the bandstand in the Borough Gardens provides the music whilst the children splash happily in the water feature play park. Why not prepare a picnic and enjoy some family time in the fresh air?
For some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle, take a riverside walk along the River Frome. Enjoy the lovely views across the water meadows, home to an abundance of wildlife. At dusk, you can watch the bats swoop overhead and hear the owls hoot, and if you’re very lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a water vole.
Stay a while
Whether it's all action or a more tranquil pace you enjoy, you're sure to find the perfect day out here in Dorchester. If you're planning on staying a while you can book your accommodation online with ease. What are you waiting for?
