Wondering what there is do in Portland? The answer is lots! Portland really is an explorer’s island, full of different things to do to spark your interests, whatever they may be...
One of the best things about Portland is there’s so much more to this island than first meets the eye; in fact, the longer you spend here, the more eclectic treasures you uncover!
Alive with activity
Portland is the ideal place to have a go at some of those activities you’ve always wanted to try but never had a chance. Have a go at dinghy sailing on Olympic waters, kite surfing, SCUBA diving, windsurfing, stand up paddle boarding or sailing a classic gaff rigged cutter - Tallship Moonfleet. Feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face – it’s a recipe for happiness!
Portland is well known for being one of the best places for rock-climbing on the South Coast. The island offers over 900 routes of varying difficulty along its majestic limestone cliffs, meaning you can look forward to both superb variety and spectacular views when you climb here.
A coastal walk or cycle round the island is highly recommended. You can spend a leisurely day following the Coast Path walking trail along the old railway up the Merchant’s Incline, admiring the impressive architecture of The Verne and meandering past the striking ruins of Rufus Castle. There are plenty of cafes dotted en-route too where you can stop and refuel.
Portland Castle
Overlooking Portland Harbour stands one of King Henry VIII’s finest coastal forts, built in the early 1540s to protect against French and Spanish invasion.
The English Heritage owned Portland Castle provides a great family day out; enjoy stunning views from the gun platforms and get close to the powerful cannons. Hear history brought to life through the free audio tour and become a Tudor Soldier or Royalist Gunner when you try on the outfits and armour in The Armoury.
To finish your visit, take a stroll in the contemporary Heritage Garden before relaxing in the Captain's Tearoom with a coffee and a slice of cake. Yummy!
Explore Portland’s quarries
Portland’s abandoned quarries are fascinating places to explore. They are full of quarryman’s tunnels and gullies, fossil-filled rocks and a colourful explosion of flowers and butterflies in the spring and summer months.
You’ll feel a real sense of adventure at Tout Quarry as you scramble around hunting for all the different sculptures. Tout Quarry Sculpture Park is free to visit and hosts many events throughout the year. So if you feel inspired by what you see, you can have a go yourself at the Living Quarry event or Children’s Stone Carving and Sculpture Workshops.
Portland’s hidden curiosities
Stroll down past St. Andrew’s Church and you’ll stumble upon a pirates’ graveyard, head further down the steps and you’ll reach the beautiful, secluded Church Ope Cove, once a smuggler’s hotspot!
Portland Museum is well worth a visit - this quaint museum covers everything from shipwrecks and prisons to dinosaurs and Marie Stopes. The Museum is located inside two 17th Century thatched cottages, one of which is featured in Thomas Hardy's novel 'The Well Beloved' as the home of the novel's heroines.
There’s also a family farm on Portland that’s free to visit and a fabulous gem of a museum dedicated to Portland’s involvement in D-Day and the contribution from American troops.
If you’d like to read more about lesser known Portland, take a look at passionate Instagrammer ‘Richie’s Incredible Britain’s blogs: The Enchanting Isle of Portland and Wild About Weymouth & Portland.
Get closer to nature on Portland
The Fleet Lagoon is well known as one of Dorset's wildlife havens for birdlife and jumping onboard the Fleet Explorer boat is a great way to experience the Lagoon from the water. The knowledgeable guides will tell you about the local wildlife, including the rare Little Terns and wading birds which thrive in this marine habitat.
You can book tickets for the Fleet Explorer at the Wild Chesil Centre. While you're there, be sure to look at their wildlife displays and hands-on activities. There are nature themed events happening at the centre throughout the year and there's a café too. It's free to go into the centre, and is a great way to learn more about the local area.
Unearth heritage hidden gems in Portland
Portland has a quite remarkable history with some fascinating heritage sites that really need to be seen to be believed. From the striking Portland Bill Lighthouse to one of King Henry VIII's finest coastal forts, there's plenty to be discovered on the Isle of Portland. Visit the Weymouth & Portland Heritage website to learn more.
As you can see, there’s no other place quite like Portland! It’s unique with such wildness and adventure ready to be explored! Book your break today!
