Respect, Protect & Enjoy Dorset

Our number one priority right now is ensuring that our visitors and people local to Dorset are able to enjoy our glorious county in a safe and responsible way, to look after our local community and the landscape around us. 

Dorset boasts mile upon mile of the most beautiful rolling countryside. There are over 100 miles of stunning coastline and 4,700 well-signposted footpaths, bridlepaths and byways to explore, so there’s more than enough to go around.

When you visit, be sure to follow these simple steps to respect, protect and enjoy Dorset.

Respect Dorset

• Respect our beaches and country parks and if they are busy please turn around and return when it is quieter and safer to do so. Have a Plan B just in case your chosen destination is busy.
• Respect our local communities by sticking to the Public Rights of Way (footpaths and bridleways), keeping dogs on the lead, not picnicking on private land and being careful not to block driveways and access gates when you park.
• Respect the wildlife. Nature may have recolonised some areas, so tread carefully and look out for wildlife that has moved into unexpected places during lockdown. Keep your dog on a lead and stick to footpaths and bridleways so as not to disturb ground nesting birds and other wildlife.
• Respect the environment. Public toilets are now open and available to use. If litter bins are not available or are full, be prepared to take your litter home.
• Respect any specific guidelines that have been put in place by other organisations across the county.

Protect Dorset

• Protect yourself and others. Always follow the basic rules of hands, face, space and fresh air.
• Protect our local communities by following government advice.
• Protect the landscape and follow the Countryside Code, which sets out how visitors to Dorset’s rural areas can enjoy a safe and responsible day out.
• Protect our heaths, forests and countryside from fires. BBQs and campfires can easily get out of control and BBQs are illegal on heathlands.
• Protect your safety. Check tide tides and make sure you don't get caught out at high tide. Follow advice about rockfalls, landslips and water safety.

Enjoy Dorset

• Enjoy getting off the beaten track. We know everyone has their favourite spot in Dorset - or maybe their favourite two, or three - seek out some new favourites away from the crowds, perhaps head inland and enjoy the open countryside, riverside walks and cycle paths..
• Enjoy supporting our local businesses. Many Dorset businesses are open online and can deliver to your doorstep.  We really encourage you to shop with them, check out our online shopping and home delivery page and let us bring Dorset to your door!
• Enjoy some delicious food available for takeaway or delivered to your door.
• Enjoy our campsites. From 12th April, visitors will be able to stay at campsites - be sure to book in advance. Be aware that camping (or motorhoming) outside of a campsite or designated area is not allowed in Dorset.

Follow our social channels for ideas and inspiration of where to visit later in the year:

www.facebook.com/VisitDorset
www.twitter.com/DorsetTourism
www.instagram.com/visitdorsetofficial

#RespectProtectEnjoy #PlanAhead #SeeYouSoon