Abbotsbury Visitor Information

Abbotsbury is a popular, pretty, picture-postcard village steeped in history and surrounded by spectacular scenery. It’s not hard to see why this is one of the most visited villages in Dorset…

Quintessential English charm

One of the most striking features about Abbotsbury is its aesthetic appeal.

As you wander down its archetypical Dorset streets, you’ll be surrounded by delightful cottage architecture (with many buildings dating back to the 16th century), traditional country tea rooms and olde worlde pubs.

If you are approaching Abbotsbury from the west, the descent down into the village rewards you with one of the most awe-inspiring views in the whole of Dorset with panoramas over Chesil Beach and Portland.

Historical gems

There’s much more than first meets the eye when you visit Abbotsbury and the village is steeped in history.

Abbotsbury was once home to a richly endowed abbey, founded in 1044. The remains are still visible and date from the 13th and 14th centuries.

Nearby is the abbey's vast tithe barn, built about 1400, and there are further abbey remains in the churchyard of St Nicholas Church, including two medieval sarcophagi.

High on Abbotsbury hilltop sits St Catherine’s Chapel, a barrel-vaulted 14th century chapel built by the monks of Abbotsbury Abbey as a place of pilgrimage and retreat.

Make your way up the hill, take in the fantastic views of the abbey ruins, and explore the nooks and crannies of this curious little chapel, including the 'wishing holes' where local women used to pray to St Catherine and ask her to find them a husband

Studios and galleries

If you are a fan of art, you will love exploring Abbotsbury’s many craft exhibitions and galleries.

Here is the village you’ll find contemporary furniture, antiques, handcrafted silver jewellery & silverware, woodwork, fine art, stone carvings and sculpture.

They’re a creative bunch in Abbotsbury!

Great family attractions

If all that wasn’t enough to inspire a visit, Abbotsbury is home to arguably three of Dorset’s most popular family attractions; The Swannery, Subtropical Gardens and the Children’s Farm.

A truly unique experience, Abbotsbury Swannery is home to the only colony of nesting mute swans that can be visited anywhere in the world.

From mid-May to the end of June, the Swannery pathways and streams are filled with baby swans and if you time your visit just right, you will even be able to witness and take photographs of the cygnets hatching before your eyes!

Families can also help hand feed 600 swans at 12.00 noon and 4.00pm daily, get lost in the largest willow maze in Dorset, swing on the swinging nests play area, and dine at the Kennels café.

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Character Farm Cottages

WEYMOUTH

Self Catering

Seven beautiful self catering cottages situated on a working farm overlooking stunning Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon. Fantastic walks from the doorstep of each cottage. Perfect for family holidays, walking, cycling, fishing and romantic breaks.

Price £250.00 to £1,310.00 Per unit per week

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Offley Bed & Breakfast

DORCHESTER

Guest Accommodation

A warm, friendly welcome awaits you. Magnificent country valley views. Walkers welcome. 1 mile from Jurrassic Coast. 3 miles from golf. Period furniture. Breakfast served with local and home made produce. Children welcome.

Price £45.00 to £70.00 Per room (breakfast included)

More info for Offley Bed & Breakfast
Gorwell Farm Cottages

WEYMOUTH

Self Catering

Comfortable well equipped spacious cottages in secluded scenic valley near coastal path and beaches.

Price £200.00 to £1,350.00 Per unit per week

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Tamarisk Farm Cottages

JURASSIC COAST

Overlooking the Chesil Beach in the heart of the Jurassic Coast, our cottages are surrounded by unspoilt countryside on our organic farm. They provide a comfortable and relaxing base to explore and enjoy this part of Dorset, or simply to make the...

Price £220.00 to £710.00 Per unit per week

More info for Tamarisk Farm Cottages
Gorselands Apartments

Dorchester

Self Catering

Standing in it’s own secluded grounds with wonderful sea views across the world-famous Jurassic Coast, this house is divided into 3 tastefully furnished self contained apartments.

Price £180.00 to £605.00 Per unit per week

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Sleepers

WEYMOUTH

Self Catering

Sleepers is a comfortably furnished and tastefully modernised former railway station with the platform still preserved. The property sleeps 4 and stands in its own grounds amid beautiful Hardy country in the charming village of Portesham.

Price £295.00 to £615.00 Per unit per week

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Puncknowle Manor Estate

Dorchester

Four great properties, ideally located for exploring West Dorset and the Lyme Regis area. Great for family holidays or walking breaks. Family friendly properties can accommodate 19, 13, 6 and 4 with a homely feel.

Price £300.00 to £3,500.00 Per unit per week

More info for Puncknowle Manor Estate
Gorselands Caravan Park

West Bexington

Holiday Park

The picturesque park is set amongst six acres and provides a peaceful haven even at the peak of the holiday season. It is ideal for those who appreciate a quiet and relaxing holiday yet is within easy reach of Weymouth, Dorchester & Bridport

Price £295.00 Per unit per week

More info for Gorselands Caravan Park
Home Farm Caravan and Campsite

Dorchester

Holiday Park

Small family run campsite in a lovely village which is mainly stone built with some thatched cottages. The pub is nearby. Situated in a beautiful conservation area in west Dorset. www.homefarmcaravanandcampsite.com

Price £13.00 to £16.00 Per unit per night

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KATREK

Nr Bridport

Located in the small hamlet of West Bexington, which featured in the new series of ITV's Broadchurch. This spacious 3 bedroom bungalow with wonderful views from the split level conservatory to the rear of the property over Lyme Bay and beyond, will...

Price £545.00 to £810.00 Per unit per week

More info for KATREK

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Abbotsbury Visitor Information

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Quintessential English charm

Historical gems

Studios and galleries

Great family attractions

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