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  1. Views from Kingston towards Corfe Castle
    View of Corfe Castle from the Commoners' Ways walking trail

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Are you visiting Dorset for the first time and looking for some ideas of what to see and do?  Or perhaps you’ve been many times and you’re just looking for something new?  Fear not!  We have some fantastic ideas to help you get the most out of your stay. 

Whether you’re a beach lover, culture vulture, adrenaline junkie, foodie or old romantic we've got all of the inside knowledge and ideas to inspire and inform you!

Top notch ideas

Holidaying with children and want to ensure you have the greatest days out?  Want to know the best views or walks in Dorset?  Looking for top things to do when it’s sunny or even raining?  Well we have done the hard work for you and come with our ‘Top 10 Ideas’ for all of these…and more!

Looking for some romance?

Not only have we got ideas on how best to spend a romantic break to Dorset but we’ve also come up with some suggestions on where you could pop the question to make sure it’s memorable.  We’ve also got thoughts on the most beautiful places in Dorset where you could tie the knot and honeymoon ideas too!

Bring your 4 legged friend

We know how much man’s best friend is part of the family, so we’ve got some ideas on dog walks, dog friendly beaches and accommodation to get their tails wagging!! Dorset is definitely dog friendly!

Want to make the most of your break?

If you are only visiting for a few days and want to make sure that you make the most of your time here then check out our short break ideas.

If you’re treating someone special to a romantic break…then we can help!  We’ve also got ideas on how best to spend an active break to Dorset or if food is your passion then we’ve got ideas for that too! 

Even if you’ve only got a day to spend in our wonderful county, then we will make sure that you spend it wisely with our 24 hours in Dorset short break ideas!

Bring the script to life

Dorset’s beauty is a top favourite with TV and Film producers. Come and explore the real stage for yourself and awe at the dramatic ‘Broadchurch’ cliffs or the spectacular ‘Far From The Madding Crowd’ countryside.  Dorset has provided the backdrop for many productions…come and explore them all!

Did you know…?

Dorset has some fascinating stories to tell, so come and discover Dorset’s weird and wonderful facts and tales! 

Have you ever visited the ‘rude man’ or prayed for a husband at St Catherine’s Chapel??  Dorset may be a bit quirky, but we love it!

Keep in touch

One of the best ways to gain ideas and inspiration on what to do in Dorset is to follow our social media channels and keep up to date with everything that’s happening!

We’ve just touched the surface and provided you with some ideas to set you on your way but there is so much to discover and we’re sure you’ll enjoy finding your very own top 10s!

In This Section

  1. Wood-burning stove, double bedroom and copper roll-top bath inside the Treehouse at Craft Camping in Dorset
    Short Break Ideas
    Make the most of your time in Dorset with our short break ideas.
  2. Top 10 Guides
    Top 10 Guides
    There's so much to do in Dorset you may not know where to start! We've got it covered with our Top 10 guides!
  3. Dog Friendly Dorset
    Dog Friendly Dorset
    Discover Dorset's great outdoors on a holiday with you and your dog.
  4. Man and a woman cycling along Bournemouth promenade
    Eco Friendly Dorset
  5. The spa pool at Monart Spa
    Special Offers
    If you're planning a visit to Dorset then why not take advantage of some great offers and deals?
  6. The incredible landscape of Hambledon Hill
    Visit Dorset Blog
    Stories and experiences from across the county to inspire your visit
  7. Literary Dorset
    Literary Dorset
  8. The Broadchurch television series filmed in Dorset
    Film and TV

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  1. Family picnic at Stonebarrow
    A Local's Guide to the Best Picnic Spots in Dorset

    Jess from the Visit Dorset team shares her favourite places for a summertime picnic.

    30 Jul 2020

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Know Before You Go - Covid-19 information
  • We're Good To Go Dorset,
  • Know before you go town centres,
  • Repect, Protect and Enjoy Dorset,
Things To Do
  • Family Friendly,
  • The Jurassic Coast,
  • Dorset Beaches,
  • Dog Friendly,
  • Beach Safety,
  • Fossil Hunting,
  • Be Coastwise,
  • Harbours,
  • Shopping,
  • Active and Outdoor ,
  • Families & Children,
  • Heritage & Culture,
  • Animals & Farm Parks,
  • Gardens & Parks,
  • Tours & Boat Trips,
  • Food & Drink Experiences,
  • Entertainment & Arts,
  • Nature and Wildlife,
Accommodation
  • Hotels,
  • Bed & Breakfast,
  • Self Catering,
  • Self Catering Agencies,
  • Dorset Holiday Cottages,
  • Caravan & Holiday Parks,
  • Campsites,
  • Glamping,
  • Pubs & Inns,
  • Eco Friendly,
  • Farm Stays,
  • Group Friendly,
  • Dog Friendly,
  • Accessible,
  • Gradings & Awards,
Shopping
  • Home delivery and online shopping,
  • Keep it local,
  • Markets,
  • Antiques and vintage,
  • Arts and crafts,
  • Clothing and accessories,
  • Food and drink,
  • Shopping areas and retail parks,
Food & Drink
  • Restaurants,
  • Pubs & Bars,
  • Cafes & Coffee Shops,
  • Afternoon Tea,
  • Farmers' Markets,
  • Local Produce,
  • Celebrity Chefs,
  • Food Events,
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Ideas & Inspiration
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  • Top 10 Ideas,
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Explore
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What's On
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