Top 10 Dorset Views

Want to know where the best places are in Dorset to find the perfect view?  With such a stunning and beautiful county, you will be rewarded with spectacular views at every corner.  We’ve chosen our top ten, but we’re sure you’ll discover more!

Gold Hill, Shaftesbury

Gold Hill's steep cobbled street is famous for its picturesque appearance. The view looking down from the top of the street has been described as "one of the most romantic sights in England” and was made famous in the 1970s Hovis advert.  Take in the stunning vista down the hill and across the stunning Dorset countryside.

Hengistbury Head

The headland of Hengistbury, found south-east of Christchurch was an important trading port even from the Iron Age but is now a Nature Reserve; stand on top of the plateau and you will see views of Christchurch Harbour, Mudeford, Isle of Wight and Bournemouth beach.

Hambledon Hill

Stand on top of this prehistoric hillfort situated near Blandford Forum and gaze at glorious views across the Blackmore Vale. Nearby Fontmell Down offers similarly spectacular views.

Ballard Down

One of Dorset’s most attractive hills, Ballard Down offers fantastic views of the Dorset heaths, Poole Harbour, Old Harry Rocks and even the Isle of Wight.

Chesil Beach view near Abbotsbury

The coastal road from Bridport to Abbotsbury (the B3157) offers absolutely spectacular views along the Jurassic Coast and just before you arrive in the picturesque village of Abbotsbury, Chesil Beach stretches before your eyes with views to Portland.

Golden Cap

Golden Cap is the highest point along the south coast of England and is definitely worth the climb up!  You will be rewarded with some of the most awe-inspiring far-reaching views over the surrounding cliffs and beaches.

Hardy’s Monument, Portesham

A monument to Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, who captained Nelson’s ship HMS Victory at the battle of Trafalgar and was born in Dorset, was erected in 1844; from here you will experience panoramic views of the unique Fleet lagoon, Chesil Beach and the rolling Dorset Downs.

Swyre Head

The highest spot in the Purbeck hills near Swanage; the hill commands extensive views from the Isle of Wight to Portland.

Pilsdon Pen

Pilsdon Pen is an Iron Age Hillfort on the highest hill in Dorset and is only 30 metres short of a mountain! The hill offers sweeping views across the hedged landscape of the Marshwood Vale and is a perfect spot for a picnic.

Portland Olympic Rings

The view from outside the Heights Hotel overlooks Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon looking west. Watching the sunset from here is simply unforgettable.

These views will simply take your breath away!