National Trust Properties in Dorset

Dorset is home to many beautiful and inspirational National Trust properties and countryside sites.

You'll find everything from an island paradise, ancient hill carvings and hidden gems, to a ruined castle, Italian inspired palace and the homes of literary giants Thomas Hardy and T.E. Lawrence.

There's also dramatic coastline, unspoiled countryside and stunning gardens for a fix of fresh air and chance to let off steam in the great outdoors.

Discover more National Trust locations in Dorset, plus forthcoming special events and the benefits of becoming a member.

Brownsea Island

Only accessible by passenger ferry, travelling to Brownsea Island adds a little bit of extra adventure before even stepping ashore.

The Island is home to rare red squirrels, peacocks, deer and many species of bird – some of which you will undoubtedly see on your visit.

If you’ve read the Famous Five books, Brownsea Island may feel familiar. It is said to be the inspiration for some of Enid Blyton’s books, known as ‘Whispering Island’ and ‘Keep Away Island’.

You can explore secluded beaches, go forest bathing or simply relax in nature. And if you want to stay a little longer, why not pitch up a tent or book one of the bell tents for a glamping adventure (booking essential).

Corfe Castle

The 12^th Century ruin of Corfe Castle is one of Dorset’s most recognised landmarks and provides a breath-taking view for anyone arriving by train or driving from Wareham or Swanage.

When you climb up to the top of the castle mound and into the castle ruins, you’ll get fabulous views of the village below and the countryside all around you.

If you’re a history buff, there’s 1,000 years of stories, secrets, treachery and treason to uncover – from murder and monarchy to prisoners and parliamentarians.

After visiting the Castle, be sure to stop by the National Trust Tea Rooms for something to eat or drink, and if the weather is nice, the view from the gardens is delightful.

Kingston Lacy

The house and gardens at Kingston Lacy are truly magnificent. Designed in the style of a Italian palace, the opulent interiors feature artwork by famous painters, antiques and treasures collected from around the world.

Containing one of the UK’s finest private collections of paintings, art enthusiasts will be drawn to masterpieces by Titian, Rubens, Brueghel and Van Dyck.

Outside, there’s formal gardens as well as 8,500 acres of estate to explore, and plenty of picturesque picnic spots for sunny days.

Close by is White Mill, a former corn mill located on the peaceful River Stour, as well as Badbury Rings which is an ancient hill fort.

Beaches and bays

Studland Bay is home to 4 National Trust beaches. They are called Shell Bay, Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach. All have their own car parks and there are also refreshments available at Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach.

The beautiful beaches at Studland are some of the most visited beaches in Dorset for their safe, shallow waters and soft golden sand.

The National Trust also manage beaches at Ringstead, Cogden and Burton Bradstock.

Literary connections

The famous author and poet Thomas Hardy was born and lived in Dorset, and it was while he lived here that he wrote some of his most acclaimed novels such as Tess Of The D’Urbervilles and Far From The Madding Crowd.

The National Trust now owns the cottage where Thomas Hardy was born and the house which he designed and later lived in on the edge of Dorchester.

Hardy was also a friend of another famous writer and Dorset resident, T.E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia. You can visit the cottage near Bovington which T.E. Lawrence retired to shortly before his untimely death.

Landmarks and ancient sites

Old Harry Rocks is one of the Jurassic Coast’s most famous landmarks and is a photographers dream. The chalk rocks here were formed around 66 millions years ago and used to connect with The Needles on the Isle of Wight, which are over 14 miles away.

Not Thomas Hardy the writer this time, but it’s Thomas Hardy the Captain is who is honoured with the 72 foot Hardy Monument near Dorchester. Built in 1844, it commemorates Vice-admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy who was the Flag Captain of HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. You can climb the 120 steps to the top and see views as far as Devon and the Isle of Wight on a clear day.

The Cerne Abbas Giant is a very memorable chalk figure carved into the hillside near Cerne Abbas village. This 180ft tall giant has long been regarded as a sign of fertility and a recent study dates it to around 700-1100AD, suggesting it was created by late Saxons.

Book a National Trust break

The National Trust owns many characterful and interesting holiday accommodation which can be booked for short breaks and longer stays.