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If you’re looking for great towns to explore in the UK, Dorchester should be high on your list. This beautiful town combines so much history with numerous modern-day attractions, waiting to be explored. If you’re looking for things to do in Dorchester, you’re in the right place, as we’re set to explore the best that this town has to offer. We’ll cover everything from activities for couples to fun attractions for children and historical sites.
Table Of Contents
20 Best Things To Do In Dorchester
Planning a road trip in England? Dorchester, Dorset, is one of your top locations. Our guide contains 20 different things to do in Dorchester, with something for everyone.
Things To Do For Couples
Let’s start with things to do in Dorchester for couples.
Sculpture By The Lakes
Located within a 26-acre sculpture park, Sculpture By The Lakes is a great location for art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in general. Explore the various sculptures created by Simon Gudgeon and other amazing sculptors.
The park also has a store where you can buy some unique pieces of art from artists from Dorset and beyond. Couples and families can also enjoy peaceful picnics in any of the tranquil spots around the garden.
Monart Spa
Nothing is as relaxing as an experience at the award-winning Monart Spa. Located in Poundbury, just outside Dorchester, this luxury spa promises an array of treatments in its Dark and Light relaxation rooms.
Slip into a fluffy robe with your partner and enjoy a personalised tour before your spa session begins. The spa also features a hydrotherapy pool, caldarium, sauna and aroma steam room.
Athelhampton Estate
Athelhampton Estate is one of the finest Tudor manor houses in the whole country. Its unique architecture and lush gardens promise an enchanting experience for its visitors. Explore the grand rooms, which showcase craftsmanship from the 15th century with the ceilings and carvings on the wall.
Spend some time in the estate’s gardens, where you get to admire the diverse plant life and take in the quiet atmosphere. You can enjoy a picnic with your significant other or family. Athelhampton Estate is only open on select days of the week, so it’s worth keeping that in mind.
While you’re in Dorset, you can also check out Durdle Door, one of the UK’s biggest attractions.
Things To Do At Night
You also won’t be left out of the fun in Dorchester if you’re a night person.
Brewery Square
Brewery Square is a shopping and eating complex in the heart of Dorchester. This hub features a range of shops, eateries and leisure facilities, making it a must-visit location when you’re in this town. Explore restaurants and eateries like Nando’s, Hobbs and Zizzi or visit Odeon Cinema and The Great Big Escape for premium entertainment time.
Brewery Square is just a few minutes walk from the town centre and less than 3 minutes from the Dorchester South train station. This shopping complex is a redevelopment of the Eldridge Pope Brewery, which had been closed since 2003.
Plaza Cinema
The Plaza Cinema Dorchester opened as a single-screen cinema in 1933 but these days it boasts four screens to cater to a large audience. This independent cinema has retained much of its historic charm, providing a nostalgic movie-going experience for both locals and visitors.
You can enjoy everything from the latest Hollywood blockbusters to independent films and special event screenings. Doors for a show typically open around 15 minutes before the show, so you can come early and relax. The Plaza Cinema in Dorchester is located on Trinity Street in the heart of the town, making it easily accessible from most areas.
Dorchester Walking Festival
You need to bring out your walking boots for this one. The Dorchester Walking Festival is a 9-day event that takes place around May every year during National Walking Month. The festival allows you to enjoy the beauty of Dorchester and the Jurassic Coast as a whole.
There are usually around 50 guided and self-guided walks to choose from, as well as an exciting 50 km challenge. Those wishing to take part in the challenge can book the walk online and pick up the walking festival program from the town council offices.
Looking for some waterside experience? The beaches in Dorset are perfect for everything from swimming to surfing and kayaking.
Things To Do With Kids
Your little ones are also welcome in Dorchester, as the town offers a range of exciting activities for them.
Dinosaur Museum
What’s a visit to the Jurassic Coast without dinosaurs? Journey down to the prehistoric world of the dinosaurs with a visit to this museum. The Dinosaur Museum is located in a converted Victorian schoolhouse in the centre of the historic town of Dorchester. You’ll get to see dinosaur skeletons and life-size reconstructions of these creatures.
The family-friendly museum also has interactive displays that provide a learning experience for children. You also get to learn from the pioneers of fossil discovery, including Mary Anning and Richard Owen and explore the rich dinosaur heritage of the Jurassic Coast by touching various fossil displays.
Teddy Bear Museum
Nothing is more kid-friendly than a museum of teddy bears. This particular museum features an alluring display of teddy bears from throughout the last century. Kids can see some of the earliest Teddy Bears, such as Rupert Bear, Winnie the Pooh and Paddington. The museum’s oldest bear, Michael, dates back to 1906 and is based on the original Teddy Bear design and pattern.
The Teddy Bear Museum is located in the house of Edward Bear on the corner of High East St. and Salisbury St. Edward Bear will welcome you into his unique teddy bear house and you can join the bears as they relax around the home.
Contact SDVH when you need car hire in Dorchester. Our diverse fleet allows us to cater to various needs.
Historical & Cultural Sites
Being a historic market town, Dorchester holds numerous historical and cultural sites. Here are some great spots to visit for history buffs.
Dorset County Museum
Visit Dorset County Museum to experience over 250 million years of history. There is something for everyone at this family-friend museum, including amazing archaeology and dinosaur bones. The museum also provides insights into the story of Mary Anning, the archive of Thomas Hardy and the Elisabeth Frink collection.
In total, there are more than 4 million artefacts here for families and children to enjoy. What makes this experience so unique is that the museum doesn’t allow photography of their exhibits, so you can’t find them anywhere else.
Roman Town House
This is the only Roman townhouse that is in its entirety in Britain. This house dates back as far as the 4th century AD, sitting on the grounds of County Hall in Dorchester. The area is made up of two separate ranges, which form an L shape around a small courtyard. It stands out for its architectural details, which include two hypocausts with external stoke holes, a window and stone columns.
A visit to this place allows you to learn about the excavation and conservation of the Roman Town House and provides insight into life in the Town House during the Roman period. You get to explore the South Range and also enjoy a tour of the West Range inside, where you will see mosaics in their original state.
Hardy’s Cottage
Explore the birthplace of popular English novelist and poet Thomas Hardy. Hardy was born in 1840 in this small cottage built by his great-grandfather. What is so intriguing is how little this cottage has been altered since the family moved out. The cottage sits just outside Higher Bockhampton and is a great place to visit to learn about Hardy’s life.
Thomas Hardy wrote ‘Under the Greenwood Tree’ and ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’ while living in this cottage.
Hardy’s Cottage was built from a cob and thatched roof and is surrounded by ancient walls on which roses, honeysuckle and japonica climb. There are not many places prettier if you’re looking to spend a couple of hours in Dorset. To follow in Hardy’s footsteps, pick up the circular walk from High East Street and head out of the town towards the quiet pastures.
The Keep Military Museum
The Keep Military Museum is your go-to location if you’re looking to learn about the town’s military history. The Grade II listed building was once the gatehouse for the Depot Barracks of the Dorsetshire Regiment and these days, it houses various amazing artefacts and promises a learning experience for the family.
The Keep Museum has a historic setting but features computer and digital presentations and realistic battle environments. Some of the other items on display include four Victoria Cross groups and Hitler’s desk, which was salvaged from the ruins of Berlin. The museum is open any day of the week from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. but takes in the last entry at 3:30 pm.
Shire Hall Museum
Shire Hall Museum offers an insight into Dorset’s fascinating social and judicial history. This Grade I listed Georgian building, originally built in 1797, once served as a courthouse. Today, it offers you an immersive experience as you walk through its atmospheric halls.
The museum uses interactive exhibits and digital storytelling to transport visitors back in time, allowing you to experience what it was like to stand in the dock, sit in the judge’s chair, or be part of the jury. It’s also great that the courthouse remains very well preserved, with its original wooden benches, iron railings and dock.
Maiden Castle
Located just 2 miles (3.2 km) south of Dorchester, Maiden Castle is one of the largest and most complex Iron Age hillforts in Europe. Walking through the site, you’ll see ancient burial mounds and the remains of Roman structures, including a temple built in the 4th century.
Maiden Castle was the site of a fierce battle between the Romans and the local Durotriges tribe in 43 AD. Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of warriors from this period, adding to the sense of history. You’re welcome to use the castle car park for free when visiting.
Beyond Dorchester, Bournemouth is brimming with fun activities for people of all interests.
Nature & Outdoor Activities
Let’s get into the nature and outdoor-related things to do in Dorchester.
Puddletown Forest
Puddletown Forest is a large area of mixed woodland close to Dorchester. This woodland is ideal for both walks and bike rides and the forest has various trails leading up to Green Hill and Beacon Hill, from where you can enjoy lovely views of the surrounding countryside.
The forest is also conveniently located near Thomas Hardy’s Cottage, making it a relaxing and scenic addition to a visit to the famous author’s former home.
Kingston Maurward Gardens And Animal Park
A visit to Kingston Maurward Gardens and Animal Park is the perfect family day out, as it offers a perfect blend of nature, animals and open spaces. The grounds feature calm gardens and peaceful lakes, great for relaxing.
The space also offers plenty to do for children. They’ll love the variety of animals, including goats, ponies, pigs, ducks, rabbits, guinea pigs and different types of birds. Kingston Maurward Gardens and Animal Park is open all seven days of the week, between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm.
River Frome
River Frome offers a quiet escape for nature lovers. This river is known for its crystal-clear waters, which run for 21 miles (34 km) from Dodington Park through Bristol to join the river Avon. You can take a walk or cycle along the river while enjoying its beauty.
The Frome is a haven for wildlife, with a variety of birds, mammals, and insects along its banks. Keep an eye out for kingfishers, herons and otters as you explore. When you finish, you also have easy access to other places of interest like the Maiden Newton and Cerne Abbas.
Shopping & Local Experiences
Dorchester also offers some activities in the form of shopping and local experiences.
Dorchester Farmers Market
Dorchester Farmers Market promises a great experience for anyone who enjoys fresh, local produce and a lively community atmosphere. The town holds this market day every month and visitors get easy access to various goods from local farmers, artisans and producers.
As you walk through the stalls, you’ll find everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to freshly baked bread, cheeses and homemade jams. The friendly vendors are always happy to share stories about their products, giving you a real sense of connection to the local area.
Dorchester Town Centre
Dorchester’s town centre is one of the best places to experience the mix of ancient landmarks and contemporary attractions this town has to offer. Stroll through the streets and you’ll find remnants of the Roman Town House and Maumbury Rings, which provide a glimpse of the town’s past.
The town centre is also home to various shops, cafes and traditional pubs, so it’s the perfect place to go enjoy a meal or a drink. You can also explore the town’s connection to novelist Thomas Hardy through his statue.
The central point of the town is Queen Mother Square, with a 3-metre bronze statue of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.
Best Time To Explore Dorchester
A visit to Dorchester is best slated for the late spring and summer months, between May and September, when the weather is mild and great for outdoor activities. During this period, you can enjoy the town’s top attractions. Early September onwards is also perfect for anyone who wants to experience Dorchester’s rural culture.
Hire a small car and explore different locations on a budget. You can also check out our spacious 9-seaters for travel with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Get To Dorchester?
You can get to Dorchester by train, car or bus. Dorchester has two train stations, Dorchester South and Dorchester West, which connect you to cities like London and Bristol. You can also take the M3 from London, follow the A31 and then the A35 to reach Dorchester. National Express and local buses also connect Dorchester with nearby towns like Bournemouth and Weymouth.
Is Dorchester The Birthplace Of Thomas Hardy?
No, Dorchester is not the birthplace of Thomas Hardy. Hardy was, actually, born in a small village called Higher Bockhampton, which is just a few miles from Dorchester. The town, however, played a significant role in his work, as he lived here for much of his life. In fact, the fictional ‘Casterbridge’ in some of Hardy’s novels is based on Dorchester.
What Are The Best Cultural Experiences In Dorchester?
The best cultural experiences in Dorchester are the Shire Hall and Dorset County museums. Shire Hall is a great place to learn about the history of trials in this town, including the case of the Tolpuddle Martyrs. The County Museum allows you to explore Dorset’s history through fossils and exhibits.
What Are The Must-See Attractions In Dorchester?
The must-see attractions in Dorchester are the Shire Hall Museum, Dorchester Market and Maiden Castle. These attractions are great for learning about the town and exploring its cultural heritage. Dorchester also has options for entertainment lovers in the form of cinemas and theatres. You can also visit the nearby parks for an outdoor experience.
Where Can I Take My Kids To In Dorchester?
You can take your kids to the Teddy Bear Museum, Plaza Cinema, Dinosaur Museum or Kingston Maurward Gardens & Animal Park. These locations are great for children, as they provide a mix of educational and recreational activities that would be suitable for families with children. Some are free, while others require reasonable entry fees.
Conclusion
With so many things to do in Dorchester, it’s almost impossible to not have a wonderful experience when visiting this town. Dorchester has something for everyone, from nature lovers and history buffs to young families with kids. All you have to do is hire a car and get ready to discover Dorchester at its best.
