Dorset

Dorset Travel Secrets

The county of Dorset in South West England is a secret in itself, often bypassed by visitors, the area has kept its unique character and charm, unchanged for years. With some of the most stunning coastal and rural scenery in England, Dorset is worth discovering.

Beautiful Beaches

Dorset has some well known beaches along its coast which include Bournemouth and Weymouth. The locals however prefer to take a picnic and visit one of the more picturesque and less commercialised beaches along the coast. At Kimmeridge Bay for example there is a snorkeling nature trail and being part of the Jurassic Coast there are hundreds of fossils embedded into the rocks on the beach itself and even an oil well just along the cliff top. Many of the beaches are adjacent to the South West Coastal Footpath and a visit can be combined with a walk followed by a swim (on a very warm summers day). Ringstead Bay in West Dorset is another favourite beach with locals. The whole area inspired Enid Blyton to write her Famous Five novels and many of the villages and beaches have found their way into a secretive mystery all of their own.

Exploring the Dorset countryside reveals many traditional craftspeople at work. In summer it is commonplace to see a master thatcher at work repairing the picturesque thatched roofs of country cottages or stone walls being constructed in local style. Several villages have community orchards and autumn is a time to see apple festivals and cider making done traditionally. Country fairs are another wonderful way to see rural life at its best in Dorset and there are several large events throughout the farming year.

Hidden Histories

Dorset has a considerable amount of hidden history within the county that makes a holiday destination all the more interesting. Iron Age forts such as Hambledon Hill and Hod Hill in North Dorset make energising walks and provide a perspective on ancient settlements in the South West of England. Not far from Lulworth Cove in Dorset the eerily deserted village of Tyneham is a fascinating place to explore. The villagers of Tyneham were ordered to leave their homes during World War Two in order that preparations for the D Day Landings could continue in secrecy and have never been allowed to return.

Scenic Views

One of Dorset’s best kept secrets are the magnificent views that can be enjoyed at very little cost. The public bus route from Poole to Bridport takes in the dramatic coastline and sweeping views from Abbotsbury Hill over to Chesil Beach and is a wonderful way to see this region. Views from Okeford and Bulbarrow Hills in North Dorset stretch over the Blackmore Vale and the rich farmland that inspired Thomas Hardy and epitomises the county.