Welcome to our guide to the best things to do in Dorset! Discover the very best activities, attractions, sights and places to visit across the county.
Because there are so many brilliant things to see and do here, we’ve broken things down into several separate guides – by topic and destination. Check out some of the top categories below, then you’ll find a quick list of some of the top local attractions – followed by an index of all our round-ups and guides.
Top Things to Do in Dorset
Explore the Jurassic Coast: Hunt for fossils in Lyme Regis, marvel at the iconic rock arch of Durdle Door, hike the South West Coast Path, take a boat trip to see Old Harry Rocks, or simply relax on beautiful sandy beaches. Read more about the Jurassic Coast HERE.
Corfe Castle: A dramatic ruined castle on a hilltop with over 1,000 years of history!
Swanage Railway: Ride a heritage steam railway with exceptional views of the Purbeck Hills and the ruins of Corfe Castle.
Brownsea Island: Owned by the National Trust, this large island in Poole Harbour is a peaceful nature reserve.
Gold Hill in Shaftesbury: Possibly one of the best views in Dorset, a steep cobbled street with a row of thatched roof cottages and sweeping views of the Blackmore Vale countryside.
READ MORE: 15 of the Best Things to Do in Dorset
Read More in Our Guides:
- 15 of the Best Things to Do in Dorset
- 13 Top Things to Do in Dorset with Kids
- 19 Towns To Visit In Dorset
- 14 Things to Do in Dorset in the Rain
Things to Do by Destination
- Bournemouth
- Dorchester
- Lyme Regis
- Swanage
- Weymouth
- Poole
- Lulworth Cove
- Charmouth
- Wareham
- Wimborne
- Christchurch
- Bridport and West Bay
History & Culture
Fun Things to Do in Dorset
- 16 of the Best Gardens To Visit in Dorset
- Snowtrax Christchurch
- 6 Escape Rooms in Bournemouth
- 11 of the Prettiest Villages in Dorset
- 11 of the Best Car Boot Sales in Dorset
Booking Your Trip
Airports Guide – An in-depth guide to the best airports for Dorset, including travel info for each one.
Booking.com – The best booking site for all types of accommodation. It usually has the lowest prices and the widest range. I highly recommend downloading the app to manage your bookings and search on-the-go (app prices are sometimes slightly cheaper, too).
Get Your Guide – Find and book tours and attraction tickets for your trip.
Discover Cars – Easily search for and book car hire for your Dorset trip.
Airalo – If you’re coming from overseas, buy a pre-paid eSIM for the UK to get online without roaming fees. Use code EMILY9237 to get £2.50 off your first purchase.