Dorset is a county of great beauty,contrast and rich heritage. It has rolling hillsides, dramatic cliffs, vibrant towns, sweeping beaches, quiet countryside and picturesque villages.
Its coastline extends some 140 kilometres from Lyme Regis in the west to Christchurch in the east. It offers a selection of the finest sandy beaches in the British Isles, as well as more spectacular geological features such as Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.
Inland, the Dorset countryside rolls as far north as Shaftesbury. This is Hardy country where patchwork fields and flowery haymeadows form the landscape which inspired such literary classics as Tess of the D'Urbervilles and Far From the Madding Crowd.
Yet Dorset can be a hive of activity, too. Sporting opportunities are available everywhere, including golf, horse riding, fishing and watersports while the 2012 Olympic games highlighted its importance as a sailing venue.
The night-time economy thrives in the main towns, with a number of restaurants, bars, pubs and clubs second only to London in the south.
A diversity of theatres and venues attract huge conferences and exhibitions, as well as some of the best names in entertainment, while families enjoy the award-winning beaches, excellent shopping facilities and temperate climate of the south.
Top places to visit
- Corfe Castle is one of Britain's most iconic and evocative survivors of the English Civil War, partially demolished in 1646 by the Parliamentarians.
- A favourite haunt for adults and children alike, the romantic castle ruins have breathtaking views across Purbeck and are home to a number of events throughout the year.
- You can also learn about its centuries of fascinating and grisly history through guided educational tours.
- Monkey World is one of the most renowned ape rescue centres in the world. It was set up in 1987 and is home to more than 230 rescued and endangered apes and monkeys. Residents include the largest group of chimpanzees outside Africa, orang-utans, gibbons and many other breeds of smaller monkey.
- Moors Valley Country Park has something for everyone. Set in 1000 acres of parkland and forest you can explore the way marked trails, tree-top walkways and tackle the Go Ape high wire forest adventure swinging through the tree tops. Experience a ride on an authentic narrow-gauge steam train, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk or cycle under your own steam or part of an organised activity.
- The Tank Museum brings the history of tanks and tank crew to life, supported by the world's best collection of tanks & action packed live displays.
Did you know?
- The Black Death first came to England's shores in 1348 through the Dorset port of Melcombe Regis.
- The statue of Eros in London's Picadilly Circus commemorates the life of the 7th Earl of Shaftesbury and thus points toward Dorset.
- Portland stone has been used in many famous buildings, including The Tower of London, St Paul's Cathedral and the new BBC Broadcasting House.
- Overseas visitors to Dorset mainly come from Germany (19%), Holland (18%) and Ireland (9%).
Famous links
Dorset has a fascinating past which goes back to Jurassic times. It is linked to many crucial moments in English history and associated with a huge number of people, including Alfred the Great, Lawrence of Arabia and Enid Blyton. Today's residents include TV's Martin Clunes, Journalist Kate Adie and creator of Downton Abbey, Sir Julian Fellowes.
Events
- Weymouth Kite Festival. This year's theme is Wild About Animals 4 - 6 May 2013
- Christchurch Food & Wine Festival with a multitude of events in Christchurch's restaurants, pubs and hotels 10 - 19 May 2013
- Wimborne Folk Festival. Ttraditional dancing, entertainment and concerts in various streets and venues around the town 7 - 9 Jun 2013
- Dorset Seafood Festival. The area around Weymouth harbour becomes a Seafood Village 13 - 14 July.
- Camp Bestival. Music and family entertainment in the grounds of Lulworth Castle 2 - 4 Aug 2013
- Great Dorset Steam Fair with a spectacular display of bygone exhibits 28 Aug - 1 Sep 2013
- Bournemouth Air Festival, one of the largest air displays in the world 29 Aug - 1 September 2013
- Dorset County Show, an agricultural tradition 7 - 8 September 2013