Things to do in Dorchester

Days out, Destinations

Posted by Ellen Drowne on 15th December 2023

Traditional stone buildings in Dorchester surrounded by colourful gardens

The historic market town of Dorchester has much to recommend it. Dorset’s county town sits on the edge of the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. From its Roman roots to its literary links, the town is a fascinating place; a treasure trove of interesting things to see and do. And being so close to the spectacular Jurassic Coast, stunning beaches and breathtaking coastal scenery and walks are close at hand.

You could spend several days just touring the fantastic array of museums alone: a historic courthouse, military history, dinosaurs, and teddy bears – take your pick! If you’re a fan of renowned author Thomas Hardy’s work, then a visit to Hardy’s Cottage is a must. You could also go on a Jurassic safari or tour some amazing historic sites. It's also the perfect base for anyone looking to discover Dorset. 

With so much on offer, you’ll need somewhere to stay in Dorchester that allows you to kick back and relax after a busy day of exploring. Which one of our Dorchester holiday cottages will you choose?

Cottages in Dorchester

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Man, woman and little boy gaze at a museum exhibit

Museums

Dorchester is blessed with an impressive selection of museums to suit all interests. Here is just a handful to give you a flavour of what’s on offer:

The museum’s aim is to educate people on 250 million years of Dorset’s cultural, artistic and archaeological heritage. Collections range from geology to photography so there is something for everyone. Plan your visit today.

Focused on local military history, this museum is housed in the Grade II-listed Keep that was once the gatehouse for the Depot Barracks of the Dorsetshire Regiment. Exhibits take visitors through the chronological history of the local regiments.

An immersive and thought-provoking dive into the last 200 years of justice in Dorset. Grade I-listed Shire Hall was the county courthouse from 1797 right up until 1955. As well as the trial of the Tolpuddle Martyrs in 1854, it would hear the domestic abuse case in 1856 that led Thomas Hardy to write Tess of the D’Urbervilles.

Is there a toy more beloved than the good old teddy bear? We think not! This is one to add to the list of family things to do in Dorchester, as it has obvious appeal for the young and young at heart. A whole range of teddies from the past 100+ years are waiting to meet you.

With Dorchester sitting just 7 miles from Dorset’s World Heritage Jurassic Coast, it’s no surprise that a dinosaur-based attraction features on our list of things to do. The Dinosaur Museum promises a roar-some day out for all ages. Enjoy getting up close to life-size reconstructions of Stegosaurus and T-rex and learn all about Dorset’s dino heritage through interactive displays.

A green bridge surrounded by lush foliage in Athelhampton Gardens

Athelhampton House and Gardens

Athelhampton is an exquisite example of a Tudor manor, with the Great Hall preserved much as it would have been back in 1485 when first built. As well as diving into the house’s fascinating history, you can stroll around the gorgeous gardens, grab a bite to eat at The Coach House Restaurant – or book The Long Hall Dining Room for Sunday lunch (October-March/April) – or purchase gifts and souvenirs in the lovely shop. Plants are available to buy in spring and summer.  

Thomas Hardy's cottage - tradition thatched roof with three chimneys, and greenery around the doorframe

Hardy's Cottage

Visit the cottage where one of Dorset’s most famous sons was born, Thomas Hardy. Hardy’s Cottage was built by the writer’s great-grandfather and was where the author was born in 1840. One of the wonderful National Trust places to visit in Dorset, this cob and thatch building is where Hardy wrote classics including Under the Greenwood Tree and Far from the Madding Crowd. Be sure to spend some time in the charming cottage garden and orchard. If you’d like to learn more about The Mayor of Casterbridge writer, the house is a short walk from Hardy’s Birthplace Visitor Centre.

Looking out over a lake and a head sculpture at Sculpture by the Lakes

Sculpture by the Lakes

Looking for peace and tranquillity during your stay in Dorchester? Then head to the idyllic Sculpture by the Lakes. Geared towards adults and families with children over 14, the site spans 26 acres of blissful serenity. It’s a glorious place to unwind, so take your time in The Sculpture Park, home to more than 120 pieces, then check out The Makers Yard. Here, you’ll find delightful, unique gifts in The Store and a host of delicious produce in The Pantry. Feeling peckish? Wander over to The Kitchen for dishes made with the finest locally sourced ingredients. To complete your trip, take a tour of the exhibits in The Gallery.

Part of a mosaic floor at Dorchester's Roman Town House

Roman Town House

For a true taste of Roman life in Dorchester, pay a visit to the Roman Town House. The house sits in the area of Dorchester known as Colliton Park, which was once part of the Roman town of Durnovaria. You can visit the grounds for free and, for a small fee, embark on a guided tour of the internal structure. During your time here, you’ll find out about the excavation and conservation of the site and gain an insight into the lives of those who inhabited the house in Roman times.

Aerial view of Maiden Castle's fortifications etched into the hillside

Maiden Castle

From a Roman house to an Iron Age hillfort: Maiden Castle truly has to be seen to be believed. Covering an area the size of 50 football pitches, it would’ve been an imposing structure to behold when first built. The multiple ramparts protected several hundred people during the Iron Age. Exciting finds reported as a result of excavation work on the site include a Roman temple and an Iron Age cemetery. There is also evidence that it started out as a Neolithic enclosure, c. 3500 BC.   

A track heads through Dorset countryside with a tree and hedgerows

Jurassic Safari

Among the many fun things to do in Dorset is going on safari! A Jurassic Safari is an unusual and exciting way to go off-track and experience ‘wild’ Dorset while learning about the surrounding landscape and local history. Choose from a range of trips from the Land Cruiser Safari to the Tractor and Trailer Safari, all of which allow you to take in beautiful rural surroundings and spot some of the British wildlife that call the site home. Before your safari, there’s the chance to meet some of the residents of the farm where the safari is based – goats, sheep, cats, and even a Dartmoor pony.   

Stay in Dorchester

We hope that this blog has inspired you regarding things to do in Dorchester. Whether you’re on a spontaneous weekend couples’ break or a longer holiday with the kids, Dorchester is a fabulous place to explore, so what are you waiting for? Browse our collection of cottages in Dorchester to start planning your next getaway.

Dorchester holiday cottages

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.