About Dorchester

The historic collides with the hip in Dorchester, where trendy bistros and boutiques huddle alongside Roman ruins and classic Georgian homes, to create a destination that appeals to every generation.

Begin your adventures here by visiting one of the market town’s many museums. There are eight here, covering everything from local history to dinosaurs, ancient Egypt and teddy bears! Two particular standouts are the striking Keep Military Museum and the Dorset County Museum with its many fossils and Roman treasures.

Dorchester is famous for its connections with literary icon Thomas Hardy, who based the fictional Casterbridge on the county town. Take the special trail to visit landmarks linked with the author – including his charming cottage and birthplace on the outskirts.

Hardy probably wouldn’t recognise Dorchester’s Brewery Square today. The site has been transformed into a cosmopolitan hangout spot, filled with restaurants, shops and bars with colourful fountains at its centre.

 

beautiful country gardens with a lake

Why We Love Dorchester

  • Gorgeous architecture
  • Links to the late and great Thomas Hardy
  • Many fine gardens
  • An abundance of museums
  • Shopping and dining in Brewery Square

Find the perfect holiday in Dorset

Search for your holiday by region and make a booking with our intuitive search feature. The easy way to search for your holiday park if Dorset is the holiday setting for you. With our user friendly map display, you can simply pick the park that’s right for you. From the leafy countryside setting of Sanford, the woodland walks of Warmwell, to the Jurassic Coast of West Bay, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking—a holiday remember.

Need inspiration? Visit our local attractions page for Dorset.

The limestone arch at Durdle Door Beach