The brainchild of Prince Charles, this quirky town on the outskirts of Dorchester was built with imaginative new methods to create a sustainable community.

It features a muddle of architectural styles that take inspiration from different eras and locations, you’ll find palatial regency-style buildings alongside Victorian warehouse-like units, traditional honey-hued cottages tucked up against redbrick townhouses. It’s worth visiting Poundbury for its unique appearance alone!

Amongst this riot of colour and style, you’ll find an assortment of independent boutiques selling everything from fashion and gifts to homeware. There’s a gallery and garden centre here too.

For dining, Poundbury has a number of restaurants, cafes and bars, including the characterful Duchess of Cornwall Inn in Queen Mother Square, which channels the feeling of a Georgian country home with its ostentatious architecture, high ceilings and flamboyant paintings.

• Unusual blend of architectural styles
• Interesting boutiques
• Range of cafes and restaurants
• Queen Mother Square
• Duchess of Cornwall Inn