Dorchester is not only Dorset’s county town but also the birthplace of famous author and poet Thomas Hardy.
The town enjoys a rich history dating back as far as the Iron Age and is home to theRoman Town House, the finest example of its kind in Britain.
Attractions aplenty
Dorchester provides the location for many of the county’s leading museums, including theDorset Museumand theKeep Military Museum.
Dorset Museumhas recently undergone a £16.4 million redevelopment and the magnificent museum is now established as the major cultural destination within Dorset - a place for people to connect with 250 million years of Dorset's history.
Learn more of Dorchester’s grizzly history and the trial of the Tolpuddle Martyrs with a visit to the newly refurbishShire HallMuseum. Learn more of the birth of trade unions and the harsh judgements passed down by the notorious Judge Jeffrey during the Bloody Assizes.
For little ones there are some fabulous family-friendly attractions including theDinosaur MuseumandTeddy Bear Museum. You can even delve into the past of ancient Egypt at theTutankhamun Exhibition.
Just 15 minutes drive from Dorchester you will find the opulentAthelhampton House. This Grade I listed 15th Century manor house boasts an award winning garden that is certainly worth exploring, plus their café is perfect for a light lunch or tea and cake.
Nature on your doorstep
In the countryside surrounding Dorchester you can find plenty of opportunities to get closer to nature. Try your hand at bushcraft skills withInsight Activitiesor admire the stunning sculptures as you wander round Sculpture By the Lakes.
Explore the mile upon mile ofcycling trailsandwalking routesthat surround thetown and take in the stunning wildlife and nature. You’ll enjoy some of the most breathtaking scenery while being just moments from the town centre on routes including Hardy's Cottage and theDorset Jubilee Trail.
The Hardy connection
Lovers of the acclaimed poet and writerThomas Hardywill be aware of the significance of Dorchester.
Dorchester is of course the ‘Casterbridge’ featured in many of his novels and references of the great man can be found in and around the town.
Hardy’s birthplace can be found on the outskirts of Dorchester in Higher Bockhampton.Hardy’s Cottageis now managed by the National Trust alongside his Victorian townhouseMax Gate.
You can learn more of Hardy’s time in Dorchester by following ourHardy Trail.
Shopping and Markets
When it's time for some retail therapy, there are many well-known high street brands alongside small, independentshops. They sell everything from Dorset's local produce to clothing, jewellery, antiques, art and unusual gifts.
There is a central pedestrianised area with three arcades - Hardye, Tudor and Antelope Walk. There also shops along High Street, Durngate Street and Trinity Street. And you won't want to miss the big named brands atBrewery Squarenext to Dorchester South Station.
On the outskirts of Dorchester, you'll findPoundburywith its eclectic mix of independent retailers and cute coffee shops.
Dorchester Markettakes place every Wednesday and features anoutdoor and covered market with a large variety of stalls.
Dine in style
Dorset's county town has a huge variety ofplaces to eat out. You might also want to grab a picnic for your day trip or order a tasty takeaway for delivery to your holiday accommodation.
Brewery Squareprovides a wonderfully vibrant location with an abundance of places to eat and drink. A number of the leading chain restaurants and independent eateries are available giving you plenty to get your taste buds going. The alfresco setting brings a Covent Garden feel and provides the perfect location to enjoy a meal with friends while watching the world go by. Its location played a significant role in the town’s history being home to the Eldridge Pope Brewery creating local ale from 1880 to the late 1990s. Alongside the wonderful food, there is also a multiscreen cinema and a parade of shops providing the opportunity to purchase the latest fashions and accessories. The fountains in the middle of the Square offer great enjoyment for children, splashing through the jets of water on warmer days.
King Charles’ Poundbury
The mid 90s brainchild of KingCharles IIIhas become a stylish, eco-friendlyvillage quite unlike anywhere else in Dorset. Built on the principle of giving priority to people rather than cars, it provides an alternative community feel.
Wander the winding streets ofPoundburyand take in the wonderful mix of architecture, independent shops, cafés and local businesses that hark back to times gone by.
Events for everyone
Dorchester plays host to a fantastic year round events calendar.
The towns Borough Gardens and Maumbury Rings provide wonderful locations for summer and spring time festivals and events. With live music, performances and open air theatre regularly hosted, they provide a delightful setting for revellers to enjoy.
Find further details of events happening in and around Dorchesterfor the upcomingmonths within ourDorchester events page.
Make a break of it
With so much to see and do in Dorchester, why not book a short break or holiday? Accommodation is available to suit all tastes and budgets fromhotels,bed & breakfastsandself catering optionsto choose from - you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay.
Why notbook yourstay online? We have a wonderful choice of places to stay that can be booked with a click or a tap. Don't forget to mention Visit Dorset when making your enquiry.
Find out more about Dorchester
We’ve only just scratched the surface!
You canfind out more about Dorchesterwith the free Discover Dorchester app. As well as events, attractions, shops and cafes the App also has up to date useful information on parking, electric vehicle charging, toilets and local offers and discounts. The App is available in Apple and android versions and can be downloaded atwww.discoverdorchester.co.uk.
You can also download ourDorchesterVisitor Guidefor further information (pleasecontact usfor an accessible version of this Guide).
