England

Dorset

More than deckchairs and crazy golf

Glorious Dorset makes for the perfect British holiday destination. Defined by the craggy and ancient Jurassic coastline and its unspoilt rural landscapes, Dorset is also home to pretty seaside towns, dreamy coves and quirky sights. If you’re looking for an inspiring variety of ancient sites, literary locations, traditional seaside pleasures, swanky mansions, historic properties and spectacular coastal scenery, then Dorset is the spot for you.

DISCOVER DORSET’S DELIGHTS

Dramatic coastal landscapes meet glorious gardens and architectural treasures

  • Swanage – take in the beauty of the Purbecks and enjoy a trip on the nostalgic Swanage Railway
  • Explore contrasting National Trust properties – the palatial mansion of Kingston Lacy and evocative ruins at Corfe Castle
  • Poole Harbour – take a relaxing boat trip whilst enjoying a delicious cream tea
  • Explore the eclectic displays and exhibits at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, plus enjoy the exquisite gardens at Compton Acres
  • Learn more about Hardy Country and the Jurassic Coast with a full day guided tour
  • Executive coach travel from your choice of pick up points
  • 4 nights half board accommodation

From £639
per person

based on two sharing in a twin/double room, with a minimum of 30 passengers travelling in a specific month

Best time to go

January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

Suggested Hotel

Marsham Court Hotel, Bournemouth

  • Superb location on Bournemouth’s East Cliff
  • Close to town centre – a short walk to beach and shops
  • Bar & restaurant
  • Contemporary decor and friendly ambience
  • Outdoor swimming pool (May – September only)

Not the hotel for your group? Other hotels are available, contact us.

Attractions:

  • Swanage Railway
    VE19126-Swanage-railway-and-Corfe-Castle- -Visit England-Visit-Dorset

    Enjoy a leisurely trip on the heritage railway at Swanage. On this 12-mile return journey, you can take in the iconic views of Corfe Castle and the beautiful Purbeck scenery from the comfort of an historic steam locomotive.

  • Swanage
    VE16306-Swanage-Bay-Dorset- -Visit England-Diana-Jarvis

    Characterful Swanage is a gem on the Isle of Purbeck. This traditional seaside town has a lovely selection of cafés and restaurants, a delightful promenade and stunning sandy beaches. Swanage is close to the many attractions in the area, including Corfe Castle, the Blue Pool and the unspoilt sandy swathes of Studland Bay.

  • Corfe Castle (NT)
    Corfe-Castle

    An immensely pretty village with evocative castle ruins at its centre, Corfe Castle is a captivating spot from which to enjoy the beauty of the Purbecks. Discover 1,000 years of history within the majestic walls of the partially demolished royal fortress.

  • Compton Acres
    Compton-acres-foliage

    The exquisite gardens of Compton Acres, designed in 1920, are considered some of the finest ornamental gardens in England. This horticultural heaven comprises five distinct areas of varying styles: the Italian Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Heather Garden, the Rock and Water Garden, and the Wooded Valley.

  • Poole Harbour Cream Tea Cruise
    City-Cruises-Poole-photo-Solent-Scene

    This relaxing 90-minute cruise allows you to take in the sights of Poole Harbour whilst enjoying a delicious Dorset cream tea served on vintage china. Departing from Poole Quay, the boat passes ‘Millionaires Row’ at Sandbanks, Brownsea Castle, and five islands. A live commentary gives you insights to points of interest and local history.

  • Bournemouth
    Bournemouth-Beach-2- Copyright-Bournemouth-Tourism

    Beautiful Bournemouth is cradled by a glorious stretch of golden sandy beach, but the town has so much more to offer than the obvious attractions of its bay. Having been a haven for holidaymakers since Victorian times, Bournemouth offers visitors fine gardens, inspiring art galleries, and is the perfect base from which to explore the stunning Dorset countryside.

  • Kingston Lacy (NT)
    Kingston-Lacy-Dorset

    Experience the grand elegance of this palatial mansion, filled with artistic treasures and surrounded by acres of stunning parkland. This lavishly furnished 17th century home contains a wealth of paintings by world famous artists as well as an enormous collection of artefacts from all over the world. Outside, you can enjoy beautiful sweeping lawns, charming formal gardens and delightful woodland walks.

  • Jurassic Coast & Hardy's Dorset tour
    Dorset coastline

    Our knowledgeable Dorset guide will help you explore more of the county of Dorset, including the stunning coastline, rolling hills and historic town of Dorchester.

  • Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

    The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum is located on Bournemouth’s East Cliff, overlooking the sea. Then known as East Cliff Hall, in 1901, Merton Russell-Cotes gifted his wife Annie the beautiful building for her birthday. The couple were Victorian collectors and travel enthusiasts and filled the home with remarkable artwork and souvenirs from their travels. Today, guests can admire exhibitions of both art and artefacts from the Russell-Cotes’ extensive collection.

Enquire

Jackie

Team Comments:

“The county of Dorset offers such variety. Bournemouth is a vibrant town and makes a great base from which to explore the area.” (Jackie)

  • Alternatives
  • Travel Diaries
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    4 minute read

    5 photos

    Sand, sea and steam – exploring Swanage

    In my time I’ve been lucky enough to visit some incredible places, yet one of my favourite destinations is close to home and holds a special place in my heart: Swanage, in Dorset. Anyone I mention it to always has a memory of their own about it – a fond...

    Jo Blair

    By Jo Blair

    19th Dec 2018

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