Dorset

Dorset is a scenic and historic English county famed for its Jurassic Coast, market towns, cultural festivals, and literary heritage, offering diverse landscapes and accessible transport.

200 Results

Near Jordan Hill Roman Temple

Jordan Hill Roman Temple is an ancient Romano-Celtic temple ruin located on Jordan Hill above Bowleaze Cove in Weymouth, Dorset. The site, managed by English Heritage, is open freely during daylight hours and offers visitors the chance to explore a historic Roman religious site outdoors with scenic views.

Located in Weymouth

Weymouth is a historic seaside town in Dorset known for its Georgian architecture, vibrant harbour, and role as a gateway to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. It offers rich cultural experiences, beaches, water sports, and annual events including beach sports and festivals.

2 miles from Clouds Hill

Clouds Hill is an early 19th-century isolated cottage in Dorset that was the home of T. E. Lawrence, now a museum preserving his original furniture and an exhibition about his life. It offers visitors an intimate look into the life of Lawrence of Arabia within a historic Grade II* listed building.

Near Priest's House, Muchelney

Priest's House in Muchelney is a Grade I listed historic stone house built in the early 14th century for the parish priest. Owned by the National Trust, it showcases original medieval architecture including Gothic doorways and a 15th-century fireplace, with limited public access.

3 miles from UPDATED: Remarkable Rangers: Apple Harvest Weekends

10–11 Oct (this weekend)

Visitors can join the Ranger team to collect apples from Barrington Court’s orchards, which contain more than 100 varieties. The harvest activity takes place across the first two weekends of October.

Violet Bay

This refurbished terraced house near Weymouth beach offers a cosy family-focused stay with accommodation for up to 5 guests, including pet allowance, wheelchair accessibility provisions, and features like an enclosed garden and Wi-Fi. It is set close to Dorset's countryside and coastline, providing a scenic and waterside vacation experience.

Near Lodmoor

Lodmoor is a wildlife nature reserve in Weymouth with varied habitats including reedbeds, saltmarsh, and wet grassland attracting diverse bird species. It features accessible trails, a viewing screen, and is free to the public for outdoor wildlife experiences.

Alpaca Cottage

This is a stylish barn conversion located in rural Dorset offering a peaceful and cosy atmosphere with valley views and a private garden area including barbecue and cycle store, suitable for couples seeking a romantic retreat with pet-friendly policies and family amenities.

3 miles from Poor Lot Barrow Cemetery

Poor Lot Barrow Cemetery is a Bronze Age archaeological site near Winterbourne Abbas in Dorset, featuring 44 round barrows of various types set on low-lying ground near a valley. Visitors can explore the barrow alignments and enjoy views from a nearby plateau.

Bedborough Farm Cottages - Old Barn 2

Old Barn 2 is a stylish holiday home set in a rural and scenic location near The New Forest, suitable for multi-generational stays and nature exploration.

2 miles from Knoll Gardens and Nursery

Knoll Gardens near Wimborne, Dorset is a renowned naturalistic garden featuring innovative planting styles like Dry Meadow, Rain Garden, and Prairie. It hosts diverse wildlife and showcases national plant collections, attracting visitors for its evolving horticultural displays.

Located in Wimborne Minster

Wimborne Minster is a historic market town in Dorset, England, known for its Saxon church, cultural festivals, preserved architecture, and active community events.

Holly Farm Holiday Cottage - The Wrens

A stylish and peaceful two-bedroom bungalow in the countryside of Stoke St. Gregory, Somerset, offering step-free living and surrounded by scenic natural attractions.

Near West Sedgemoor

West Sedgemoor is a protected wet meadow nature reserve in Somerset, known for its extensive bird populations and rare plants. The reserve itself is closed to the public to protect wildlife, but visitors can explore surrounding public footpaths for outdoor views and wildlife spotting.

Wayside Cottages - Whispering Pines

A cosy two-bedroom seaside lodge near Chesil Beach offering sea views, open plan living, and easy access to coastal walks and wildlife, suitable for a relaxed holiday by the sea with family or friends.

Near St Catherine's Chapel, Abbotsbury

St Catherine's Chapel in Abbotsbury, Dorset is a medieval stone chapel on a hilltop overlooking the coast and Chesil Beach. It is a Grade I listed building and historic pilgrimage site maintained by English Heritage, offering visitors scenic views and a glimpse into medieval religious architecture and traditions. The chapel is open to the public with free entry during peak season.

New Forest Cottages - Alice's Lodge

This ground floor wing of a larger property in Hampshire offers a peaceful and cosy escape with scenic views of landscaped gardens and direct access to New Forest National Park, suitable for couples or small families.

3 miles from Castlepoint Shopping Centre

Castlepoint is a large retail park in Bournemouth, Dorset, featuring around 40 shops and multiple dining options within a two-level indoor shopping environment, supported by a spacious car park.

3 miles from New Forest Northern Commons

New Forest Northern Commons is a vast open landscape in Hampshire featuring walking trails through heathland and ancient woodland pasture, home to rare wildlife and shaped by traditional commoning livestock grazing. Visitors can explore diverse habitats and enjoy a natural, historic environment outdoors.

3 miles from Maiden Castle

Maiden Castle is a large Iron Age hill fort in Dorset, England, known as one of the largest and most complex hill forts in Britain and Europe. Visitors can explore extensive ramparts, ditches, and archaeological features including a Neolithic enclosure and a Roman temple site. The site is managed by English Heritage and open to the public.

Cowdea 2

This semi-detached, single-storey stone barn conversion is located on the outskirts of the peaceful rural hamlet of Bettiscombe in West Dorset, offering a cosy and scenic holiday base for couples or small families near countryside walks and local attractions.

Near Pilsdon Pen

Pilsdon Pen in Dorset is a prominent landmark featuring an Iron Age hillfort with ancient burial mounds and archaeological remains. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, panoramic views, and the natural environment in an outdoor setting. Dogs are allowed on leads, and access is free, though the site involves steep climbs and uneven terrain making it not wheelchair accessible.

Downwood Vineyard

Downwood Vineyard is a spacious Victorian house set in 30-acre grounds featuring a private hot tub, outdoor heated swimming pool, tennis court, and gardens, suitable for large families or groups seeking a rural retreat near Blandford in Dorset.

Near Hod Hill

Hod Hill is Dorset's largest hillfort featuring visible Roman and Iron Age earthworks, scenic walking trails, and rich downland wildlife, accessible via village or lane car parks. Visitors can explore historic ramparts and enjoy countryside views.

3 miles from Highcliffe Castle

Highcliffe Castle is a Grade I listed Gothic mansion on a cliff top in Dorset, offering restored historic interiors with exhibitions and beach access. Visitors can explore the house, enjoy the scenic grounds, and use the on-site cafe and picnic areas.

Near Radipole Lake

RSPB Radipole Lake is a nature reserve in the centre of Weymouth featuring extensive reedbeds and lagoons that provide a habitat for a variety of birds and animals. Visitors can enjoy wheelchair accessible trails, a discovery centre with indoor exhibits and a cafe, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and exploring outdoor nature. The reserve is free to enter and offers designated dog-friendly routes for visitors.

Armswell House

This offering is an 18th-century farmhouse located in Dorset countryside near the hamlet of Plush, known for its historic character, spaciousness, and rural setting with extensive farmland surroundings and nearby countryside attractions.

2 miles from Dolphin Shopping Centre

Dolphin Shopping Centre is a large covered shopping mall located in Poole, Dorset, featuring over 90 retail units across three floors. It provides a fully accessible indoor shopping experience, a variety of food and drink options, and a health village healthcare clinic. The centre also offers children's play sculptures and is integrated with Poole Bus Station, forming a key town centre hub.

3 miles from Free daily guided red squirrel walks

7–23 Oct (another 14 days)

Join a volunteer for a guided woodland walk on Brownsea Island to look for red squirrels as they forage for food.

Located in Poole

Poole is a historic coastal town and seaport in Dorset, England, known for its large natural harbour, maritime heritage, sandy beaches, cultural attractions, and lively shopping and dining scene.

Ivy Cottage

Ivy Cottage is a peaceful period home with a stylish modern interior located on a quiet country lane on the edge of The New Forest National Park, near the Dorset coast, offering a private garden and a setting suitable for family stays with children over 12 years.

Located in Bournemouth

Bournemouth is a vibrant coastal resort town in Dorset, England, famous for its seven-mile sandy beaches, Victorian architecture, lively nightlife, cultural venues, and tourism. It combines historic charm with modern attractions and hosts various festivals and events.

2 miles from Hive Beach

Hive Beach is a scenic shingle beach on the Jurassic Coast known for spectacular coastal views, wildlife spotting, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, accessible facilities including mobility scooter hire, and a café with coastal views.

Located in Bridport

Bridport is a historic market town in Dorset known for its Saxon origins, rope-making heritage, vibrant arts scene, literary festivals, and scenic coastal setting near West Bay and the Jurassic Coast.

The Riding House

A 17th-century restored, stylish holiday home set within a large parkland estate with 8 individually designed ensuite kingsize bedrooms, suitable for groups and families.

Near St Giles House

St Giles House is a historic family home in Dorset with over 400 years of history, restored after a period of disrepair. Visitors can arrange group tours of the house, which features accessibility accommodations and hosts events throughout the year.

2 miles from Barrington Court

Barrington Court is a Tudor manor house in Somerset, combining historic architecture with Arts and Crafts-style gardens originally designed by Gertrude Jekyll. Visitors can explore the historic house, converted stable buildings, and extensive ornamental gardens including a kitchen garden supplying the onsite restaurant.

2 miles from Lytes Cary

Lytes Cary is a Grade I listed historic manor house in Somerset dating from the 14th century, featuring a chapel, Great Hall with period furnishings, and extensive Arts and Crafts style gardens listed as Grade II. The National Trust owns the property and offers public access to the older parts of the house and the distinctive gardens set in themed 'rooms' with hedges, ponds, and an orchard.

2 miles from Pop Up Shop hosted by National Trust

7–22 Oct (another 13 days)

Local nature photographer Ben Pullitz displays wildlife and landscape photographs in a pop-up shop at Lytes Cary Manor.

3 miles from Mapperton Estate

Mapperton Estate in Dorset features award-winning historic gardens set in a steep combe with formal topiary areas, an arboretum, and beautiful sea views. The garden offers family-friendly facilities including a play area, refreshments, and plant sales, with access free for RHS members on selected days.

Oakdene Lodge

Oakdene Lodge is a homely semi-detached property in a semi-rural location, ideal for couples or families exploring the Dorset area, featuring a large enclosed garden and close proximity to countryside walks and outdoor activities.

Thorney Country Cottages - The Milking Shed

This semi-detached holiday cottage offers spacious and cosy accommodation for up to 4 guests with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, set in a rural location on the Somerset levels with access to national parks and nature areas, featuring ground floor living and enclosed shared lawned grounds with private parking and pet-friendly facilities.

Holly Farm Holiday Cottage - The Swallows

This stylish two-bedroom cottage in the peaceful village of Stoke St. Gregory blends countryside charm with modern comfort and offers private hot tub and shared indoor pool access amid scenic surroundings near Somerset attractions.

Thorney Country Cottages - Orchard Cottage

This semi-detached cottage offers comfortable and spacious accommodation in a rural area, ideal as a couple's retreat with shared enclosed grounds and private parking.

2 miles from Muchelney Abbey

Muchelney Abbey is a historic English Heritage site featuring the ruins of a medieval Benedictine abbey and an intact Tudor Abbot's House, set on the island-like Somerset Levels. Visitors can explore foundational ruins outdoors and the architectural interiors of the Abbot's House indoors, experiencing a significant religious and architectural heritage spanning from the 7th to 16th centuries.

3 miles from Fiddleford Manor

Fiddleford Manor is a medieval manor house in Dorset dating back to around 1370, featuring original interiors and restored by English Heritage, open to public visits throughout the year.

2 miles from Lytchett Fields

Lytchett Fields is a wetland nature reserve in Dorset offering visitors the chance to observe a wide variety of wading birds and wildlife in their natural habitat, with walking trails and viewpoints across protected pools and marshland.

Thorney Country Cottages - The Tack Room

The Tack Room is a rural retreat suitable for couples and their pets with a galleried bedroom and an open-plan living space, located in a pastoral setting with shared enclosed grounds.

3 miles from Treasurer's House, Martock

Treasurer's House in Martock, Somerset, is a Grade I listed medieval house dating from the 13th century and owned by the National Trust. It features historic architecture including a great hall with a timber roof and medieval wall paintings, offering visitors an indoor historical experience.

The Victorian Barn - Plumtree

Spacious semi-detached rural holiday home in Woolland, Dorset with three ensuite bedrooms, open-plan living space, private hot tub, and access to on-site leisure facilities including an indoor heated swimming pool, games room, badminton court, and fishing lake, situated on a working farm.

3 miles from Stock Gaylard House

Stock Gaylard House is a Georgian historic house set in a large estate with ancient deer park and extensive gardens. Visitors can enjoy conducted tours inside the house and explore the surrounding church and gardens at their leisure during specific open periods in the year.

Near Spyway

Spyway in Dorset offers a distinctive limestone coastal landscape with towering sea cliffs, grasslands rich in wildlife, historic sea quarries, and scenic walking trails along the South West Coast Path. It is a natural outdoor destination welcoming well-behaved dogs and free to the public.

3 miles from Home and Hearth: Archaeological finds exhibition

7–31 Oct (another 22 days)

An exhibition at Corfe Castle’s Welcome Centre presents archaeological finds from excavations, showing objects associated with everyday life in the medieval castle.

The Dairy

The Dairy is a contemporary barn conversion set in a rural location in Dorset, offering a spacious and stylishly designed living area on the ground floor with an open plan layout, perfect for family or group stays, featuring a back garden and private parking in tranquil countryside surroundings.

3 miles from Knowlton Circles

Knowlton Circles is an ancient archaeological site in Dorset featuring a complex of Neolithic and Bronze Age henge monuments including Church Henge which encloses the ruins of Knowlton Church, surrounded by numerous round barrows and earthworks. It offers an outdoor historical experience showcasing prehistoric and early Christian heritage, open to the public during reasonable daylight hours.

2 miles from Forde Abbey & Gardens

Forde Abbey is a historic former Cistercian monastery set in Dorset countryside with 30 acres of diverse, beautifully maintained gardens showcasing seasonal floral displays and natural features. It offers visitors a rich outdoor experience of nature and heritage.

3 miles from Eggardon Hill

Eggardon Hill is a prehistoric Iron Age hillfort located on chalk uplands in Dorset, England. Visitors can explore large earthworks and enjoy extensive views of the countryside and English Channel. The site is partly owned by the National Trust and offers free public access throughout the year.

Star Cottage

Star Cottage in Ringwood is a newly renovated, stylish and cosy cottage ideal for a romantic getaway or small family holiday, located close to the New Forest and local amenities in a peaceful yet convenient town center setting.

Located in Ringwood

Ringwood is a historic market town in Hampshire by the River Avon, known for its weekly market, rich medieval history, and cultural heritage including a notable brewery and filming locations.

3 miles from Garston Wood

Garston Wood is an ancient woodland nature reserve in Wiltshire, known for its rich wildlife including dormice and colorful wildflowers like bluebells. The site offers outdoor walking paths with natural surfaces and is open free to the public year-round, but has no visitor facilities or food available.

Portland

A stylish and spacious family-friendly lodge set within a woodland and countryside setting at Sandford Holiday Park in Dorset, offering a blend of nature and modern comfort with private decking and easy access to nearby coastal attractions.

2 miles from Arne

RSPB Arne is a nature reserve in Dorset renowned for its diverse habitats and rare wildlife including all six native UK reptiles. Visitors can explore extensive heathlands, ancient oak woodland, wetlands and shoreline with facilities including accessible trails, a café, and events. Dog-friendly routes and mobility scooter hire enhance the visit experience in this outdoor wildlife haven.

2 miles from Fabulous fungi on Brownsea Island

10 Oct, 17 Oct

Join experts from the Dorset Fungus Group on a guided walk to find and identify fungi on Brownsea Island, and learn about their species and role in the ecosystem. The walk is for both novices and experienced participants and is not a foraging event.

3 miles from Hod Hill

Hod Hill is a large Iron Age hillfort and Roman fort site in Dorset, England, featuring ancient earthworks, archaeological remains, and a calcareous grassland habitat, open to the public as a National Trust historic site.

Located in Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum is a historic market town in Dorset renowned for its extensive Georgian architecture, cultural museums, and annual Georgian Fayre festival, nestled beside the River Stour.

5 Pine Rise

Independent six-berth caravan in Poole with double bedroom ensuite, fully equipped kitchen, lounge with Smart TV, outdoor decking, and lawn, located on Parkdean Resort with access to pool and activities via pass purchase.

Jasmine Cottage

Jasmine Cottage is a thatched four-bedroom cottage in the Dorset village of Osmington, offering a tranquil rural setting with access to countryside and nearby coast, ideal for families and groups.

2 miles from Ringstead Bay

Ringstead Bay is a tranquil stretch of the Dorset coast renowned for its pebble beach, clear bathing waters, and rich natural history on the Jurassic Coast. Visitors can enjoy scenic cliff top walks, bird watching, and seasonal wildflower meadows in an outdoor setting.

2 miles from Minterne House & Gardens

Minterne House & Gardens is a historic family home in Dorset, featuring unique Himalayan and woodland gardens known for their seasonal plants. Visitors can enjoy private tours of the house and gardens, tea shop snacks, and a peaceful natural environment. The venue is dog-friendly, has facilities for children, and hosts weddings and special events.

Wayside Cottages - Mimosa

A two-bedroom coastal bungalow with accessible wet room and open-plan living, set in a peaceful location near Chesil Beach with sea views and a private garden, suitable for families and guests with mobility needs.

2 miles from Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is a renowned 30-acre botanical garden in Dorset featuring rare and exotic plants from around the world, set on the Jurassic Coast. Visitors can explore extensive garden areas, enjoy seasonal events, and relax in the onsite cafe and shop. The gardens provide good wheelchair accessibility on designated paths and welcome well-behaved dogs on leads.

3 miles from Golden Cap

Golden Cap Estate in Dorset offers stunning coastal views from the highest point on the South West coast along with accessible woodland and circular walks, wildlife spotting, and family-friendly trails. Facilities include a coffee trailer and accessible toilets, with parking available at designated car parks. The estate is rich in natural beauty and suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Feltham's Farm - The Organic Cabin

Feltham's Farm is a peaceful organic farm stay located in the quiet village of Horsington Marsh, Somerset, offering a homely and laid-back atmosphere with views of Blackmore Vale amidst countryside surroundings and nature.

Park Farmhouse

A spacious thatched former farmhouse dating back to 1750 in a historic Dorset village, offering a peaceful countryside setting with far-reaching views, ideal for large family gatherings and celebrations near the Jurassic Coast.

3 miles from Hambledon Hill

Hambledon Hill is a prehistoric hill fort in Dorset featuring Neolithic and Iron Age earthworks. The site is a National Nature Reserve with significant wildlife and is owned by the National Trust, offering outdoor historical and natural exploration.

North Barn

North Barn is a Grade II listed thatched property set in the English countryside near the village of Affpuddle, surrounded by fields and meadows with a rural and spacious atmosphere suited for families and groups to enjoy quality time together.

2 miles from Athelhampton House & Gardens

Athelhampton House & Gardens is a fine Tudor manor house featuring well-preserved historic interiors and extensive award-winning gardens with architectural vistas and unique topiary. Visitors can explore period rooms, enjoy garden walks, and participate in family-friendly events.

Coach House Holidays Ltd - Coachmans Cottage

A charming former coach house for two guests on the edge of New Forest with a stylish open-plan interior, mezzanine double bedroom, private terrace with hot tub and barbecue, and off-road parking, offering a peaceful countryside retreat ideal for walking and cycling.

3 miles from Pilsdon Pen

Pilsdon Pen is a 277-metre hill in Dorset, featuring an Iron Age multivallate hillfort with archaeological remains, offering panoramic views across the surrounding landscape. It is accessible via outdoor walking routes and is managed by the National Trust.

Midknowle Farm Cottages - The Cottage

A ground-floor barn conversion cottage in a peaceful rural setting between Castle Cary and Yeovil, set within 10-acre shared grounds and offering private hot tub, enclosed garden, woodburner, and scenic countryside views.

3 miles from The Newt Garden

The Newt in Somerset is a formal garden laid out in Baroque style with a historic apple tree maze, extensive plant cultivars, a winter garden with exotic species, and ancient woodland. It offers a rich outdoor horticultural experience shaped by renowned designers over 200 years.

Marshwood Manor Cottages - The Lodge

A detached luxury retreat set in a tranquil rural location with extensive grounds including woodland and pasture, suitable for families and groups, featuring outdoor spaces, on-site parking, and facilities such as a games room and woodburner.

2 miles from Lambert's Castle

Lambert's Castle is an Iron Age hillfort in Dorset, open to the public as open access land and designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Visitors can explore steep natural slopes, historic earthworks, and enjoy views from Lambert's Castle Hill, with nearby parking available.

2 miles from Edmondsham House

Edmondsham House is a historic country house featuring Tudor and Georgian architecture, set within extensive gardens including a walled organic garden and unusual trees. Visitors can explore both the house interiors and outdoor gardens, with nearby historic landmarks such as a 12th-century church.

2 miles from Lulworth Castle

Lulworth Castle & Park is a historic 17th-century country house set in extensive parkland in Dorset. Visitors can tour the partly restored castle with its chapel and church, enjoy woodland walks, panoramic countryside views from the tower, and relax at the on-site tearoom. The grounds include a children's playground, picnic areas, and walking paths suitable for dogs on leads.

2 miles from Compton Acres

Compton Acres is an extensive Art and Crafts-style garden in Poole featuring five themed gardens inspired by worldwide travels, including Italian, Japanese, and Water gardens with seasonal plantings and rare wildlife.

Near Portland Castle

Portland Castle is a well-preserved 16th-century artillery fort on the Isle of Portland, Dorset, built by Henry VIII. It offers both indoor exploration of the historic castle rooms and outdoor enjoyment of its unique fan-shaped structure and gardens, telling the story of England's coastal defenses.

Near Spyway

Spyway is a National Trust property in Dorset known for its 140 million-year-old dinosaur footprints and historic barn with smuggling history. Visitors can explore fossil footprints outdoors along the Priest's Way and experience local heritage.

3 miles from Heritage Fridays

9 Oct, 16 Oct…

Visitors can try carrying a yoke and handle replica medieval pottery while learning about life in a medieval castle. Stonemason volunteers are also available to discuss traditional stone-carving techniques.

2 miles from White Mill

White Mill is an 18th-century water-powered corn mill near Sturminster Marshall in Dorset, featuring original milling machinery and historic architecture, preserved as a Grade II listed building and managed by the National Trust.

2 miles from The Pikachu Art Adventure at Kingston Lacy

7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)

Explore 30 Pikachu trading cards illustrated by different artists, discover facts about the character and design your own Pikachu card as part of an art adventure at Kingston Lacy.

art

3 miles from Portland House, Weymouth

Portland House is a 20th-century detached house in Weymouth, Dorset, known for its 1930s Mediterranean villa design. It is managed by the National Trust and available as a holiday let with public open days twice annually.

Located in Chickerell

Chickerell is a small town in Dorset near Weymouth, known for its scenic proximity to Chesil Beach and the Jurassic Coast, with local industry and leisure amenities including Bennetts Water Gardens and woodland walks.

Holly Hedge Farm - Robins Nest

A detached barn conversion with three bedrooms and one bathroom situated on the grounds of Holly Hedge Farm in a rural area of Dorset with local amenities and attractions nearby.

2 miles from Monthly Markets at Lytes Cary Manor

10–11 Oct (this weekend)

A market showcasing creative products made by local artists, held in the historic barns and courtyard at Lytes Cary Manor.

Midgham Long Copse - Ash Hill

This accommodation is a recently converted barn in a rural setting ideal for countryside exploration, featuring a peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere with shared outdoor activities and natural surroundings.

Belvedere

This modern stylish holiday home is set in a rural location near the Dorset coast and the historic town of Wimborne, offering spacious accommodation with four bedrooms and two bathrooms, along with a private hot tub and games room overlooking fields.

2 miles from Kingston Lacy

Kingston Lacy is a historic 17th-century Italianate country house and estate near Wimborne Minster, Dorset, featuring extensive formal gardens, parkland, and a significant fine art collection. The house offers a blend of indoor tours with finely decorated interiors and outdoor exploration of its historic gardens and grounds.

3 miles from Stepping into Parkinson’s and nature: walking programme

7 Sep, 14 Sep…

A 12-week walking programme at Kingston Lacy for people living with Parkinson’s, with weekly walks that gradually build in pace while participants connect with nature. Sessions also offer activity advice and support from volunteer walk leaders.

White Horse Farm - Moley's

This accommodation is a single-storey barn conversion situated in a rural woodland setting in Dorset, offering a peaceful and homely retreat surrounded by natural scenery with easy access to cultural and local attractions.

2 miles from Minterne Gardens

Minterne Gardens is a 27-acre historic woodland garden in Dorset inspired by Capability Brown, featuring rhododendrons, mature trees, streams, and unique structures within a peaceful valley setting.

Midgham Farm - Cedar Cabin

A newly renovated wooden eco cabin set in a peaceful ancient woodland on the edge of a working farm, offering a private and tranquil retreat surrounded by nature and wildlife with modern comforts.

3 miles from Max Gate

Max Gate is a Grade I listed historic house in Dorchester, Dorset, designed and built by Thomas Hardy, showcasing Queen Anne style architecture, and open to public visits with access to multiple rooms including studies and bedrooms associated with Hardy's life and works.

Shepherds Knapp Cottages - Shepherds Knapp Lodge

This is a two-bedroom detached lodge in Devon countryside near Axminster, offering a peaceful rural retreat with scenic views and a private patio with hot tub, suitable for families and couples with pets allowed, featuring on-site parking and Wi-Fi.

3 miles from Lambert's and Coney's Castle

Lambert's Castle and Coney's Castle are ancient Iron Age hill forts in Dorset offering scenic outdoor exploration with countryside views and wildlife spotting. The terrain at Lambert's Castle is flat and grassy, ideal for walking. Coney's Castle has ramparts but limited wheelchair access. The site includes parking with charges, welcomes dogs with restrictions, and is free to the public.

Near Stembridge Tower Mill

Stembridge Tower Mill in Somerset is the last thatched windmill in England, built in 1822. It features four floors, retains historic millstones, and is a Grade II* listed building managed by the National Trust, offering visitors a glimpse into historic milling indoors.

Coast View Apartment

This is a ground floor beach front apartment with four bedrooms and two bathrooms, located near Lyme Bay on the Jurassic Coast. The accommodation offers a coastal, peaceful atmosphere with a shared large enclosed south-facing garden and sea views, suitable for families and groups.

Coach House

This detached coach house offers accommodation for six guests with three bedrooms and is set within a large garden with scenic views and access to shared outdoor amenities near the Dorset coast.

2 miles from Holme for Gardens

Holme Nurseries Ltd is a 15-acre garden located on the Isle of Purbeck, Dorset, featuring a mix of formal and informal garden designs with rare plant collections, abundant wildlife, and visitor facilities including parking, refreshments, and dog-friendly access.

3 miles from Folklore and Fairies Family Quest

7 Oct–22 Nov (another 44 days)

Families can follow a quest at Corfe Castle, solving clues about folklore, mystery and superstition, including beliefs about cooking, protecting homes, witches and fairies.

Located in Wareham

Wareham is a historic market town in Dorset, England, with Saxon origins and notable medieval town walls, located between two rivers near Poole Harbour. It offers rich cultural heritage, religious sites, traditional markets, annual events, and museum exhibits, accessible by train and local transport.

2 miles from Warmwell House

Warmwell House is a Jacobean manor in Dorset, known for its historic charm and as a venue for weddings, family gatherings, and private events. It features comfortable bedrooms and maintains the atmosphere of a family home.

2 miles from Ballard Down

Ballard Down is a scenic chalk downland area on the Purbeck Hills in Dorset, featuring coastal views between Studland Bay and Swanage Bay, part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, with grassland managed by the National Trust and a historic obelisk landmark.

3 miles from Home Educators Sessions (all ages)

12 Oct, 9 Nov…

Home educators and children can join nature-based sessions at Studland, with seasonal activities such as arts and crafts, spotter walks and scavenger hunts. The listed sessions focus on woodland scavenging and crafts in October, fungi in November, and a winter beach scavenger hunt and festive crafts in December.

Located in Swanage

Swanage is a charming coastal town in Dorset, England, known for its Victorian heritage, sandy beach, and beautiful bay. It offers a mix of historical landmarks, cultural venues, and outdoor activities, making it a popular tourist destination on the Jurassic Coast.

Bradstock Cottages - The Retreat

The Retreat is a Grade II listed five-bedroom country house in the Dorset village of Burton Bradstock, near Hive Beach on the Jurassic Coast, offering flexible accommodation and a coastal village setting for groups and families.

2 miles from Christchurch Castle

Christchurch Castle in Dorset is a historic Norman motte and bailey castle featuring ruins of a stone keep and the Constable's House, a rare Norman domestic dwelling. The site offers outdoor exploration of the castle grounds and gardens, as well as indoor experience of the preserved Constable's House, managed by English Heritage.

Located in Christchurch

Christchurch is a historic town on the south coast of Dorset, England, featuring a medieval priory, castle ruins, a picturesque harbour, and vibrant cultural events, making it a popular and accessible tourist destination.

3 miles from Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle is a historic 11th-century ruined stone castle atop a hill in Dorset, England, known for its medieval architecture and role in the English Civil War. Visitors can explore the castle ruins, enjoy scenic views, and learn about its rich history under National Trust care.

Near Forde Abbey

Forde Abbey is a historic former monastery turned elegant family home in Somerset, surrounded by extensive and diverse gardens. Visitors can explore ornate interiors, unique tapestries, and various themed gardens across 30 acres. The venue offers accessible facilities, food outlets, and activities suitable for children, making it an engaging day out for all ages.

Bay Tree

This detached self-contained annexe near Shaftesbury in Dorset offers a stylish and peaceful rural retreat with open-plan living, a king-size bedroom, and outdoor sitting area, suitable for couples or small families exploring historic and natural surroundings.

The Old Tithe Barn

This Grade II 13th-century detached stone tithe barn in Litton Cheney offers character accommodation for 19 guests with nine en-suite bedrooms and is set on a working farm in a scenic countryside location near Chesil Beach and the Jurassic Coast.

2 miles from Kingston Russell Stone Circle

Kingston Russell Stone Circle is the largest stone circle in Dorset, dating from the Bronze Age and consisting of eighteen sarsen stones arranged in an oval. The monument is set on a chalk ridge overlooking the sea, open to the public during daylight hours and managed by English Heritage as a scheduled ancient site.

2 miles from Old Harry Rocks

Old Harry Rocks are distinctive chalk stacks and formations on the Isle of Purbeck coast in Dorset, marking the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the natural coastal landscape and admire views including the Isle of Wight's Needles.

3 miles from Discover the Hidden Fungi of Studland: A Guided Walk with Andy Knott

9 Oct, 29 Oct…

Join fungi expert Andy Knott for a guided walk through Studland’s woodland, observing and learning to identify native fungi and other species in their natural habitat.

Near Hardy's Cottage

Thomas Hardy's Cottage in Dorset is the birthplace of the famous English author, featuring original period interiors, a cottage garden, and nearby woodlands with a visitor centre and trails.

2 miles from Sherborne Castle & Gardens

Sherborne Castle in Dorset is a historic house built by Sir Walter Raleigh, set in extensive Capability Brown landscaped gardens with a serpentine lake. Visitors can explore the immersive castle interiors showcasing centuries of history and art, enjoy scenic outdoor walks, wildlife viewing, garden features, and children’s trails. Food is available on-site in the Walled Garden Restaurant and dogs are welcome in the gardens on short leads.

3 miles from Breamore House

Breamore House is an Elizabethan manor house in Hampshire offering visitors an immersive experience of fine paintings, tapestries, and period furniture, set within beautiful parkland. The house has wheelchair accessible routes and a café, providing a comfortable visit amidst historic surroundings.

3 miles from Moignes Court

Moignes Court in Dorset is a historic house with medieval earthworks, a moat, and ancient fishpond remains. Visitors can explore two rooms inside the house and enjoy the grounds with guided tours on select days between May and June. Facilities include accessible parking and toilets, free parking, and a picnic area.

Midgham Long Copse - Little Barn

Little Barn is a detached barn conversion set on a working stud farm offering a peaceful rural retreat for couples or small groups, with scenic woodland surroundings and outdoor activities nearby.

3 miles from The Nine Stones

The Nine Stones is a free-access Bronze Age stone circle near Winterbourne Abbas, Dorset, consisting of nine sarsen stones including two larger prominent ones. The site is outdoors in a narrow valley, close to the A35 road, and is maintained by English Heritage as a protected scheduled monument with cultural and religious significance.

Spire View Hut

A stylish and homely shepherds hut with an open plan living space, situated in a peaceful countryside setting with scenic views towards Salisbury Cathedral, offering a private hot tub and garden area for a romantic and private retreat.

2 miles from The Pepperbox

The Pepperbox is an historic hexagonal folly tower built in 1606 on Pepperbox Hill, Wiltshire. It offers panoramic views across the surrounding countryside including Salisbury. The tower is a Grade II listed building and a notable early folly, owned and preserved by the National Trust.

3 miles from The social season: A Regency year at Mompesson House

9–13 Oct, 16–20 Oct…

Explore Mompesson House dressed to reflect the Portman family’s time there and learn about Regency life and the family’s social calendar. Visitors can see a Regency parlour and children’s playroom, take part in activities, and follow a spotter trail around the house.

White Horse Farm - Toad Hall

A ground-floor holiday barn with open plan living space in Dorset set within 2 acres of natural woodland, offering a peaceful rural retreat near historic towns and museums.

The New Inn Farm - New Inn Farmhouse

This accommodation is a converted barn in a rural location accommodating up to 12 guests with six bedrooms, offering a homely and peaceful atmosphere with private outdoor space including a large meadow and garden, and a private hot tub.

Located in Fordingbridge

Fordingbridge is a historic market town in Hampshire by the River Avon, known for its medieval seven-arch bridge, riverside park, local museums, and vibrant town centre with shops and eateries.

2 miles from Studland

Studland is a coastal village in Dorset known for its extensive sandy beaches, nationally important heathland nature reserve, and historical World War II sites. Visitors can explore natural dune systems, enjoy wildlife watching, and walk parts of the South West Coast Path.

Barnyard

Barnyard is a luxurious Dorset barn conversion retreat finished in 2023, set on a smallholding with farm animals, featuring ground-floor level access, designed with accessibility in mind, and surrounded by an enclosed garden and patio with private hot tub, suitable for families and pets.

3 miles from Fontmell and Melbury Downs

Fontmell and Melbury Downs is a protected chalk downland area in Dorset known for its beautiful open grasslands, circular walking routes, diverse wildlife, and scenic viewpoints including Melbury Beacon. It offers accessible outdoor experiences with opportunities to spot butterflies, orchids and glow-worms in summer, set in the landscape that inspired Thomas Hardy's novels.

Located in Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury is a historic hilltop town in Dorset, England, known for its scenic views, the ruins of Shaftesbury Abbey, the iconic cobbled Gold Hill, and vibrant cultural events including an annual Snowdrop Festival.

Little Pickets - Little Picket

Little Picket is a luxurious five-bedroom countryside retreat in the New Forest near Ringwood, set in a peaceful rural location with scenic views and outdoor activities, suitable for groups and families including pets.

2 miles from Hardy Monument

The Hardy Monument is a 72-foot landmark tower on Black Down in Dorset, erected in 1844 in memory of Vice Admiral Sir Thomas Hardy. Visitors can climb 120 steps to a viewpoint offering expansive views of the English Channel and distant coastal landmarks. It is a historic monument owned by the National Trust known for its unique design as a giant spyglass and designated as a Grade II listed building.

The Compasses Inn Cottages - White Wing

This cottage offering is located close to the New Forest and is set in an ancient village with historic features and countryside surroundings, adjacent to a village pub and near various outdoor activity opportunities.

Midelney Music Room

This accommodation is a unique period property set in private surroundings with an enclosed plantsman-designed courtyard garden near Midelney Manor, offering a quiet and scenic retreat with countryside views and historical character.

Woodlands View

Woodlands View is a converted barn located in the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near Thorncombe village, offering a tranquil rural setting with countryside views and easy access to local amenities and attractions.

3 miles from Lewesdon Hill

Lewesdon Hill is the highest point in Dorset, England, managed by the National Trust with notable walking paths, natural scenery, and a WWII Spitfire crash memorial. The site offers outdoor exploration of its summit ridge, woodland, and historical significance.

3 miles from Deans Court

Deans Court is an elegant historic Georgian house set in ancient and romantic gardens in Wimborne Minster, featuring heritage interiors, a monastic fishpond, and a café, offering guided tours and special events access primarily for Historic Houses members and paying visitors.

Midgham Long Copse - Homewood

This accommodation is a recently converted barn offering a rural, country charm setting in the New Forest and Dorset area with scenic views and proximity to outdoor activities and local attractions.

Peckmoor Farm Lodges

Peckmoor Farm Lodges is a tranquil rural retreat located on a working farm at the Dorset/Somerset border, offering a peaceful countryside setting with abundant wildlife and nature immersion opportunities.

Goodwin House

Goodwin House is a renovated holiday cottage in the village of Shepton Beauchamp near Ilminster, featuring a cosy wood burner, three bedrooms, modern amenities, private parking, and an enclosed garden with patio in a tranquil English countryside setting.

3 miles from Stoke-sub-Hamdon Priory

Stoke sub Hamdon Priory is a historic 14th-century chantry college complex in Somerset featuring a Grade I listed great hall, medieval architecture, and ruins of outbuildings. Owned by the National Trust, it offers visitors a glimpse into medieval religious and farming life with indoor historic buildings and outdoor heritage site elements.

Stepping Stones

This is a two-bedroom semi-detached holiday let in a quiet cul de sac in Verwood, Dorset, with a spacious conservatory, cosy open plan living area, and a garden, offering a peaceful and comfortable retreat near countryside and coastal attractions.

Midgham Long Copse - Chiddock Cottage

This accommodation is a single-storey barn conversion located within a working stud farm offering a peaceful rural setting with access to woodland, walking paths, and outdoor activities, suitable for families and groups.

Woodbrook Cottage

Woodbrook Cottage is a detached family accommodation situated in the rural village of Bothenhampton close to the coast, featuring a tranquil atmosphere and tasteful coastal-inspired decor with original local artworks and bespoke furniture.

3 miles from Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

Abbotsbury Garden is a subtropical 30-acre Grade I-listed garden in Dorset, featuring rare and unusual plants in a sheltered woodland valley with ponds and an 18th-century walled garden. Visitors enjoy diverse plant collections through all seasons including champion trees and historic camellias.

The Old School

This is a peaceful and cosy thatched bungalow located in the rural village of Ibberton offering homely, laid-back accommodation with a private enclosed garden and scenic countryside surroundings.

2 miles from Abbotsbury Abbey

Abbotsbury Abbey in Dorset is a historic site featuring the remains of an 11th century Benedictine monastery, including the world's largest thatched tithe barn and St Catherine's Chapel. Visitors explore extensive outdoor ruins and heritage buildings managed by English Heritage, alongside the celebrated Abbotsbury Swannery nature reserve nearby.

Coach House Holidays Ltd - Shire Cottage

A charming former coach house on the edge of the New Forest offering a stylish and cosy open-plan living space with a mezzanine double bedroom and a private terrace with hot tub and barbecue, set in a peaceful countryside location ideal for walking and cycling.

St Anne's Cottages - Magnolia

A well-presented, semi-detached single-storey holiday home near Weymouth with extensive countryside views, close to coastal attractions and family-friendly activities, featuring a private enclosed garden and rural surroundings.

Little Pickets - The Lodge

This luxury chalet bungalow in the New Forest near Ringwood features four bedrooms, an open-plan living space, a high-end kitchen, private decking with a sunken hot tub, and easy access to woodland walks, local attractions, and the coast, combining countryside calm with high-end holiday living.

Bedborough Farm Cottages - Old Barn 1

Old Barn 1 is a stylish holiday home part of a rural collection, featuring open plan living, private outdoor space with patio and hot tub, and situated near scenic countryside ideal for walking and cycling.

2 miles from Brownsea Island

Brownsea Island is a large island in Poole Harbour, Dorset, managed by the National Trust with extensive nature reserves, wildlife habitats, and historical sites including Brownsea Castle. It is famed as the location of the first experimental Scout camp in 1907, and it offers outdoor activities, nature trails, and cultural events for visitors.

Little Oaks

Newly renovated one-bedroom barn conversion with rural tranquility located between Lyme Regis and Bridport near the Jurassic Coast, featuring an open-plan living space, underfloor heating, enclosed garden, private parking, and pet-friendly policy.

Coach House Holidays Ltd - The Retreat

This elevated timber-framed cabin on the edge of the New Forest offers a cosy and stylish retreat blending nature and comfort, featuring a wraparound deck and private sunken hot tub, situated near beaches and trails for a peaceful forest and coastal experience.

Farriers

A charming holiday home annex in the New Forest National Park set along a quiet country lane offering a peaceful and romantic countryside retreat for couples with a double bedroom, sitting room, kitchen, bathroom, private parking and a small courtyard outdoor space.

Near Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum is a Victorian villa in Bournemouth featuring historic art collections, galleries, and a Japanese treasures room, alongside a small garden and a cafe with sea views. The venue offers tours, live music, and is mostly wheelchair accessible with facilities for children.

2 miles from Wolfeton House

Wolfeton House is a Grade 1 listed medieval and Elizabethan manor house in Dorset featuring a candlelit chapel, historic interiors with carved oak panelling, plaster ceilings, and stone great stairs. Open to visitors from June to September on specific weekdays, it offers a rich historical experience with free parking nearby.

White Horse Farm - Otter's Holt

This accommodation is a single-storey barn conversion and detached lodge cabin set over a 2-acre site in rural Dorset, providing a peaceful and sociable family-friendly retreat with access to countryside walks and nearby attractions.

3 miles from Tintinhull Garden

Tintinhull House and Garden is a Grade I listed 17th century house with a 20th century garden in South Somerset, owned by the National Trust, offering historic interiors, artistic paintings, and extensive garden rooms styled after Hidcote Manor.

Hewish Mill Retreats - Pitch Back

Pitch Back is a charming holiday home set in a peaceful rural area of Somerset countryside, designed as an intimate and romantic retreat with a cosy bedroom and open-plan living space all on the ground floor, featuring a garden and private parking.