A Day Out In Dorchester
Dorchester is the county town of Dorset and a destination that is rich in heritage and natural beauty. With a variety of activities suitable for all weather conditions, our camping and caravan park in Dorset is just a twenty-minute drive away.
Maiden Castle
Maiden Castle is one of the largest and most complex Iron Age hillforts in Europe and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and an excellent opportunity for a scenic hike.
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Dorset Sunflower Trail
Dorset Sunflower Trail, at Maiden Castle Farm on the edge of Dorchester, opens each summer around mid-August, with half of the entry profits donated to a charity.
New for 2024 is the ‘Sunflower Stride’, where runners can wind their way through the sunflowers, and then up to Maiden Castle with its amazing views, and beyond. The run is scheduled to take place on Saturday August 17th. Updates on this event can be found on Instagram and Facebook.
Find out more about the Dorset Sunflower Trail here.
Borough Gardens
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Borough Gardens, a beautiful Victorian park in the heart of Dorchester. With its well-maintained flower beds, bandstand, and tennis courts, it's a perfect spot for a picnic or some relaxation.
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Roman Town House
Visit the Roman Town House, an open-air archaeological site showcasing the remains of a luxurious Roman residence. It is the only example of a fully exposed Roman Town House in the country. With its intricate mosaics it offers a fascinating glimpse into Dorchester's ancient past.
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Dorset Museum & Art Gallery
If you're interested in history and culture, this is a ‘must.’ The museum features extensive collections related to local history, archaeology, and geology, including exhibits on Thomas Hardy, the renowned author who lived in the area.
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The Dinosaur Museum
A great place for families, the Dinosaur Museum offers an interactive experience with life-sized reconstructions and fossils. It’s an educational and fun way to spend part of your day, especially if you have young children.
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Riverside Walks
Take a leisurely walk along the River Frome. The riverside paths provide a peaceful escape and are a great way to enjoy the local flora and fauna.
Shire Hall Museum
Check out Dorchester’s legal history at the Shire Hall Historic Courthouse Museum. This interactive museum provides insights into historic trials and includes immersive exhibits about justice and injustice in Georgian England.
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The Keep Military Museum
Discover the military history of Dorset and the role of the local regiments at The Keep Military Museum. The Museum is housed in a historic building and offers fascinating exhibits, artefacts, and a look at military life through the ages.
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Hardy’s House, Max Gate
‘Max Gate’ is the Victoria former home of Thomas Hardy, the renowned author. Now managed by the National Trust, it provides a cosy retreat on a rainy day. You can explore the rooms where Hardy wrote some of his famous works and enjoy the period furnishings.
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Dorchester Arts
From live performances and film screenings to workshops and exhibitions, there's always something happening to keep you entertained indoors.
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Local Cafés and Tearooms
Dorchester has many attractive cafés and tearooms where you can enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake as you watch the world go by.
Shopping in Dorchester
Dorchester has a variety of independent shops and boutiques, offering a unique shopping experience. Opposite Brewery Square, and only a short walk from the town centre, is a large indoor market. Over 200 traders regularly sell fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, quality meats, clothes, plants and hot food.
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Whether you're exploring ancient hillforts and gardens in the sunshine or delving into museums and historic houses on a rainy day, Dorchester provides a rich array of activities to ensure a memorable day out.
