If someone asks you what struck you most about a destination that you have recently visited, what will you answer? Indeed, you will fail to answer it in one line. You will recall and share the scenic beauty of the place and the old places that tell the story of the land and the people. We know you will end the answer with some regional delicacy that reflects the distinctiveness of that spot. It is because these are the things that hold the soul of any region.
For this, visiting the nook and corners of a place is crucial. A lack of planning or less information can prevent you from doing this. If you want to avoid this issue, read this blog diligently. In today’s blog, we will elaborate on ‘What to see in Dorchester?’ so you don’t miss anything.
Let’s start!
Explore the Beauty of Dorchester
Dorchester is the county town of Dorset in southwest England. It is one of the most beautiful towns in the UK. Dorchester has a rare combination of historical places, natural beauty, and wonderful people. Also, this vibrant town is ideal if you love to shop. You will find several handcrafted items for home decor and other uses.
According to travel experts, Dorchester has a soul and something for everyone. From visiting Dorchester’s museums and shops to silent walks, sipping great coffee and food, and trips to popular places, the city has a list of to-dos for everyone.
Places to visit in Dorchester
As stated, Dorchester has a lot to offer, and it has something especially for every age and interest. From learning tours of museums to quiet walks beside the river- the town has a lot. Are you excited to know those places? Here is a list for you-
1. Maiden Castle
Maiden Castle in Dorset is probably one of the largest Iron Age hill forts in Europe and Dorchester. The first hill fort consists of 16 acres of land, and the developed one has 19 acres. The construction was primarily built in the 1st century BC. Prolonged excavations have helped to dig the traces of a Neolithic enclosure from about 3500 BC and a Roman temple built in the 4th century AD. Currently, it is under the charge of the UK government and is open to public access.
2. The Roman Town House
Roman Town House is one of the most crucial Roman ruins in the Dorchester. Authentically, it was built around 307 AD and extended in 341 AD. It was discovered in 1937/38 during an archaeological investigation by the Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society. The site has remains that include two hypocausts with external stoke holes, a window, stone columns, a well, and an excellent mosaic. It is a scheduled monument, a Grade I listed building, and open to all.
3. Shire Hall Historic Courthouse Museum
Shire Hall was an eminent centre of justice in Dorchester, and currently, it is a museum. It brings the story of justice and injustice in society. The original building was built in the 1630s and re-constructed in 1796 and 1797. The court is remembered for its injustice towards Tolpuddle Martyrs in 1834. The court sentenced him to punishment for demanding the ideal wages for farmers. However, the court was forced to do justice under the pressure of the UK people. It is a Grade I listed place and is open to all.
4. Dorset Museum
Since 1846, the Dorset Museum has been telling stories about Dorset, the UK, and the world. The museum has two significant collections- the archive of Thomas Hardy’s works and fossils from the Jurassic Coast. Roughly four million items are in the museum. It includes valuable items, such as fossilised dinosaur footprints, Roman mosaics, and original Thomas Hardy manuscripts. The building has a neo-Gothic style in its architecture and was designed by G. R. Crickmay and Son.
5. The Keep Military Museum
Keep Military Museum is a popular landmark in the heart of Dorchester. Built in 1879, the architecture has a significant resemblance to Norman Castle. It was the house of the army and their weapons for a long time. After protecting the civilians for a long time, it is a museum now. It is a grade 2 listed building and is open to all. Talking about the architecture, it has two round towers in the front and three storeys of long slit windows.
6. Tutankhamun Exhibition
The Tutankhamun exhibition is one of the historic landmarks in Dorchester. It helps visitors to go 100 years back and enjoy the moment of mummy discovery. The exhibition comes with a mummy of Tutankhamun, some used products, and an audio story that helps understand each excavation activity. It also informs other stories about Tutankhamun. The smell of funerary oils and unguents also adjusts to the place to provide the feel. It is essential to mention that the Tutankhamun mummy was recreated using X-rays, photographs and measurements of the original mummy.
7. The Teddy Bear Museum
If you have kids with you and wondering which places to visit in Dorchester, visit the Teddy Bear Museum. It shows the history of teddy bears for 100 years, precisely since 1906. It has a massive number of teddy bears, and many of them are people-sized. Some popular teddy bears are – Paddington Bear, Rupert Bear, and Winnie the Pooh. It was opened in 1990 and is owned by World Heritage. It is the oldest teddy bear museum in the UK.
8. The Borough Gardens
If you are stressed over what is there to see in Dorchester, visit the Borough Garden once. The natural treasure of the place will uplift your mood instantly. Its designed green and calm environment provides a sense of peace. Built over 4 acres of land, it has a play area, adult fitness equipment, four tennis courts and a community room. Dorchester Town Council operates it and is open to all.
9. River Walks Along the Frome
One of the best places to visit in Dorchester is the river valley of River Frome. The area is filled with various distinct flora and fauna. One can witness glimpses of Kingfisher, the bright yellow Marsh Marigold, Water Crowfoot and Brown Trout during the walk. The walking route also passes through Chilfrome, Maiden Newton, Bradford Peverell, Charminster and Dorchester. The area has a village called Evershot, the second-highest village in Dorset. Trave junkies suggest new visitors stay one night in this village to enjoy some splendid views.
10. South West Coast Path
Do you want to enjoy the best views in Dorchester? Then you must go for a walk on the southwest coast path. It is England’s longest waymarked long-distance footpath and a National Trail. It is 630 miles long. It touches areas like Minehead in Somerset, along with the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, to Poole Harbour in Dorset. The road was built for the Coast Guard. However, it is now dedicated to recreational walks. The best time to go is spring and late summer.
11. Kingston Maurward Animal Park and Gardens
Kingston Maurward Animal Park and Gardens is one of the popular Dorchester tourist attractions. It is because of their planned garden and animals. The garden has built over 35 acres of land and has several species of animals. The tourists can feed them, too. The authority has constructed 11 different themed areas to explore to maximise the weekend fun. It includes the temple mound, a Japanese garden, an Elizabethan walled garden and a secret garden. It is ideal for families with kids, and it gets closed at 4 pm.
12. Max Gate
The Max Gate is one of those Dorchester historical sites that carry its real vibe. Initially, it was Thomas Hardy’s house, located on the outskirts of Dorchester, Dorset, England. He built this house in 1885 and lived here till his last day, in 1928. In 1940, the National Trust took responsibility; from then on, it has been open to everyone. Visit the place to feel the rich history and remember, the last time of entry is at 2 pm.
13. Brewery Square
To get the actual image of a place, you have to meet the authentic people of that place. To do this, you must visit the Brewery Square in Dorchester. This bustling hub boasts a variety of shops, eateries, and leisure facilities and loads of joyful people. The zone contains brands like Nando’s, Zizzi, Hobbs, and Côte. Odeon Cinema, Great Escape, or Nikki’s Little Play Café are also available here for entertainment.
14. The Corn Exchange
People who love art and want to enjoy some great works must visit the Corn Exchange in Dorchester. Builder Samuel Slade built this house in 1847-48 to trade grains. The Building is two storeys with walls of Broadmayne brick with Bath and Portland stone dressings and a tile of slate roof over. Later, it went through various changes, and currently, it is a grade 2 listed building. You can visit on Friday to enjoy a beautiful country market.
15. Dorchester Plaza Cinema
One of the best places to visit in Dorchester is the Plaza Cinema. It is an updated movie theatre with all the amenities and polite staff. It also comes with an affordable price tag. The place is known for running the latest movies and its visitor-friendly approach. If you want to enjoy the latest movies on your vacation, visit the place and enjoy the fullest.
16. Abbotsbury Swannery
Abbotsbury Swannery can be called the uniqueness of Dorchester. It is the only managed colony of muted swans. The swannery was built around 1040 by a monastery for their utilisation. The monastery was dissolved in 1539, and Sir Giles Strangways was appointed Commissioner by Henry VIII to take care of it. Currently, it is the home of more than 600 muted swans. Come here to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of swans. The place stays open to visitors from mid-March until November.
17. Weymouth Beachember
Beaches are one of the best places to enjoy a vacation. To get a royal view of the Georgian seafront at the heart of the Jurassic coast, come to Weymouth Beachember. The beach gained popularity in the late 1700s, and King George III frequently visited it. It has secured the number 2 spot for England’s Best Beach and 19th best in Europe. The place is ideal for swimming, bathing and other water activities. Victors can enjoy Greenhill and Preston beaches in the adjacent areas.
18. The Jurassic Coast
Trips are not only for souls; they are also for education. Do not miss the Jurassic cost in Dorchester. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. The coastal area is known for its fossils, rocks, and landforms. It is the only place where rocks from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods are available. These rocks are representing 185 million years of Earth’s history. Do not forget to visit the “Geoneedle”. It is an acute pyramidal sculpture built with fragments of different types of rocks.
19. Dorchester Antiques Shops
One of the best parts of Dorchester is that it maintains a balance between old and present. Several antique shops are proof of this statement. If you want to bag some great handcrafted items, you can visit shops like Purbeck Artisan Yard, Bridport Antique and Vintage Dealers, Vintage Swanage, Dorchester Market, etc. The Purbeck Artisan Yard brings 12 local artists and craftsmen to provide the best to the buyers and remains open 7 days a week. On the other hand, the Dorchester Market brings 200 artists and craftsmen under one roof.
20. Terracotta Warriors Museum
If you love to witness carefully curated artwork that carries history, visit the Terracotta Warrior Museum in Dorchester. Chinese craftsmen made the original terracotta warriors. They were built to protect the tomb of the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huangdi and discovered in 1974 at Xian, China. Later, it was copied by this museum’s craftsmen to showcase. The warrior’s team consist of crossbowmen, a charioteer, an officer and a general. To make it more realistic and spread information, the story of the excavation, warriors, and their designation is shared through audio.
21. Poundbury Hill Fort
Poundbury Hill Fort is one of the best tourist spots in Dorchester. It is a middle Bronze hill fort that has a lake on top of it. The lake is rectangular in shape and strategically built. It helps to keep an eye on the River Frome and the Frome Valley. The main entrance to the fort is on the eastern end. Overall, it helps to protect the whole land. The fort remains open for 24*7. Thus, visit any time you want.
22. Crafty Cuppa – Craft Café
You might miss this cafe if you do not take ample time to plan the visiting places. It is because its name suggests it’s an ordinary cafe, but it is much more than that. The café offers delicious cakes to share the test of local cuisine, showcasing local artisans’ top artworks. Also, the visitors can dance on the beats of local performers and attend workshops facilitated by Dorset educators. In short, this café will help you get the genuine flavour of Dorchester.
23. Dorchester Market
There has been a popular saying that if you want to know a place, you must meet the local people. Visiting the tourist spots can only give an overview. To grab the real essence of Dorchester, you must visit the Dorchester market. More than 200 sellers attend this market. From fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, quality meats, clothes, plants and hot food- you will get everything here. Please note that the market is held every Wednesday throughout the year from 06.30 am to 2 pm.
24. The Great Big Escape
Do you have kids in your travel group? It is the time to boost their logic, intuition, and overall collaboration skills. Take them to the great big escape room and help them with it. In this room, a puzzle will be given to your kid, who has to collaborate with their mates to solve it. Once the puzzle is solved, they can leave the room. The room is for under 16 peeps, and they must be with an adult guardian.
25. Mummies Exhibition
There are plenty of museums in Dorchester, and the mummies exhibition is one of the most popular museums here. The exhibition reveals 3000 years of ancient Egyptian embalming from early reed burials. From humans to sacred animals, the exhibition covers all types of mummies. Visitors also get to see death-masks, coffins and other treasures. Remember the exhibition is closed at 4 pm. Thus, try to visit in the early morning.
26. Odeon Cinema
No trip is ever completed without a good movie. Good screen time helps to elevate the mind and induce happiness. That’s why Dorchester also has good movie theatres. Visit the Odeon cinema and enjoy anything. The movie theatre has the latest technologies for the comfort of visitors, and the price range is under the affordable title.
27. St Peters Church
St Peters church is one of the renowned religious places of Dorchester. The oldest part of the church is a south doorway built in the 12th century. However, most parts were constructed circa 1420 and renovated several times. The architecture of Portland and Ham stone ashlar is built with slate, tile and lead roofs. It has been a grade I-listed building since 1950 and is open to all.
28. Vinyl Van
Dorchester has a special place for music and music lovers. The Vinyl Van reflects that love. The store sells various records in genres like Reggae, Hip Hop, Soul, Funk, World, Electronic, Jazz, Blues, Ska, Rock and Pop. Apart from records, the shop sells other music-related items such as books, prints, record crates, T-shirts, Spill the Tea Clothing range, etc. In short, Vinyl Van is the one-stop solution for music lovers and collectors.
29. The Great Park on the Great Field
The Great Park on the Great Field is a much-awaited children’s park in Dorchester. It was inaugurated by Prince Charles on Friday, 6th May 2022. The park has several playing amenities for kids. For extra attention, it has an example of a fully exposed Roman townhouse in the country. It also has Maumbury Rings (an Epic Neolithic henge that was modified by the Romans and used as an amphitheatre) and Maiden Castle (the largest Iron Age Hill Fort in Britain. It helps to teach kids history while enjoying outside.
30. Dukes Auctions
Are you planning to get a souvenir for yourself or loved ones from Dorchester? Buy something that has historical value. For this, visit Duke’s auction. They have a specialised team to examine the items (come for sale) and cater best. You can also get some advice from their team regarding how to choose an item or store it. Items from Duke’s auction will surely add some vintage effect to your home.
31. Dorchester Town FC
If you have a free evening at Dorchester, you can reserve it to enjoy a stunning football match. The Dorchester Town FC is the city’s football club known for its outstanding skills. You can buy a ticket to enjoy an exciting game by witnessing top-notch sports skills. However, you must visit the club website to learn about the sports schedule.
32. The Dorchester Artisan Market
Dorchester Asian market is another renowned market that will help you to explore the local culture and people. The market brings the hard work of almost 200 artisans and snatches them the attention they deserve. Along with the food and other things, the market also has dedicated spaces for entertainment. The market is held on the fourth Sunday of every month from April to November from 10 am to 3 pm. The market is spread across Borough Gardens, West Walks, Bowling Alley Walk, South Street, South Walks, and Brewery Square.
33. Maumbury Rings
Maumbury Rings is a Neolithic henge south of Dorchester in Dorset, England. It is a large circular earthwork, 85 metres in diameter, with a single bank, an internal ditch, and an entrance to the northeast. The ditch was created 250 years ago by digging funnel-shaped shafts. All the shafts are 10 meters deep. Human and deer skull fragments were found in the recent excavation. For ages, the place has served in various ways, and currently, it is open to the common public.
Visit Dorchester Once- Shape Your Experience for Forever
Dorchester is one of the most beautiful places in the UK. Additionally, it has a unique combination of history, natural beauty, and advancement, which has made it popular among travellers. If you are planning to visit Dorchester, use this blog as a tour planner and visit all the mentioned places. It will help you touch the soul of the city.
For the finest experience, take time to select a hotel. It is because if you don’t sleep well, you will not be able to enjoy yourself enough. For this, you can check out the Sleeping Bear Hotel at the Dorchester. They are one of the prominent names in the town’s hotel industry. They have gained a reputation for their comfy rooms, top-notch services, pet friendliness and affordability.
What are you thinking about? Make a plan, and make your booking now.
