Swanage Bay

Dorset (also known as Dorsetshire) is situated on the South Western coast of England. Traditionally, the most important industry in the county was agriculture, but over the years, tourism gained extra points.Travellers who haven’t yet decided whether to visit or not Dorset should know that more than half of the county is part of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Three quarters of the coastline was included in the World Heritage Site.

No matter the type of accommodation you are looking for, there will definitely be something available according to your taste and needs. Hundreds of quality hotels, B&Bs and inns are waiting to be booked. Among the most popular ones, you will find award-winning Summer Lodge, The Abbey House, Limestone Hotel, The Grange at Oborne, Hadden House Hotel, The Marquis of Lorne Inn. You may also want to consider Langtry Manor Hotel, award winning Bindon Bottom B&B, Pine Ridge, Rotherfield House, Cove House or The Warwick.

One of the most incredible things about going on vacation is finding places that serve amazing food. Dorset restaurants are famous all over the world for serving both quality and quantity with their dishes. Whatever your cravings are, make a reservation and enjoy some of the finest food you have ever tasted. Dorset abounds in award winning restaurants, where famous chefs work their magic and create remarkable courses. What is it going to be? The sensational French menu at Yalbury Cottage or La Fleur de Lys, the traditional British dishes at Bingley’s Bistro, a fresh seafood meal at Rachel’s? How about Italy’s finest pizza and pasta at Da Mario, a vegetarian feast at Tierra Kitchen, the spicy Indian cuisine at Naan or some coffee and desserts at Gigi Gelateria, or The Little Teapot? The farmers markets are a great opportunity for you to taste some of the local products and meet the producers themselves. They are specialized in cheeses, biscuits, ice cream, chocolate, jams and all sorts of bread. Try some, take some home!

Dorset has plenty attractions that will satisfy even the most pretentious visitors. If travelling is all about culture and manmade monuments, check out Sherborne Abbey, The Tank Museum, Christchurch Priory Church, Russel-Cottes Art Gallery & Museum, Kingston Lacy, Tyneham village or Corfe Castle. The hopeless romantics and the ones in love with God’s most stunning creation will get inspired by one of these places: Sculpture by the Lakes, Hengistbury Head, Weymouth Beach, Old Harry Rocks. Don’t forget about Brownsea Island, Lolworth Cove, Golden Cap Estate, Durdle Door, Lower Gardens and the Sandbanks. You may also want to try the Jurassic Safari, on a four hour journey with a Land Rover, observing the wildlife and discovering fascinating history facts. Sandworld is perfect for both adults and children. It is a place where international and local sculptors exhibit their sand creations and visitors are encouraged to give it a try. One of the sculptures even shows a few of the characters from The Lord of the Rings. You mustn’t miss that!

As Dorset is packed with towns, villages and resorts, be sure you will find many shops to buy things to remember your amazing holiday. The small shops will sell you art items, antiquities, clothes, ceramic decorations, souvenir fossils, handmade jewellery. You can also buy quality locals produce from the market, such as fresh seafood and beef, tasty mustard or delicious marmalade. No matter the period you decide to travel, there will certainly be an event or festival worth attending. The Sherborne Abbey Music Festival is a musical celebration of spring. Lyme Regis Fossil Festival is a great opportunity for the kids to learn cool stuff about dinosaurs. Christchurch Food & Wine Festival (in May) and The Pommery Dorset Seafood Festival (in July) are a “must” for foodies. Join the Swanage Jazz Festival (in July) or the Tankfest for some explosive fun!