Things to Do

In this part of the world, we are blessed with a huge amount of activities and spots of natural beauty virtually on our doorstep. Whether you are keen to get stuck in to outdoor activities, explore local towns and villages or simply relax on some of the stunning beaches Dorset offers, there's plenty to please everyone.

Famed for the stunning Abbey and wealth of historical interest, the town of Sherborne is a must visit. Only a ten minute drive from the farm, the two castles, regular markets and traditional high street mean there is plenty to see and do.

Likewise Dorchester is a lovely town with some great eateries, coffee shops and a number of fantastic museums. A great place to visit and the perfect stop off en route to the Jurassic Coast.

 

Beaches

Dorset is famous for its array of stunning beaches making up the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Whether you're after a family friendly beach to swim and sunbathe, or a nice quiet area to take the dog, there are plenty to choose from. Weymouth is a classic seaside town, great for families with a sandy beach and plenty of amusements.

The natural beauty of the iconic Durdle Door and it's shingle beach are not to be missed. Dogs are welcome all year round too. A popular beach for winter dog walks is Studland Bay. During summer months, the vast stretch of sandy beach is perfect for families and the water ideal for swimming. 

The small seaside towns of West Bay and Lyme Regis are must sees too, with the former recognisable as the location for the filming of Broadchurch. Lyme is great for fossil hunting too, offering the best location on the Jurassic Coast to find them. Both towns boast a wealth of cafes and eateries, from chips on the beach to high end cuisine overlooking the Atlantic.

One of our personal favourites and something of a hidden gem is Worbarrow Bay. A short walk from the abandoned village of Tyneham the shingle beach is never completely packed and welcomes dogs all year round. In the summer months the clear waters in the bay are perfect for a dip! Due to the area being used by the MOD, access to the beach is not always possible so be sure to check here beforehand.

Museums & Activities

Suitable for adults and families alike there a plenty of centres and museums which offer a great day out. One of the most popular is Monkey World which is the largest ape rescue centre in the world. With plenty to see and do for all ages, it's a really interesting place to visit.

Nearby, the Tank Museum also offers a whole day's worth of things to see and do, covering more than a century of military history. From the die hard car enthusiast to families with a passing interest, the Haynes Motor Museum boasts a collection of over 400 amazing cars and bikes. With regular events, exhibitions and plenty of activities to keep the children entertained, the museum is definitely worth a visit.

 

For thrill seekers who like getting wet and muddy, Dorset Adventure Park is a great day out. Just outside of the beautiful Corfe Castle, the park offers assault courses which are fun for all ages.

 

Gardens, Houses and Beauty Spots

There are some truly spectacular spots in this part of Dorset and the surrounding area. Famous houses such as Montacute House (National Trust) offer various activities throughout the year, with the grounds and gardens offering the perfect chance to stretch your legs and explore.

Just a ten minute drive from Round Chimneys, Minterne Gardens is a 'haven of tranquillity to explore and inspire'. With a unique collection of Himalayan Rhododendrons & Azaleas and so much more, the mile long garden offers year round interest. After taking in the gardens, why not pop a couple of miles along the valley and view the famous ancient chalk figure The Cerne Giant? 

If a step back in time is your thing, then Sherborne offers two castles, one new and one old. Sherborne Castle is a 16th Century Tudor mansion with an extensive English Landscape Garden designed by Capability Brown. Sherborne Old Castle is a 12th Century ruin with views of the surrounding areas, a great spot for a picnic on a Summer's day.

Perhaps the most spectacular outdoor space to visit is Stourhead. The National Trust owned house and world famous gardens present an ever changing tapestry of natural beauty. The Autumn colours are something really special and a must see if you are in the area at that time of year!