Dorchester

The historic market town of Dorchester is an excellent destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Dorset.

One of the main attractions of Dorchester is its rich history. The town was founded by the Romans in AD 43, and there are several Roman ruins and artifacts on display in the town, including a Roman town house and a Roman mosaic. The town also has a strong literary connection, it was the inspiration for Thomas Hardy’s fictional town of Casterbridge in his novels “The Mayor of Casterbridge” and “Jude the Obscure.” Visitors can take a guided tour of Hardy’s Dorchester to see the places that inspired him and learn more about his life and work.

Dorchester is also home to a number of excellent museums and galleries, including the Dorset County Museum and the Dinosaur Museum. The Dorset County Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the county and its people, while the Dinosaur Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in prehistoric creatures.

Dorchester is a charming market town in Dorset, UK, that offers visitors a chance to experience history, culture, and the great outdoors. With Roman ruins, literary connections, museums and galleries, beautiful countryside and a great variety of restaurants, it is a perfect destination if you want to discover the beauty and culture of England’s countryside.

The town also has a great selection of restaurants, cafes, and pubs, offering a range of local and international cuisine.

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5 Things to Do when visiting Dorchester

1. Visit the Roman Town House: This is an excellent place to learn about the history of Dorchester and its Roman past. The Roman Town House is one of the best-preserved Roman buildings in Britain and offers a glimpse into what life was like in Roman Britain.
2. Take a guided tour of Hardy’s Dorchester: This tour will take you around the places that inspired Thomas Hardy in his novels and give you an insight into the life and work of one of England’s greatest writers. (Thomas Hardy Trail).
3. Visit the Dorset County Museum: This museum is a great place to learn about the history of the county and its people. It has a wide range of artifacts and exhibits that will give you an insight into the local culture and heritage.
4. Explore the town center: Dorchester has a charming town center with a variety of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Take a stroll around the town and explore the local architecture, or stop for a traditional English meal in one of the town’s many pubs.
5. Walk along the Jurassic Coast: This World Heritage Site is a must-see for any visitor to Dorchester. The coastline stretches for 95 miles and offers stunning views of the sea and cliffs, as well as the opportunity to see fossils and rock formations from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods.

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Towns and Villages near Dorchester

There are several nearby towns and villages that are worth visiting when in Dorchester. Some popular options include:

1. Weymouth: This seaside town located about 17 miles southwest of Dorchester is known for its long sandy beach, Georgian architecture, and its marina. Visitors can take a boat trip to see the Jurassic Coast, or enjoy the local seafood.
2. Lyme Regis: This is a coastal town located about 21 miles west of Dorchester. It is known for its fossil-rich cliffs and beaches, as well as its historic harbor and charming cobbled streets. Visitors can go on guided fossil walks or take a boat trip to see the coast from the sea.
3. Sherborne: This is a historic market town located about 14 miles northwest of Dorchester. It is known for its medieval abbey, two castles, and many independent shops and restaurants. Visitors can take a stroll around the town and admire the architecture, or visit the Sherborne Museum.
4. Bridport: This is a market town located about 17 miles west of Dorchester. It is known for its independent shops and art galleries, as well as its weekly street market. Visitors can also take a walk along the coast and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
5. Beaminster: This is a small market town located about 11 miles northwest of Dorchester. It is known for its charming streets, independent shops, and delicious local food. Visitors can take a stroll around the town and admire the architecture or take a hike in the surrounding countryside.
6. Abbotsbury: This is a village located about 14 miles west of Dorchester. It is known for its Subtropical Gardens, the Abbotsbury Swannery, and the St Catherine’s Chapel.

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Credits
Roman Town House – Dorchester (Elliott Brown)