8 more extraordinary places to visit in Dorset

If you’re planning a trip to Dorset and keen to check out some amazing attractions while you’re there, you’re definitely in luck. Below you’ll discover 8 extraordinary places to visit in Dorset that are guaranteed to make your trip an unforgettable one.

Cerne Abbas Giant

If you love large attractions you’re in for a giant spectacle with this distinct feature near the picturesque village of Cerne Abbas. Located above the village is Britain’s biggest chalk hill figure. Measuring 180 feet, the figure is known as the Cerne Giant and depicts a naked male figure. The origin of the figure is unknown, though a popular theory is that it is a symbol of fertility.

Durdle Door

Whether you visit this site near West Lulworth to enjoy the clean sands of Durdle Door Beach or to marvel at the distinct natural feature of Durdle Door Arch, this is a remarkably pretty location. Get up close to the arch either through swimming, snorkelling or kayaking and enjoy some lazing on the sands during a sunny day.

Lulworth Cove

The beautiful Lulworth Cove on the Jurassic Coast has a distinct and perfect arc shape and offers a stunning seaside location for a leisurely stroll or enjoying a swim if the weather is accommodating. You can also visit the West Lulworth Heritage Centre nearby which provides interesting exhibits on the history of Lulworth.

Corfe Castle

The ruins of Corfe Castle are over a thousand years old and boast a majestic appearance even in their current state. There are incredible views from the castle’s location, as well as the opportunity to explore the surrounding landscape, perhaps catch sight of some wildlife and take in the events that are held throughout the year, from battle re-enactments to open-air theatre.

Golden Cap

Situated on the cliffs between Bridport and Charmouth you’d be hard-pressed to beat the views offered by pitching camp near Golden Cap. Golden Cap is a sandstone hill and has the distinction of being the highest point of the UK’s south coast, measuring 191 metres. The South West Coast Path travels through the Golden Cap estate and there is a multitude of additional footpaths that will lead you through the meadows and woodland within the estate.

Stair Hole

Not far from Lulworth Cove is Stair Hole. This is a young cove that serves as a great contrast to Lulworth Cove. It isn’t as developed yet but is a great demonstration of how a cove forms and one day it will be as big as its neighbour. Formations such as small caves and arches have developed in the limestone and clay here due to erosion by the sea, providing a picturesque natural attraction and an excellent example of nature at work creating an ever-changing landscape.

Old Harry Rocks

The chalk sea stacks that make up Old Harry Rocks are quite a sight to behold. Created through the chalk resisting erosion while softer rocks around it were eroded away, these distinct formations are certainly eye-catching. Old Harry Rocks is located on the Jurassic Coast at Handfast Point near Studland and is anywhere from 10,000 to 20,000 years old.

Sherborne Abbey

Striking Sherborne Abbey dates from AD 705 and was founded by St Aldhelm. The abbey houses the world’s heaviest peal of eight bells, while the fan vaulting is awe-inspiring to see. A visit to the abbey can be combined with exploring the pretty town of Sherborne with additional attractions including the likes of Sherborne Castle and the Fleet Air Arm Museum.

Dramatic manmade delights and stunning natural attractions

Dorset’s extraordinary landscape is well showcased in its stunning seaside attractions but the amazing manmade attractions are just as intriguing, from mysterious symbols to ancient buildings still in use today, while others may be ruins but provide some wonderful insight into a world long gone. Each one of the attractions above will enchant and is sure to leave you eager to explore as much of this beautiful county as you can.