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Things to do in and around Dorset

Discover the best of Dorset, where rolling countryside meets a breathtaking coastline. From the iconic Jurassic Coast to charming villages, scenic walks, and local food experiences, there’s something for every kind of escape.

Bridport & West Dorset Golf Club

Tee off on a stunning clifftop course where rolling greens meet sweeping sea views. Perfect for both seasoned golfers and relaxed holiday players, this links course promises a memorable coastal day out.

Visitor Info: 18-hole course, restaurant, lessons, visitor tee times.

Address: Burton Road, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4PS (~5 min drive)

Contact: 01308 421095

Bridport & West Dorset Golf Club

Lyme Regis Golf Club

Couples can enjoy one of Dorset’s most scenic cliff-top courses with spectacular views over the Jurassic Coast. A peaceful escape where sport meets breathtaking scenery.

Visitor Info: Cliff-top 18-hole course; online tee bookings available.

Address: Timber Hill, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3HQ (~20 min drive)

Contact: 01297 442963 | info@lymeregisgolfclub.co.uk

Lyme Regis Golf Club

The Tunnel Target Sports Centre

Try something thrilling with guided indoor shooting sessions in a unique underground tunnel. A shared adventure that’s both safe and unforgettable.

Visitor Info: Indoor ranges (air rifle, small-bore, full-bore) with trained officers.

Address: The Tunnel, Axminster Road, Charmouth/Bridport, DT6 6BY (~4 min drive)

Contact: 01297 560049 | info@thetunnel.co.uk

The Tunnel Target Sports Centre

Clay & Salt Pottery Workshops

Slow down and get creative in a rustic pottery studio. From wheel throwing to hand building, it’s an intimate and relaxing activity for craft-loving couples.

Visitor Info: Private classes and workshops available.

Address: Unit 3, Befferlands Farm Workshop, Berne Lane, Charmouth, Bridport, DT6 6RD (~3 min drive)

Contact: hello@clayandsaltceramics.com

Clay & Salt Pottery Workshops

Golden Cap Coastal Hike (National Trust)

Take a romantic hike to England’s highest south coast point, soaking in panoramic Jurassic Coast views. A rejuvenating adventure amid wild beauty.

Visitor Info: Car parks at Stonebarrow & Langdon Hill.

Address: Golden Cap Estate, Morcombelake, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 6EP (~10 min drive)

Contact: 01297 489481

Golden Cap Coastal Hike (National Trust

West Bay Harbour & Seafood

Enjoy hand-in-hand walks along the working harbour, with fresh seafood and charming coastal character at every turn.

Visitor Info: Harbour walks, seafood kiosks, cafés, piers and beaches.

Address: West Bay, Bridport, Dorset (~15 min drive)

Contact: General info via www.westbay.co.uk

West Bay Harbour & Seafood

Bridport Antique Shops (Art & Vintage Quarter)

Discover unique antiques, vintage pieces, and artistic treasures in Bridport’s Art & Vintage Quarter—a delight for couples who love history and creativity.

Visitor Info: Shops include The Alleyways, Pebble Vintage & monthly Vintage Market.

Address: St Michael’s Trading Estate, Bridport, DT6 3RR (~6 min drive)

Contact: Vintage Market: 07468 579570

Bridport Antique Shops

Palmers Brewery Tour

Step inside Britain’s only thatched brewery and uncover centuries-old ale-making traditions. End the tour with a guided tasting for a truly local experience.

Visitor Info: Guided tours Mon–Fri 11am & 2pm; tastings included.

Address: Old Brewery, West Bay Road, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4JA (~12 min drive)

Contact: 01308 427500 | tours@palmersbrewery.com

Brewery-external-2024-7-new-1300×740

Fossil Hunting at Charmouth Beach

Uncover real fossils with expert wardens on the iconic Jurassic Coast. A fun and educational adventure for kids and adults alike.

Visitor Info: Guided 1.5-hour walks; meet at Red Lifebuoy outside Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre.

Distance: ~3 min drive

Fossil Hunting at Charmouth Beach

Lyme Regis Museum & Marine Aquarium

Step into history and marine life. Explore Mary Anning’s discoveries, then meet starfish, lobsters and more at the waterfront aquarium.

Museum: Bridge Street, Lyme Regis, DT7 3QA

Contact: 01297 443370 | museum@lymeregismuseum.co.uk

Aquarium: The Cobb, Lyme Regis, DT7 3JJ

Contact: 01297 444230 | info@lymeregismarineaquarium.co.uk

Distance: ~20 min drive

Lyme Regis Museum & Marine Aquarium

Colmer’s Hill Adventure Walk

Climb this iconic conical hill for stunning countryside views. An easy and rewarding family hike with plenty of photo opportunities.

Distance: ~8 min drive

Colmers Hill Walk

Forde Abbey Fruit Farm – Berry Picking

Enjoy picking sun-ripened berries on a peaceful farm. A wholesome seasonal treat loved by kids and adults alike.

Visitor Info: Seasonal PYO June–August, free parking.

Address: Thorncombe, Chard, TA20 4NA (~50 min drive)

Contact: 01460 30460 | www.fordeabbey.co.uk

Forde Abbey Fruit Farm – Berry Picking

Crabbing at West Bay

Buckets, lines, and fun! A classic seaside activity where families can catch crabs along the harbour.

Address: West Bay Harbour, Bridport (~15 min drive)

Crabbing at West Bay

Stonebarrow Family Hike

Gentle trails with sweeping views and wildlife-rich paths. Perfect for young explorers and nature-loving families.

Address: Stonebarrow Hill, near Charmouth (~5 min drive)

Stonebarrow Family Hike

Seaton Tramway Ride

Hop on heritage trams through the Axe Valley wetlands. Open-top rides and themed events make this a family favourite.

Visitor Info: 3-mile route, wildlife spotting, cafés onboard.

Address: Harbour Road, Seaton, Devon, EX12 2WD (~50 min drive)

Contact: 01297 20375 | www.tram.co.uk

Seaton Tramway Ride

Lyme Regis Town, Beach & The Cobb

A picturesque seaside town with golden beaches, boutique shops, fossil-rich shores, and the historic Cobb harbour wall. Something for every visitor.

Address: Lyme Regis, Dorset (~20 min drive)

The Cobb and beach at Lyme Regis, Dorset, England

West Bay Harbour & Cliff Walk

Marvel at golden cliffs, stroll piers, and enjoy the lively harbour. Ideal for both relaxing walks and dramatic coastal views.

Distance: ~15 min drive

West Bay Harbour & Cliff Walk

Bridport Market

Immerse yourself in a bustling market full of artisan foods, crafts, flowers, and vintage treasures. Perfect for morning exploration.

Address: East/West Street & Bucky Doo Square, Bridport (~6 min drive)

bridport-vintage-and-antique-market

Lambert’s Castle & Coney’s Castle

Explore ancient hillforts and wooded trails. Peaceful, inspiring, and perfect for walkers, photographers, and history enthusiasts.

Distance: Lambert’s Castle (~25 min drive) | Coney’s Castle (~25 min drive)

Lambert’s Castle & Coney’s Castle

Pilsdon Pen Viewpoint

Climb Dorset’s second-highest hill for sweeping coastal and countryside panoramas. A rewarding short walk.

Distance: ~30 min drive

Pilsdon Pen Viewpoint

Beer Quarry Caves

Step into 2,000 years of history on guided underground tours. Cathedral-like caverns carved by Romans, Saxons, and Normans.

Address: Quarry Lane, Beer/Seaton, EX12 3AS (~50 min drive)

Contact: 01297 680282 | www.beerquarrycaves.co.uk

Beer Quarry Caves

Coastal RIB Boat Trips (Lyme Regis)

Experience Dorset from the waves! Choose between high-speed adventures or scenic coastal cruises. Family-friendly (age 5+).

Lyme RIB Rides: The Cobb, Lyme Regis, DT7 3JJ | 07790 400300 | hello@lymeribrides.com | www.lymeribrides.com Jurassic

Boat Trips: Lyme Regis Harbour, DT7 3JJ | 01297 642643

Coastal RIB Boat Trips2

Symondsbury Holloway Walk

A tranquil, tree-lined path steeped in history and natural beauty. Perfect for gentle, mindful strolls.

Distance: ~12 min drive

Symondsbury Holloway Walk

Forde Abbey Gardens

Serene historic gardens, fountains, and parkland around one of England’s finest former monasteries. Ideal for garden lovers.

Distance: ~50 min drive

Forde Abbey Gardens