Dorset & Countryside

Visit Dorset can give you a host of ideas for things to do throughout the county. It really is the place to visit if you want to escape the urban hustle and bustle!

From the dramatic contrast of gentle river valleys to wild heathland, historic market towns, and ruined castles, the countryside surrounding Poole is an area that really must be explored.

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) covers just over 40% of Dorset. AONBs have the highest status of protection in relation to landscape and scenic beauty.

Haven for walkers

Take the ferry across the harbour entrance and visit The Purbecks, stopping off at the beach at Studland, a National Trust nature reserve of sand dunes and heath that runs all the way to Old Harry Rocks, a chalk stack alongside dramatic cliffs. The Purbeck area includes Lulworth, Swanage, Studland, Wareham, Corfe Castle, Durdle Door, Langton and Worth Matravers, Wool, and many other picturesque villages, all worth a visit.

Inland, the countryside is a haven for walkers, historians, and those just looking for a great cream tea! Take in the countryside which still evokes the settings of the Thomas Hardy novels, or visit one of the many market towns and picturesque villages.

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On our doorstep are the neighbouring counties of Hampshire, Wiltshire, and Somerset. Home to ancient forests, enchanting cathedral cities, bustling towns and picturesque villages, with a variety of attractions, activities, and adventures, you can really make the most of your time in the countryside.

As well as the enchanting New Forest, the county of Hampshire is home to many towns and villages along its breathtaking coastline and throughout the beautiful countryside.

The county of Wiltshire offers many places to explore, from its pretty market towns and quaint villages to areas of outstanding natural beauty and rolling countryside. Known as the “city in the countryside,” Salisbury is famous for its timber-framed buildings and iconic early-English Gothic Cathedral, which is home to the best preserved copy of the Magna Carta.

Visit nearby Somerset with its vast expanse of open countryside, villages, and bustling market towns, alongside a rich heritage of history and legend, as well as popular attractions and activities.

There's so much to do, you'll have to visit us again to discover it all. Get out and explore Dorset and beyond.