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"I find that the name Wessex is getting taken up everywhere and it would be a pity for us
to lose the right to it for lack of asserting it "- Thomas Hardy

The Click Tabloid for Places of Interest in & around Dorset and in Wessex. Over 350 million Visitors to this Site 

Cerdic

I'm Cerdic. First King of Wessex
Welcome to MY KINGDOM & The County of Dorset.   We have a multitude of reference pages which were created some time ago and are now under reconstruction. So on here you will find dedicated pages to specialist activities in Wessex & Mercia.

The picture of Cerdic is the copyrite of Juliet Davey

 

If you click onto the towns & villages on the map below you will go to that venue's site.

Dorset Map Lyme
                    Regis Bridport Dorchester Beaminster Crewkerne Evershot Weymouth Sherborne Puddletown Gillingham Marnhull Wincanton Shaftesbury Blandford
                    Forum Wimborne
                    Minster Poole Wareham Wool Swanage Bournemouth Ferndown Fortuneswell

http://www.askdavetaylor.com/3-blog-pics/donesday-book-open.jpgTHE DOOMSDAY BOOK
Facebook is suing a company called Teachbook  , which operates a social networking site for teachers, apparently because it has "book" in its name and "competes" with Facebook. Teachbook is described as "a professional community for teachers". Sounds like a threat to Facebook's existence doesn't it?  Well we know of a book that predates Facebook and tells us all about Dorset. Yes "The Doomsdaybook! The Domesday Book was commissioned in December 1085 by William the Conqueror, who invaded England in 1066. The first draft was completed in August 1086 and contained records for 13,418 settlements in the English counties south of the rivers Ribble and Tees (the border with Scotland at the time). Read about Dorset in The Doomsday Book
DORSET COUNTY COUNCIL COAT OF ARMS
ARMS: Argent three Lions passant guardant in pale and in base a Fleur-de-Lys Gules; the Shield ensigned with a Mural Crown towered Or.
SUPPORTERS: On either side a Dragon wings elevated and addorsed Or gorged with a Saxon Crown Gules.
Motto 'WHO'S AFEAR'D'.
Granted 21st February 1950.
dorset cc arms
The three lions are taken from the design on the seal formerly used by the Council from its incorporation in 1888. These together with the fleur-de-lys were probably derived from the old seal of Dorchester with bore the former royal arms of England, namely France Ancient and England quarterly.
The dragons and Saxon crowns recall that Dorset was once part of the Saxon kingdom of Wessex, whose kings, so tradition has it went to war with a golden dragon on there banners.
The motto is that used by the Society of Dorset men. The three lions represent England and lions are found in the arms of Dorchester, Bridport, Lyme Regis, Weymouth and Blandford Forum. Lions' faces are in the coat of arms of Shaftesbury. The fleur-de-lis appears in the shields of of Dorchester, Bridport, Wareham and Shaftesbury. The mural crown is designed to echo the insignia of the Dorset Regiment and the Society of Dorset Men and the golden dragon of Wessex or Wyvern represented the ancient kingdom of Wessex. The motto of 'Who's afear'd' was one of four originally suggested, including Lord Shaftesbury's suggestion; 'Excellence where Beauty Reigns'. 'Who's afear'd' was adopted by the Society of Dorset Men in 1905 at the suggestion of Thomas Hardy. It was converted to Dorset dialect by them in 1908, and was suggested to the County Council by a Colonel C.D.Drew, then curator of the Dorset County Museum.


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FERNE ANIMAL SANCTUARY

Visit the animal enclosures, Nature Trail, Picnic and Conservation areas. Tea Room & Gift Shop Opens March 24th - September 29th. Weds, Sat., Sun., & Bank Holidays 2.00-4.45pm
URGENT SHREDDED PAPER REQUIRED FOR ANIMAL BEDDING. PLEASE DELIVER TO THE SANCTUARY OR OUR SHOPS IN EITHER BRIDPORT OR TAUNTON.
 Our   shop were opened at 16 East Street, Bridport on 1st October 2012   by Freddy Ferne.
  It has got off to a great start with many customers saying how much they like the layout .

Wambrook, Nr Chard

FERNE ANIMAL SANCTUARY CLICK 

Tel :01460 65214
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DAIRY

The Royal Bath & West Show

27 - 30 May 2015

The Royal Bath & West Show is England's Biggest Celebration of Rural Life and England's only 4 day Royal Show. The year the Show celebrates 50 years at the Showground. The Show Team are busy preparing for the 2015 Show and promise to bring you a action packed and great day out in May
Schedules for competitive classes are available now - CLICK HERE to view

NEW FOR 2015
  • New Ticket Prices - CLICK HERE to find out more
  • Sports Village
  • Horticultural Section
  • South Devons National Show
Trade stand packs for 2015 are available now please contact Sandie Collishaw on 01749 82220001749 822231
Bath
                                                          & West
                                                          Show Bath
                                                          & west Bath
                                                          & west
Bath
                                                          & west
                                                          Show

This is where all aspects of farming and rural life can be seen, from the best of British livestock to the latest business innovations in farming. The show offers the perfect day out for the whole family; the best for shopping, food, flowers, crafts, country pursuits, equestrian competitions and arena displays.


Start date:

27th May 2015

End date:

30th May 2013

Location:

The Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset

Web Link:

http://www.bathandwest.com/

Contact telephone:

01749 822 200



Dorset County Show 2015
Bolddog Lings

http://www.dorsetcountyshow.co.uk/images/trans_header.png

Description of event: Record crowds visited the Dorchester Showground last year and enjoyed a fun packed weekend of events including Monster Trucks, the National Vegetable Society's National Championships, Titan the Robot, record sheep entries and much more
Start date: 5th September 2013
End date: 6th September 2013
Location: Agriculture House, Acland Road, Dorchester, DT1 1EF
Web Link: http://www.dorsetcountyshow.co.uk/
Contact telephone: 01305 264249

 




PODS FOR SENSEO COFFEE MACHINES



For many years now we have been using Phillips Senseo Machines to make our office coffee. Although Phillips tied up with Doux  Egberts we found that their range of coffees for the machines were both more expensive and inferior to those sold by Lydl. Lydl's range named Melangerie included Brazilian. Kenyan, Columbian and Nicaraguan coffees.  However earlier this month Lydl suddenly removed them from the shelves and replaced then with another variety using the Tassimo machines. We wrote to Lydl about this and they replied:

 "Re: Availability of Coffee Pods

Thank you for enquiring about our Coffee Pods. Unfortunately this item is not available in our stores at the moment.

We hope to have this available again in the future and apologise for any inconvenience. We have passed your interest in this item onto our Buying Department and would like to thank you for taking the time to contact us.
Yours sincerely,
For and on behalf of Lidl UK GmbH
Reece Aitken
Customer Service
Tel – 0370 444 1234
Email - customer.services@lidl.co.uk
globelogo3

Coffee Merchants UK

Unit 1, 18B
Bennett's field Trading Estate
Wincanton, Somerset  BA9 9DT
Phone: 0196331137
Fax: 0196331137
Email: info@thecoffeepod.co.uk
Email (orders): sales@thecoffeepod.co

https://www.facebook.com/
TheCoffeePod.co.uk


  Now we have done our research and found a lovely company in Wincanton; Somerset who can provide you with the Senseo pads in the following flavours: Colombian, Costa Rican, Kenyan AA, Sumatra, as well as Decaffeinated, and  French Extreme.

See: http://www.thecoffeepod.co.uk/contents/en-uk/d7_Senseo_Coffee_Pods_page_1.html

Colombia Supremo - Savour the rich and nutty flavour of this classic coffee.
French Roast  -  A dark-roast lover's dream!
Costa Rican Tarrazu -  Rich, volcanic soil, high elevation and climatic conditions all contribute to the unique flavour
Sumatra 'Lake Toba'- This full-bodied yet well-balanced cup is one of our Roastmaster's favourite.
Swiss Water Decaffeinated -, and Kenyan AA DeCaf. (ONLY included if asked for)
House Blend - One of our Roastmaster's favourite blends - a unique combination of 100% Arabica beans from some of the premier growing regions in the world. Smooth, rich & delicious - perfection in every cup!
Brazilian Santos- Brazilian Blend will produce a balanced coffee with low acidity and subtle chocolate and nut notes. A good smooth, bold everyday drinking coffee 
 Roast Master Choice - Blue Mountain Blend - Signature  - Kenyan AA - French Extreme Caffeine
Coffee Sense  is the solution to your single cup coffee needs - combining quality taste with the ease and convenience of a single cup! The gourmet selection offers the perfect coffees - light roasts, exotic estate coffees, flavoured, and decaffeinated as well as premium hand-picked teas. Convenience, choice and a gourmet selection!
    Individually Wrapped - 8g per pod
    100% Arabica Coffee
    Responsibly Grown Coffee
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Stormy FrontSTORMY FRONT suggests You Check For Traffic Problems

It has requested we do not mention the name of the traffic lady on BBC radio 2, instead we are happy to introduce our traffic lady "Stormy Front". So Find local news, sport and entertainment near you with your local BBC Where I Live website. Choose your nearest location in Wessex & Cornwall:

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BLANDFORD FORUM BOURNEMOUTH BRIDPORT CHRISTCHURCH DORCHESTER LYME REGIS POOLE
SHAFTESBURY SHERBOURNE SWANAGE WIMBORNE MINSTER WAREHAM WEYMOUTH WIMBORNE
If you are seeking attractions in specific areas of Dorset please click on to the relevant area above.  For Thomas Hardy's Wessex Click here
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TOURIST OFFICES IN DORSET 
Tourist Information Details of Dorset Tourist Offices
BLANDFORD FORUM
Tourist Information
Centre

1 Greyhound Yard, Market Place, Blandford Forum,  DT11 7BB Tel/Fax: 01258 454770  : Website:www.ruraldorset.com       Map
BOURNEMOUTH
Tourist Information Centre

Westover Rd, Bournemouth,  BH1 2BU  Tel: 0906 802 0234 Fax: 01202 451743
 Website:
www.bournemouth.co.uk
 Map

BRIDPORT
Tourist Information Centre

32 South St, Bridport,  DT6 3NQ  Tel: 01308 424901 Fax: 01308 421060
Website:  
www.westdorset.com
Map

CHRISTCHURCH
Tourist Information Centre

 49 High Street, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1AS  Tel:  01202 471780  Fax: 01202 476816  SMS: 0778 1480191

website: www.visitchristchurch.info  email: enquiries@christchurchtourism.info

Opening hours:Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5.00pm; Saturday 9.30am – 4.30pm; Sunday closed

Map
DORCHESTER
Tourist Information Centre

Unit 11, Antelope Walk, Dorchester,  DT1 1BE Tel: 01305 267992  Fax: 01305 266079
Website: www.westdorset.com
Map

LYME REGIS
Tourist Information Centre

Church St, Lyme Regis,  DT7 3BS Tel: 01297 442138  Fax: 01297 444688
 Website:  
www.lymeregis.org
Map
POOLE
Tourist Information Centre

Poole High Street, Poole,   Tel: 01202 253253, Fax: 01202 262684. E-mail: tourism@poole.gov.uk
Website: http://www.pooletourism.com/
Map

SHAFTESBURY
Tourist Information Centre

8 Bell St, Shaftesbury,  SP7 8AE Tel: 01747 853514 Fax: 01747 850593
 
Email:tourism@shaftesburydorset.comWebsite:www.shaftesburydorset.com
Map
SHERBOURNE
Tourist Information Centre

 3 Tilton Court, Digby St, Sherborne,  DT9 3NL Tel: 01935 815341 Fax: 01935 817210
Website: www.westdorset.com
Map

SWANAGE
Tourist Information Centre

The White House, Shore Road, Swanage, BH19 1LB Tel: 01929 422885 email: mail@swanage.gov.uk
Website: www.swanage.gov.uk
Map

WIMBORNE MINSTER
Tourist Information Centre

Wimborne Minster, .  Tel: 01202 886116. Fax: 01202 841025.
E-mail: wimborneTIC@eastdorsetdc.gov.uk
 Website:www.purbeck-dc.gov.uk
Map

WAREHAM TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE
PURBECK
 
Trinity Church, South Street, Wareham,  BH20 4LU Tel: 01929 552740 Fax: 01929 554491  email: tic@purbeck-dc.gov.uk
Website:www.purbeck-dc.gov.uk
Map

WEYMOUTH TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE
The King's Statue, The Esplanade, Weymouth,  DT4 7AN Tel: 01305 785747
Fax: 01305 788092 Website: www.weymouth.gov.uk
Map

WIMBORNE TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE
29 High Street, Wimborne, BH21 1HR Tel: 01202 886116 Fax: 01202 841025
Website: www.eastdorset.gov.uk/tourism
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BLANDFORD FORUM
Blandford Forum is located on the banks of the River Stour in Dorset, which explains why its name comes from Blaen-y-ford meaning ‘the place near the ford’. The 13th century saw Blandford Forum as an important market town, enabling access by a bridge running over the Stour. In the 19th century accessibility was further improved by the addition of the railway and housing was being developed beyond the immediate town centre. Blandford Forum boasts a Georgian style Market Place, and photographic records are able to illustrate how the area has retained its open style. Markets continue to run in the same place every Thursday and Saturday near the Church of St Peter and St Paul, which has stood grand in the Market Place since 1739 and is a fine example of the Georgian architecture that can be seen throughout the town. Local attractions include the Royal Signals Museum at Blandford Army Camp, focusing on the history and significance of military communications, Blandford Museum and the Cavalcade of Costume Museum.
Annual celebrations take place in May for the Georgian Fayre, and September with Blandford Carnival and the week long, world-renowned Great Dorset Steam Fair.

Blandford Forum
Blandford
Tourist
                    Information

1 Greyhound Yard, Market Place,
Blandford Forum,  DT11 7BB 

 
BLANDFORD FORUM CLICK     
 Map

 Images of Dorset: Blandford


Tel/Fax: 01258 454770
AEROSORUS BALOONING
Dorset is full of contrast with breath taking scenery and spectacular countryside, rolling hills and an unsurpassed coastline stretching 140 kilometers with much of it having World Heritage Coast status.Dorset is varied land has extensive heathlands to the East, chalk down land in the centre with a mass of rivers and streams heading to the west which becomes hilly with the landscape full of woodland and small fields. Balloon Flights in Dorset meet at Sherborne and Shaftesbury and generally fly within the Crewkerne / Bruton / Warminster / Blandford area
Hot air Ballooning in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset,
                Dorset and Wiltshire   Blandford School and Leisure Centre,
Blandford Forum,
Dorset, DT11 8LL
     * OS Map Info: 194 (883 069)
In Milldown Road, Blandford Forum opposite Blandford Hospital.
Meet in the car park outside the entrance to the leisure centre
AEROSORUS BALOONING CLICK

Call Us On
01404 823102
BLANDFORD FORUM MUSEUM
Blandford Forum Museum is one of the most delightful small museums in the UK. It offers the visitor a wonderful insight into the history of this sleepy Georgian town. The museum offers a number of fascinating displays including a diorama of Blandford's Great Fire of 1731, histories of the Bastard and Ryves family, a history of the Bluecoat school and a reconstruction of a Victorian child's playroom.
BlaNDFORD
                FORUM MUSEUM
Beres Yard
Market Place
Blandford Forum
DorsetDT11 7HU
  map
 BLANDFORD FORUM
MUSEUM CLICK

Tel: +44 (0) 1258 - 450388
BREWERY VISITOR CENTRE

The Visitor Centre tells the story of Hall & Woodhouse through the ages and offers a unique family day out. Devise your own beer recipes and view the collection of brewery artefacts and old advertising materials. Soak up the atmosphere of a working brewery on our guided tours. View our collection of brewing artifacts. Sample our ales and enjoy traditional pub fare in our unique restaurant
BREWERY VISITOR CENTRE The Brewery, Blandford St Mary,  DT11 9LS
 The Brewery Visitor Centre is open from Monday to Saturday 10.30am to 5.30pm. Brewery tours run at 11am & 2.30pm

BREWERY VISITOR
CENTRE CLICK
Tel: 01258 452141
CHETTLE HOUSE
A Queen Anne House in English Baroque Style, part of which is open to the public. Set in beautiful gardens with fine herbaceous borders and many interesting plants.
Chettle House Chettle, near Blandford, DT11 8DB
 In the village of Chettle, off the A354 between Sixpenny Handley and Blandford Forum.
 First Sunday of each month from Easter to September, 11am to 5pm. Please telephone for Bank Holiday openings and special events.
 CHETTLE HOUSE CLICK 
Tel:
01258 830858
CAVALCADE OF  COSTUME MUSEUM
The Museum presents displays selected from over 250 years of historical costume and accessories, in a lovingly restored Georgian townhouse. Visitors can enjoy new exhibitions each year and a friendly welcome in both the museum and our popular tea room. Access to a resource room, by appointment, is newly available for students of costume and fashion.
COSTUME
                  MUSEUM
Lime Tree House, The Plocks ' Blandford Forum DT11 7AA  When in Blandford Forum town centre, from the market place follow the one way system up Salisbury Street. Take the right fork as the street divides and turn immediately right into The Plocks. The museum is apporximately 50 metres on the right.  Open: Thursday to Monday, Easter to September 11-5pm and October to Easter 11-4pm.Closed mid December until mid February.
CAVALCADE OF COSTUMES CLICK
Map
Tel:
01258 453006
MILTON ABBEY CHURCH 

Magnificent Benedictine Abbey of the 14th & 15th century, in a parkland setting. A former Monastery and Abbey until 1539 when it became the parish church until 1770. It was then the private chapel for the Lords of the Manor and in 1954 became the Milton Abbey School Chapel.

Milton Abbey
                  Church Milton Abbas, Blandford
 
Open: Daily, except the last Saturday in May, 10-5.30pm
 MILTON ABBEY CLICK
Tel:
01258 880215
ROYAL SIGNALS MUSEUM

Discover the Science and Technology of Communications with hands on experiments and interactive devices. See your voice, Crack Codes, Invent a Spy Gadget or experience how Secret Agents were trained. Also featuring many Children's Adventure and Trails, all participants win a prize.
Signals
                  Museum The Royal Signals Museum, Blandford Camp, BLANDFORD FORUM,  DT11 8RH
Open Monday to Friday (all year) 10am to 5pm. Saturdays and Sundays (February to October 30th) 10am to 4pm.
ROYAL SIGNALS
 MUSEUM CLICK

Map
Tel: 01258 482 248
VIRGIN HOT AIR BALOONING
Packed with Georgian charm and surrounded by the rolling Dorset Downs, a hot air balloon ride from Blandford Forum is as refreshing as the ‘badger’ beers it’s famous for.
The small market town on the River Stour is a fantastic place to fly over. Look out for the corn exchange, market place and six arch bridge, which are highlights of the Georgian architecture present throughout. Thomas Hardy included the town in the novels, but as Shottesford Forum, rather than Blandford Forum - balloon flights give you a unique glimpse at his world.Just south lies the small village of Blandford St Mary, home of the Hall and Woodhouse brewery, where ales like Badger Original, Tanglefoot, and Fursty Ferret are still made today. Although Champagne is the traditional ballooing tipple, after a balloon ride from Blandford Forum, maybe we should make an exception. Blandford Forum is also the home of the Army’s Royal Signals regiment and its museum of communication science and technology can be seen at a military camp to the east. If you fly high enough, you won’t need an antenna to see the coastline at Poole in the distance as your Dorset hot air ballooning adventure unfolds.
http://www.virginballoonflights.co.uk/gallery/full/002.jpg Meeting point:-
The Charlton Inn
Charlton Marshall
 DT11 9NH

The inn is located on the A350 in Charlton Marshall, between Blandford and Poole.
VIRGIN HOT AIR
BALOONING CLICK

Phone
01952 212750
BOURNEMOUTH
Bournemouth – a world class resort that has everything you need for a perfect holiday or short break, and where there’s a host of sights and activities within easy reach.Relax on our award winning beaches, with seven miles of golden sand fringing the clear blue sea. Wander through our exquisite parks and gardens, or explore our vast range of shops – from fascinating boutiques to large department stores. Experience the wealth of entertainment and amusements available for all ages and tastes. And when you fancy a spot to eat, take your choice from the restaurants, bars and bistros, offering everything from traditional English fare to the finest exotic cuisines.
Bournemouth
Bournemouth Gardens
Tourist
                    Information
Westover Rd, Bournemouth,  BH1 2BU  
 
BOURNEMOUTH CLICK
 Map


 Tel: 0906 802 0234 Fax: 01202 451743
AFC Bournemouth - The Cherries
League Division 2
The present football club can trace its roots as far back as 1890 when Boscombe St. Johns Institute Football Club were playing in local football. They disbanded in 1899 and from the remains of that club, Boscombe FC were formed at a meeting under the streetlights in Gladstone Road, Boscombe. The Club competed in the Bournemouth and District Junior League playing at a ground in Castlemain Avenue, Pokesdown. They moved to Kings Park, adjacent to the current stadium in 1902 and were soon emerging as the top team in the town. After enjoying many local successes, they joined the Hampshire League and were attracting large crowds. In 1910 they moved to their own ground, named Dean Court   the club continued to thrive and dominated the local football scene. The club signed their first professional player in 1910, B.Penton, who signed from Southampton for a £10 fee. The club then moved in to the South Eastern League but this proved to be a big leap and the side finished bottom of the table. With the outbreak of war in 1914, the progress of the club was halted and they returned to the Hampshire league in 1919. The club was ambitious and when the Third Division was formed in 1920, they moved up to the highly competitive Southern League as many clubs in that league went on to form the Third Division. After three years in the Southern League, the club applied for membership of the Football League. The application was accepted and Boscombe would be playing in the Third Division (South) in the 1923-24 season.
First
                  Fitness Stadium Fitness First Stadium,Dean Court Road,
Bournmouth, Dorset. B9 4NH

AFC BOURNEMOUTH CLICK
Tel:
01202 726357
ALICE IN WONDERLAND THEME PARK

Seven acres of uniquely themed parkland, inspired by Lewis Caroll's timeless and world famous stories Runaway Train Rollercoaster, Hilarious Water Wars Catapults Exciting Yo-Yo Ride, Flying Elephants, Space Orbiter, Giant Astroslide and much more Panto-style Storytime Alice Shop, indoor Aztec Adventure Play Centre  New rides for 2005
Alice In Wonderland Park Just follow the signs to Bournemouth Airport - we're opposite!
ALICE IN WONDERLAND
 PARK CLICK
Tel/Fax
 01202 483444
ALUM CHINE
  Alum Chine has superb sandy beaches, a very popular children's playground right next to the beach and a beach shop. A peaceful stroll through the exotic woodlands of the Chine brings you to the shopping centre, pubs and restaurants at Westbourne.Whilst Westbourne is busy, Alum Chine hotels offer a more peaceful and relaxing holiday environment than those in Bournemouth centre, as you would expect.
Alum Chine
                Beach
Alum Chine
Bournemouth
Dorset
Alum Chine is a distinct and popular family holiday location, with several hotels, between Bournemouth and Poole whilst still being a suburb of Bournemouth.
 ALUM CHINE CLICK
 
Tel: 01202 451781
BLUE LINES CRUISES 
Blue Line Cruises operate their purpose-built passenger vessel 'Solent Scene' from Swanage and nearby Poole. You can enjoy a one-hour cruise to fabulous Poole Quay. Cruise along the spectacular coast viewing Brownsea Island, home of the Scout movement, in Poole Harbour, the world's second largest natural harbour. A perfect way to visit Poole with its pretty quay, world famous pottery and excellent shopping centre.

Blue Line Cruises
Admin Address, PO Box 3464,
 Bournemouth, Dorset BH19 1ZH.
 BLUE LINE CRUISES CLICK 
Tel: 01202 467882  |   Fax: 01202 241549
BOSCOMBE BEACH
Boscombe beach is the section of the beach strand surrounding Boscombe pier and stretches down from Bournemouth Beach towards Hengistbury Head. It includes the Portman Ravine zigzag and extends to the lift at Southbourne Beach. For many years, Boscombe Beach had been the poor relation. Until recently it could could only boast a derelict pier and a set of run down beach huts. However with the arrival of the surfing phenomenon Boscombe has blossomed. The area either side of the pier is particularly popular with the surfing fraternity and has become the place to go surfing in the Bournemouth Area.
Boscombe
                Beach
Boscombe Beach
Bournemouth
Dorset
 BOSCOMBE BEACH CLICK
Tel: 01202 451781
BRILLIANT WEEKENDS IN BOURNEMOUTH
Stag Weekends, Hen Weekends, Activity Breaks, Corporate Weekends, Birthday Celebrations, Golf Weekends.
The south coast, sun, sea and sauce... What more could you want?! Well, perhaps a vibrant nightlife, great clubs and award-winning beaches would go down well, and fortunately Bournemouth can offer the lot! Fast becoming the fun capital of the UK, and with so many clubs and bars they're losing count, Bournemouth is a favourite destination for thousands of travellers every year. Whilst especially popular with Hen weekends, a range of activities is available to please any group's tastes and budget.
Bournemouth Weekends Brilliant Weekends Limited,
Mardyke House, 18 Hotwell Road, BRISTOL, BS8 4UD

Monday      8.30am - 6.30pm   
Tuesday      8.30am - 6.30pm   
Wednesday      8.30am - 6.30pm   
Thursday      8.30am - 6.30pm   
Friday      8.30am - 6.30pm   
Saturday      10am - 3.00pm   
Sunday      closed

BOURNEMOUTH BRILLIANT
WEEKENDS CLICK
 tel:
0870
75
85100
BOURNEMOUTH AVIATION MUSEUM

Our collection of ex-military and civilian aircraft are unique because many of them still fly. Effectively an operational base, public can view aircraft such as Hunters, MIG17, Vampire, Jet Provost, BAC-111, Buccaneer and the world’s last flying sea Vixen. Also on display is a romantic 1934 Dragon Rapide. Recent additions to the Museum include a stunning Sea Fury and Lightning cockpit.
Bournemouth Aviation Museum
Bournmouth International Airport,
Main Terminal Entrance
(follow road around) BH23 6SE

Apr-Sep 10am – 5pm (last entry 4pm) Oct – Mar 10am-4pm (last entry 3pm)


BOURNEMOUTH AVIATION
MUSEUM CLICK

Map


Tel:
01202 580858
Fax:
01202 58085
8

BOURNEMOUTH BEACH
Bournemouth Beach is one of Britain’s best loved beaches and is extremely popular in the summer. It has gently sloping sands that are good for sunbathing on or making sandcastles out of. The beach has been given the Blue Flag award and is very family-friendly. Throughout the summer, the RNLI rescue boat is constantly alert to anyone in danger in the sea, and there are lost children centres. Every summer there is a festival which includes beach entertainers. A great day out.
Bournemouth Beach
Bournemouth, Dorset
Map
 BOURNEMOUTH BEACH CLICK

BOURNEMOUTH EYE
The Bournemouth Eye is definitely the best way to see Bournemouth. The hot air balloon takes visitors up to 500 ft which gives spectacular views over the town, the English Channel and the surrounding countryside. The balloon is Bournemouth’s highest attraction and is often visible from wherever you are in Bournemouth. The gondola is large enough to accommodate 25 to 30 passengers and, if you are looking for a romantic treat, the balloon is illuminated in the evening.
Bournemouth
                  Eye
The Lower Gardens,
Bournemouth BH1 2AQ 
 
E-mail The Bournemouth Eye 
 BOURNEMOUTH EYE CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 314539  -  Fax: +44 (0)1202 558877
BOURNEMOUTH INTERNATIONAL CENTRE
The Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) is one of the most prestigious venues for conferences, exhibitions, entertainment and events. Owned and managed by Bournemouth Borough Council, the BIC operates alongside its sister venue, The Pavilion Theatre and Ballroom to provide the event organiser and leisure visitor with some of the best facilities on England's sunny south coast
Situated in the heart of Bournemouth with public transport links close by, we host events of all sizes from Birthday Parties to Party Political Conferences, Amateur Musicals to top Rock and Pop Concerts. Tickets for events at our venues are available to buy here online.
Bournemouth International Centre
Bournemouth International Centre
Exeter road, Bournemouth. BH2 5BH 

BOURNEMOUTH INTERNATIONAL CENTRE CLICK

Telephone: 01202 454767
BOURNEMOUTH LAND TRAIN
There is no better way to travel along the seafront at Bournemouth than on the Land Train. The train has three set routes that take visitors to various places including Bournemouth Pier, Alum Chine, Boscombe Pier and Portman Ravine. There are various reasonably priced tickets available and the train is particularly popular with children. There is a lot to see on the journey including views of the Isle of Wight and Purbecks. Also, people who are confined to a wheelchair can ride for free.
Bournemouth Land Train
Town Hall,
Bourne Avenue
Bournemouth
BH2 6DY

Map
 BOURNEMOUTH LAND TRAIN CLICK 
Tel: 01202 451451
Fax: 01202 451000

BOURNEMOUTH LIBRARY
The main library in Bournemouth is a large and well used facility that provides a great many services to the people of the town and the many visitors who come here throughout the year. The collection has a large amount of pieces that relate to the history of the area and offers an exhibition space where the works of local and further flung artists can show their works.
Bournemouth Library
The Triangle, Bournemouth,
Dorset BH2 5RQ 
 
BOURNEMOUTH LIBRARY CLICK
Phone: +44 (0)1202 454615
BOURNEMOUTH PIER
Bournemouth Pier offers visitors to the seaside town entertainment and relaxation. The history of the pier however is quite turbulent as there have been many structures in place that have not stood the test of time. However, the structure that is in place now was built in 1880 and there have been several extensions to it since so that the pier is now more than 300 metres long. In the summer months the paddle steamer “Waverley” often visits the Bournemouth coast and the pier provides excellent views of it.
Bournemouth
                  Pier
Bournemouth, Dorset
Map
 BOURNEMOUTH PIER 

CASCADE ICE RINK
Situated in the Purbeck Hall the BIC provides a perfect venue for winter skating. With a large car park adjacent to the building and inhouse catering facilities everything you want is under one roof.

Skating starts on Wednesday 5th December and runs through until Sunday 24th February. Children from the age of 4 are welcome to skate however children aged 4 - 12 must be accompanied on the ice. Sessions last for 1 hour 30 minutes this includes getting on and off the ice.

BIC

  Purbeck Hall
Bournemouth International Centre
Exeter Road
Bournemouth
Dorset BH2 5BH

  BOURNEMOUTH ICE RINK CLICK
Tel :0870 111 3000
DORSET BELLE CRUISES

In 1868 the first recorded pleasure excursion from Bournemouth Pier was by the steamer 'Fawn'. She was chartered for a trip to Spithead, where a review of the fleet was being held in honour of the Shah of Persia.Since 1871 there has been a long association between Bournemouth Pier and pleasure steamers.The principal paddle steamer operator on the Wessex coast was Cosen's of Weymouth 1918-1996. Fond memories abound of Monarch, Empress and Victoria, just some of their fleet of paddle steamers that regularly called at Bournemouth Pier.One of the first post-war boats Bolson's operated from the Pier was proudly given the name "Bournemouth Belle" and from then on the little fleet  were affectionately nicknamed "the Dorset Belles" by the holidaymakers.To this day the tradition of pleasure cruises from the pier continue to the delight of Bournemouth holidaymakers, along with regular seasonal visits by the paddle steamer "Waverley" and her motorised companion "Balmoral"

Dorset Belle
Dorset Belle Cruises
Croson Limited
Pier Approach
Bournemouth Dorset BH2 5AA 
 map 
 DORSET BELLE CLICK
Tel: +44 (0) 1202 558550
Fax: +44 (0) 1202 294419
DURLEY CHINE
 Best features: The approach to the beach via the wooded chine gives it a character all of its own. The beach itself is ideal for families. Now the beach replenishment is complete there is much more beach for the whole family to enjoy. Local facilities and shops: For food and drink there is the Durley Inn Brewers Fayre pub. There are also kiosks selling beach goods, newspapers and ice creams. The beach offers the traditional huts and deckchairs. The huts are available to hire by the day, or pre-book for a week, call 0845 055 0968.
Durley Chine
Durley Chine
Bournemouth
Dorset
To the west of Bournemouth’s central beach. Drivers should leave the A35 Wessex Way at the Cambridge Roundabout and follow the signs.
 DURLEY CHINE BEACH CLICK
Tel: 01202 451781
FISHERMAN'S WALK BEACH
Fisherman’s Walk is a stretch of beach much enjoyed by locals. It is predominantly sandy with some shingle and provides safe bathing.   Best features: High standards of cleanliness and water quality have won the beach a Blue Flag Award. The recently replenished beach is now huge. Local facilities and shops: The beach is near café facilities and has deckchair hire and beach huts, plus a cliff lift. The huts are available to hire by the day, or pre-book for a week, call 0845 055 0968. It’s within walking distance of Southbourne Grove shopping centre.
Fisherman's
                Walk Beach
Fishermans Walk Beach
Bournemouth
Dorset
Between Southbourne and Boscombe beaches, reached from the Southbourne Overcliff Drive.
 FISHERMANS WALK BEACH CLICK
Tel: 01202 451781
FOREST ARTS CENTRE
This popular arts centre specialises in theatre, dance, music and comedy and also features regular art and sculpture exhibitions, plus a programme of workshops and hands-on experiences. Situated in the heart of the New Forest, it serves both the local community and the wider audiences found in Southampton and Bournemouth. It has a fully licensed bar serving bottled beer, guest ales, wine and soft drinks, as well as confectionery and ice cream.
Forest Arts Centre
Forest Arts Centre
Old Milton Road
New Milton
Bournemouth, Hampshire BH25 6DS 
FOREST ARTS CLICK
Tel: +44 1425 612393
GO APE HIGH WIRE ADVENTURE

Go Ape! is an extreme high wire forest adventure. Participants traverse through the canopy, negotiating scramble nets, Tarzan swings and zip slides some 35ft off the forest floor. Min age 10yrs, min height 1.4m. One participating adult can supervise 5 under 18yr olds, including a maximum of 3 under 16yr olds.
GO APE
                  ADVENTURE PARK  Moors Valley, Moors Valley Country Park, Horton Road, Ashley Heath,
nr Ringwood. BH24 2ET.
GO APE CLICK
 Tel:
0870 444 5562
HENGISTBURY HEAD
This attractive headland near the entrance to Christchurch harbour is ideal for a bracing walk away from Bournemouth’s more crowded beaches. Head up the cliff path for superb views of the Isle of Wight and Poole harbour. Drop down to the sandy beach and catch the foot ferry across the harbour entrance to Mudeford quay where you can buy fresh fish from local trawlers. Returning to Hengistbury Head, catch the land train back to the car park and take in a round of golf on the public course nearby.
Hengistbury Head
Bournemouth, Dorset BH6
Map
 HENISTBURY HEAD BEACH CLICK

THE LANDMARC
Landmarc is a stylishly converted Grade II listed Church set in the heart of Bournemouth Town Centre. Landmarc provides a diverse entertainment offer that caters for all ages and tastes. From The Comedy Store, tribute shows, popstars from past and present and the best in alternative entertainment, it's hard not to find a night out to meet your expectations on any level. A 500 capacity venue, Landmarc can cater from the smallest intimate celebration to a full scale corporate event/party.
Landmarc The Landmarc
Exeter Road
Bournemouth
BH2 5AQ 
Open for Lunch Wednesday to Sunday from 12 Noon 
Open from 7pm Show Nights
Box Office Opening Times
Monday - Saturday : 9am - 9pm
Sunday: 12 noon - 8pm

 THE LANDMARC CLICK 
tel: 01202 589 868
THE LOWER GARDENS
The Lower Gardens in Bournemouth are only a five minute walk from the main shopping centre, the beach and the pier. Visitors who walk through the gardens will be amazed by the beautiful floral displays that combine a range of colours, textures and scents. The Gardens also have plenty of activities to keep visitors busy including the Bournemouth Eye, music at the Pine Walk bandstand, an aviary and an art exhibition during the summer. There is also a large rock garden which was built in the 1930s.
Lower Gardens
Bournemouth, Dorset BH1 2AQ
Map
  LOWER GARDENS CLICK 

OCEANARIUM
The Oceanarium is a great experience for all the family as it takes you on a sea-life adventure to the depths of the ocean. There are lots of interactive activities with touch screen games, screen documentaries and feeding demonstrations. One of the best parts of the Oceanarium is the walk-through tunnel which allows you to see all the creatures swimming around and above you. There is also a café and gift shop for you to enjoy.
Oceanarium
Pier Approach, West Beach,
Bournemouth BH2 5AA
 
E-mail The Oceanarium 
 OCEANARIUM CLICK
Phone: +44 (0)1202 311993
THE PAVILION THEATRE
The Pavilion Theatre at Bournemouth is housed in what is now the Bournemouth International Centre. The Pavilion has a varied programme of events that include amateur and professional dramatics, comedy, concerts, children’s entertainment and ballet. The venue also caters for weddings, parties and special events as the centre has its own contracted caterer. So, why not take in a show and enjoy the excellent food after a long day on the beach?
Pavilion Theatre
Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset BH1 2BU
 
PAVILION THEATRE CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 456400  -  Fax: +44 (0)1202 451024
PIER THEATRE
Pier Theatre Bournemouth Pier Theatre
Exeter Road, Bournemouth
Tel : 01202 456 456
RUSSELL COATES ART GALLERY & MUSEUM 
Discover the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum; it is full of interesting objects and artefacts. In the modern section of the museum, enjoy the ‘Café at the Russell-Cotes’ which has commissioned work from local artists. Delight in our stories, myths and journeys gallery; travel by lift into our Japanese gallery, and finally into our temporary exhibition gallery. This part of the Russell-Cotes leads into our newly restored garden.
Russell Coates
                Art Gallery & Museum
East Cliff, Bournemouth, Dorset BH1 3AA 
E-mail Russell-Cotes Art Gallery 
RUSSELL COATES CLICK
Map

Phone: +44 (0)1202 451800  -  Fax: +44 (0)1202 451851
SOUTHBOURNE BEACH
Popular with local families, Southbourne’s beach is sandy with some shingle. Best features: The recently replenished beach is now huge. It’s a quieter beach, popular with bathers, as it has no sudden shelves or rip currents. Local facilities and shops: The beach is a short distance from Southbourne Grove shopping centre. Deck chairs and beach huts are for hire. The huts are available to hire by the day, or pre-book for a week, call 0845 055 0968.
Southbourne
                Beach
Southbourne Beach
Bournemouth
Dorset
It is reached by cliff paths or via land trains from Boscombe or Fisherman’s Walk during holidays.Where is it? East of Bournemouth and Boscombe, approached via Southbourne Coast Road. From the A338 turn off at the Cooper Dean roundabout and follow the signs.
 SOUTHBOURNE BEACH CLICK
* Guardian listed B & B nearby- See guest house list.
Tel: 01202 451781
STREETWISE SAFETY CENTRE
Streetwise is an award winning interactive safety education centre. It is a multi-agency partnership initiative between the emergency services, local authorities and the business community. It is a life size village built inside a warehouse off Ringwood Road, West Howe, Bournemouth to raise awareness of everyday safety and good citizenship issues. Safety at home, in the town, in the countryside and even on the beach is covered on a Streetwise Safety Tour lasting up to two hours. The Streetwise village includes a full sized two-storey house, a high street, a park, a farmyard, a railway track, electricity sub station, a heath, a beach and a building site. All the scenarios have been built as in real life and using real bricks and mortar and other materials to be found in the real world.
Bornemouth
                Streetwise
Streetwise Safety Centre
Unit 1 Roundways
Elliott Road
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH11 8JJ
 map
 STREETWISE SAFETY CENTRE CLICK
Tel: +44 (0) 1202 591330
Fax: +44 (0) 1202 381569
BRIDPORT
The
                  Chesilbank
west dorset dc armsBridport is a vibrant market town in Dorset. It is recognised as the Gateway Town for the World Heritage site of the Jurassic Coast. The town offers stunning natural beauty nearby in the form of West Bay. With the golden glow of the sandstone cliffs to the east and the shimmering Golden Cap to the west, the coastline lying just one and a half miles south offers naturally breathtaking scenery. The fossil-rich coast has attracted many dinosaur hunters, with the east cliff exposing 180 million years of history. It originally thrived as a fishing port and rope-making centre (the hangman’s rope being made at Bridport gave birth to the saying "stabbed with a Bridport dagger"). The Port is no longer in existence although the harbour at West Bay is a mile away.It has recently become the subject of articles where it has been nicknamed 'Notting Hill on Sea' and is attracting large numbers of second home owners with all the attendant social problems that this creates. In 2006 West Dorset was named 10th best place to live in the UK.  The town is twinned with Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, France.According to the 2001 Census, the population of the Bridport parish stands at 12,977. One and a half miles from the town centre and within the town boundary lies West Bay, a small fishing harbour known as Bridport Harbour. It is the location of one of the southwest's premier seafood restaurants, The Riverside. West Bay was also the scene for the opening shot of "The life and Times of Reginald Perrin" and the 1950's film of the "Navy Lark" was also shot there.Bridport has however seen the negative side of the press. During August 2006, Bridport hit the national news[ as a result of the stabbings of 3 young girls after alighting the number 31 bus, a First Group service that connects Weymouth to Axminster. The girls survived the incident with no major injuries and the offender, Ian Andrew Ruby, has been indefinitely detained at Broadmoor Hospital. 
Bridport Harbour

West
                      Bay

South
                      Street, Bridport
Tourist
                    Information
32 South St, Bridport,  DT6 3NQ 
 
BRIDPORT CLICK
Map

* Guardian listed B & B nearby- See guest house list.
Tel: 01308 424901 Fax: 01308 421060
BEAMINSTER MUSEUM
In a Grade II listed former Congregational Chapel the Museum's displays illustrate the history of Beaminster and the lives of its people from medieval to modern times. Find out about flood and fire, families, buildings, trades, schools and pastimes. Archaeology, agricultural and local village history are featured. Interest for all the family. Visitors can hear the organ play, listen to voices remembering times past, set in motion a turret clock and see the first lap top computer. Specially for children is the Beaminster Bee Trail. A programme of special exhibitions changes throughout the season. Facilities include a reference library and a shop. In the words of a recent visitor "what a gem of a place".
Beaminster Museum
Whitcombe Road
BEAMINSTER
Dorset
DT8 3NB

 BEAMINSTER MUSEUM CLICK

Tel: +44 01308 863623
BREDY FARM OLD FARMING COLLECTION
Bredy Farm has a collection of old farm implements which is open to the public.  The horse-drawn ploughs, shown in the photo, are sited near the farm entrance.Breedy, recorded in the 1087 Domesday Book, is on the River Bride in one of the most beautiful corners of West Dorset. The Old Farming Collection, inspired by the NFU exhibit during the 1968 Thomas Hardy Festival, now fills the stable block and loft, and the farm timber cladded sheds in the old orchard housing the larger implements and wagons. In the old wagon house is a sawmill in which is a belt driven horizontal reciprocating saw, reputed to be the only one of two in the UK capable of sawing large tree trunks.
Bredy Far
Bredy Farm
Burton Bradstock
Bridport
Dorset
DT6 4ND
 map
Tel: +44 (0) 1308 - 897229
BRIDPORT ARTS CENTRE
Bridport Arts Centre is home to a large collection of pieces that have been collected from across the region, many of which were put together by locally based and influenced artists. This centre aims to offer a place that not only displays art, but develops and promotes talents in the area, forming a partnership between the people of the borough and the artistic community.
Bridport Arts Centre
South Street, Bridport, Dorset DT6 3NR
E-mail Bridport Arts Centre 
BRIDPORT ARTS CLICK
Map

Phone: +44 (0)1308 424204
BRIDPORT MUSEUM
From Romans to rope making! Come and discover Bridport’s unique history from Saxon times to the present day including the world famous rope and net making industries. Finds from nearby Roman hillfort can be seen and you can even try on a toga! Temporary exhibitions held. A gateway to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, open April to October Monday to Saturday 10am-5pm.
Bridport
                Museum
South Street, Bridport, Dorset DT6 3NR
Map

 BRIDPORT MUSEUM CLICK
Phone: +44 (0)1308 422116
BROADWINDSOR CRAFT & DESIGN CENTRE
  The Broadwindsor Craft and Design Centre is situated in in the heart of West Dorset's beautiful rolling countryside.  Redundant farm buildings on the edge of the village were the starting point in 1986 for this unique venture.  Today, The Craft Centre is renowned for its excellence and quality.The Centre underwent a major transformation in 2002 when an extension was built from locally quarried stone.  This allowed the addition of two dedicated rooms:- The Toy Room and The Garden Gift room.  The Gallery was also opened at this time displaying framed prints and a range of woodburning / multifuel, oil and electric stoves, together with iron fire grates, fireside tools, fire guards and products from Lyme Bay Forge (traditional blacksmiths).
Broadwater Craft
                          Centre

Broadwindsor, Dorset, DT8 3PX

BROADWINDSOR CLICK

Tel :01308 868362
Fax : 01308 867328
HIVE BEACH
Hive Beach is a long, coarse sandy beach overlooked by cliffs and farmland.  Best features: The beach is very clean. Local facilities & shops: The Hive café/restaurant right on the beach. Great for kids? The water is clean for swimming, but beware of strong tides and currents and of being cut off by tides.
Hive Beach
Off the B3157 (Common Lane), just east of Burton Bradstock. Take Beach Road and the car park is directly ahead.
MAPPERTON HOUSE & GARDENS

Gardens descending at 3 levels beside Tudor manor-house, remodelled in c1660s. Italianate garden and fountain court. Fishponds, orangery and summerhouses. Wild garden with specimen shrubs and trees. Surrounded by wooded landscape with magnificent views. Gifts and plants for sale. Licensed cafe.
Voted 'The Nation's Finest Manor House' by Country Life magazine.Mapperton House is open to individuals Monday-Friday between 23rd June-1st August 2008, and also on Bank Holiday Mondays 26th May and 25th August 2008 between 2pm - 4:30pm. Group visits by arrangement.

Mapperton House & Gardens
Mapperton
BEAMINSTER
Dorset
DT8 3NR
Email Mapperton House

MAPPERTON HOUSE CLICK

Tel: +44 01308 862645
Fax: +44 01308 863348
PALMERS BREWERY

The Old Brewery in Bridport has been in operation since 1794. This makes Palmers one of the few United Kingdom producers able to claim continuous production for over 200 years on the original site; indeed, part of the Brewery Building is still Thatched. Founded by the Gundry family, local rope and net makers, the business was subsequently acquired in the late 19th Century by the Palmer brothers, John Cleeves and Robert Henry. Since then, it has been growing steadily whilst being handed down from generation to generation. Today, two more Palmer brothers are running the business; John, Chairman and Managing Director and Cleeves, the Sales and Marketing Director, great-grandsons of the Founder.You can take a tour round the Brewery.

Palmers
                Brewery
The Old Brewery
West Bay Road
Bridport
Dorset
DT6 4JA  map
 PALMERS BREWERY CLICK
Tel: +44 (0) 1308 427500
Fax: +44 (0) 1308 421149
UK LLAMAS

West Dorset has been voted the most popular area of outstanding natural beauty by the readers of National Country Walking Magazine. So why not discover rural Dorset in the company of our lovely Llamas with personalised guided Trekking, Rambling and Walking Tours designed to suit your individual requirements and pace.Walking with Llamas is a relaxing and very special experience.  Great fun for all ages, an adventure you will never forget at a very reasonable cost.For over 5000 years Llamas in the mountainous Andes of South America have provided food, shelter, wool and above all, the ability to carry heavy loads.These hardy, extremely agile and elegant animals are gentle, easy to handle and great fun to be with.Personalised treks arranged  *Llamas for sale *Llama rental *Learn with Llamas *Gift vouchers available *Early booking advisable *B&B Accommodation DO IT IN STYLE: With alert and intelligent companions who carry the load for you.....including your picnic lunch

UK Llamas

 New House Farm, Mosterton,
 Beaminster, Dorset DT8 3HE UK

 email jo@ukllamas.co.uk
UK LLAMAS CLICK

tel: +44(0)1308 868674
WEST BAY BEACH
West Bay is a busy village with a wide sandy beach split by the harbour entrance. Best features: Boats, pubs and restaurants make West Bay more than a day on the beach. Local facilities & shops: Plenty of eating places, around the harbour and beach. Great for the kids? Sandy and safe, although the sea can get rough in windy conditions.
West Bay
A mile south of Bridport. Take West Bay Road from A35 Bridport bypass, or B3157 from Weymouth.
 WEST BAY BEACH CLICK

CHRISTCHURCH
The town of Christchurch historically lies within the boundaries of Hampshire. However, at the time of the 1974 local government re-organisation it was considered desirable that the whole of what is now called the South East Dorset conurbation, also including Bournemouth and Poole, should be part of the same county. Hence, Christchurch is now part of the county of Dorset. It is a picturesque town with a unique combination of fascinating heritage, beautiful coastline, peaceful rivers and a spectacular natural harbour. During Saxon times (when the town was known as Twyneham) the harbour was one of the most important in England as it was easily reached from the continent. Boats could enter the harbour and travel up the river Avon all the way to Salisbury. The sheltered harbour and easy access to neighbouring towns also made the area popular with smugglers, culminating in the "Battle of Mudeford" in 1784 between Customs & Excise and the smugglers. Current day Christchurch is a popular tourist destination. The centre of town is dominated by the historic Christchurch Priory and the High Street with its squares and parades providing a variety of shopping facilities. Visitors to Christchurch can also enjoy a variety of River Trips.
Christchurch Priory

christchurch bc arms
Tourist
                    Information
49 High Street, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1AS 
 SMS: 0778 1480191

website: www.visitchristchurch.info 
email:
enquiries@christchurchtourism.info

Opening hours:Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5.00pm; Saturday 9.30am – 4.30pm; Sunday closed

Map
CHRISTCHURCH CLICK 
Map


 Tel: 01202 471780 Fax: 01202 476816
ADVENTURE WONDERLAND
Dorset's award winning number 1 family theme park offers a full days fun with over 25 rides & attractions. Combines the outside Wonderland Park with the indoor Aztec adventure, Wild Thing!
Adventure Wonderland
Merritown Farm, Hurn, Christchurch
 ADVENTURE WONDERLAND CLICK 
Tel: 01202 483444
CHRISTCHURCH CASTLE
Christchurch Castle, built high on its Motte replaced a wooden version around 1190. They both shared the same dark purpose, to keep the natives under the thumb of the Norman conquerors, who enforced the New Forest Laws and ensured the defence of the feudal Lord and his family against all comers. The Castle was supplimented by the less military and more benign Constables Keep. Again a stone building, this actually pre-dated the stone castle by about 20 years but it was constructed within the outer perimeter defences of the Castle. It boasts the oldest standing Norman chimney that is still part of a recognisable building. The castle fell into disuse until the civil war of the mid 17th century. After taking the castle from the Royalists, the parlimentarians withstood a bitter siege using the thick walls as their defence. When hostilities ended, Cromwell had the place torn down so it could never again be used for military purposes. Thats how it remains to this day. Today this is a quiet place in the middle of a bustling town with beautiful river walks nearby, leading to Christchurch Priory and Quay.
Christchurch
                Castle
Castle Street
Christchurch
Dorset
BH23   map
 CHRISTCHURCH CASTLE CLICK
Tel: +44 (0) 1202 495127
Fax: +44 (0) 1202 482060
CHRISTCHURCH NORMAN HOUSE
The Norman House in Christchurch was built near to the original castle keep around the year 1160, to house the castle’s Constable. It is a rare survivor of twelfth Century domestic architecture and is notable for having one of only five remaining Norman chimneys in Britain, as well as one of the earliest garderobes or toilets, which overhangs the adjacent River Avon. Although roofless, the walls stand to full height in places, offering examples of some fine window tracery and other early stonework of the period.
Chistchurch Norman House
Castle Street, Christchurch, Dorset BH23
Map
 CHRISTCHURCH CASTLE CLICK
Phone: +44 (0)1202 495127
CHRISTCHURCH PRIORY CHURCH

There has been a church on this site since around 800 A.D. The present building was begun in 1094 by Ranulf Flambard and has since been in continuous use as a place of prayer and pilgrimage.

Visitors never fail to be amazed to find such a beautiful church tucked away in this corner of Dorset, where it dominates the skyline of the historic town of Christchurch. It is by repute the longest parish church in England.

Christchurch
                Priory & Keep
Quay Road
Christchurch
Dorset
BH23 1BU   map

 CHRISTCHURCH PRIORY CLICK
Tel: +44 (0) 1202 485804
Fax: +44 (0) 1202 488645
CHISTCHURCH SKI & LEISURE CENTRE
One of the widest artificial ski slopes in the UK, this premier attraction provides skiing facilities right through the year thanks to its unique mist-lubricated surface. Activities include skiing, snowboarding, ski-bobbing and ringoing. Lessons are available for beginners and the more advanced skier. The ski store stocks a wide range of equipment and clothing and the alpine bar and restaurant serves fine wines, real ale and even fondues. Children can enjoy the Alpine Adventure Park with its overhead cable ride, alpine fort, slides, trampolines and toddlers’ play area.
Christchurch Ski & Leisure
                Centre
Matchams Lane, Hurn, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 6AW
 
E-mail Christchurch Ski and Leisure Centre  
CHRISTCHURCH SKI CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 499155  -  Fax: +44 (0)1202 483564
HIGHCLIFFE CASTLE
Highcliffe Castle, built in the 1830’s for Lord Stuart de Rothesay, was severely damaged by two fires in the late 1960’s. However in 1991 saw the start of an extensive repair and conservation programme, jointed funded by Christchurch Borough Council and English Heritage. A grant £2.65 million in 1995 by the Heritage Lottery Fund helped to secure the future of Highcliffe Castle. The partially restored rooms house a Heritage Centre and gift shop and provide a unique setting for exhibitions, concerts and events. The castle is licensed for civil ceremonies and receptions.
Highcliffe Castle
Rothesay Drive, Highcliffe,
 Dorset BH23 4LE
 
E-mail Highcliffe Castle
HIGHCLIFFE CASTLE CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1425 278807  -  Fax: +44 (0)1425 280423
MACPENNYS WOODLAND GARDENS
MacPennys Woodland Gardens consists of approximately 4 acres of established woodland gardens. It was created out of gravel pits in the early 1950s. A canopy of mainly indigenous trees and specimens shelter underplanting of many rare and unusual plants. We have a riot of colour in spring and again in autumn. There’s also a large nursery where many of the plants seen in the gardens may be purchased. Open all year except Christmas and New Year, Monday to Saturday 9am-5pm and Sundays 12pm-5pm.
MacPennys Woodland Gardens
154 Burley Road, Bransgore,
Christchurch, Dorset BH23 8DB 
 
E-mail MacPennys Woodland Gardens  
MACPENNY'S CLICK
Phone: +44 (0)1425 672348  -  Fax: +44 (0)1425 673945
PLACE MILL
A carefully restored mill situated on Christchurch Quay at the confluence of the rivers Stour and Avon. Although unable to grind corn, the wheel is able to turn when tidal conditions are right. Place Mill is home to a permanent market of arts and crafts, where local artists and crafts people are encouraged to exhibit and sell their work.
Place Mill
The Quay, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1BY 
 
E-mail Place Mill  
PLACE MILL CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 487626  -  Fax: +44 (0)1202 476816
RED HOUSE MUSEUM & GARDEN
This charming Georgian building would have originally been used as the workhouse for the community. It has been converted into a museum and is now filled with a rich series of displays and exhibitions that chart the history of the area and the local people. Highlights of this museum include large archaeological collections from Christchurch, a social history collection and many pieces by local artists Arthur Romney Green.
Redhouse
                Museum & Garden
Quay Road, Christchurch,
Dorset BH23 1BU 
RED HOUSE MUSEUM CLICK
Map

Phone: +44 (0)1202 482860
REGENT CENTRE
The Regent Centre is located in the High Street, Christchurch, with the two main towns of Bournemouth and Poole six and twelve miles to the West. The New Forest stretches to the East for some thirty miles as far as Southampton. The Centre was opened in 1931 as a cinema and was used thus or as a bingo hall until 1983, when it was purchased by Christchurch Borough Council for re-development. Local pressure and enthusiasm for the arts persuaded the Borough Council to re establish the cinema and add structures and fittings to enable theatre presentations. The Council provided a small number of key professional staff, but a majority of the day to day operation was carried out by volunteers. The programme of events at the centre has continued to expand and diversify since this time. In 1986, a temporary structure was added to the rear of the building to provide dressing room accommodation and a Studio rehearsal space. In 2000 a permanent four story replacement was completed as part of the town’s Millennium celebration.
Regent Centre Christchurch  
51 High Street, Christchurch, Dorset. BH23 1AS 
REGENT CENTRE CLICK
Tel : 01202 499148
SERENDIPITY SAM'S PLAY & PARTY CENTRE
Serendipity Sam's is next door to Peeks Party Store in Reid Street, north of the town centre on the B3073 Fairmile Road. It is 5 minutes walk from railway station.• First visit FREE!
• Their own personalised membership card
• Discounted entry fee at every visit to any centre
• Entry into our regular visitor draw for prizes
• Savings on selected items from our shops
Sam
Reid Street
Christchurch
Dorset
BH23 2BT | View map
 SERENDIPITY SAMS CLICK
Tel: +44 (0) 1202 481015
Fax: +44 (0) 1202 481697
SOUTHERN ELECTRIC MUSEUM THE OLD POWER STATION

Only five minutes walk from the centre of Christchurch, in the setting of a genuine Edwardian Power Station, the Museum of Electricity is a must for all ages. Everything here is electric, from an old Bournemouth tram to a pair of boot warmers! There really is something to interest everyone, with hands-on exhibits and the demonstrations for children tie in with the national curriculum. Car parking is free on site and picnic tables are available.


Southern
                Electric Museum
Bargates
Christchurch
Dorset
BH23 1QE | View map
 SOUTHERN ELECTRIC MUSEUM CLICK
Tel: +44 (0) 1202 - 480467
Fax: +44 (0) 1202 - 480468
DORCHESTER
Dorchester is the county town of Dorset and has been so since 1305. It lies on the River Frome, 20 miles west of Poole and eight miles north of Weymouth. Dorchester's roots stem back to prehistoric times. Settlements were first based around Maiden Castle, an impressive Iron Age hill fort that was one of the most powerful settlements in pre-Roman Britain. The fort had been inhabited by various tribes since 4000BC. The Durotriges were likely to have been there at the arrival of the Romans in AD43 and there's plenty of evidence of the battles fought on the massive earth ramparts. The town still has some Roman features, including part of the town walls and the foundations of a Roman town house. There are many Roman finds in the County Museum. Near the town centre is Maumbury Rings, an ancient British earthwork converted by the Romans for use as an amphitheatre. In 1613 and 1725 great fires destroyed large parts of the town, but some of the mediaeval buildings, including Judge Jeffreys' lodgings, and the Tudor almshouse survive in the town centre. The Town Pump is a central point in Dorchester - located next to Dorchester's Corn Exchange and the impressive clock tower. Here, visitors will find an information board, outlining four popular historic walks around the town

Dorchester
Tourist
                  Information
Unit 11, Antelope Walk, Dorchester,  DT1 1BE 
 
DORCHESTER CLICK
Map

Tel: 01305 267992  Fax: 01305 266079
ABBOTSBURY ATTRACTIONS 
The famous village of Abbotsbury, with its world famous Swannery, Sub-tropical Gardens and Children's Farm and Smugglers' Barn, offers something for all ages and interests. The Swannery is the only place in the world that you can walk amidst a colony of breeding swans. The Sub-tropical Gardens are amongst the best in England. Covering 20 acres, these grade one listed gardens are famous for their Camellias, Rhododendrons, Hydrangeas and exotic atmosphere. At the heart of the gardens is the colonial Tea House with a splendid veranda overlooking a sunken garden. The Children's Farm and Smugglers' Barn is perfect for families with young children. The Children's Farm is home to a host of friendly animals, many of which can be cuddled and bottle-fed. Bottle-feeding of lambs and baby goats takes place regularly throughout the day in season. In the Smugglers' Barn there's a full size Smugglers' Lugger and a Revenue Cutter from the 1700s. Inside the wooden hulls under 11s will find an extensive play environment enabling them to imagine themselves at sea in these close confines.
Abbotsbury
                Attractions
Admin Address, West Barn Yard,
 West Street, Abbotsbury, Dorset, DT3 4JT.
 ABBOTSBURY CLICK

* Guardian listed B & B nearby- See guest house list.
Tel: 01305 871130  |   Fax: 01305 871092
ATHELHAMPTON HOUSE & GARDENS
Athelhampton is one of the finest 15th century manor houses and is surrounded by one of the great architectural gardens of England. The house contains many finely furnished rooms including The Great Hall, Great Chamber, Wine Cellar and newly open to the public the Library and Billiard Room. The glorious grade I garden, dating from 1891, is full of vistas and gains much from the fountains and River Piddle flowing through
Athelhampton Athelhampton, Dorchester, DT2 7LG Off the main A35 (signposted) at Puddletown, near Dorchester .  March to October, Sunday to Thursday, 10.30am to 5pm. November to February, Sundays only, 10.30am to dusk
 ATHELHAMPTON HOUSE CLICK
Map

Tel:
01305 848363
CERNE GIANT & DORSET HILL FORTS
It is from time to time that there are discoveries made that even scientists and archaeologists cannot truly explain and have trouble deciding on the origin of. This giant chalk man in the hillside is one of those. It stands at a hundred and eight foot long and holds a hundred and twenty one foot long club. Although no conclusion has been reached, its origins are thought to be Celtic or Roman.Badbury Rings, Pilsdon Pen and Lambert's Castle are just three of the iron age hill forts owned and managed by the National Trust in Dorset

 Cerne Abbas Giant

Cerne Abbas, Dorset SO43 5TR

www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Map

Tel :01985 843601
CERNE ABBAS
Cerne Abbas is a small, friendly village lying in the valley of the River Cerne, midway between Sherborne and Dorchester in north-west Dorset.

We pride ourselves on the welcome we extend to visitors and to those who come to join our community.
Cerne Abbas
                Centre
Cerne Abbas
Dorchester
Dorset
DT2 7JQ   map
 CERNE ABBAS CLICK
Tel: +44 (0) 1300 341284
Fax: +44 (0) 1300 341948
DOMINEYS GARDENS
Domineys garden and arboretum open in 2008 on Sundays 13 April, 18 May, 10 August from 2pm to 6pm and on 26 October 12 noon to 4pm. Visits on other days by appointment. All seasons garden with rare and interesting plants in artistic setting. Small arboretum with 300 trees and shrubs, bulbs and perennials. A place to enjoy every day come rain or shine. Flowers of spring, shades of green, colours of autumn, stems of winter. Teas and Plant sale on open Sundays. Between Dorchester and Sherborne Admission £3.50 children free.All proceeds to charity - National Gardens Scheme and Arthritis Research Campaign.

Domineys
                Gardens
Buckland Newton
Dorchester
Dorset
DT2 7BS   map

 DOMINEYS GARDENS CLICK 

DORSET COUNTY MUSEUM

Roman mosaics, dinosaur footprints, Dorset wildlife and Thomas Hardy's study. Free audioguide and lots of activities for children. See the story of Maiden Castle and walk on Roman mosaics in the atmospheric Victorian Hall. Enjoy "The story of Dorchester from 6000 years ago to today in the new Dorchester Gallery. 15 activities created for children.
Dorset County Museum
High West Street, Dorchester DT1 1XA

Open 10am-5pm. 7 days a week July to September and Monday to Saturday during October to June. Up to 2 accompanied children free

DORSET COUNTY MUSEUM CLICK
Map

Tel: 01305 262735
DINOSAUR MUSEUM

Fossils, skeletons, and life-size reconstructions combine with hands on and multi-media displays to reveal the thrilling world of dinosaurs. It's fun for all at Britain's award winning museum.
DINOSAUR
                  MUSEUM Icen Way, Dorchester.
Open daily, all year round.
DINOSAUR
MUSEUM CLICK

Map

Tel: 01305 269880
DORCHESTER ARTS CENTRE
Dorchester Festival presents a professional and community performance programme over 5 days, centred around 3 days of free events and aims to take place from Thursday 24th May � Monday 28th May 2007. Alongside Highlights which include theatre, dance and music from Central and Eastern Europe audiences can expect the return of fantastic street theatre throughout the weekend and a whole series of art and music workshops in the festival yurts at Maumbury rings, visual arts exhibition at the Dorchester Town Hall and artists in residence at the Roman Town House.
Dorchester Arts Centre  
School Lane , The Grove,
Dorchester, Dorset DT1 1XR
 

DORCHESTER ARTS CLICK
Box office: 01305266926
THE DORSET TEDDY BEAR MUSEUM

From the earliest teddies to today's TV favourites, they're all waiting to meet you at this unmissable family museum. Don't miss Edward Bear & his human-size family of teddy bears in Teddy Bear House.
Antelope Walk, Dorchester
Open daily all year round.
DORSET TEDDY
BEAR MUSEUM CLICK

Map

Tel: 01305 263200
HARDY'S COTTAGE
Thomas Hardy was born in 1840 in this small cob and thatch cottage and from here he would walk to school every day in Dorchester, three miles away. It was built by his great-grandfather and is little altered since the family left. The interior has been furnished by the NT (see also Max Gate). His early novels Under the Greenwood Tree and Far from the Madding Crowd were written here. It has a charming cottage garden.
Hardy's Cottage Higher Bockhampton, nr Dorchester, DT2 8QJ 3ml NE of Dorchester, ½ml S of A35. From Kingston Maurward roundabout follow signs to Stinsford and Higher Bockhampton. Open 18 Mar–31 Oct 11–5 (except Tuesday & Wednesday)
See National Trust Map
HARDY'S COTTAGE CLICK
Tel:
01305 262366
THE KEEP MILITARY MUSEUM OF
 DEVON & DORSET

The Museum tells the remarkable story of those who served in the Regiments of Devon and Dorset for over 300 years. Their courage, humour, traditions and sacrifice are brought together in an exciting and colourful exhibition for visitors of all ages. Computers, inter-active and creative displays enhance their stories.
Military
                  Museum Bridport Road, Dorchester at 'Top o' the Town
Open Monday to Saturday, April to September 9.30am to 5.00pm. Sunday, July & August 10.00am to 4.00pm.  Tuesday - Saturday, October to March 9.30am to 5.00pm. Last admission 1 hour before closing.
KEEP MILITARY MUSEUM CLICK
Map
Tel: 01305 264066 Fax: 01305 250373
KINGSTON MAURWARD GARDENS
& ANIMAL PARK

Kingston Maurward has been described as both a 'Hidden Gem' and 'One of Dorset's best kept secrets!'. Formal Edwardian garden with stunning ornamental lake in front of the 18th Century Mansion House. The Animal Park has a collection of miniature Shetland Ponies, Donkeys, Rabbits & Guinea Pigs
Kingston Maurward Gardens Kingston Maurward is signposted from the roundabout at the Eastern end of the Dorchester bypass.
Open daily from 5th January to 21st December 10am to 5.30pm.
KINGSTON MAURWARD
GARDENS CLICK

Map
* Guardian listed B & B nearby- See guest house list.
Tel: 01305 215003
MAIDEN CASTLE
This is the best-preserved and most attractive Iron Age hill fort anywhere in Europe, and is a popular attraction in this area of the country. At its peak, the area would have been home to around two hundred families, living within the protection of the castle walls. The site was excavated on two occasions n the 20th Century and visitors are invited to learn about the history and development of the area.
Maiden Castle
Near Dorchester, Dorset DO14 5RT
Map
 MAIDEN CASTLE CLICK 

MAUMBURY RINGS
This monument is situated on the junction of Weymouth Avenue and Maumbury Road to the south of Dorchester Town Centre. It is the site of a Neolithic Henge which was later converted into a Roman amphitheatre. The site began as a circular henge in the late Neolithic era (c.2500 BC). A series of 45 circular chalk pits some over 4 metres wide and 10 metres deep formed an irregular ditch. Excavations revealed animal skulls mainly of deer which may have been used for sacrificial purposes. In 100 AD, the site was adapted to form an amphitheatre for use by the inhabitants of Durnovaria, the Roman name for Dorchester. Between 1642-3 it was remodelled by Parliament supporters during the English Civil War to become an artillery fort to protect Dorchester from invading armies from the south.Today, the Maumbury Rings are used for local festivals and events. Other visible evidence of Roman settlement in Dorchester includes the Roman Town House, Maiden Castle and a section of Roman wall close to the Top o’ Town roundabout. From time-to-time, mosaics and other structures are unearthed as sites are redeveloped in the town.
Maumbury
                Rings
Weymouth Avenue
Dorchester
Dorset

 MAUMBURY RINGS CLICK 

MAX GATE

Thomas Hardy designed and lived in this house from 1885 till his death in 1928. Here he wrote Tess of the d’Urbervilles, Jude the Obscure and The Mayor of Casterbridge, as well as much of his poetry. The house contains several pieces of his furniture.
Max Gate Alington Avenue, Dorchester, DT1 2AA 1ml E of Dorchester. From Dorchester follow A352 Wareham road to roundabout named Max Gate (at junction of A35 Dorchester bypass). Turn left and left again into cul-de-sac outside the house. Open 20 Mar–28 Sep 2–5 Monday, Wednesday & Sunday
 See National Trust Map
MAX GATE CLICK
Tel:
01305 262538
MILL HOUSE CIDER MUSEUM
In the heart of Dorset, Mill House Cider Museum shows you exactly how this traditional drink was made.You can tour around the displays and equipment that shows the importance of cider as a drink over the years.Watch the ten minute video display that shows cider actually being made on the 18th and 19th century equipment!Find the hidden Smiley Apples around the museum to discover some unusual fun facts about cider and its traditions!Taste some of the range of different ciders in our shop.
Mill House Cider Museum
Owermoigne, Nr. Dorchester
Dorset  DT2 8HZ
 MILL HOUSE CIDER MUSEUM CLICK 
Tel: 01305 852220  |   Fax: 01305 854760
MINTERNE GARDENS
Wander peacefully through 20 wild woodland acres, where magnolias, rhododendrons, eucryphias, hydrangeas, water plants and water lillies provide a new vista at each turn, with small lakes and cascades landscaped in the 18th Century. Home of the Churchill and Digby families for 350 years. Described by Simon Jenkins as 'a corner of paradise'
The house, with many Churchill pictures and tapestries, is open for organised groups only. Contact 01300 341370

Minterne
                Gardens
Minterne Magna
Dorchester
Dorset
DT2 7AU  map
  MINTERNE GARDENS CLICK
Tel: +44 (0) 1300 341 370
Fax: +44 (0) 1300 341 747
MORETON GARDENS
The gardens have been created on the site of the old kitchen garden of Moreton House. Originally laid out in 1742 the three and a half acres, together with a similar sized walled garden next to these gardens produced fruit, vegetables and flowers for the 'big house' for almost two hundred years until 1940. The Dig for Victory campaign during the war, followed by some years as a pig farm and latterly as a nursey destroyed any original planting but the framework of the garden survived. In the shop is a copy of a map of 1765 showing the plan, easily recognisable today.
Moreton
                Gardens
Moreton
Dorchester
Dorset
DT2 8RF  map
 MORETON GARDENS CLICK 
Tel: +44 (0) 1929 405084
Fax: +44 (0) 1929 405346
NINE STONES
 A 200-YEAR-OLD tree at the centre of worship by druids and witches has been chopped down to size after it became diseased.
The 80ft beech at Winterbourne Abbas has been reduced to a 10-metre stump by English Heritage because of fears it would die and fall over.The tree has become a dominant feature at the site, famous for the ancient stone circle standing beneath its branches.has been reduced to a 10-metre stump by English Heritage because of fears it would die and fall over.The tree has become a dominant feature at the site, famous for the ancient stone circle standing beneath its branches.

Nine Stones
Winterbourne Abbas
Dorchester
Dorset

OLD CROWN COURT & CELLS
Experience 200 years of gruesome crime and punishment in a setting little changed over the years and is most famous for the trial of the Tollpuddle Martyre. Visit during the Summer period when an experienced guide will bring the history of the courtroom and cells alive. Enjoyed by adults and children as they can stand in the dock and sit in the creepy cells where the prisoners waited for their appearance before the judge.
Dorchester Old
                crown Court
Stratton House, High West Street,
 Dorchester, Dorset DT1 1UZ 
 
E-mail Old Crown Court and Cells
 OLD CROWN COURT & CELLS CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1305 252444  -  Fax: +44 (0)1305 257039
POUNDBURY
The Poundbury Community is a new urban development of Houses, Cottages, Shops & Light Industry, designed for the Prince of Wales by Architect Leon Krier on the outskirts of Dorchester, Dorset, England.
Poundbury
Poundbury is on
   A35 East from
  Axminster &
West of Dorchester


ROMAN TOWN HOUSE
The only Roman Town House to be seen in its entirety in Britain.
Dating from the 4th century AD, the house comprises two separate ranges forming an L shape around a small courtyard. The remains show a number of architectural details, including 2 hypercausts with external stoke holes, a window, stone columns, a well and an excellent mosaic which is under the covered building.
Roman Town House
Colliton Park
Dorchester Dorset DT1 1UZ
From Top o Town roundabout proceed up The Grove, turn right into Northernhay go through the small gate on the right. The Town House is just across the line of the Roman Wall, behing County Hall.

 Map
Tel: +44 01305 251000
TERRACOTTA WARRIOR EXHIBITION

The only museum outside China dedicated to the amazing Terracotta Warriors. Unique life size museum replicas from China, costumes, armour and multi media displays
Terracota Warriors High Street East, Dorchester
Open daily
TERRACOTTA WARRIORS
EXHIBITION CLICK
Tel: 01305 269571
TOLPUDDLE MARTYRS MUSEUM
One dawn, in the bitter February of 1834, six Tolpuddle farm labourers were arrested after forming a trade union. A frightened squire’s trumped up charges triggered one of the most celebrated stories in the history of human rights. That dawn arrest created the Tolpuddle Martyrs, who were punished with transportation as convicts to Australia. Every third Sunday in July the museum holds the Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival. Summer: Tuesday-Sunday. Please phone for winter opening.
Tolpuddle
Main Road, Tolpuddle, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 7EH
E-mail Tolpuddle Martyrs Museum
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1305 848237  -  Fax: +44 (0)1305 848237
WINTERBORNE POOR LOT BARROWS
Winterbourne Abbas
Dorchester
Dorset
DT2 9LW | View map

WOLFETON HOUSE

Fine Grade I listed mediaeval and Elizabethan house lying in water meadows near the confluence of Rivers of Cerne and Frome. Much embellished around 1560. It has magnificent carved oak panelling, splendid plaster ceilings, grand fireplaces and unique stone stairs. Fine pictures and furniture of 17th century. The mediaeval gatehouse has two unmatched and older towers. Cider house, cider for sale. Gatehouse and 19th century Lodge available for self-catering holidays.

Wolfeton
                House
Dorchester
Dorset
DT2 9PN | View map
 
Tel: +44 (0)1305 263 500
Fax: +44 (0)1305 265 090
WORLD RENOWNED
 TUTANKHAMUN EXHIBITION


Experience the excitement of the world's greatest discovery of ancient treasure. Tutankhamun's tomb, treasures, and mummified body are superbly recreated in this spectacular exhibitionthrough sight, sound and smell
TUTANKHAMUN EXHIBITION High West Street, Dorchester.

Open daily all year round

TUTANKHAMUN
EXHIBITION CLICK

Map
Tel: 01305 269571
THOMAS HARDY CONNECTIONS

These are Some of the useful Connections to Thomas Hardy.Thomas Hardy died at Max Gate in 1928. He is buried in Westminster Abbey in London, though his heart was removed and lies at Stinsford Church near Max Gate.
Thomas Hardy
  1. HARDY'S COTTAGE CLICK
  2. MAX GATE CLICK
  3. HARDY NOVEL SITES
  4. THOMAS HARDY SOCIETY

LYME REGIS
Lyme Regis is a historic resort lying on the south coast of Dorset. It is nicknamed 'The Pearl of Dorset', possibly for its breathtaking natural scenery. Lyme Regis is the most westerly town in the county. Taking its name from the Lym, Lyme Regis is situated at the little river's mouth. The town gets its first mention in 774 in connection with a manor and salt rights granted to Sherborne Abbey by the Saxon King Cynolf. In the early days the monks distilled the salt from the sea. Lyme was granted royal charter by Edward I in 1284 when it became Lyme Regis. The growth of Lyme Regis was mostly due to the Cobb Harbour, a small artificial harbour dating back to the time of Edward I. The Harbour was detached from the shore at high tide to let shingle through, which in turn helped to form sea defences. The Cobb was joined to the land in 1756 and from 1820 was rebuilt using Portland stone. Lyme Regis is a popular unspoilt seaside resort still today, with many attractions in and around the town including The Marine Aquarium, Dinosaurland, The Philpot Museum, The Town Mill, Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre and The Marine Theatre.
Beer Bay

Side Street

The Cob

Tourist
                    Information
Church St, Lyme Regis,  DT7 3BS 
  LYME REGIS CLICK
Map
* Guardian listed B & B nearby- See guest house list.
Tel: 01297 442138  Fax: 01297 444688
BELL CLIFF RESTAURANT
5-6 Broad St,
Lyme Regis.
Dorset. DT7 3QD. 
Tel: 01297 442459
 BROAD STREET RESTAURANT
If a distinction can be made between the menus and cooking in gastropubs and restaurants then Broad Street's food tends to the more yeomanly gastropub variety. They do the ingredients justice,

57-58 Broad Street,
Lyme Regis, Dorset
Tel: 01297 445792
BY THE BAY RESTAURANT
By the Bay Restaurant is ideally situated in Marine Parade, Lyme Regis and offers a relaxed, friendly eating environment. Offering an extensive menu By the Bay prides itself on its varying style and fresh produce. We are Heartbeat Award winners and were awarded the food safety award by West Dorset District Council. The quality of our food is extremely important to us and we ensure that wherever possible we only use local suppliers. This means we are guaranteed the freshest meat and only the finest fish, usually caught the very same day. All our meals are cooked in pure vegetable oil and we only use free-range eggs. We ensure that our cheese is animal rennet free so you can be sure that whether you are health conscious, vegetarian, vegan or just after a superior meal, we at By the Bay can satisfy your requirements.
By The Bay
                    Restaurant Marine Parade,
Lyme Regis.
Dorset. DT7 3JH.
 Email By The Bay
 BY THE BAY CLICK
Tel: 01297 442668
CHARMOUTH HERITAGE COAST CENTRE  
This heritage centre celebrates the rich culture of this coastal area of the country. People have lived in this area for many thousands of years, and this museum and gallery celebrate the way that life by the coast has developed and the association that the people have had with the sea. There are a great many artefacts, maps, documents, pictures and much more on display at the centre.
Charmouth Heritage

Sea Front, Charmouth,
Dorset
E-mail Charmouth Heritage Centre

 CHARMOUTH HERITAGE CLICK
Map

Tel :01297 560772
CAFE CLEMENCE AT THE TOWN MILL
The Town Mill,
Mill Lane,
Lyme Regis.
Dorset. DT7 3PU. 
Tel: 01297 445757
DINOSAURLAND FOSSIL MUSEUM
The Jurassic rocks of Lyme Regis have been famous for fossils since Mary Anning discovered the first Ichthyosaur in 1811. This museum features Jurassic fossils and dinosaurs, housed in the magnificent grade1 listed building.

Dinosaur

Coombe Street, Lyme Regis,
 Dorset DT7 3PY

DINOSAURLAND CLICK

Tel : 01297 443541
DOWER HOUSE HOTEL

Country house hotel set in over 2 acres of walled grounds, only 3 miles from historic lyme regis
2 AA Rosette restaurant Heated swimming pool April - October Smoking in Bar only
Dower House
                    Hotel Rousdon, Lyme Regis
Dorset DT7 3RB
Tel: 0870 478 6358
HONG KONG CHINESE HOT FOOD CENTRE
15 Church St,
Lyme Regis.
Dorset.
DT7 3DB. 
Tel: 01297 445182
JURASSIC SEAFOOD WINE BAR
has a fully licensed bar and a modern range of cooking facilities. Wines, spirits, lagers, beers and soft drinks available for consumption with or without meals. Or why not just pop in for a tea or coffee? Apart from fresh fish and meat being available for meals, we also sell them to non diners.
Jurassic Wine Bar 47a Silver St,
Lyme Regis.
Dorset.
DT7 3HR.
 JURASSIC WINE BAR CLICK
Tel: 01297 444345
LAL QILLA INDIAN RESTAURANT
61 Broad St,
Lyme Regis.
Dorset. DT7 3QF. 
Tel: 01297 442505
LYME REGIS MARINE AQUARIUM & COBB HISTORY
 
The Cobb
Lyme Regis
Dorset
DT7 3JJ   map
 
Tel: +44 (0) 1297 444230
LYME REGIS TOWN MILL
Fully restored historic watermill in the heart of Lyme. Working mill with exhibition displays, art gallery, craft workshops, cafe restaurant and 18th century walled gardens.
Lyme Regis Town Mill

Lyme Regis

LYME REGIS TOWN MILL CLICK

Tel :01297 443579
LYME REGIS MUSEUM
Lyme Regis Museum is one of the central cultural focal points in this community. It contains a vast collection of pieces that have been collected together in order to protect and preserve the history and heritage of this fascinating historic town. The artefacts on display have been arranged in such a way as to bring to life the colourful stories that the people and institutions of Lyme Regis.

Bridge Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3QA 
E-mail Lyme Regis Museum  
LYME REGIS MUSEUM CLICK
Phone: +44 (0)1297 443370
LYME REGIS BEACH
The newly-replenished and enlarged sandy beach is perfect for families and the new, wider promenade - from the Cobb to town - has made access much easier. A shingle beach is nearby. Where is it? On the A3052 on the border between Devon and Dorset. Best features: The picturesque setting and famous Cobb which juts out into the sea. Local facilities & shops: Lyme has a wide selection of shops, fossil shops, souvenir shops and pubs as well as a cinema and theatre. Great for the kids? The main beach is sandy and flat, and the water is beautifully clear.
Lyme Regis Beach
Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7
 LYME REGIS BEACH CLICK 

THE MAD HATTERS RESTAURANT
34 Broad St,
Lyme Regis.
Dorset. DT7 3QF. 
Tel: 01297 443247
MARINE THEATRE
An imaginative programme to suit everyone
Drama, Musicals, Comedy,
Opera, Light Opera, Dance,
Children's Shows
Classical Music, Jazz,
Blues, Country / Western,
Soul, Folk, Rock, Discos

Marine
                      Theatre Lyme  Church Street
Lyme Regis
Dorset
DT7 3QB
 
MARINE THEATRE CLICK
Tel: 01297 442 138
THE MILLSIDE RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

 On "The Riverside Walk" in a secluded area where you can hear the gentle babbling of the River Lym and wild birds singing. See more below.Renowned quality food and wine in a tranquil setting. The Millside opens from 10.30am serving coffees, teas, homemade cakes etc. Lunches from an extensive blackboard menu with daily specials are served from 12pm to 2pm. Tables are available outside on the picturesque, sun filled patio. From 7pm you can dine from the interesting and varied menu which includes fresh local fish dishes, pasta, steaks, vegetarian and many more homemade dishes.Last orders 9.30pm - (9pm in winter)
Millside Restaurant Proprietors:
Mike & Jane Bailey,
1 Mill Lane, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3PU,
millside@
lymeregis.com

www.lymeregis.com/

Tel: 01297 445999
THE OLD MONMOUTH RESTAURANT
12 Church St,
Lyme Regis.
Dorset. DT7 3BS. 
Tel: 01297 442456
THE PHILPOT MUSEUM 
is housed in a magnificent  idiosyncratic historic building of   true architectural splendor.  It was built in 1900 by Thomas Philpot  and has recently been completely renovated.  It stands next to Lyme's  magnificent Guildhall.  Both buildings are worth, in  themselves, a visit. The history of Lyme Regis  unveiled.

Philpot Museum

Lyme Regis

LYME REGIS PHILPOT MUSEUM CLICK


See Films & TV
 Shot in Wessex

Tel :01927
RUMOURS FRUITS DE MER RESTAURANT
Specializing in local fresh fish . Menu changed daily . Homemade speciality breads and ice-creams. Local meats and poultry.Rumours is quite small and cosy, with a pleasant ambience using a musical theme in the décor – old instruments and a wind up gramophone on display (but thankfully not playing!). Unobtrusive piped music plays.
King Scallops are landed at the Cobb and cut ready for the table by the chef .A local fisherman pots our crabs which are then cooked and picked on our premises. Live Local Lobsters available 24 hours notice required ensuring freshness and quality.They buy fresh produce which is prepared on the premises, Freshly Baked Specialty Breads, Seafood soups and of course wonderful Ice-creams and homemade Desserts. For ultimate freshness and flavour all dishes are cooked to order. All main courses are served with Fresh Vegetables of the day or Fresh Garden Salad.Rumours has been awarded an AA Rosette
Rumours Lynda & Ron Skelton
14/15 Monmouth Street
Lyme Regis
Dorset
DT7 3PX
Email: Rumours
RUMOURS CLICK

Tel: 01297 444740
POOLE
poole armsPoole offers a vibrant mixture of rich historical heritage and culture combined with a cosmopolitan image that is growing by the day. Boasting Europe's largest natural harbour and golden, European Blue flag beaches Poole offers a truly outstanding setting for a wide variety of watersports; from the traditional sailing to the more extreme sport of kitesurfing. This new craze being recently showcased at Poole's annual Animal Windfest championships. If you are looking for something a little more relaxing Poole Quay offers an atmosphere like no other. Sit back and relax in one of the many bistros, restaurants and traditional pubs that line the historic quayside whilst enjoying the picturesque views of the harbour and the stunning coastline. The Quay is also home to the famous Poole Pottery offering something for all the family. The Waterfront Museum just back from the Quay offers a fascinating look into the past. To really experience Poole's rich historical past pick up a copy of the Cockle Trail at the Tourist Information Centre, which will take you on an intriguing walk around the Old Town. A stones throwaway and you enter Poole's bustling High Street, which is home to many unique shops and at the upper end Dorset's largest indoor shopping centre, the Dolphin centre, with over 100 popular stores in an attractive and lively setting.
Brownsea Island
Dolhin
                        Quay
Harbour
                        Quay
Tourist
                    Information
Poole High Street, Poole,  
 E-mail: tourism@poole.gov.uk
 
POOLE CLICK
Map

* Guardian listed B & B nearby- See guest house list.
Tel: 01202 253253, Fax: 01202 262684.
BOWLPLEX
This 24-lane computerised bowling centre is popular with families and league players alike due to the comprehensive facilities on offer. As well as the bowling alley, the attraction houses the Stadium Sports Bar and Grill, a large video games arcade and 13 full size pool tables in the American Pool Pit. On Friday and Saturday nights discos are held on the centre’s dance floor. Bowlplex caters for children’s birthdays and also has a package available for teenage parties.
Bowlplex
382 Poole Road, Branksome,
Poole, Dorset BH12 1DA
 
E-mail Bowlplex 
 BOWLPLEX CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 765489
BRANKSOME CHINE
This popular Blue Flag beach with a promenade is extra wide this year.   Best features: Fine quality golden sand. Has a beach office and RNLI Beach Rescue Lifeguard cover. Local facilities and shops: Ice-cream kiosks, restaurants, takeaway, bar and beach shop. Beach huts and deckchairs are available. Great for the kids? Wide selection of watersports nearby and gently shelving beach with a safe swimzone. Lost children’s patrol from May to September.
Branksome
                Chine Branksome Chine Beach
Poole
Dorset
At the bottom of the B3065, head straight down The Avenue. Or follow the B3369 from Poole Civic Centre.
 BRANKSOME CHINE BEACH CLICK
 
Tel: 01202 708181
BROWNSEA ISLAND

The island is dramatically located at the entrance to Poole harbour, offering spectacular views across to Studland and the Purbeck Hills. Its varied and colourful history includes use as a coastguard station, Victorian pottery, Edwardian country estate, daffodil farm and as a decoy to protect Poole in the Second World War.  Ideal for families to explore.
Brownsea Island Poole, BH13 7EE
Ferry: Half-hourly boat service (not NT) from Poole Quay and Sandbanks. Also service from Bournemouth and Swanage. Visitors can land from their own boats at W end of the island. Open 10-5 (October 10-4)

See National Trust Map

BROWNSEA ISLAND CLICK
Map
Tel:
01202 707744
CASTLEMAN TRAILWAY
This 16-mile trailway is suitable for walkers, cyclists and horse riders alike. It follows the route of the old Dorchester to Southampton railway, which was built in 1847 by Charles Castleman. The twisting stretch of track became known as the ‘Castleman Corkscrew’. The railway was closed in the 1960s by Dr. Beeching and the land sold. Public access has since been granted along the resurfaced path, which now takes visitors through some of Dorset’s most scenic countryside including heathland, mature pine forest and the River Stour valley.
Castleman Trailway
Upton Country Park, Poole, Dorset BH17
Map


COMPTON ACRES
Compton Acres is one of the finest privately owned gardens in the South. A unique series of stunning themed gardens spread over 10 acres offer beautiful views. There is also a tea room and cafe, a restaurant, craft shop and model railway.
Compton Acres
164 Canford Cliffs Road,
Canford Cliffs, Poole, Dorset
  COMPTON ACRES CLICK 
Map
Tel: 01202 700778
COURTYARD CRAFT CENTRE
Located on the site of an eighteenth century farm, the original buildings have been converted into 18 attractive craft units, a function suite and tearooms. A wide variety of crafts are represented on site including pottery, candles and cards, metalworking, soft furnishings, needlework, dolls houses and holistic treatments. Children can enjoy the mini farm and the magical Crystals and Fairies store. Home cooked food is served in Dylans Tearooms with Sunday lunches being especially popular. Crusaders Medieval Hall, can be hired for weddings and parties.
Courtyard
                  Craft Centre
Huntick Road, Lytchett Minster,
Poole, Dorset BH16 6BA
COURTYARD CRAFT CENTRE CLICK
Map

Phone: +44 (0)1202 623423  -  Fax: +44 (0)1202 649422
CUSTOMS HOUSE
This building is a replica of the previous, eighteenth Century Customs House, which was destroyed by fire in 1813. The ground floor was traditionally used for weighing, examination and storage. The distinctive double flight of steps leads to the first floor where transactions would have been made. The wooden structure outside is a replica of the Town Beam, used for weighing goods. Plaques on the building commemorate the many small craft that set sail from Poole Quay for the D-Day evacuations. The first floor is now a restaurant
Customs
                  House
The Quay, Poole, Dorset BH15 1HP
Map


DORSET COAST PATH
Forming part of the South West Coast Path, the Dorset Coast Path starts at Poole harbour in the east and finishes at Lyme Regis in the west. The region has been awarded World Heritage status and is now known as the Jurassic Coast. This name reflects the area’s abundance of fossils and important geological features and walkers are rewarded with views of one of the most spectacular coastlines in Britain. The path is well maintained and signposted and refreshments and accommodation are available at several key locations along the way.
Dorset Coast
                  Path
From Poole to Lyme Regis, Dorset 
DORSET COAST PATH CLICK
Map


FARMER PALMER'S FARM PARK

Lamb & Goat Feeding, Cow Event, Guinea Pig Handling, Straw Mountain, Wild Trailer Ride, Woodland Walk, Pedal Tractors, Bouncy Castles, 2000 square metres under cover, new indoor soft play zones and much more!
Farmer Palmers 4 miles from Poole in Organford near Holton Heath. Clearly signposted from the A35 and A351.
FARMER PALMER'S
FARM PARK CLICK

Map
Tel:
01202 622022
GUS GORILLAS JUNGLE PLAYGROUND
This indoor play centre is great fun for children up to the age of twelve. It has a huge ball pool, several slides and even a firing ball canon. Younger children can enjoy the special toddler area. Please note that adults are expected to accompany children under five into the play area and parents of older children need to stay on site. The adjoining licensed restaurant serves snacks, drinks and meals. Free car parking is available right outside the door.
Gus Gorilla's Jungle Playground
Swan Lake Building, Poole Park,
 Poole, Dorset BH15 2SF
Map
 
Phone: +44 (0)1202 717197
LIGHTHOUSE
Poole’s impressive arts centre claims to be the biggest outside London. It provides a venue for concerts, theatre productions, cinema, visual arts and exhibitions. It is also home to the world famous Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. The centre holds many activities for children and each Christmas stages a traditional pantomime featuring celebrity guests. Restaurant and bar facilities are available.
Lighthouse
Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset BH15 1UG 
 
E-mail Lighthouse  
 LIGHTHOUSE CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 685222  -  Fax: +44 (0)1202 670016
OLD LIFEBOAT HOUSE MUSEUM
Once the home of the Poole lifeboat, this nineteenth Century building is now a small R.N.L.I museum. The main exhibit it the former Poole lifeboat, Thomas Kirk Wright, which was built in 1938 and launched from the lifeboat house until it went out of service in 1962. This boat took part in the Dunkirk evacuation of 1940. Poole’s current lifeboat is kept afloat in the harbour ready to serve the many sailors and holiday makers that visit the area.
Old Lifeboat
                House Museum
Fisherman’s Dock, Poole Quay,
 Poole, Dorset BH15
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 663000
OLLIE'S ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND
This family run play centre offers a safe and clean environment for young children to exercise and have fun under the supervision of parents and guardians. The main area is open to children under 11 years of age and a maximum height restriction of 4’ 9’’ applies. Children under three and less than 1m tall can use the special toddler play area. The café provides healthy snacks for all ages and a bottle warming service is offered. Children’s party packages and membership options are also available.
Ollies
                Adventure Playground
Second Floor, Brownsea House, Dolphin Shopping Centre, Poole, Dorset BH15 1SR
 
E-mail Ollie’s Adventure Land  
 OLLIE'S ADVENTURE LAND CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 680485
POOLE ARTS CENTRE
This large arts and entertainment centre is a popular venue for touring pop, rock and classical concerts, theatre productions and art exhibitions, offering large comfortable concert halls and fully licensed bars. The full range of the arts is covered including dance, ballet, opera and classical music and the centre boasts a full yearly programme from the highly acclaimed Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. Independent cinema productions are a regular feature, as well as an annual pantomime and big-name comedy one-man shows.
Poole Arts Centre

Poole Arts Centre
Kingland Road
Poole, Dorset
BH15 1UG

POOLE ARTS CENTRE CLICK

Tel: +44 1202 685222
POOLE CENTRAL LIBRARY
Poole Central Library is located at the heart of this charming seaside town, and offers one of the most important cultural exchanges in the region. The large library houses an extensive collection of texts, crossing a wide variety of subjects, both fiction and non-fiction. There is a range of interactive terminals at the library, allowing independent research and access to the Internet.

Dolphin Centre, Poole, Dorset BH15 1QE
E-mail Poole Central Library
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 262 424
POOLE HARBOUR
As the second largest natural harbour in the world after Sydney, Australia, Poole Harbour is an attraction in its own right. The calm waters are busy with luxury yachts and fishing boats while several secluded islands offer the perfect habitat for a wide range of bird and plant life. Harbour boat tours are available from Poole quay throughout the year. A chain ferry also takes cars and foot passengers across the narrow harbour entrance to the beautiful Isle of Purbeck beyond.

Poole Harbour
Poole, Dorset BH13 7EE - 
POOLE HARBOUR WEBSITE
Map


POOLE MUSEUM
Poole Museum underwent an extensive refurbishment in 2007, partly funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. The stunning building has a brilliant entrance and atrium and visitors lounge that offers stunning views of the sea. There are many interesting and diverse collections on show. Some of the highlights include local maritime artefacts, artworks, photographs, costumes and a range of textiles.

4 High Street, Poole,
Dorset BH15 1BW  
E-mail Poole Museum
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 262600  -  Fax: +44 (0)1202 262622
POOLE PARK
Just a quick stroll from the town centre, this spacious park has plenty to offer. There is a large boating lake, putting green, bowling green and public tennis courts. Young children can enjoy the crazy golf course, play area, remote controlled model boats or just feeding the ducks. A trip on the narrow gauge railway with Desmond the diesel engine, takes passengers on a half mile journey round the wild fowl lake.
Poole Park
Poole, Dorset BH15 2DE
Map

POOLE POTTERY
Produced in Poole for 130 years, Poole Pottery ware has become much loved and highly collectable. Visit the factory to see how the world famous collection is made and watch skilled craftsmen at work. You will follow the production process from the working of the raw clay right through to the final hand painting. At the end of the tour you will have the opportunity to buy goods from the warehouse at factory prices.
Poole Pottery
Sopers Lane, Poole,
 Dorset BH17 7PP 
E-mail Poole Pottery   
POOLE POTTERY CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 666200  -  Fax: +44 (0)1202 682894
ST. JAMES CHURCH
Located near Poole Quay, this large parish church has long been associated with the local fishing trade and is known to many as ‘the fishermen’s church’. This is born out by its unusual weather vane fashioned in the shape of a fish.
The church has a long tradition of bell ringing. Local lore has it that during Edward VI’s reign, the Duke of Somerset ordered eight bells to be sold in aid of Poole’s fortification. Unfortunately the bells were lost at sea during passage to Holland.
St. JaMES cHURCH
Church Street, Poole, Dorset BH15 1LP
Map

SANDBANKS BEACH
Enjoy a spot of celebrity watching on Britain’s smartest beach. Pop stars and footballers flock to this three-mile stretch of golden sand, stunning views and trendy bars. Great for families too, this beach, at the entrance to Poole harbour, is patrolled by the prestigious Poole lifeguards and has won many awards for its cleanliness and top class facilities. Water sports enthusiasts can make the most of the ideal conditions for wind surfing, kite surfing and dingy sailing. Equipment hire and lessons are readily available on site.
Sandbanks
Banks Road, Poole, Dorset BH13
Map
 SANDBANKS BEACH CLICK

SCAPLEN'S COURT MUSEUM
This is Poole’s best preserved medieval domestic building. Once known as the George Inn it is believed to have been occupied by troops during the Civil War. Initials and dates from that time can still be seen scratched on some of the buildings original fireplaces. The property fell into disrepair until the Society of Poole Men bought and restored it in 1928. Volunteers replanted the unique Tudor walled garden in 2001. Exhibitions and family events are held here as well as an ongoing educational program for local school children.
Scaplen's
                Poole Museum
4 High Street, Poole, Dorset BH15 1BW
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 262600  -  Fax: +44 (0)1202 262622
SPLASHDOWN
The South’s largest indoor water parks with twelve exhilarating rides. Hop on the Tennessee Twister or Louisiana Leap and spin around in the Spacebowl. The complex includes a learner pool but please note that there is no adult swimming pool. Spa pools, saunas and outdoor terraces are available and spectators can watch the fun from the café area. There is a minimum height requirement of 1m for all the rides and children should be water confident.
Splashdown
Tower Park Leisure Complex, Poole,
Dorset BH12 4NY
SPLASHDOWN CLICK
Phone: +44 (0)1202 716123
STUDY GALLERY OF MODERN ART
The gallery is home to an extensive collection of mid 20th Century paintings and sculptures that are owned by Bournemouth and Poole College. These include pieces by Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, Ivon Hitchens and Bridget Riley, to name but a few. The gallery also hosts a variety of visiting exhibitions and organises its own regular shows based on emerging talents from the south coast region.

North Road, Parkstone,
Poole, Dorset BH14 0LS 
E-mail Study Gallery of Modern Art 
 STUDY GALLERY OF MODERN ART CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1202 205200  -  Fax: +44 (0)1202 205200
UPTON COUNTRY PARK
The park is owned and managed by Poole Borough Council. It covers approximately 100 acres of gardens, parkland and woodland on the shores of Poole Harbour. The park was built by Poole Merchants and passed through many families, including the Llewellins, until it was opened to the public in 1976. Comments - A pleasant walk through a variety of formal and more natural features. An excellent opportunity to watch the bird life along the harbour, although the traffic can be heard from the road in some areas. Contact - Wardens Office - 01202 672625

Upton Road
Upton
Poole
Dorset
BH17 7BJ  map
 
Tel: +44 (0) 1202 672625
Fax: +44 (0) 1202 678140
WATERFRONT MUSEUM

The Waterfront Museum tells of historic Poole. Incorporating Poole Local History Centre it is the place to learn about Poole and it's people. Hear the smuggler's tale, visit the pharmacy, learn about the Studland Bay wreck and more.
Waterfront Museum 4 High Street, Poole BH15 1BW
Museum open 7 days a week
POOLE WATERFRONT
 MUSEUM CLICK

Map
Tel: 01202 262600
SHAFTESBURY
The pretty, greensand, hilltop town of Shaftesbury lies nestled around its Saxon Benedictine Abbey, at its peak the largest woman`s religious community in England. Today the Abbey offers a Museum and serene Anglo-Saxon garden around the Abbey Church remains, with glorious views south.Shaftesbury is an idyllic small town, offering centuries of history, stunning views over three counties and a range of rare, old-fashioned stores, regular book and flea markets, gift shops, arts and crafts, two museums and of course famous Gold Hill.This charmimg town has been given international recognition, by one of America`s top magazines, as `one of the 9 essential towns to visit in Britain`.
Shaftesbury
Tourist
                    Information
8 Bell St, Shaftesbury,  SP7 8AE 
 
Email:tourism@shaftesburydorset.com
SHAFTESBURY CLICK 
Map

Tel: 01747 853514 Fax: 01747 850593
AEROSORUS BALOONING
Dorset is full of contrast with breath taking scenery and spectacular countryside, rolling hills and an unsurpassed coastline stretching 140 kilometers with much of it having World Heritage Coast status.Dorset is varied land has extensive heathlands to the East, chalk down land in the centre with a mass of rivers and streams heading to the west which becomes hilly with the landscape full of woodland and small fields. Balloon Flights in Dorset meet at Sherborne and Shaftesbury and generally fly within the Crewkerne / Bruton / Warminster / Blandford area
Hot air Ballooning in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset,
                Dorset and Wiltshire     * The Half Moon,
Salisbury Rd,
Shaftesbury, 
SP7 8BS
     * OS Map Info: 183 (872 224)
On the Southern edge of Shaftesbury on Chase Roundabout at the junction of the A30 and A350.
AEROSORUS BALOONING CLICK
Telephone: 01747 852456
GILLINGHAM MUSEUM
Close to Shaftesbury lies Gillingham, Dorset`s fastest growing town, with direct rail connections to London Waterloo, Salisbury and Exeter. The Gillingham Local History Society was founded in 1953 in order to oversee the extensive collection that the Freame family had bequeathed to the parish. The collection can be found at Gillingham Museum; it is large and varied in its themes, taking visitors on a journey from natural history and geological artefacts through Roman, Saxon and Tudor relics to a selection of beautiful antiques from the last century.

Chantry Fields, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4UA
 
GILLINGHAM MUSEUM CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1747 854018  -  Fax: +44 (0)1747 822600
SHAFTESBURY ABBEY

Visitors can explore the site of Saxon England's foremost Benedictine nunnery, founded by King Alfred, who installed his daughter as the first prioress. The excavated remains of the original abbey church lie in a peaceful walled garden, and a nearby state-of-the-art museum, decorated in dramatic medieval colours chosen to reflect the original colours of the church, houses a fascinating collection of carved stonework, medieval floor tiles and other excavated objects. There's also an interactive touch-screen exhibition and a gift shop.

Shaftesbury Abbey

Park Walk, Shaftesbury, SP7 8JR
 Open: 25 March to 31 October, 10-5pm.
 SHAFTESBURY ABBEY CLICK
Map

Tel:
01747 852910
SHAFTESBURY ARTS CENTRE
Established in 1957 in the old covered market in the centre of the medieval Dorset market town of Shaftesbury, Shaftesbury Arts Centre is now widely recognised as one of the best volunteer membership-led arts centres in south west England.

Its regular, varied and lively year-round programme of amateur and professional plays, films, art, photography and craft exhibitions, workshops, and training courses draws people from far and wide including Wiltshire and Somerset. It is also increasingly taking the arts out into the community
Shaftesbury Arts Centre  

13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury,

Dorset SP7 8AR  

SHAFTESBURY ARTS CLICK

Tel: 01747 854321 

SHAFTESBURY GOLD HILL
Gold Hill is the most famous street in Shaftesbury, a town full of quaint corners and superb views on the edge of a 700-foot plateau. This ancient cobbled street, running beside the walls of King Alfred’s abbey, features on countless chocolate boxes and calendars. It was also used as an advertisement for Hovis. Each year Shaftesbury plays host to the Gold Hill Fair, named after the town’s landmark, to raise money for local charities, it is the largest free event in Dorset, and attracts over 12,000 visitors.
Gold Hill
Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7
Map


SHAFTESBURY TOWN MUSEUM
Located at the top of Gold Hill, Shaftesbury Town Museum is an interesting attraction for those looking to discover more about the town, its history and the people of the region. As well as enjoying fine views from the museum, visitors are treated to an extensive collection of archaeological finds that have been excavated locally. Other highlights include a large photo archive and displays on the crafts and button-making industries.

1 Gold Hill, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8JW 
E-mail Shaftesbury Town Museum  
SHAFTESBURY TOWN MUSEUM CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1747 852157
VIRGIN HOT AIR BALOONING
A hot air balloon flight from Shaftesbury - one of England’s oldest and highest towns - is the ideal way to enjoy views of idyllic rural Dorset. Blackmore Vale – a valley which runs from south Somerset into Dorset – and the River Stour basin sweep below the hillside town of Shaftesbury. Balloon rides from here open up the landscape which was so vividly described in the books of Thomas Hardy, who called the fictional version of the town ‘Shaston’. As well as many fine historical buildings, Shaftesbury has one particularly famous cobbled street. Gold Hill was featured in the famous Hovis bread advert where a boy pushes his loaf-laden bike up the slope to the sound of Dvorak's "New World" Symphony. Should your hot air balloon float this way, why not imagine the brass band playing as you go. Dorset is fantastic patchwork of fields, farm land and small forests. During your hot air balloon ride from Shaftesbury, you may also spy ancient Wardour Castle, quaint villages like Motcombe, Cherry Orchard and Sturminster Newton and on a clear day maybe even Glastonbury Tor. Towns like Gillingham to the west and Blandford Forum to the south could also come into view. Come hot air ballooning over Shaftesbury and Dorset with Virgin Balloon Flights and discover Hardy country with the greatest of ease.
directions
http://www.virginballoonflights.co.uk/gallery/full/002.jpg Shaftesbury launch site:-

The Udder Farm Shop
Manor Farm
East Stour
Gillingham
 SP8 5LQ

Directions from the East
From the A350 at the Ivy Cross Roundabout exit onto the A30 towards Yeovil.

VIRGIN HOT AIR BALOONING
Phone
01952 212750
SHERBORNE

The town was named scir burne by the Saxon inhabitants, a name meaning "clear stream" (see: Bourne (placename)).The town was made the capital of Wessex, one of the seven Saxon kingdoms of England, and King Alfred's elder brothers King Ethelbert and King Ethelbald are buried in the abbey. In 705 the diocese was split between Sherborne and Winchester, and King Ine founded an Abbey for St Aldhelm, the first bishop of Sherborne. The Bishop's seat was moved to Old Sarum in 1075 and the church at Sherborne became a Benedictine Monastery. In the 15th century the church was deliberately burnt down during tensions between the town and the monastery, and was rebuilt between 1425 and 1504, though some of the Norman structure remains. In 1539 the monastery was bought by Sir John Horsey and became a conventional church. Sherborne was for many centuries the centre of a hundred of the same name.In the 12th century Roger de Caen, Bishop of Salisbury and Chancellor of England, built a fortified palace in Sherborne. The palace was destroyed in 1645 by General Fairfax, and the ruins are owned by English Heritage.In 1594 Sir Walter Raleigh built an Elizabethan mansion in the grounds of the old palace, today known as Sherborne Castle.There has been a school in Sherborne since the time of King Alfred, who was educated there. The school was refounded in 1550 as King Edward's public school, using some of the old abbey buildings, though it is now known simply as Sherborne School. The school remains one of the top fee-paying schools in Britain, boasts numerous successful alumni, including Alan Turing, Jeremy Irons, Chris Martin and John le Carré. Until 1992 there were also two Grammar Schools, Foster's School for boys and Lord Digby's School for girls. Now, the tradition of excellence in learning within the town is continued with Sherborne School for Girls (another top fee-paying school), The Gryphon School, a well regarded comprehensive and the Sherborne International College (for children from overseas).Other notable historical buildings in the town include the Almshouses of Saints John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, founded in their current form in 1438 and expanded in the Victorian Era in indistinguishable medieval style architecture. The conduit, Hospice of St Julian, and Lord Digby's school, now known as Sherborne House (designed by Benjamin Bastard) are also well preserved old buildings in the town.

    Alshouses
Tourist
                    Information
3 Tilton Court, Digby St, Sherborne,  DT9 3NL 
 
SHERBORNE CLICK
Map


Tel: 01935 815341 Fax: 01935 817210
AEROSORUS BALOONING
Dorset is full of contrast with breath taking scenery and spectacular countryside, rolling hills and an unsurpassed coastline stretching 140 kilometers with much of it having World Heritage Coast status.Dorset is varied land has extensive heathlands to the East, chalk down land in the centre with a mass of rivers and streams heading to the west which becomes hilly with the landscape full of woodland and small fields. Balloon Flights in Dorset meet at Sherborne and Shaftesbury and generally fly within the Crewkerne / Bruton / Warminster / Blandford area
Hot air Ballooning in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset,
                Dorset and Wiltshire      The Terrace Playing Fields (Dancing Hill), Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 5NS
        * OS Map Info: 183(642 158)
On the southern edge of the town as you exit Sherborne on the A352 Sherborne to Dorchester road, just as you leave the speed restriction area.
or
    The Three Elms, North Wooton, Nr. Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 5JW
       * OS Map Info: 194 (658 143)
2 miles south east of Sherborne on the A3030 Sherborne to Sturminster Newton road
AEROSORUS BALOONING CLICK

Tel : 01935 812881
SHERBORNE ABBEY
Along with the town’s two castles, Sherborne Abbey is one of the main attractions to the historic market town of Sherborne. It is a magnificent building, with around thirteen hundred years of history, and well worth a visit. There is no admission charge but a donation is recommended. Each year there is also the Sherborne Abbey Festival, the programme of events for which has proved to be a great success.
Sherborne
                  Abbey
The Parish Office, 3 Abbey Close,
 Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3LQ
E-mail Sherborne Abbey
Map

Tel: 01935 812452
BOW HOUSE
This eye-catching exercise in black and white was once the Sun Inn. It sits right beside the Abbey Gate and forms part of a picturesque cluster of buildings. It was built around 1600, but some of the most attractive details, including the carved foliage elegantly trailing along the top of the facade, date from Victorian and later restoration. The building has been part of Sherborne School since 1916.
Bow House
Church Lane, Sherborne, Dorset
Map


THE CONDUIT
This intriguing hexagonal building once housed washbasins for monks. It was built by Abbot John Meere in the 16th century within the cloister of Sherborne Abbey. Medieval monasteries were noted for their plumbing. Monks had water piped into the monastery by complex systems. While most such structures were destroyed at the dissolution of the monasteries, this conduit survived by being moved outside the abbey for the benefit of local people. Its rarity has made it a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
Sherborne Conduit
Cheap Street, Sherborne, Dorset
Map

GALLERY OLIVER HOLT
This gallery is open to the public all year around and offers a beautiful environment in which the public can enjoy some of the newest and most innovative art in the region. The gallery prides itself on developing and nurturing the talents of young and emerging talents, as well as helping to promote the careers of more established artists who have been producing high quality art for years.

Abbey Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3AP 
E-mail Gallery Oliver Holt  
GALLERY OLIVER HOLT CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1935 810542
HOSPITAL OF SAINTS JOHN THE BAPTIST & JOHN THE EVANGELIST
Sherborne has an unusual almshouse. Most medieval hospitals or almshouses sprang from the charity of the Church. The impetus for this one came from concerned townspeople. It was incorporated by royal charter in 1437. The building housed twelve poor men and four poor women. To keep the sexes separate, the building was two-storey. The women lived on the top storey which gave onto a gallery in the chapel. The almshouse still serves its original purpose, though there are more residents, thanks to a Victorian expansion.
Hospital of Saints John the Baptist
                and John the Evangelist
Abbey Close, Sherborne, Dorset
Map


SHERBORNE CASTLE
Built by Sir walter Raleigh in 1594. It has been the . Capability Brown Lake,wonderful gardens and wildlife
Sherborne
                          Castle

Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3PY
5 miles east of Yeovil off the A30 Salisbury to Exeter road.

SHERBORNE CASTLE CLICK

Tel: 01935 813182
SHERBORNE HOUSE
Sherborne
                House
Newland, Sherborne  Tel: 01963 23114
SHERBORNE MUSEUM
In the heart of Sherborne, tucked inside the Abbey Gate, is this Victorian mock-Tudor building. It was turned into a museum for the town in 1968. Although the museum is small, it manages to hold over 15,000 items related to local history, including archaeological finds, archives, costumes and textiles, coins and medals, and objects that shed light on the long history of Sherborne from Roman to modern. The museum is run entirely by volunteers.
Sherborne Museum
Abbey Gate House, 1 Church Lane,
 Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3BP
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1935 812252
SHERBORNE SCHOOL
Few English schools can claim a more impressive history than Sherborne. Edward VI founded it in 1550, but it replaced a monastic school and made use of monastic buildings. On the right of the picture is the former west claustral range that now forms the school library. Sherborne is an independent school and its premises are private, but some of its most historic buildings can be let for functions, including the Jacobean Old School Room.
Sherborne School
Abbey Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3AP 
E-mail Sherborne School  
SHERBORNE SCHOOL CLICK
Map
Phone: +44 (0)1935 812249  -  Fax: +44 (0)1935 810426
VIRGIN HOT AIR BALOONING
Sherborne is blessed with an array of medieval buildings including a wonderful Abbey, picturesque Almshouses and not one, but two Castles to admire. Conveniently situated on the Dorset and Somerset border it has excellent transport links making visiting easy. Launching from the Sherborne Hotel’s vast six acre grounds or a surrounding field will provide the perfectly picturesque starting point for your voyage with Virgin Balloon Flights allowing a scenic rise from land to sky showcasing Sherborne from a bird’s eye view. Sherborne is a fine place to base yourself and an ideal spot to explore the wide open skies by hot air balloon in order to experience the unspoilt Wessex area of Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire. From the basket there are lots of things to spot amidst the wealth of Sherborne’s history and its beautiful buildings. Keep your eyes peeled for nearby Cadbury Castle; an 18 acre Iron Age fort said to once have been a part of King Arthur’s Camelot!  Make Sherborne the beginning of your hot air balloon adventure and come fly with Virgin Balloon Flights!
http://www.virginballoonflights.co.uk/gallery/full/002.jpg Sherborne launch site:-
Sherborne Hotel
Horsecastles Lane
Sherborne
Dorset
DT9 6BB
You will find The Sherborne Hotel on the west side of Sherborne just as the dual carriageway begins on the A30.
Access to the hotel is from the A352.
VIRGIN HOT AIR BALOONING CLICK
Phone
01952 212750
WORLDLIFE & LULLINGSTONE SILK FARM

Compton House
Sherborne
Dorset
DT9 4QN  map
 
Tel: +44 (0) 1935 474608
Fax: +44 (0) 1935 429937
SWANAGE
Swanage has so many facets; a traditional family-friendly beach resort with Victorian charm, the eastern gateway to the Jurassic coast with outstanding geology that attracts global attention, a lively town in which to celebrate the carnivals and music festivals and a peaceful retreat for that spring or autumn weekend break that you so deserve….you may hear this a lot from other holiday destinations, but Swanage truly has something for everyone!!Swanage changes with the seasons, but the World Heritage Site Jurassic Coast has overlooked this atmospheric town for 130 million years; certainly standing the test of time! For music lovers the town also has a fantastic range of events that everyone can enjoy; there is the Blues Festival in March, a Jazz Festival in July, Swanage Carnival and Regatta in August and the Folk Festival in September. Come and experience the lively atmosphere with brightly decorated umbrellas, treasure hunts, Caribbean style carnivals, spectacular fireworks and music and dancing to suit everyone – why not join in the fun?!
SwanageSwanage QuaySwanage

Tourist
                    Information
The White House, Shore Road, Swanage, BH19 1LB 
 SWANAGE CLICK 
Map

Tel: 01929 422885
DURLSTON COUNTRY PARK
can be found on the rolling hills that lie to the west of Swanage beach. The park is a fantastic site of around 260 acres where you can see stunning views and an abundance of natural beauty, flora and fauna as well as magnificent marine mammals and bids, all set in nature's great open book. The park hosts a wide range of events throughout the year including dolphin watches and Durlston Castle is being developed as one of the key visitor centres for the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
Durlston
                Country Park
Durlston
Swanage
Dorset
BH19 2JL  map
www.purbeck-dc.gov.uk
 
Tel: +44 (0) 1929 424443
Fax: +44 (0) 1929 424443
KNOLL BEACH VISITOR CENTRE
Enjoy views of Old Harry Rock from our licensed cafe, browse the gift shop and take a stroll on the sandy beach. Open 10am - 4pm daily


email: studlandbeach@nationaltrust.org.uk

tel: 01929 450500
MOWLEM THEATRE
The Mowlem Theatre was opened in 1967 and replaced the smaller original Victorian building which had stood for over 100 years. It can seat up to 400 patrons in the stalls and circle and is situated on the sea front at Swanage at the junction of two of the main shopping streets. It has a combined programme of, typically, over 200 film performances each year in addition to 60-100 nights of live theatre. There are two bars, a licensed restaurant, a function room and four shops within the complex. The present Theatre was opened in 1967 and replaced the smaller original Victorian building which had stood for over 100 years.
Mowlem Swanage  
Box Office/Institute Rd
Swanage, BH19 1DD

MOWLEM CLICK
tel: 01929 422239
PUTLAKE ADVENTURE FARM

Visitors are encouraged to explore and make contact with a variety of friendly animals. You can bottle feed the lambs and goats and at 4pm have a go at the hand milking. There are indoor and outdoor picnic and play areas, gift shop, tearoom, new walk through aviary, pony rides and trailer rides. We have 8600 sq. ft. under cover.
Putlake Farm Langton Maltrevers, Nr Swanage
Open 11am to 6pm. School Holiday 10am to 6pm daily. Open Half Term week in February then weekends until March 28th, then every day until 31st October, weekends November and December
PUTLAKE ADVENTURE
FARM CLICK
Tel: 01929 422 917
STUDLAND BAY & NATURE RESERVE
This three mile stretch of beach is well managed by the National Trust and ample parking and refreshment facilities are provided. The combination of natural sand dunes and heath land provides a haven for rare birds and plants while the sheltered waters make a perfect anchorage for sailors. Dinghy and windsurfer hire is available. Studland beach is also home to the Trust’s only official nudist beach, which is surprisingly popular in all weathers.Shell Bay, Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach are all popular sandy beaches at Studland owned by the National Trust. A marked section is reserved for nudists.
Studland Bay
Studland, Swanage
, Dorset BH19
Catch the Sandbanks to Studland ferry and follow Ferry Road along to the car parks or follow the B3351 from Corfe Castle and look out for the road signs.

Map
 STUDLAND BAY CLICK

SWANAGE BEACH
Swanage’s gentle shelving beach is popular with families and nearby is the Victorian seaside resort with all its attractions.  Best features: Swanage is the holder of a prestigious Blue Flag for its beach cleanliness and it is a popular spot for watersports. Swanage pier is one of the best diving locations in the country. There are walks with superb views over the Jurassic coast – England’s only Natural World Heritage Site. Local facilities and shops: A range of restaurants, cafes, stalls to choose from, beach, shops, supermarkets, newsagents, theatre/cinema, tourist information centre, banks, Post Office and a community hospital.
Swanage Beach
Off the A351 from Wareham, or via the ferry from Sandbanks, follow the road signs.
 SWANAGE BEACH CLICK

Swanage Museum at the Tithe Barn
In 1976 the late Tony Parsons presented the Tithe Barn to Swanage to create a museum and arts centre. The barn itself is at least 300 years old. The exhibits relate to Swanage and its history; they include a reconstruction of stone quarrying, a 1930’s Dispensing Chemists shop, a period grocer’s shop, the Calkin fossil and archaeological collection and maritime models. Changing exhibitions and arts shows.A Local Studies Centre provides family/local history research material (by appointment).The Museum is run entirely by volunteers with all funds raised going towards maintaining and developing the work of the Museum. New volunteers and ‘Friends’ are welcome.

Church Hill
Swanage
Dorset
BH19 1HU   map
 
 SWANAGE MUSEUM CLICK
Tel: +44 (0) 1929 423174
SWANAGE RAILWAY

Travel on Dorset's Award Winning steam railway and enjoy the unique views of the imposing ruins of Corfe Castle.
Swanage
                  Railway
Swanage Railway Co. Ltd, Station House, Swanage,  BH19 1HB
Park and Ride open all year round at Norden, just north of Corfe Castle.
SWANAGE RAILWAY CLICK
Tel: 01929 425800
SWANAGE VIEW BAY HOLIDAY PARK
Swanage Bay View Holiday Park with newly accredited 4* rating, features the new Swanage Bay View Bar & Restaurant, leisure club and reception, along with a fantastic indoor swimming pool, sauna and gymnasium. Located 1 mile from the town centre and beach in an area of outstanding natrual beauty.  Swanage Bay View Holiday has spectacular sea views and hill views and is surrounded by uninterupted countryside.
Swanage Bay View Holiday Park
Panorama Road, Swanage, Dorset
  e: info@swanagebayviewholidaypark.co.uk
 SWANAGE BAY VIEW HOLIDAY
PARK CLICK 

tel: 01929 422130
WAREHAM

The town's strategic setting has made it an important settlement throughout its long history. The older streets in the town follow a Roman grid pattern, though the current town was founded by the Saxons. The town's oldest features are the town Walls, ancient earth ramparts surrounding the town, which were built by Alfred the Great in the 9th century to defend the town from Norsemen. The town was a Saxon royal burial place, notably that of King Beorhtric (800 CE); also in the town is the coffin of Edward the Martyr, dating from 978, his remains now to be found in Shaftesbury Abbey in north Dorset. The River Frome serves as a small harbour and the town was a port in centuries when boats were smaller and before the river silted up.After the Monmouth Rebellion of 1685, Wareham was one of a number of towns in Dorset where Judge Jeffreys held the Bloody Assizes, with traitors being hanged from the town walls. The Frome estuary in the east of the parishIn 1762 a fire destroyed two thirds of the town, which has been rebuilt in Georgian architecture with red brick and Purbeck limestone, following the Roman street pattern. The town is divided into four quarters by the two main roads, which cross at right-angles. The medieval Almshouses escaped the fire, and some of the Georgian facades are in fact disguising earlier buildings which also survived. Because of the constraints of the rivers and marshland Wareham grew little during the 20th century, while nearby towns, such as Poole, grew rapidly.In the Anglo-Saxon St Martin's Church, there is a recumbent effigy of T. E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) in Arab clothing. He is buried at Moreton churchyard where every year a quantity (decreases by one each year) of red roses are left.  Since the 15th century Wareham has been a market town, and still holds a market on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Wareham

Wareham

Wareham
Tourist
                    Information
Trinity Church, South Street, Wareham,  BH20 4LU 
 WAREHAM CLICK
Map


Tel: 01929 552740 Fax: 01929 554491
BLUE POOL & TEA HOUSE

One of Dorsets best loved attractions since 1935.Set north of the Purbeck Hills between Wareham and Corfe Castle off the A351.The Blue Pool at Furzebrook  constantly varies in colour. Very fine clay in suspension in the water diffacting light in different ways producing a spectrum of colour sometimes green sometimes turquoise.Set in a deep clay bowl steps lead down to the waters edge or up to views of the Purbeck Hills, The Pool is surrounded by 25 acres of heath woodland and gorse interlaced with sandy paths  that seem to take you to another world.
Blue Pool Furzebrook, Wareham, BH20 5AT.
BLUE POOL & TEA
HOUSE CLICK
Tel:
01929 551408
CLOUDS HILL

T. E. Lawrence (‘Lawrence of Arabia’) bought this tiny isolated brick and tile cottage in 1925. The austere rooms are much as he left them and reflect his complex personality and close links with the Middle East. An exhibition details Lawrence’s extraordinary life.
Clouds Hill Wareham, BH20 7NQ. 9ml E of Dorchester, 1½ml E of Waddock crossroads (B3390), 4ml S of A35 Poole-Dorchester road, 1ml N of Bovington Camp. Open 18 Mar–30 Oct 12–5  See National Trust
CLOUDS HILL CLICK
Tel:
01929 405616
CORFE CASTLE

One of Britain’s most majestic ruins, the castle controlled the gateway through the Purbeck Hills and has been an important stronghold since the time of William the Conqueror. Defended during the Civil War by the ardent and virtuous Lady Bankes, the castle fell to treachery from within, and was substantially destroyed afterwards by the Parliamentarians. Many fine Norman and Early English features remain.
Corfe Castle The Square,Corfe Castle,
Wareham, BH20 5EZ
On A351 Wareham-Swanage road.Open Daily 10-4
 See National Trust Map        

CORFE CASTLE CLICK
Tel:
01929 481294
CORFE CASTLE MODEL
VILLAGE & GARDENS


The Castle destroyed by Cromwell's men in 1646, together with the church and surrounding village, has been reconstructed in Purbeck stone to 1/20th scale. It is set in a stunning old English garden, with an Enchanted Woodland Walk. Working stocks and pillory are a feature.  Described as `3 Great Venues in One', the attractions include Corfe Castle Model Village, Traditional Dorset Gardens and The Courtyard Café.
Corfe Castle Model Village

The Square, Corfe Castle,

 Dorset BH20 5EZ

Open in high season 6 days a week. Closed Fridays. School holidays seven days a week. Open low season weekends only
CORFE CASTLE MODEL
 VILLAGE CLICK
Tel:
 01929 481234. Fax: 01929 481234
CORFE CASTLE MUSEUM

Starting with the iguanadon, (dinosaur) through stone age man and the riches underfoot. The Museum has images and artefacts taken from Corfe’s past with the clay, stone and Purbeck Marble industries and snapshots of why and how the village became what it is today. The Museum is housed on the ground floor of the smallest Town Hall in England and so it is quite small too, but well worth a visit. It is open every day and entry is free.Corfe Castle Town Hall consists of a single room built in 1640 from the remains of the nearby castle, which was destroyed during the English Civil War.The windows of the town hall in Dorset, which is now a museum, are made from old fireplaces taken from the castle.

Corfe Museum
                & Town Hall
The Town Hall
West Street
Corfe Castle
Wareham
Dorset
BH20 5HB map
 CORFE CASTLE MUSEUM
Tel : 01929 481294
THE GINGER POP SHOP
Ginger Pop Promotions helps Enid Blyton fans of all ages to a greater enjoyment of her books through exploring the places in Dorset where the stories were set and by understanding the historical period in which they were written.  This is achieved through The Ginger Pop Shop in Corfe Castle village Square. The Ginger Pop Shop will be open from March 24 to end of October from 11.30 - 5pm, but may be closed on Fridays out of Dorset school holidays. The Ginger Pop Shop is a shop about childhood, and is not just a children’s shop!  It is next door to the Post Office in Corfe Castle village square.  From the window there is a splendid view of the castle, immortalised as Kirrin Castle in the Famous Five series, and usually with the jackdaws flying around the towers!  The shop has an Enid Blyton Appreciation Book for customers to sign, and some of the best comments  are being flashed across their web site. 
Gingerpop

The Ginger Pop Shop
The Town House, The Square, Corfe Castle, Dorset, BH20 5EZ
e-mail 
enquiries@gingerpop.co.uk
 GINGER POP SHOP CLICK

tel: 01929 477214
LULWORTH CASTLE PARK

A 17th Century Castle set in extensive parkland. Discover the fascinating history, see what life was like in days gone by, climb the tower and visit the children's activity room. Take the woodland walk to the animal farm and adventure play area. Relax in the Stable Café and browse in the Courtyard Shop. Jousting battles 23rd July- 25th August.
LULWORTH
                  CASTLE 5 miles west of Wareham.
 Follow brown signs from A352
Open Sunday to Friday, Summer 10.30am to 6pm. Winter 10.30am to 4pm (last admission 1 hour before closing). Closed Saturdays and 24th and 25th of December
LULWORTH CASTLE PARK CLICK
Tel: 01929 400352
LULWORTH COVE
As part of the World Heritage Jurassic coast, Lulworth is famous for its horse-shoe shaped cove. Towering cliffs enclose a sheltered bay formed over 10,000 years ago by coastal erosion. The unique landmark is a favourite with geologists and walkers, while local fishermen launch their boats from the beach. The small village boasts a heritage centre as well as hotels and gift shops. The rare remains of a fossilised forest can be found near the cove
Lulworth Cove
West Lulworth, Dorset BH20
Map
 LULWORTH COVE BEACH CLICK

MARGARET GREEN FOUNDATION TRUST ANIMAL SANCTUARY
Church Knowle
Wareham
Dorset
BH20 5NQ  map
 
Tel: +44 (0) 1929 480474
MONKEY WORLD

Monkey World rescues primates from all over the world. Living at the park is the largest group of chimpanzees outside Africa, orangutans, gibbons, and many more primates in spacious enclosures amongst a natural woodland setting. In the Malagasy habitat one can walk through the lemurs forest and come nose-to-nose with these beautiful primates.An outdoor play area, woodland walk, pets encounter, a soft play area and Big Al's Adventure with many amusements keep kids busy all day. There is also a café, a gift shop, education centre, picnic area and free parking.A primate adoption scheme helps Monkey World to rescue and rehabilitate more of our closest living relatives who need our help.

Monkey World
Wareham
Dorset
BH20 6HH  map
 
Tel: 0871 716 2137
PURBECK SPORTS CENTRE
No membership necessary- Ample free parking - childcare- Holiday Clubs - Harry's Sports Bar & Cafe. Tennis, Table Tennis, Squash, Badminton, Football, Hockey, Swimming, Cricket,fitness room, sauna, fitness classes and sports injury & therapy clinic.
Purbeck Sports Centre
Worgret Road, Wareham,
Dorset BH20 4PH
email: sportscentre@purbeck-dc.gov.uk
http://www.purbeck.gov.uk
tel: 01929 556454
PURBECK TOY & MUSIC BOXES & VINTAGE END OF THE PIER
Arne
Wareham
Dorset
BH20 5BJ   map
 
Tel: +44 (0) 1929 - 552018
TANK MUSEUM
A series of Interactive stands. All new tanks in action display. The trench... tanks on the Somme
Tank Museum

Bovington,Dorset
2 miles North of Wool near Wareham

TANK MUSEUM CLICK

Tel: 01929 405096
TYNEHAM
Along the coast you will find the deserted village of Tyneham where in 1943 the 250 inhabitants were evacuated when the village was taken over for military use. The villagers were billeted out throughout Purbeck and told they would return to Tyneham when the hostilities ceased. The villagers never did return and the land has continued to be used as a military training area. Open weekends. Exhibitions in Tyneham School and Tyneham Church open from 10am- 4pm.


tel: 01929 404819
WAREHAM TOWN MUSEUM
Town Hall
East Street
Wareham
Dorset
BH20 4NS   map
Tel: +44 (0) 1929 - 553448
Fax: +44 (0) 1929 - 553521
WEYMOUTH

Weymouth lies not far from the border of Devon and Dorset. The main route into the town is along the A354 which leaves the A35 at Dorchester. Weymouth is a major holiday destination on the south coast that attracts thousands of visitors each year. It is also a working port with ferries to France and the Channel Islands and a fleet of fishing boats. Weymouth is also the gateway to the rocky peninsular  known as Portland Bill that juts out 6 miles into the English channel. The resort of Weymouth is an attractive town that is spread along the coast overlooking a beach of golden sand. Much of the town was built in the reign of George III when the town played host to the monarch on many occasions. There are still numerous Georgian style buildings within the town. The inner harbour is home to the local fishing fleet and is an interesting area to visit. 

Weymouth will the base for many sailing events in the 2012 Olympics. The coast at Weymouth is protected by the Bill of Portland and this makes it ideal for many water sports including swimming. In addition there is also  sailing, diving, windsurfing in the area...............Chesil Beach - is one of the longest  in the country stretching 16 miles to the north west of Portland. However it is a pebble ridge and is quiet steep in some places and it is not recommended for swimming.

Weymouth Beach

Weymouth

Olympics 2012
Tourist
                    Information
The King's Statue, The Esplanade,
Weymouth,  DT4 7AN 
  WEYMOUTH CLICK
Map

* Guardian listed B & B nearby- See guest house list.

Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy
has been confirmed as the official venue for the Olympic Sailing events in 2012.
Tel: 01305 785747
Fax: 01305 788092
BENNETT'S WATER GARDEN
In 1959 Norman Bennett started growing water lilies in the disused clay pits of Chickerell Brickworks. Since then his son, Jonathan, has overseen the landscaping of this 8-acre site to create Bennett's Water Gardens, a lovely walk around numerous lakes with scenic places to sit and unwind. The gardens have one of the most outstanding displays of water lilies in Britain (150 varieties) surrounded by huge pond and moisture loving plants, palms, native trees, wild plants and flowers. The gardens, ponds and reedbeds are home to abundant wildlife. Some of the original water lilies came from the same French nursery that supplied Monets water lily garden in Giverny.
Bennets Water
                Garden
19 Putton Lane, Chickerell, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 4AF
 BENNETTS WATER GARDEN CLICK
Tel: 01305 785150  |   Fax: 01305 781619
BREWER'S QUAY
Just off Weymouth's Old Harbour you will find Brewers Quay. This redeveloped Victorian brewery building houses a unique undercover Shopping Village with over 20 specialist shops offering a fascinating choice of goods. The Timewalk is also housed here, allowing the visitor to travel back through 600 years of local history and also to explore the unique brewing heritage from which the present attraction was created. Brewers Quay is also home to the Weymouth Museum with its unique record of local and social history.
Brewers Quay
Hope Square, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8TR
 BREWERS QUAY CLICK
Tel: 01305 777622  |   Fax: 01305 752338
The
                  Chesilbank
CHESIL BEACH
One of Britain’s natural wonders, a unique shingle ridge. Where is it? Stretches for 17 miles from Portland to West Bay. Access at various points along its route. Best features: The natural beauty plus watersports facilities – the beach overlooks Portland Harbour, a centre for wind and kitesurfing. Local facilities & shops: Chesil can be a lonely place, but there are facilities at West Weares, Portland; Ferrybridge; Moonfleet; Abbotsbury and Burton Bradstock. Great for the kids? Beware steeply shelving shingle, strong currents and treacherous seas.
Chesil Beach
 CHESIL BEACH CLICK

GREAT DORSET MAIZE MAZE 
Each year sees a different amaizing maize maze at Rodden Farm near Weymouth. Just off the main Weymouth to Bridport coast road (B3157) the theme for the 2004 maze was 'Out of This World'.
Planted each year in late April the crop of maize grows to 4ft tall by the opening in July and continues growing to a spectacular 10ft by September. It's great fun for all the family plus there are farm animals, sandpits, puzzles and quizzes and a barbecue and picnic area.
Great Dorset Maize
                Maze
Rodden Farm, Rodden,
 Weymouth, Dorset DT3 4JE
 GREAT DORSET MAIZE MAZE CLICK 
Tel: +44 (0) 1305 759785
HARDY MONUMENT
The monument was erected in 1844 in memory of Vice-Admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, Flag-Captain of HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. It stands on the crest of Black Down, from where there are glorious views across the Dorset countryside to the sea.
Hardy Monument Black Down, Portesham
From the B3157 Weymouth-Bridport road, turn off at Portesham; the road climbs steeply to a car park signposted 'Hardy Monument'.  Open Saturday & Sunday 2 Apr–25 Sep 11–5.
See National Trust Map
HARDY'S MONUMENT CLICK
Tel:
01297 561900
JORDAN HILL ROMAN TEMPLE
Weymouth
Dorset

KINGSTON RUSSELL STONE CIRCLE
Abbotsbury
Weymouth
Dorset

LAYARD THEATRE
The Layard Theatre was opened by Sir Richard Eyre in May 1999,  having been funded in part from the sale of the Assyrian Frieze, which had originally been brought to Canford by Sir Henry Layard in the mid-nineteenth century.Attractively sited on the campus of Canford School, in 250 acres of parkland on the banks of the River Stour, the theatre offers the pleasure of the performing arts in a beautiful and historic setting.
Layard
                    Theatre Layard Theatre
Canford School
Wimborne, Canford Magna, BH21 3AD

LAYARD CLICK
tel: 01202 847525
MODEL WORLD
Lodmoor Country Park
Weymouth
Dorset
DT4 7SX  map
 
Tel: +44 (0) 1305 781797
NOTHE FORT
The Nothe Fort is a restored Victorian fort operated by Weymouth Civic Society as a museum and tourist attraction. Ramparts and gun decks have been furnished to illustrate its history. 70 rooms of models, displays, dioramas. Courtyard events (concerts, costume re-enactments, drama groups etc) during season. School parties especially welcome. Full access for the disabled.
Nothe Fort
Barrack Road
Weymouth
Dorset
DT4 8UF  map  
Visit Website
Tel: +44 (0)1305 766 626
OSMINGTON HORSE

Osmington
Weymouth
Dorset

THE PAVILION COMPLEX

For the best all-round live entertainment you need look no further than Weymouth Pavilion Theatre.

Top name shows, talent contests, music festivals, comedy, musical theatre, children's shows, and of course - pantomime - we really know how to put on a show


Weymouth Pavilion Theatre

 The Esplanade

Weymouth
Dorset
DT4 8ED

PAVILION THEATRE CLICK
Tel: 01305 78225
PORTLAND CASTLE

One of Henry VIII's finest coastal fortresses. 450 years of history, from Tudor stronghold to WWII signals base and D-Day embarkation point. Great season of special events. Civil Wedding venue. Explore the new contemporary heritage Governor's garden.
Portland
                  Castle Portland,  DT5 1AZ.
Open: April to October, daily from 10am. Closing: April to June 5pm. July to August 6pm. September 5pm. October 4pm.
PORTLAND CASTLE CLICK
Tel: 01305 820539 Fax: 01305 860853
RADIPOLE LAKE NATURE RESERVE
The perfect place to unwind amidst the noise and bustle of the busy modern world
The Swannery Car Park
Weymouth
Dorset
DT4 7TZ   map
RADIPOLE LAKE CLICK
 
Tel: +44 (0) 1305 778313
Fax: +44 (0) 1305 778313
SHARKY'S
Sharky's Playzone has 4 levels of fabulous soft play fun for children of all ages.
Laserzone is open during the evenings for children aged 7 and over, can you become the sharpest shooter? Licensed cafe bar serves delicious meals and ice creams.

Take a unique journey at the Deep Sea Adventure. Experience one of the worlds foremost Titanic exhibitions and encounter underwater exploration and maritime exploits both past and present. Three floors of this Victorian grain warehouse are devoted to animated and interactive displays, computer games and tales of shipwrecks.

Also under the same roof is Sharkey's, Dorset's premier all weather kids adventure play zone, where children can jump, swing, climb and slide whilst exploring the four floors of safe play areas.
Sharky's
9 Custom House Quay, Old Harbour,
 Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8BG
 SHARKY'S CLICK 
Tel: 01305 750550  |   Fax: 01305 760690
TUDOR HOUSE
Tudor House is one of Weymouth's treasured Tudor buildings and thought to have been a merchant's property. It originally fronted an inlet from the main harbour allowing ships to be moored alongside.Its original use came to an end with the filling in of the inlet and it was converted into to small houses, which eventually became derelict, having been empty during the Second World War and suffered bomb damage,In the 1950's a local architect acquired the property and restored it to a single dwelling, which he furnished in the style of an early seventeenth century home. By the architect's will the house became the property of the Weymouth Civic Society and its future as a show piece of Weymouth's past was assured.A tour of the house gives a fascinating insight into the life of the early seventeenth century. Guides relate the history of the house and describe the use of the many objects on display.Group bookings can be made for any time during the year. Special tours are provided for school parties with the emphasis on junior school curriculum requirements.
Tudor House
3 Trinity Street
Weymouth
Dorset
DT4 8TW  map
 TUDOR HOUSE CLICK 
 
Tel: +44 (0) 1305 779711
WATER SUPPLY MUSEUM
The site is not only a water supply museum but also a spring source and current day pumping station. This means there are plenty of opportunities for history, geography and science topics to be studied.

Facilities
• lecture hall with seating for 60 pupils• toilets• disabled access and toilet (please ask for further details)• television and video• museum with informative displays and artefacts covering 200 years of water history• natural history display• literature and field study equipment to use during the visit• spring source• access to the River Jordan• outdoor work benches.
WATER SUPPLY
                MUSEUM
Wessex Water plc
Sutton Poyntz Pumping Station
Sutton Poyntz
Weymouth
Dorset
DT3 6LT  map
 WATER SUPPLY MUSEUM CLICK 
Tel: +44 (0) 1305 - 832634
Fax: +44 (0) 1305 - 834287
WEYMOUTH BEACH
Weymouth’s fine Georgian seafront is an impressive backdrop to the beach which has once again received a National Seaside Award for being clean, safe and well-managed.Where is it? The beach runs the length of the town. Best feature: Weymouth Beach is nationally renowned for its clean golden sand and shallow waters that make the beach ideal for families. Local facilities & shops: Weymouth town centre has a full range of high street shops, chemists, eateries and pubs plus a theatre and multi-screen cinema. There is also a first-aid post, lost children’s centre and inshore lifeguard.
Weymouth Beach

 WEYMOUTH BEACH CLICK

WEYMOUTH & PORTLAND SAILING EVENTS

Situated on the finest small boat sailing waters in northern Europe, Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy has been confirmed as the official venue for the Olympic Sailing events in 2012.The Academy received £7.85m of funding in 2004, enabling it to develop it into a Centre of Excellence. Athens Olympic medal winners Sarah Ayton, Nick Dempsey, Chris Draper and Simon Hiscocks are all members of the Academy and regularly train here.Training facilities are already in place for all levels of abilities and competence and especially for the less able. Both the British Olympic and Paralympic Sailing Teams regularly train at the Academy and a lot of support is given to sailors with the potential to be future medal winners.National Championship events are frequently held here: the 420 National Championships take place this year from 20th to 26th August, while the 31st August to 5th September will see sailors taking part in the J24 National Championships. The calendar for September also includes the Hunter 707 National Championships from the 7th to 10th and the 18ft Skiff Eurocup Championships from the16th to 18th.The Academy's aim is to promote the sport of sailing and to provide a facility for the community to use, actively encouraging Dorset schools to bring sailing into their outdoor activities.


Olympics 20012

Weymouth Sailing

  WPNSA, Osprey Quay, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1SA
 
E: reception@wpnsa.org.uk
 

We are:
8 miles from Dorchester
25 miles from Poole
30 miles from Bournemouth
60 miles from Exeter


 WEYMOUTH & PORTLAND SAILING CLUB CLICK 
Tel : 01305 866000
WEYMOUTH SEALIFE PARK & MARINE SANCTUARY

A unique mix of indoor and aoutdoor attractions set in seven acres makes a great family day out. The park offers a day of fun and amazement bringing you face to face with penguins, seals, sharks, otters and so much more. New for 2005 kids are guaranteed a whole days fun and laughter in the Splash Lagoon and all new interactive Shark Academy
Sealife Lodmoor Country Park, Weymouth, DT4 7S
WEYMOUTH SEALIFE
 PARK CLICK
Tel: 01305 76107
WEYMOUTH WHITEWATER
Try the greatest "White-Knuckle ride" in Dorset when you white-water the wild tides of Portland Bill, IF YOU DARE!!
This wet and wild ride is for Adrelin Junkies and is at SEA, perhaps the only one on the South Coast.Two, 2-hour scenic rides showing the Jurassic Coast at its best form the sea.
One, 1-hour fast fun ride for all the family.

WEYMOUTH
                WHITEWATER
Town Bridge, Trinity Road,
Nr Kings Arms, Weymouth
 WEYMOUTH WHITEWATER CLICK 
Tel: 07899 892317/01305 781146  |   Fax: 01305 781146
WIMBORNE
east dorset dc armsSet in the picturesque water meadows of the rivers Stour and Allen, Wimborne Minster welcomes visitors with a wonderful display of flowers as worthy Silver Gilt winners of Britain in Bloom 2004, and the town`s streets come alive with music and dancers during the annual Folk Festival in June.The Minster Church of St Cuthburga, which celebrated its 1300th birthday in 2005, has a wonderful history. Visitors are fascinated by the unique Chained Library, Quarterjack and an astronomical clock that predates Galileo. Local history is also brought to life at the Priest`s House Museum, a 16th Century townhouse with a delightful traditional walled garden.Visitors can enjoy quality local crafts at Walford Mill, in an idyllic spot on the banks of the River Allen; shows, films and music at the art-deco Tivoli Theatre; and a world of miniature at the Model Town with its replica buildings of 1950`s Wimborne. Colourful boutiques, specialist shops and an extensive market make Wimborne a mecca for shoppers.
Wimborne
Wimborne
Tourist
                    Information
29 High Street, Wimborne, BH21 1HR 
E-mail: wimborneTIC@eastdorsetdc.gov.uk
 WIMBORNE CLICK
Map


Tel: 01202 886116 Fax: 01202 841025
BADBURY RINGS

Off B3082

Nr Wimborne Minster

www.thenationaltrust.org.uk


CRANBORNE MANOR GARDENS

Historic gardens surrounding at 12th Century Manor House, divided by walls and hedges, including a white garden, mount garden, a water and wild garden. There is a magnificent display of spring bulbs and fine avenues of beech, lime and yew.
Cranborne
                  Manor Cranborne, Wimborne Minster, BH21 5PP  In Cranborne off the B3078. Garden Centre: Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sundays 10am to 5pm  Gardens: Wednesdays only, March to the end of September, 9am to 5pm.
CRANBOURNE MANOR
GARDENS CLICK
Tel:
01725 517248
DEANS COURT GARDEN

13 peaceful acres of partly wild gardens, with specimen trees, lawns, borders, a delightful herb garden, kitchen garden with long serpentine wall, rose garden, peacocks and beautiful monastery fish pond.
Deans Court
                  Garden Wimborne Minster, BH21 1EE  In the centre of Wimborne Minster, off of East Street. Open April 11th & 12th, May 2nd, 3rd, 23rd & 24th, August 29th & 30th and September 12th. Sundays 2pm to 6pm and Mondays 10am to 6pm
 DEANE'S COURT CLICK 
Tel:
01202 886116
DORSET HEAVY HORSE CENTRE


Edmondsham, Wimborne, Dorset
http://http//www.dorset-heavy-horse-centre.co.uk/
Tel: 01202 820346
EDMONDSHAM HOUSE

A fine Tudor Manor House with Georgian additions and an unusual octagonal Victorian dairy. The delightful walled garden has a herbaceous border and gives keen gardeners the opportunity to see organic gardening in practice.
Edmondsham House Edmondsham, Nr Verwood, BH21 5RE   In Edmondsham village, off the B3078, Wimborne Minster to Cranborne road.  Wednesdays, April and October, 2pm to 5pm and Easter Sunday & Monday, 2pm to 5pm
 EDMONDSHAM HOUSE CLICK
Tel:
01725 517207
FARRS LODGE

Two gravel gardens, two bulb lawns, formal themed borders, natural pond and stream, Buddleia walk and grasses border, wild flower meadow, artist's studio and an old rifle range!
FARR'S LODGE Cowgrove,Wimborne Minster, BH21 4EL. Situated on Cowgrove Lane to the side of the Victoria Hospital in Wimborne Minster..  Easter Monday (12th April) and Sundays, 2pm to 5pm. Please contact Wimborne Tourist Information Centre for further details on (01202) 886116. Tel:
01202 885130
FOUR SEASONS GALLERY
24 West Borough
Wimborne
Dorset
BH21 1NF  map
Tel: +44 (0) 1202 882204
GAUNTS HOUSE

Wimborne

Dorset

BH21 4JQ


Email - admin@gauntshouse.com

  GAUNTS HOUSE CLICK 

Tel - 01202 841522

Fax - 01202 841959

GOLD OAK FARM COURSE FISHING LAKES Coarse
                Fishing

Hare Lane

Cranborne

Nr Wimborne

 

COURSE LAKES CLICK

Tel - 01725 517275
HARE LANE POTTERY

Highly unusual mix of woodfired garden planters in terracotta and glazed tableware. Old Dairy courtyard with hundreds of intriguing pots in exclusive designs for a wide variety of planting applications. Local clay refined at the pottery - frostproof to -20 degrees Celsius.
Hare Lane Pottery Hare Lane, Cranborne, Wimborne Minster, BH215QT
 On the B3078 between Cranborne and Alderholt
 Daily 10am to 5pm,
 HARE LANE POTTERY CLICK
Tel: 01725 517700
HONEYBROOK COUNTRY PARK & HISTORIC WORKING FARM MUSEUM
Heavy horses, pure breeds, rare buildings and nourishing gardens. Great fun for all ages indoors and out. Restaurant, tearoom and picnic snacks, peaceful chalk stream, river meadows and sixteen bridges.
Honeybrook Farm Wimborne, BH21 4JD. Tel: 01202 881120.
Honeybrook is 2 miles from Wimborne on the B3078 Cranborne Road.
Open from Mid March 10am to 4pm ( 6pm in the summer).
HONEYBROOK COUNTRY
PARK CLICK
Tel: 01202 881120.
KINGSTON LACY
Kingston Lacy was the home of the Bankes family for over 300 years. All four floors are open to visitors and contain lavish interiors. The Edwardian laundry gives a fascinating insight into life below stairs 100 years ago.The gardens and parkland open with flowering bulbs in the spring, then camellias, azaleas and bluebells. Enjoy summer visits to the formal gardens with floribunda roses, parterre, sunken garden, fernery and lovely hanging baskets. 
Kingston Lacy Kingston Lacy, Wimborne, BH214EA
 On the B3082 Wimborne to Blandford road, approximately one and a half miles from Wimborne.20th March to 31st October, Wednesday - Sunday (and Bank Holidays), 11am to 5pm.
See National Trust Map
KINGSTON LACY CLICK
Tel:
01202 883402
KNOLL GARDENS NURSERY

Exciting collection of grasses and perennials thrives within a mature framework of unusual trees, shrubs, tumbling waterfalls and pools. Mediterranean style gravel garden, 'Dragon' garden and exotic Summer garden. A nationally acclaimed specialist nursery for grasses and perennials. A quality experience
KNOLL GARDENS
                  NURSERY Stapehill Road, Hampreston, Wimborne Minster, BH21 7ND Signposted off the A31 from Canford Bottom roundabout, nr Wimborne.Wednesdays to Sundays, all year, 10am to 5pm (or dusk if earlier).Closed Christmas and New Year Holiday periods
 KNOLL GARDENS CLICK
Tel:
01202 873931 Fax:
01202 870842
PRIEST'S HOUSE MUSEUM & GARDEN

Award winning museum set in an historic 16th Century town house, retaining many original features. A variety of fascinating displays and exhibitions, working Victorian Kitchen and charming walled garden with tea room.
Priest's
                  House 23-27 High Street, Wimborne Minster, BH21 1HR  Located in the centre of Wimborne Minster in the High Street, next to the Tourist Information Centre. 1st April to 31st October, Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4.30pm.
 PRIEST'S HOUSE MUSEUM CLICK
Tel:
01202 882533
STAPEHILL ABBEY CRAFTS & GARDENS

See magnificent award winning gardens, 19th century buildings with nuns chapel and cloister garden. Working crafts people and a 12,000 sq.ft. museum depicting life in bygone days. Licensed coffee shop, Gift shop, and plant sales
Staplehill Gardens  276 Wimborne Road West, Stapehill, Nr Wimborne, Dorset. BH21 2EB
off the A31 between Wimborne and Ferndown
Open daily from 10am to 5pm Easter to end of September. Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm October to Easter. Closed Christmas Holidays to the end of January
STAPEHILL ABBEY CLICK
Tel: 01202 861686
STURMINSTER NEWTON MILL

Set in the heart of Thomas Hardy’s Wessex this most picturesque of mills is maintained in full working order. It was last rebuilt about 1650 and is powered, unusually, by a 100-year old water turbine.
STURMINSTER NEWTON MILL Sturminster Newton
Open: Easter to End of September, Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Thursday, 11-5pm.
STURMINSTER NEWTON MILL CLICK
Tel:
01747 854355
TIVOLI THEATRE
Restored Art-Deco theatre showing a wide variety of live productions, from musicals, shows, plays, rock, ballet and jazz, to comedy, music hall and top big bands as well as the latest film releases.
Tivoli Wimborne West Borough
Wimborne
Dorset
BH21 1LT
 
TIVOLI CLICK
Tel: 01202 848014
VERWOOD HEATHLAND HERITAGE CENTRE
The "Verwood Heathland Heritage Centre" project has preserved and restored a unique Primitive Country Pottery workshop, providing a Heritage Centre focusing on the Dorset Heathland and local Crafts. The picture shows the Centre pictured from Ferrett's Green.The Exhibition Area, contained in the original Potters' Workshop, has been extended for further Exhibition Space and a Research Centre. This extension was opened on the 13th June 2005 by the Marquess of Salisbury. 

The Coffee Shop and a Gift Shop serves Tea, Filter Coffee, Hot Chocolate, soft drinks, biscuits and locally home made cakes at reasonable prices and in a convivial atmosphere. Don't forget your FREE 2nd cup of Coffee. Open to all! The centre serves all whatever their age, beliefs and culture.  There is wheelchair access to all the public areas of the building. There is no entrance charge to the coffee and gift shop but a small entrance charge is made for the museum and some exhibitions.

Verwood Heritage Centre
The Potters Wheel, Manor Way,
 Verwood, Dorset. UK - BH31 6HF
  
 
VERWOOD HERITAGE CLICK
Tel:  01202 822658
WALFORD MILL CRAFT CENTRE

A converted mill ¼ mile north of Wimborne in a quiet riverside setting. At the Centre are a Crafts Council selected shop and exhibition gallery, featuring the best in contemporary British design including textiles, ceramics, glass and metalwork. There are also silk weaving, stained glass, jewellery and machine embroidery workshops and a wide variety of art and craft courses and events.
Walford Mill Stone Lane, Wimborne Minster,  BH21 1NL
 From the centre of Wimborne Minster, take the Cranborne Road (B3078), the mill is signed from the Stone Lane traffic lights, just before leaving the town.
 Daily 10am to 5pm, Sundays 12 noon to 5pm (closed on Mondays from January to March)

WALFORD MILL CRAFT CENTRE  
Tel:01202 841400

WHITE MILL

Learn about the history of milling in this charming, restored 1776 corn mill on the picturesque River Stour, close to Dorset's oldest bridge.
White Mill
Sturminster Marshall, Wimborne Minster. Between the villages of Shapwick and Sturminster Marshall on the River Stour.Easter - end of October, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays only, 12 noon to 5pm.
WHITE MILL CLICK
Tel:
01258 858051
WIMBORNE MARKET

The largest open and covered market in the south of England. Grand covered bazaar with 400 pitches selling antiques, bric-a-brac, collectables, crafts and gifts, plus large outside traditional stall market selling a wide variety of fresh produce, plants, clothing, household goods, etc.
WIMBORNE
                  MARKET
 Station Road/New Borough, Wimborne Minster
Market every Friday morning
8am-2pm (including the Popular Farmers' Market) Saturday 8am-1pm (Flea Market and Outside Car Boot Sale) Sunday 9am-4pm (Massive covered and open market)
 WIMBORNE MARKET CLICK
01202 841212

WIMBORNE MINSTER

Historic, mainly Norman, minster church. See the unique Chained Library founded in 1686. There is much else of interest, including an Astronomical Clock and the Quarterjack on the West Tower, who strikes the quarter hours on his bells.
WIMBORNE
                  MINSTER
Wimborne Minster, BH21 1HT In the centre of Wimborne Minster.
Open daily, 9.30am to 5.30pm (subject to services).Open to 4pm in January and February.
WIMBORNE MINSTER CLICK
Tel:
01202 884753
WIMBORNE MODEL TOWN & GARDENS
Built well over 50 years ago, the magnificent 1/10th scale models continue to surprise and amaze visitors from all over the world with their superb quality and realism.Re-creating the historic market town of Wimborne Minster exactly as it was during the 1950s, you can get really close up and even touch the buildings, checking out every minute detail of over 100 shop window displays. Peer into the Butchers, the Ironmongers, the Bakery and the Fishmongers, not forgetting the stunning interior of the Minster Church. As you begin to explore in more detail, your mind will turn to wondering just how the group of skilled and dedicated model makers achieved such amazing 'life like' results – working as they did over five decades ago in a rural England still recovering from the war years.
Wimborne Model
                Town
16 King Street
Wimborne
Dorset
BH21 1DY   map
 WIMBORNE MODEL TOWN CLICK 
 
Tel: +44 (0) 1202 881924
For Full Details about Dorset Click on to The Dorset List
Dorset List
www.dorsetlist.co.uk
cerdic
THE GARDENS OF DORSET
Garden
Picture
Address
Tel/Fax
THE LOWER GARDENS
The Lower Gardens in Bournemouth are only a five minute walk from the main shopping centre, the beach and the pier. Visitors who walk through the gardens will be amazed by the beautiful floral displays that combine a range of colours, textures and scents. The Gardens also have plenty of activities to keep visitors busy including the Bournemouth Eye, music at the Pine Walk bandstand, an aviary and an art exhibition during the summer. There is also a large rock garden which was built in the 1930s.
Lower Gardens
Bournemouth, Dorset BH1 2AQ
Map
  LOWER GARDENS CLICK 

MAPPERTON HOUSE & GARDENS

Gardens descending at 3 levels beside Tudor manor-house, remodelled in c1660s. Italianate garden and fountain court. Fishponds, orangery and summerhouses. Wild garden with specimen shrubs and trees. Surrounded by wooded landscape with magnificent views. Gifts and plants for sale. Licensed cafe.
Voted 'The Nation's Finest Manor House' by Country Life magazine.Mapperton House is open to individuals Monday-Friday between 23rd June-1st August  and also on Bank Holiday Mondays  between 2pm - 4:30pm. Group visits by arrangement.

Mapperton House & Gardens Mapperton
BEAMINSTER
Dorset
DT8 3NR
Email Mapperton House

MAPPERTON HOUSE CLICK
Tel: +44 01308 862645
Fax: +44 01308 863348
MACPENNYS WOODLAND GARDENS
MacPennys Woodland Gardens consists of approximately 4 acres of established woodland gardens. It was created out of gravel pits in the early 1950s. A canopy of mainly indigenous trees and specimens shelter underplanting of many rare and unusual plants. We have a riot of colour in spring and again in autumn. There’s also a large nursery where many of the plants seen in the gardens may be purchased. Open all year except Christmas and New Year, Monday to Saturday 9am-5pm and Sundays 12pm-5pm
MacPennys Woodland Gardens
154 Burley Road, Bransgore,
Christchurch, Dorset BH23 8DB 
 
E-mail MacPennys Woodland Gardens  
MACPENNY'S CLICK
Phone: +44 (0)1425 672348  -  Fax: +44 (0)1425 673945
ATHELHAMPTON HOUSE & GARDENS
Athelhampton is one of the finest 15th century manor houses and is surrounded by one of the great architectural gardens of England. The house contains many finely furnished rooms including The Great Hall, Great Chamber, Wine Cellar and newly open to the public the Library and Billiard Room. The glorious grade I garden, dating from 1891, is full of vistas and gains much from the fountains and River Piddle flowing through
Athelhampton Athelhampton, Dorchester, DT2 7LG Off the main A35 (signposted) at Puddletown, near Dorchester .  March to October, Sunday to Thursday, 10.30am to 5pm. November to February, Sundays only, 10.30am to dusk
 ATHELHAMPTON HOUSE CLICK
Map
Tel:
01305 848363
DOMINEYS GARDENS
Domineys garden and arboretum open in 2008 on Sundays 13 April, 18 May, 10 August from 2pm to 6pm and on 26 October 12 noon to 4pm. Visits on other days by appointment. All seasons garden with rare and interesting plants in artistic setting. Small arboretum with 300 trees and shrubs, bulbs and perennials. A place to enjoy every day come rain or shine. Flowers of spring, shades of green, colours of autumn, stems of winter. Teas and Plant sale on open Sundays. Between Dorchester and Sherborne Admission £3.50 children free.All proceeds to charity - National Gardens Scheme and Arthritis Research Campaign.
Domineys Gardens Buckland Newton
Dorchester
Dorset
DT2 7BS   map

 DOMINEYS GARDENS CLICK 

HARDY'S COTTAGE
Thomas Hardy was born in 1840 in this small cob and thatch cottage and from here he would walk to school every day in Dorchester, three miles away. It was built by his great-grandfather and is little altered since the family left. The interior has been furnished by the NT (see also Max Gate). His early novels Under the Greenwood Tree and Far from the Madding Crowd were written here. It has a charming cottage garden.
Hardy's Cottage Higher Bockhampton, nr Dorchester, DT2 8QJ 3ml NE of Dorchester, ½ml S of A35. From Kingston Maurward roundabout follow signs to Stinsford and Higher Bockhampton. Open 18 Mar–31 Oct 11–5 (except Tuesday & Wednesday)
See National Trust Map
HARDY'S COTTAGE CLICK
Tel:
01305 262366
KINGSTON MAURWARD GARDENS
& ANIMAL PARK

Kingston Maurward has been described as both a 'Hidden Gem' and 'One of Dorset's best kept secrets!'. Formal Edwardian garden with stunning ornamental lake in front of the 18th Century Mansion House. The Animal Park has a collection of miniature Shetland Ponies, Donkeys, Rabbits & Guinea Pigs
Kingston Maurward Gardens Kingston Maurward is signposted from the roundabout at the Eastern end of the Dorchester bypass.
Open daily from 5th January to 21st December 10am to 5.30pm.
KINGSTON MAURWARD
GARDENS CLICK

Map
* Guardian listed B & B nearby- See guest house list.
Tel: 01305 215003
MINTERNE GARDENS
Wander peacefully through 20 wild woodland acres, where magnolias, rhododendrons, eucryphias, hydrangeas, water plants and water lillies provide a new vista at each turn, with small lakes and cascades landscaped in the 18th Century. Home of the Churchill and Digby families for 350 years. Described by Simon Jenkins as 'a corner of paradise'
The house, with many Churchill pictures and tapestries, is open for organised groups only. Contact 01300 341370
Minterne Gardens Minterne Magna
Dorchester
Dorset
DT2 7AU  map
  MINTERNE GARDENS CLICK
Tel: +44 (0) 1300 341 370
Fax: +44 (0) 1300 341 747
MORETON GARDENS
The gardens have been created on the site of the old kitchen garden of Moreton House. Originally laid out in 1742 the three and a half acres, together with a similar sized walled garden next to these gardens produced fruit, vegetables and flowers for the 'big house' for almost two hundred years until 1940. The Dig for Victory campaign during the war, followed by some years as a pig farm and latterly as a nursey destroyed any original planting but the framework of the garden survived. In the shop is a copy of a map of 1765 showing the plan, easily recognisable today.
Moreton Gardens Moreton
Dorchester
Dorset
DT2 8RF  map
 MORETON GARDENS CLICK 
Tel: +44 (0) 1929 405084
Fax: +44 (0) 1929 405346
COMPTON ACRES
Compton Acres is one of the finest privately owned gardens in the South. A unique series of stunning themed gardens spread over 10 acres offer beautiful views. There is also a tea room and cafe, a restaurant, craft shop and model railway.
Compton Acres 164 Canford Cliffs Road,
Canford Cliffs, Poole, Dorset
  COMPTON ACRES CLICK 
Map
Tel: 01202 700778
DURLSTON COUNTRY PARK
can be found on the rolling hills that lie to the west of Swanage beach. The park is a fantastic site of around 260 acres where you can see stunning views and an abundance of natural beauty, flora and fauna as well as magnificent marine mammals and bids, all set in nature's great open book. The park hosts a wide range of events throughout the year including dolphin watches and Durlston Castle is being developed as one of the key visitor centres for the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
Durlston Country Park Durlston
Swanage
Dorset
BH19 2JL  map
www.purbeck-dc.gov.uk
Tel: +44 (0) 1929 424443
Fax: +44 (0) 1929 424443
CORFE CASTLE MODEL
VILLAGE & GARDENS

The Castle destroyed by Cromwell's men in 1646, together with the church and surrounding village, has been reconstructed in Purbeck stone to 1/20th scale. It is set in a stunning old English garden, with an Enchanted Woodland Walk. Working stocks and pillory are a feature.  Described as `3 Great Venues in One', the attractions include Corfe Castle Model Village, Traditional Dorset Gardens and The Courtyard Café.
Corfe Castle Model Village The Square, Corfe Castle,
 Dorset BH20 5EZ
Open in high season 6 days a week. Closed Fridays. School holidays seven days a week. Open low season weekends only
CORFE CASTLE MODEL
 VILLAGE CLICK
Tel:
 01929 481234. Fax: 01929 481234
BENNETT'S WATER GARDEN
In 1959 Norman Bennett started growing water lilies in the disused clay pits of Chickerell Brickworks. Since then his son, Jonathan, has overseen the landscaping of this 8-acre site to create Bennett's Water Gardens, a lovely walk around numerous lakes with scenic places to sit and unwind. The gardens have one of the most outstanding displays of water lilies in Britain (150 varieties) surrounded by huge pond and moisture loving plants, palms, native trees, wild plants and flowers. The gardens, ponds and reedbeds are home to abundant wildlife. Some of the original water lilies came from the same French nursery that supplied Monets water lily garden in Giverny.
Bennets Water Garden 19 Putton Lane, Chickerell, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 4AF
 BENNETTS WATER
GARDEN CLICK
Tel: 01305 785150  |   Fax: 01305 781619
CHETTLE HOUSE GARDEN
A Queen Anne Manor house (designed by Thomas Archer) with lawns, good herbaceous borders and a new rose garden.

Blandforum,
Dorset, , DT11 8DB
Tel : 01258 830858
CHIFF CHAFFS GARDEN
A terraced garden enclosed by a hedge, and woodland garden, run in conjunction with a nursery (Abbey Plants).
Chaffeymoor, Bourton,
Gillingham, Dorset,  SP8 5AY

CRANBORNE MANOR GARDENS

Historic gardens surrounding at 12th Century Manor House, divided by walls and hedges, including a white garden, mount garden, a water and wild garden. There is a magnificent display of spring bulbs and fine avenues of beech, lime and yew.
Cranborne Manor Cranborne, Wimborne Minster, BH21 5PP  In Cranborne off the B3078. Garden Centre: Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sundays 10am to 5pm  Gardens: Wednesdays only, March to the end of September, 9am to 5pm.
CRANBOURNE MANOR
GARDENS CLICK
Tel:
01725 517248
DEANS COURT GARDEN

13 peaceful acres of partly wild gardens, with specimen trees, lawns, borders, a delightful herb garden, kitchen garden with long serpentine wall, rose garden, peacocks and beautiful monastery fish pond.
Deans Court Garden Wimborne Minster, BH21 1EE  In the centre of Wimborne Minster, off of East Street. Open April 11th & 12th, May 2nd, 3rd, 23rd & 24th, August 29th & 30th and September 12th. Sundays 2pm to 6pm and Mondays 10am to 6pm
 DEANE'S COURT CLICK 
Tel:
01202 886116
EDMONDSHAM HOUSE

A fine Tudor Manor House with Georgian additions and an unusual octagonal Victorian dairy. The delightful walled garden has a herbaceous border and gives keen gardeners the opportunity to see organic gardening in practice.
Edmondsham House Edmondsham, Nr Verwood, BH21 5RE   In Edmondsham village, off the B3078, Wimborne Minster to Cranborne road.  Wednesdays, April and October, 2pm to 5pm and Easter Sunday & Monday, 2pm to 5pm
 EDMONDSHAM HOUSE CLICK
Tel:
01725 517207
FARRS LODGE

Two gravel gardens, two bulb lawns, formal themed borders, natural pond and stream, Buddleia walk and grasses border, wild flower meadow, artist's studio and an old rifle range!
FARR'S LODGE Cowgrove,Wimborne Minster, BH21 4EL. Situated on Cowgrove Lane to the side of the Victoria Hospital in Wimborne Minster..  Easter Monday (12th April) and Sundays, 2pm to 5pm. Please contact Wimborne Tourist Information Centre for further details on (01202) 886116. Tel:
01202 885130
KINGSTON LACY
Kingston Lacy was the home of the Bankes family for over 300 years. All four floors are open to visitors and contain lavish interiors. The Edwardian laundry gives a fascinating insight into life below stairs 100 years ago.The gardens and parkland open with flowering bulbs in the spring, then camellias, azaleas and bluebells. Enjoy summer visits to the formal gardens with floribunda roses, parterre, sunken garden, fernery and lovely hanging baskets.
Kingston Lacy Kingston Lacy, Wimborne, BH214EA
 On the B3082 Wimborne to Blandford road, approximately one and a half miles from Wimborne.20th March to 31st October, Wednesday - Sunday (and Bank Holidays), 11am to 5pm.
See National Trust Map
KINGSTON LACY CLICK
Tel:
01202 883402
KNOLL GARDENS NURSERY

Exciting collection of grasses and perennials thrives within a mature framework of unusual trees, shrubs, tumbling waterfalls and pools. Mediterranean style gravel garden, 'Dragon' garden and exotic Summer garden. A nationally acclaimed specialist nursery for grasses and perennials. A quality experience
KNOLL GARDENS NURSERY Stapehill Road, Hampreston, Wimborne Minster, BH21 7ND Signposted off the A31 from Canford Bottom roundabout, nr Wimborne.Wednesdays to Sundays, all year, 10am to 5pm (or dusk if earlier).Closed Christmas and New Year Holiday periods
 KNOLL GARDENS CLICK
Tel:
01202 873931 Fax:
01202 870842
PRIEST'S HOUSE MUSEUM & GARDEN
The museum opened in 1962 and has a 300 foot walled garden reaching down to a mill stream behind the museum. There is a display of horticultural and agricultural implements.
Priest's House Museum and Garden, Dorset 23-27 High Street,
 Wimborne Minster,
 Dorset,   BH21 1HR

SHUTE HOUSE GARDEN
One of Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe's favourites among his own design projects.
Shute House,
Donhead St Mary,
 Shaftesbury,
 Dorset,   SP7 9DG

STAPEHILL ABBEY CRAFTS & GARDENS

See magnificent award winning gardens, 19th century buildings with nuns chapel and cloister garden. Working crafts people and a 12,000 sq.ft. museum depicting life in bygone days. Licensed coffee shop, Gift shop, and plant sales
Staplehill Gardens  276 Wimborne Road West, Stapehill, Nr Wimborne, Dorset. BH21 2EB
off the A31 between Wimborne and Ferndown
Open daily from 10am to 5pm Easter to end of September. Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm October to Easter. Closed Christmas Holidays to the end of January
STAPEHILL ABBEY CLICK
Tel: 01202 861686




DORSET FOOD SEARCH

Dorset is fortunate to have some of the finest locally produced food in the country.  There is an vast wealth of food producers offering a huge range of goods for you to buy either direct from them or from one of the many independent retail outlets in the country be it a specialist food shop, a farmshop or a village store with locally produced goods.  If you are looking for smoked meats, blue cheese, organic meat and vegetable, speciality breads or just a supply of good local food in Dorset then this directory can help. This directory gives you the chance to source your food locally so you can be sure of its origins, quality and taste as well as supporting your local community and environment.

THE GUARDIAN'S  SPECIALIST BED & BREAKFAST DIRECTORY FOR DORSET
Abbey House is listed for "Walkers & Interesting Places"
The Abbey House is on the site of an ancient monastic infirmary and parts of the property date back to the 15th century. There are five bedrooms - four doubles and one suite with a seperate sitting room. The Jurassic coast is a 10-minute walk away.
Abbey House B&B
Church Street, Abbotsbury,
Dorset DT3 4JJ
tel: 01305 871330
http://www.theabbeyhouse.co.uk

Bering House is listed for "Walkers & Interesting Places"
Located next to Hamworthy park, a 15-minute walk from Poole town centre and a 10-minute walk from the harbour, Bering House is a two-bedroomed B&B. Both rooms have en-suite bathrooms and sea views, while one has a balcony and a kitchenette. Renate and John Wadham offer a breakfast that can include smoked salmon, haddock, kedgeree and organic bacon
Bering House B&B
53 Branksea Avenue,
Poole, Dorset BH15 4DY
tel: 01202 673419 Map

Email Bering House
Fullers Earth is listed for its "Full English Breakfast"
Such an English feel: the village with pub, post office and stores, the walled garden with fruit trees beyond (source of perfect compotes and breakfast jams) and the  gentle church view. Situated in an 18th century Grade II listed country house, Fullers Earth is surrounded by thatched stables. The B&B's two bedrooms open out onto a walled garden containing a fruit and vegetable garden from which many of the ingredients of co-owner Wendy Gregory's homemade jama and compotes are made.
Fullers Earth B&B
 Cattistock
Dorchester
Dorset DT2 0JL

Tel: 01300 320190
07968 325698

e-mail: stay@fullersearth.co.uk

http://www.fullersearth.co.uk/
Glenthorne is listed for "Walkers & Interesting Places"
Glenthorne used to be a Victorian rectory, but is now a three-bedroom B&B run by Olivia Nurrish. Each of the rooms has an ensuite bathroom and one has a sea view. Guests are free to wander around the gardens and use the summer house heated swimming pool, table tennis table and trampoline. It is a 10-minute walk to Weymouth town centre and about a minute to the beach.
Glenthorne B&B
Castle Cove,
15 Old Castle Road,
Weymouth,
Dorset DT4 8QB
Tel: 01305 777281
http://www.glenthorne-holidays.co.uk

Gypsy Caravan is listed as "Weird & Wonderful"
A selection of accomodation is available at the Old Forge: three bedrooms are inside the main house and there is a Gypsy Caravan in the garden. It was a wagon for fairground workers: it has a double bed and furniture decorated in Romany style.
Gypsy Caravan B&B

Chapel Hill, Compton Abbas, Nr Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 0NQ

Tel: 01747 811881

http://www.theoldforgedorset.co.uk/
Holyleas House is listed for "Home-made Goodness"
Breakfasts here are made by owner Tia Bunkall; they include organic sausages and bacon, free-range eggs & homemade marmalades and jams. Guests may take tea in the B&B's half-acre walled garden or gusts' sitting room and the three bedrooms all have views over either the garden or countryside.
Holyleas House B&B
Buckland Newton,
Dorchester,
Dorset DT2 7DP
Tel: 01300 3452154
http://www.holyleashouse.co.uk

Marren is listed for "Walkers & Interesting Places"
This 1920's house sits in an elevated position overlooking Portland and Weymouth Bay, surrounded by National Trust land. Ringstead beach is a short walk away, as is the Dorset Coastal Path. The B&B has two double bedrooms, one with french windows and sea views. Access to the house is down a rough farm track and the owners pick up guests from the nearby National Trust Car park.
Marren B&B
Holworth,
Dorchester, Dorset DT2 8NJ
Tel: 01305 851503
http://www.marren.info

Norburton Hall is listed for "Walkers & Interesting Places"
Norburton is an Edwardian hall in six acres of grounds. All three bedrooms have an ensuite bathroom and one has a four poster bed. Full English breakfasts are made from local produce including freshly laid eggs from their own hens. It's a short walk to the Jurassic coast.
Norburton Hall B&B
Shipston Lane,
Burton Bradstock,
Bridport, Dorset DT6 4NQ
Tel: 01308 897007
http://www.norburtonhall.com

North Mill is listed for "Walkers & Interesting Places"
This 16th century former mill house is situated next to the river Piddle, a mile from the coast. The double bedroom has an ensuite bathroom while the twin has a seperate private bathroom. There is a guest sitting room with a TV, books and games. Breakfast includes eggs from the house's hens and homemade bread and jams.
North Mill
Wareham ,
Dorset
BH20 4QW
Tel: 01929 555142
http://www.northmill.org.uk

Old Lyme Guest House is listed for "Walkers & Interesting Places"
The Old Lyme guest house is made from local blue lias limestone and is a three minute walk from the sea. it is a former post office and has six bedrooms: the family room and four double rooms have ensuite bathrooms and the other double room has a seperate private bathroom. They serve traditional English or vegetarian breakfasts and occasionally offer Scottish smoked fish dishes.
Old Lyme Guest House
29 Coombe Street
Lyme Regis,
Dorset DT7 3PP
Tel: 01297 442929
Email Old Lyme Guest House

http://www.oldlymeguesthouse.co.uk
Old Manor is listed as "Weird & Wonderful"

The Old Manor is a beautiful Elizabethan "E plan" Manor house, built in the 1590's, and has been sympathetically restored to provide luxurious accommodation in comfort and style.It is located within the listed parkland of the former Kingston Estate, now operated by Kingston Maurward College, Dorset's College of the Countryside. From its many stone mullioned windows there are fine views over the surrounding parkland and lake. The Manor features in Thomas Hardy's novel "Desperate Remedies" and has been used as a film location.The Tudor Drawing Room is available to relax in at any time during your stay and The Old Great Kitchen is now the dining room where breakfast is served around a grand mahogany dining table.The Maurward Suite : This comprises a double bedroom with a magnificent four-poster bed, carved with the Maurward and Grey family coats of arms.The private sitting room has views over the lake and the en-suite bathroom is equipped with both a bath and a power shower.The Laura Pitt Room: Double bedroom.This is a spacious double bedroom with en-suite shower room. From the finely carved 18th Century Breton bed one can relax and see out to the water meadows of the river Frome.The Angel Grey Room :Twin bedroom.This is a large twin bedded room with en-suite bathroom with power shower; this is a fine timber framed bedroom which incorporates a door to nowhere! It enjoys beautiful views from its south facing windows, and like the double bedrooms it is furnished in rich fabrics and antique furniture.All bedrooms come equipped with colour television, tea and coffee making facilities and a hairdryer. All beds have duvets, but sheets and blankets are available on request. We also provide non-allergic pillows if needed. Electric iron and ironing board available.

Old Manor B&B

Kingston Mauward,

Dorchester, Dorset DT2 8PX
email: thomson
@kingston-maurward.co.uk

tele : +44 (0)1305 261110
http://www.kingston-maurward.co.uk/

Orchard Barn is listed for its "Fantastic Vista"
Margaret and Nigel Corbett's Orchard Barn is situated close to the river Asker, near the market town of Bridport and a 30-minute walk from the Jurassic Coastal Path. The house has two bedrooms ,both ensuites - one of the rooms is in the gallery and one has its own private entrance. The house has a large south-facing garden that guests can use.
Orchard Barn B&B
Orchard Barn, Bradpole,
 Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4AR,
Tel: 01308 455655
http://www.orchardbarn.co.uk

Red House is listed for "Walkers & Interesting Places"
The red House was built in the 1920s and is run by Tony and Vicky Randall. The sea is half a mile away. All three bedrooms have an ensuite, TV, fridge and writing desk, and are decorated with flowers from the garden. A cooked breakfast is served in the dining room or on the balcony and a supper tray is available.
Redhouse B&B
Sidmouth Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3ES
Tel : 01297 442055 Fax: 01297 442055
Email: red.house@virgin.net
http://www.amherstlodge.com/lymeregis/
the_red_house.htm
Seaspray is listed for "Walkers & Interesting Places"
Seaspray guest house, run by Diane Rogers, is 15 metres from the shore. There are seven bedrooms over three floors with single, twin and double options available. All rooms come with a basin and a TV; some have ensuite bathrooms, some share a bathroom. Breakfast is full English.
Seaspray B&B

6 Brunswick Terrace, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 7RW

Tel : 01305 786943

email theseaspray@btinternet.com

http://www.seaspray-guesthouse.co.uk/

Three Gables Bed & Breakfast is listed as "Home from Home"
There are three bedrooms available at Natalie and Dick Gill's B&B, which is a three minute walk from the town Centre. Christchurch's priory church, the longest church in England, is a four-minute walk away.
3 Gables B&B
11 Wickfield Avenue, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1JB
Tel: 01202 481166
email enquiries@3gables-christchurch.co.uk
http://www.3-gables-christchurch.co.uk
White Tops is listed as "Weird & Wonderful"
There is only one condition for staying at White Topps Hotel - you must have a dog with you. Owner Marjorie Titchen decided that this was the best way for her to meet people that she would get along with - she has six dogs. In her seven-bedroom B&B, dogs are allowed in all the rooms and there is no restrictions on size, breed or the number of dogs guests can bring with them
White Topps - The Dog Hotel
45 Church Road
Southbourne
Bournemouth
BH6 4BB
tel:01202 428 868
email: www.thedoghotel@aol.com
http://www.whitetopps.co.uk/

 
DorsetDOG FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION  IN DORSET
Doggie
                                            Friendly
This page has been added for dog lovers visiting Wessex as an extra service for visitors and to promote the wonderful work of the Bella Moss Foundation.


Please click through to their pages and give to help our animal friends

Doggie Friendly
Prides Cottage
Blandford Forum
  Prides Cottage, Prides Cottage, Near Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8EH
  www.pridescottage.co.uk 
Delightful thatched cottage in pretty village with shops & pubs between Shaftesbury & Blandford

07725245066
Doggie Friendly
Abbey Court Hotel  Boscombe Spa
Dog
                                    friendly Abbey Court Hotel

Abbey Court Hotel, 28 Knole Road, Boscombe Spa, Bournemouth BH1 4DH
reservations@abbeycourtbournemouth.co.uk
www.abbeycourtbournemouth.co.uk
The Abbey Court Hotel is situated in a peaceful and quiet location of Boscombe Spa and walking distance from the sea, sand and surf, local towns and gardens. We are known for our hospitality and good old fashioned customer care. We welcome dogs and leave a bowl here for guests' dogs and thirsty passers-by in the entrance hall.

1202 300883
Doggie Friendly
Derwent House
Bournemouth

Derwent House,103 Southbourne Overcliff Drive, Southbourne, Bournemouth, BH6 3NW
http://www.derwentguesthouse.co.uk/
Derwent House is situated on the cliff top road of Southbourne, near Christchurch and New Forest, 3 miles from Bournemouth town centre.  All rooms en-suite some with sea views.  Short walking distance to beach, promenade and bus routes.  Tea/coffee facilities.  English breakfast.  Ample parking.  Double and twin rooms available    Small dogs only.

01202 426262
Doggie Friendly
Riverside Reach
Bournemouth
Riverside Reach,
                                    Bournemouth, Dorset

Riverside Reach, Shelley Mews, Muscliffe Lane, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH9 3NQ

This charming ground floor two bedroom annexe 'Riverside Reach' is quietly located in the stunning conservation area of the Stour valley nature reserve, being a few seconds walk to the banks of the River Stour, only a short 3 mile drive to Bournemouth Town centre.  Popular with dog owners and fishermen this holiday home is an ideal base to explore Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

07798 662376
Doggie Friendly
Binghams Farm Bridport

Binghams Farm, Melplash, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 3TT
 www.binghamsfarmbarns.co.uk/

Binghams Farm offers a fantastic location sitting in the beautiful, quiet Brit Valley in the heart of West Dorset, an area of outstanding natural beauty.  The dramatic Jurassic Coast and the thriving market town of Bridport is within a 5 minute car or bus ride or indeed can be walked. Each property has been designed with dogs in mind with slate flooring and enclosed gardens.  Roe Barn is a beautifully converted old hay barn and accommodates up to six guests.  Exposed beams and stonework blend great character with state of the art heating and fixtures.  Bluebell Cottage is a beautifully restored stone end of terrace cottage.  Sleeping up to 5 people your comfort is assured with a woodburner, and newly fitted modern kitchen whilst the bedrooms enjoy fabulous views.

01308 488273
Doggie Friendly
Coach Cottage
Child Okeford
Coach Cottage,
                                    Dorset Coach Cottage,Coach Lane, Child Okeford, Dorset, DT11 8EJ
 www.coachcottage.co.uk/
Cosy holiday cottage in friendly Dorset village between Blandford and Shaftesbury.  Sleeps 3 + cot. Ideal for dogs as Coach Cottage is situated up a private road on a public footpath leading to Hambledon Hill. Ideal for winter breaks - full gas central heating and woodburning stove.  Village has shops and pubs/restaurant. Only 40 minutes from Jurassic Coast and in great walking country.  Prices include linen, towels, fuel, logs, broadband/wifi, welcome pack; short breaks available.
07725 245066
Doggie Friendly
Bankes Hotel
 Corfe Castle
dog friendly
                                    hotel in Dorset   Bankes Hotel, East Street, Corfe Castle, Dorset, BH20 5ED
  www.dorset-hotel.co.uk  
Email: Bankescorfe@aol.com

The Bankes Hotel, originally built in 1549, is situated in the heart of the Isle of Purberk, Dorset. We are ideally based for visiting local sites and travelling further afield to places such as Swanage, Bournemouth, Poole, Wareham and Weymouth. The small village of Studland is famous for its beaches and Nature Reserve, and is only 5 miles away.
01929480206
Doggie Friendly
The Piddle Inn
 Dorchester
 

The Piddle Inn, Piddletrenthide, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 7QF
 www.piddleinn.co.uk/
Dog friendly village free house inn, in the heart of Thomas Hardy walking country.  Dating from 1760 and recently refurbished, the Piddle Inn takes its name from the river that flows past the beer garden. Three ensuite luxury rooms with extensive facilities.  Real ales served from the barrel, extensive wine list, daily changing menu in the restaurant seating 50 with supplies sourced straight from local farmers and markets.  Relaxing village local with open fire place and traditional pub games

01300 348468
Doggie Friendly
The Stables
 Frampton
The Stables, Hyde Crook, Frampton, Dorset DT2 9NW
 www.framptondorset.com/
The Stables is a comfortable country house overlooking the valley of Frampton, 6 miles from Dorchester. Off the A37 set in 20 acres with a small area of woodland plus ducks, sheep, horses, ample parking and fields for dog walks.
01300 320075
Doggie Friendly
Lyme Bay Cottages
Lyme Regis

Lyme Bay Cottages, 50 Silver Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3HR
 www.devonanddorsetcottages.co.uk/dogfriendlycottages.aspx
We offer a range of carefully selected, quality Devon and Dorset holiday cottages all within ten miles of the beautiful Lyme Bay coast. Your perfect self catering holiday home is just waiting to be discovered. Many of our cottages are pet friendly so there is no need to leave your 'best friend' at home.

With up to date availability on our website you can choose your dog friendly cottage and simply and securely book online using your credit or debit card. Lyme Bay is a simply beautiful area and the perfect place to walk with your dog(s).

01297 443550
Doggie Friendly
White Horse Farm
Sherborne
White Horse Farm White Horse Farm, MIddlemarsh, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 5QN
   www.whitehorsefarm.co.uk  
We offer a peaceful and relaxed self-catering holiday in beautiful rural Dorset. Four attractive barn conversion cottages, a charming farmhouse annexe and new for 2009 a three bed roomed log cabin are furnished to a high standard and are well equipped

01963 210222
Doggie Friendly
Knoll House
 
Studland Bay
Hotel
                                    playground
Knoll House, Studland Bay, Dorset BH19 3AH
info@knollhouse.co.uk
www.knollhouse.co.uk
This family-run seaside hotel enjoys a unique position on the Dorset coast with views over Studland Bay and its famous 3 mile sandy beach. Its attractive gardens are set within a National Trust Reserve from where guests can walk down to the beach. The hotel provides a relaxing holiday for all ages and numerous facilities include tennis courts, golf, level deck outdoor swimming pool, adventure playground, health spa and separate children’s dining room and kitchens.

01929 450450
Doggie Friendly
Plumber Manor Sturminster Newton
dog
                                    friendly hotels in Dorset Plumber Manor, Sturminster Newton Dorset DT10 2AF
www.plumbermanor.com
Email: book@plumbermanor.com
Built in the early 17th century our hotel has remained a family home and in 1973 was turned into a restaurant with bedrooms under the careful management of the family.  Today Plumber Manor is one of the most renowned of Dorset's country house hotels. We have a number of bedrooms in the stable courtyard which welcome guests' dogs. Plumber Manor provides an excellent base for exploring Dorset villages and vales, churches, castles  and country houses and last, but not least, the countryside and coast.

01258 472507
Doggie Friendly
The Castle Inn
West Lulworth

The Castle Inn , Main Road, West Lulworth, Dorset, BH20 5RN
 www.thecastleinn-lulworthcove.co.uk/
The Castle Inn is a traditional family-run 16th Century thatched free house pub and hotel with an extensive food menu and regularly changing local real ales, near the beautiful Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door of the Jurassic Coastline and surrounded by the beautiful Isle of Purbeck countryside. We are renowned for the quality of our bar meals, which are all locally-sourced and home made where possible! We offer a wide range of dishes and there should be something suitable for anyone! We are ideally placed for a countless number of walks, through wonderful countryside and along the magnificent South West Coastal Path.
01929 400311
Doggie Friendly
Dream Cottages
Weymouth


Dream Cottages, 4 & 5 Hope Square, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8TR
 www.dream-cottages.co.uk/
An unrivalled selection of over 200 hand-picked cottages many of whom welcome dogs.  Great locations in sought after areas within Dorset.  Many properties within walking distance of a beach or situated in pretty Dorset villages. Properties suitable for groups from 2 to 12 people with a broad range of styles, facilities and décor.  Please look for the dog symbol for dog friendly properties.

01305 789000
Doggie Friendly
Elwell Guesthouse
Weymouth
Elwell Guesthouse   Elwell Guesthouse, 70 Rodwell Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8QU
  www.elwellmanorguesthouse.co.uk 
Dog friendly bed and breakfast accommodation in Weymouth; Dorset at Elwell Guesthouse – close to town centre and harbours.We offer excellent bed and breakfast accommodation at a reasonable price in comfortable; friendly surroundings. Holidaymakers and visitors to the town are welcome as we are just a short walk to all major facilities; shops; pubs and restaurants. If you are sailing; diving; windsurfing; touring; visiting relatives or on business we can accommodate you.

01305 782434
Doggie Friendly
Harbour Walk Guest House
Weymouth

Harbour Walk Guest House, 94 Rodwell Avenue, Weymouth Dorset DT4 8SQ
 www.harbourwalk.co.uk/
The Harbour Walk Guest House offers hotel standards at B&B prices. Please see the video on our website to take a walk around our rooms!  They are tastefully furnished and our breakfasts are made with quality ingredients. We are close to the harbour and beaches and just off the main A354 to Portland.  Off street parking is available.  Condor Ferry passengers can be accommodated for late arrivals and early departures.  We are fully inspected, graded and insured.  We charge £2.50 per dog for the duration of their stay. This money is donated to one of the charities we support.

01305 770410
Doggie Friendly
Jordan House  Weymouth
Jordan House B&B, Weymouth Jordan House, 93 Preston Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 6PY
 www.jordanhouseweymouth.com/
Jordan House, a 200 year old Georgian farmhouse situated just outside Weymouth in the Preston area.  Bowleaze Cove beach just 10 minutes walk away, ideal for letting your dog running as is secure from the main road.  Country walks also near.  Off street parking and garage facilities.
01305 833903



 

THOMAS HARDY CONNECTIONS

These are Some of the useful Connections to Thomas Hardy.Thomas Hardy died at Max Gate in 1928. He is buried in Westminster Abbey in London, though his heart was removed and lies at Stinsford Church near Max Gate.
Thomas
                        Hardy
  1. HARDY'S COTTAGE CLICK
  2. MAX GATE CLICK
  3. HARDY NOVEL SITES
  4. THOMAS HARDY SOCIETY

Thomas Hardy
Thomas Hardy's Wessex

I find that the name Wessex is getting taken up everywhere and it would be a pity for us to lose the right to it for lack of asserting it





The Windle map of Hardy's Wessex, 1906.
Bertram Windle published a topographical guide titled The Wessex of Thomas Hardy.
(This map, courtesy of The Thomas Hardy Association, has been chosen for its relative clarity.) 
Thomas Hardy first used the term "Wessex" in his 1874 novel, Far From the Madding Crowd.

In reprinting this story for a new edition I am reminded that it was in the chapters of "Far From the Madding Crowd," as they appeared month by month in a popular magazine, that I first ventured to adopt the word "Wessex" from the pages of early English history, and give it a fictitious significance as the existing name of the district once
included in that extinct kingdom. The series of novels I projected being mainly of the kind called local, they seemed to require a territorial definition of some sort to lend unity to their scene.
--- from Hardy's Preface to the novel, 1895-1902 

The extinct kingdom to which Hardy refers, of course, is that ancient kingdom of the West Saxons known as Wessex. From the sixth to the tenth centuries the boundaries of Wessex expanded and contracted as wars went favorably or otherwise, but theheart of the kingdom, with its capitals first in Chard and then at Winchester, always lay in southwest England, and in large part approximated the area indicated by the map displayed above.
King Alfred the Great of Wessex, who styled himself King of the English, ruled from 871-899, and did much to consolidate the kingdom and advance the development of what was to become the English monarchy. 

 It was during the reign of King Athelstan (925-939), however, that the royal house of Wessex reached a peak of splendor and success, and the Wessex king could proudly lay claim to the title "King of all Britain".

The Battle of Hastings in 1066 sounded the death knell of the Saxon monarchy. When William the Conqueror claimed the English throne he quickly put down all resistance, and the Saxon nobility were largely destroyed and almost entirely dispossessed.

The bones of many of the kings of Wessex repose in mortuary chests within Winchester Cathedral. That city was the royal and ecclesiastical centre of Wessex, and the site of a minster church since the year 648.

Hardy's concept of Wessex, as we know it today, did not spring full-blown from his mind at an early stage. Rather, it evolved over the years in both size and exactitude as his imagination formulated a unifying geographic canvas for his novels and poems.

It was not until about 1884, when he began to write The Mayor of Casterbridge , that "... Hardy achieved a full realization of the Wessex concept, a realization which depended on the establishment of Casterbridge itself... as the central point, the economic, administrative, and social capital, of a whole region" (from Michael Millgate's Thomas Hardy:

 

His Career as a Novelist, which devotes a chapter to "The Evolution of Wessex").

In 1895-96, Hardy painstakingly revised his novels for the Osgood, McIlvaine collected editions soon to be published. He systematically changed place names and topography to conform consistently with the fictitious Wessex he had formulated. 

For example, actual place names were used in The Trumpet-Major when originally published in 1880; now Dorchester became Casterbridge, Weymouth became Budmouth, and so on. In other cases distances and directions were changed to conform to the actual landscape of the region. In Far From the Madding Crowd, for example, when driving the funeral cart from Casterbridge to Weatherbury, Joseph Poorgrass originally went up a hill, looked left to the sea, and saw high hills; this was modified to down a hill, looked right to the sea, and saw long ridges

The new wording more accurately describes what one would actually experience in traveling that route from west to east. Further revisions were made in later years for later editions, until finally Hardy's vast works conformed to the region that he envisioned and called Wessex. But as Thomas Hardy himself always maintained, "This is an imaginative Wessex only".



The Chesilbank

Stations
DORSET, HAMPSHIRE, BOURNEMOUTH,  POOLE,
PORTSMOUTH,  & SOUTHAMPTON RADIO STATIONS
Angel Community Radio
community radio for the over-60 age group.  fm  101.1 (Havant, Hampshire)
BBC Radio Solent
talk; news and sport; contemporary and oldies.  fm  96.1 (Bournemouth and Isle of Wight),  fm  103.8 (Poole and Dorset),  am  999 (Fareham, Hampshire),  am  1359 (Bournemouth)
 DAB  also available on local DAB digital radio, in the Bournemouth, Portsmouth,
   Southampton and South Hampshire areas.    listen now to BBC Radio Solent news on our audio pages

Capital Disney
recent chart music; stories and entertainment for a younger audience.  DAB  available on local DAB digital radio, in the Portsmouth, Southampton and South Hampshire areas
   broadcasting part-time 12:00 - 06:00 Mon to Thurs & 12:00 Fri - 06:00 Mon    listen live on our audio pages

Classic Gold 828
oldies and easy listening.  am  828 (Bournemouth, Poole, Hampshire and Dorset)
DAB  also available on local DAB digital radio, in the Bournemouth area.    listen live on our audio pages

1170 & 1557AM Capital Gold
oldies; sport .  am  1170 (Portsmouth),  am  1557 (Southampton) .    listen live on our audio pages.  DAB  also available on local DAB digital radio, in the Portsmouth, Southampton    and South Hampshire areas    address & telephone number.       
  DAB Guide  
Electronic Programme Guide for some services on the South Hants multiplex  DAB  this is a data service channel on DAB digital radio in South Hants
   Own a Wavefinder? You can download software to view the EPG

Delta FM
contemporary.  fm  101.6 (Fourmarks),  fm  101.8 (Petersfield),  fm  102.0 (Alton, Hampshire).    address & telephone number
107.6FM The Fire
   contemporary dance music .  fm  107.6 (Bournemouth)
Kiss
contemporary dance and classic dance anthems.  DAB  available on local DAB digital radio, in the Bournemouth area.    listen live on our audio pages
Isle Of Wight Radio
contemporary hit music.  fm  102.0 (Isle of Wight),  fm  107.0     listen live on our audio pages
107.6 Kestrel FM
adult contemporary music; talk .  fm  107.6 (Basingstoke, Hampshire)
Ocean FM
oldies & melodic pop music.  fm  96.7 (Winchester, Hampshire),  fm  97.5 (Portsmouth)
   listen live on our audio pages.  DAB  also available on local DAB digital radio, in the Portsmouth, Southampton    and South Hampshire areas    address & telephone number

Passion
Adult melodic and MOR; talk about green & environmental issues.  DAB  available on local DAB digital radio, in the South Hampshire area.    listen live on our audio pages
103.2 Power FM
contemporary .  fm  103.2 (Southampton).    listen live on our audio pages.  DAB  also available on local DAB digital radio, in the Portsmouth, Southampton   and South Hampshire areas.    address & telephone number
The Quay 107.4
contemporary and classic hits.  fm  107.4 (Portsmouth and Havant, Gosport and Fareham, Hampshire).    listen live on our audio pages
The Saint
current and classic hits; football coverage.  fm  107.8 (Southampton) .  DAB  available on local DAB digital radio, in the Portsmouth  and Southampton areas.    listen live on our audio pages
Saga Radio
easy listening music and talk.  DAB  available on local DAB digital radio, in the Portsmouth,    Southampton and South Hampshire areas.    listen live on our audio pages
Southampton Hospital Radio
  hospital radio service.  DAB  available on local DAB digital radio, in the Portsmouth,
   Southampton and South Hampshire areas,    between 11:00 and 12:00 weekdays

The Storm
  modern rock music from the last ten years.  DAB  available on local DAB digital radio, in the Bournemouth area.    listen live on our audio pages
2CR FM
top 40 chart music; contemporary hits.  fm  102.3 (Bournemouth, Poole, Dorset and Hampshire) .  DAB  also available on local DAB digital radio, in the Bournemouth area
  
listen live on our audio pages.    address & telephone number

2-Ten FM
top 40 chart music; contemporary hits.  fm  102.9 (Andover and Basingstoke, Hampshire)
   listen live on our audio pages.    address & telephone number

Vale FM
adult contemporary music; oldies .  fm  97.4 (Shaftesbury, Dorset),  fm  96.6 (South-West Wiltshire)
Wave 105
See the regional listing for further information and links
Wessex FM Wessexfm
adult contemporary hits.  fm  97.2 (Dorchester, Dorset),  fm  96.0 (Bridport)
Win 107.2
contemporary and classic hits.  fm  107.2 (Winchester, Hampshire)
Xfm

new rock, dance and indie.  DAB  available on local DAB digital radio, in the Portsmouth, Southampton  and South Hampshire areas.    listen live on our audio pages.

DORSET COUNTY AGRICULTURAL & HORSE SHOWS 2006
ALEC's DORSET
OUTDOOR EVENT GUIDE 2010

prepared by Lance Publications, Park House, Park Road, Petersfield, Hampshire, GU32 3DL email: info@showmans-directory.co.uk  website: www.showmans-directory.co.uk The full  Directory is available from them.
This section is included in memory of the late Alec Davey of R.Bromley & Co. Ltd- the wine  merchants, to commemorate his 25 years entertaining all at the major events
(1962-1987). Read about him CLICK HERE
Alec
                            Davey

February

March

April

May

June

July

 

August

September

October

November

December

LIST of CROQUET CLUBS IN DORSET

CLUB

CONTACT

 CHARLTON

Charlton Horethorne

near Sherborne

 

1 lawn

 

Mr. Trevor Gill

Abbots Cottage

Blackford Way

Charlton Horethorne

SHERBORNE DT9 4ND

01963 220767

charlton@swfcroquet.org.uk

  EAST DORSET  LT&CC
(PARKSTONE)
Salterns Road
Poole BH14 8BL
01202 740219 

5 lawns

http://www.edltcc.com/croquet/

Mr. Pat Oxley
Flat 3
13 Motcombe Road
POOLE
Dorset BH13 6DJ
01202 751693
parkstone@swfcroquet.org.uk
  HAMPTWORTH GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
Hamptworth Road, Hamptworth
Landford, near Salisbury SP5 2DU
01794 390155

2 lawns

Plays in Southern Federation

http://www.hamptworthgolf.co.uk

Mr.Richard Dickson
Wick Farm
Wick Lane
DOWNTON
SP5 3NH
01725 511586
hamptworth@swfcroquet.org.uk
  KINGSTON MAURWARD
Kingston Maurward College
Dorchester DT2 8PY

1 almost full size lawn + 1 half size

Mrs.C.A.Reade
8 Riverside
BEAMINSTER
Dorset
DT8 3NJ
01308 862664
kingstonmaurward@swfcroquet.org.uk
 LYM VALLEY
King George V Playing Fields
Uplyme
Lyme Regis 

1 half size lawn + 2 lawns on cricket pitch

Miss P.Fortescue
3 Haye Close
LYME REGIS
Dorset
DT7 3NJ
01297 442181
lymvalley@swfcroquet.org.uk
  SWANAGE

Swanage Cricket Club

Ground day's Park

Swanage

 

Golf Croquet Only

3 lawns on cricket pitch

Mr. Roy Smith

Coombe End Cottage

5 New Buildings

Combe

SWANAGE BH19 3DL

01929 421086

swanage@swfcroquet.org.uk


Wessex Fishing
FISHING LAKES / RIVERS
DORSET
If you are looking for Free Fishing in the UK Click on Picture above
Amherst Lodge Uplyme, Dorset. Tel: 01297 442773
Avon Tyrrell Lakes Avon Tyrrell House, Bransgore, Christchurch, Dorset. BH23 8EE   Two lakes totalling approx 2.5 acres (Carp, Tench, Roach, Bream, Perch and Rudd)Tel: 01425 672347 Mangerton Valley Course Fishing Lake Bradpole, Dorset.
Tel:  01308 458482
Bridport Nets Bridport, Dorset.  Tel: 01308 420927 Mudeford Wood Lake Christchurch, Dorset.
Tel:  01202 485169
Christchurch Harbour Christchurch, Dorset. Tel: 01202 485169 Osmington Mills Holidays Osmington Mills, Weymouth, Dorset. DT3 6HB 
1 Acre Lake Carp, Tench, Bream, Roach (May 23rd - March 15th)
Tel: 01305 832311
Cranborne Fruit Farm Cranborne, Dorset. Tel: 01425 475155 Radipole Lake Council Offices, North Quay, Weymouth, Dorset. DT4 8TA
70 acres plus.Carp to 20lb, Eels, Roach to 2lb, Dace, Pike, Mullet.
Tel: 01305 206234
Email: davidtattersall@wpbc.weymouth.gov.uk
Crooked Willows Mannington, Dorset.
Tel: 01202 882240
Revels Cosmore, Nr Dorchester, Dorset.
Tel:  01300 345301
Dorchester & District Angling Society
www.d-das.com
Tel: 01305 835283
River Stour Iford, Dorset.
Tel:  01202 395532
Dorset Stour Iford to Wick, Christchurch, Dorset.
Tel: 01202 485169
Royalty Fishery Christchurch, Dorset.
Tel:  01202 485169
Dorset Stour Muscliffe, Dorset.
Tel: 01425 461038
Pallington Lakes Pallington, Dorchester, Dorset. DT2 8QU  
Lakes: Carp to 30lb 12oz, Tench to 12lb 3oz, Perch to 4lb 13oz, Grayling to 3lb 4oz, Roach, Bream, Chub, Rudd.
Tel: 01305 848141 / 07887 840507
Email: pallatrax@aol.com
Dorset Springs Fishery Sturminster, Dorset.
Tel: 01258 857653
Sopley Farm PYO Sopley, Christchurch, Dorset. 
8 acre lake. 1000 yard perimeter. (Carp, Bream, Roach, Rudd.)
Tel: 01425 672451
Flowers Farm Trout Lakes Hilfield, Dorset.
Tel: 01300 341351
Sturminster & Hinton A.A (Coarse Lakes) Dorset.
Gold Oak Farm Cranbourne, Dorset.
Tel: 01725 517275
Throop Fisheries Dorset, Stour, Dorset.
Tel: 01202 485169
Hermitage Lakes Dorchester, Dorset.
Tel: 01963 210556
Todber Manor Nr Hazelbury Bryan, Dorset.
Tel: 01258 820384
Hill View Farm Lake Corfe, Dorset.
Tel: 01258 857238
Wessex Fly Fishing Trout Lakes Dorchester, Dorset.
Tel: 01305 848460
Hyde Lake Hyde, Dorset.
Tel: 01929 471402
Whirlwind Lake Dudmoor Lane, Christchurch, Dorset.
Tel: 01202 485169
Lake Farm Fishery Alderholt, Dorset.
Tel: 01425 653383
Whitemoor Lake Broom Hill, Wimborne, Dorset.
Tel: 01202 884478
 Luckfield Lake Broadmayne, Dorset.
Tel: 05896 80464/01305 266500
Winkton Fishery Winkton, Nr Christchurch, Dorset.
Tel: 01202 485169
Lyons Gate Nr Dorchester, Dorset.
Tel: 01300 345260
Woodfarm Caravan Park Charmouth, Dorset.
Tel: 01297 560697
Martins Farm Fishery Martins Farm Woodlands, Nr Verwood, Dorset.
 2.5 acre spring fed lake. ( Carp, Tench, Perch, Roach, Rudd.)
Tel: 01202 822335
East Moors Lake East Moors Farm, East Moors Lane, St. Leonards Ferndale, Nr Bournemouth Dorset.  
1.5 acre lake. (Carp: common, mirror, ghost, leather, purple blushing; Tench, Gold Tench, Roach, Perch, Rudd, Chub & pike.)
Tel: 01202 872302
golfer Lists of Golf Clubs in Dorset
The "Top Shots: Women of Professional Golf 2006 Calendar" can be purchased at www.womensgolfcalendar.com.
Some of the proceeds benefit breast cancer support and others benefit a scholarship fund for the ALPG.



Belinda Kerr  
Carlie Butler 
Dana
                          Lacey 
kristie
                          Newton
Nikki
                          Garrett
Sarah
                          Kemp
Belinda Kerr
Carlie Butler
Dana Lacey
Kristie Newton
Nikki Garrett
Sarah Kemp
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                            errors.
National County Card
Buy a National County Card Here
Benefits for Golfers


    * Play over 1,000 courses at the members' guest rate or similar.
    * Get discounts at some of the top clubs - discounts that are often not available via any other scheme.
    * Support your Club - when you join, your golf club also receives £5* which can go towards either keeping membership fees lower or club development.
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CLICK ON CARD TO THE LEFT FOR FULL DETAILS & TO BUY

The Ashley Wood,
Wimborne Road, Blandford Forum, DT11 9HN

Bridport & West Dorset,
Burton Road, Bridport, DT6 4PS

Broadstone (Dorset) , Wentworth Drive, Broadstone, BH18 8DQ

Bulbury Woods,
Bulbury Lane, Lytchett Matravers, Poole, BH16 6EP
GREENFREE

Came Down,
Came Down, Dorchester,
DT2 8NR

Canford Magna,
Knighton Lane, Wimborne, BH21 3AS
GREENFREE

Canford School,
Canford School, Wimborne, BH21 3AD

Charminster,
Wolfedale Golf Course, Charminster, Dorchester,
DT2 7SG

Chedington Court,
South Perrott, Beaminster, DT8 3HU

Christchurch,
Riverside Avenue, Bournemouth, BH7 7ES

Crane Valley,
The Clubhouse, Verwood, BH31 7LE
GREENFREE

The Dorset G & CC,
Bere Regis, Wareham,
BH20 7NT
GREENFREE

Dudsbury,
64 Christchurch Road, Ferndown, BH22 8ST
GREENFREE

Ferndown,
119 Golf Links Road, Ferndown, BH22 8BU

Ferndown Forest,
Forest Links Road, Ferndown, BH22 9QE

Halstock,
Common Lane, Halsock, BA22 9SF

Highcliffe Castle,
107 Lymington Road, Highcliffe-on-Sea, Christchurch
BH23 4LA

Iford Golf Centre,
Riverside Avenue, Bournemouth, BH7 7ES

Isle of Purbeck,
Studland, BH19 3AB

Knighton Heath,
Francis Avenue, West Howe, Bournemouth, BH11 8NX

Lyme Regis,
Timber Hill, Lyme Regis,
DT7 3HQ
GREENFREE

Lyons Gate,
Lyons Gate Farm, Lyons Gate, Dorchester, DT2 7AZ

Meyrick Park,
Central Drive, Bournemouth, BH2 6LH

Moors Valley,
Horton Road, Ringwood,
BH24 2ET

Parkstone,
Links Road, Parkstone, Poole, BH14 9QS

Parley Court,
Parley Green Lane, Hurn, Christchurch, BH23 6BB

Queens Park (Bournemouth), Queens Park West Drive, Queens Park, Bournemouth, BH8 9BY

Riversmeet Par Three,
Stony Lane South, Christchurch, BH23 1HW

Sherborne,
Higher Clatcombe, Clatcombe, Sherborne, DT9 4RN

Solent Meads Par Three,
Rolls Drive, Southbourne, Bournemouth, BA6 4NA

Sturminster Marshall,
Moor Lane, Sturminster Marshall, BH21 4AH

Wareham,
Sandford Road, Wareham, BH20 4DH
GREENFREE

Weymouth,
Links Road, Weymouth,
DT4 0PF
GREENFREE

Horse Riding in Dorset
Cupid Centre Wessex Horseriding
This section has been added for horse lovers visiting Wessex
as
an extra service for visitors and to promote the wonderful work of the
 Bella Moss Foundation.

Please click through to their pages and give to help our animal friends
Amy
                            Winehouse Anjolina Jolie Britny Spears Katie Price LaToya Jackson Leona Lewis Madonna
Nicole Kidman & Hugh Jackman
Tara Palmer- Tomkinson
and
                            their grroms
Amy Winehouse
Anjolina Jolie
Britny Spears
Katie Price
LaToya Jackson
Leona Lewis
Madonna
Nicole Kidman & Hugh Jackman
Tara Palmer Tomkinson
...and their grooms
Blandford Coombs Stables: Bushes Farm, Shaftesbury Lane, Blandford. Tel: (01258) 455846
Blandford Deer Park Riding Stables Whitecliff Mill Street, Blandford. Tel: (01258) 453283
Blandford
Higher Houghton Stables
A combination of helpful, dedicated staff, a peaceful environment and excellent equestrian facilities make Higher Houghton the perfect choice for livery or rehabilitation for your horse. What's On Offer at Higher Houghton Stables? Higher Houghton Stables offers a full range of livery packages and equestrian facilities for liveries, visitors and event organisers. And, if you want to bring your horse on holiday or to go hunting, there are also two spacious apartments for let in a converted 17th century barn.
Higher Houghton, Winterbourne Houghton, Blandford, Dorset DT11 OPG
Tel: 01258 881103
email mjhoughton@aol.com
HIGHER HOUGHTON STABLES CLICK
Blandford
Pound Cottage
 is situated in the heart of Dorset on a 500 acre farm. It is surrounded by beautiful countryside, woodland and many bridlepaths, which give a range of superb hacking - with no roadwork necessary. Riders are assessed before hacking. Lessons are available in a covered school and floodlit arena
Luccombe Farm, Milton Abbas, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 0BD
Telephone 01258 880057
POUND COTTAGE CLICK 



Bovington The Bovington RAC Saddle Club Bovington Camp. Bovington, Dorset
Christchurch
Dudmoor Farm Riding Stables
Pony trekking, riding instruction, liveries - all in a delightful area of sandy tracks through woodland with no road work. Please telephone for prices.
Dudmoor Farm Road, (off Fairmile Road)
CHRISTCHURCH, Dorset BH23 6AQ
 Tel: +44 (1202) 473826
Fax: +44 (1202) 480207
Corfe Castle
Rempstone Stables
We are situated in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset, surrounded by hundreds of acres of superb off-road riding, including forest, heath and Studland beach. We offer riding for everyone, from beginners to more experienced riders.
REMPSTONE STABLES CLICK
Tel: 01929 480490
Dorchester
Moreton Stables Dorchester, Dorset   Tel: +44 01929 463662 Map
Dorchester Kingston Maurward College
BHS Examination Centre
BHS Approved Riding Centre open to the public with superb dressage and show jumping facilities and a full calendar of affiated and unaffiliated events. Our equestrian centre offers superb facilities, very experienced instructors and a range of well-schooled horses and ponies. Kingston Maurward equine courses offer work-based learning, first diploma, national award, national diploma and foundation degree courses in equine studies.
Kingston Maurward, Dorchester. DORSET DT2 8PY  Tel: +44 01305 215063  Map
KINGSTON MAUWARD CLICK

Ferndown Stocks Farm Equestrian Centre Tel: 01202 570288
Gillingham Long Lane Stables Penselwood, Gillingham. Tel: (01747) 840283
Gillingham PIPPIN EQUESTRIAN
BHS Approved Riding School, Competition & Training & Livery Yard. Horse and Pony Sales. Horse riding holidays. Pony Club Centre. A wide range of courses, workshops and tuition available, including British Horse Society examinations and National Vocational Qualifications. Resident Trainer: Helen Barton-Smith BHSI.
Pippin Equestrian Ltd, Presthayes Farm, Eccliffe, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5RE Tel: (01747) 822997
PIPPIN CLICK
Gillingham Westbrook Equestrian Centre Longham, Gillingham. Tel: (01747) 823442
Lulworth
Lulworth Equestrian Centre, 
12,000 acre estate of outstanding scenic beauty.
Instruction, hacking, holidays, 12,000 acre estate of outstanding scenic beauty.
Kennel Farm,Coombe Keynes,Wareham
Dorset BH20 5QR Tel: 01929 400396



Portland
Windmill Stables Weston. Portland. Dorset Tel: +44 01305 823719
Shaftesbury Half Moon Stud
Forest Lodge Farm, Motcombe, Shaftesbury. Tel: (01747) 851685
Shaftesbury Meader's Farm Motcombe, Shaftesbury. Tel: (01747) 854772
Sherborne
Bridleways Oborne Road. SHERBORNE. Dorset DT9 3RX  Tel: +44 01935 814716   Map
St Leonards Forest Edge Riding Stables Oakdene Holiday Park, St Leonards. Tel: (01202) 897616
St Leonards Forest Pines Riding Centre Tel: 01202 871828
Studland
Studland Riding Stables
Beach riding on Studland Beach is just one of the memorable rides on offer from Studland Riding Stables in Dorset. We are a small friendly stables situated in the picturesque village of Studland.  Studland Riding Stables also offers Western riding, a more relaxed style and comfortable way to explore Dorset.
Ferry Road, Studland, Dorset, BH19 3AQ
STUDLAND RIDING STABLES CLICK
Tel: 01929 450273
email:info@studlandstables.com
Verwood Brambles Farm Riding School, Gotham Tel: 01202 822837
Weymouth Bramdon Farm Trekking Centre, Portesham Tel: 01305 871011
Weymouth Lanehouse Equitation Centre Tel: 01305 770177
Weymouth Ranch House East Farm Dairy, Osmington Mills, Dorset  Tel: +44 01305 833578
Weymouth Riding School, Chickerell Tel: 01305 771760
Wimborne Green Cottage Riding Centre
Hacking, lessons and birthday parties available for novice and experienced riders. Discounts on 10 rides pre-paid.Groups welcome but please telephone in advance.Holidaymakers welcome.New Forest Pony Stud ponies sometimes for sale.Small family riding centre with friendly atmosphere. Hacking, lessons and birthday parties available for novice and experienced riders.
136 Church Road
Three Legged Cross
WIMBORNE Dorset BH21 6RF
 
Tel: (01202) 822632
Wimborne Holtwood Riding Stables, Holt Tel: 01258 840293
Wimborne Rushall Park Riding Stables, Corfe Mullen Corfe Mullen, Nr Wimborne. Tel: (01202) 691988

Liliweto Riding Stables: King's Stag. Tel: (01963) 234662
Riding for the Disabled: Henstridge. Tel: (01963) 362385
 Forest Park Riding Stables
Tel: 01590 623429
Sims Cottage Stables
Tel: 01425 612961 


Tennis Clubs in Dorset
Tennis Dating -Click on picture
Join Us
 
Dorset LTA
Bournemouth
Bournemouth Gardens
David Lloyd Bournemouth
Shelley Park Southbourne
Southbourne | Total Tennis site
Swanmore Bowling & Tennis
Victoria Avenue Winton | Total Tennis site
West Hants | Total Tennis site
Winton

 
 Bridport 
Corfe Mullen
Dorchester
Mudeford Wood Christchurch
St Leonards & St Ives
St Osmund's Dorchester
Sherborne | Total Tennis site
Stourpaine
Swanage
Weymouth
Weymouth Civil Service
Wimborne Minster | Total Tennis site

Poole
Branksome Tennis Facility
Broadstone Leisure Centre
East Dorset
Esporta Dorset
University of Bournemouth Fernbarrow


Get Your Cerdic Merchandise and show your connection with the Ancient Kingdom of Wessex
Cerdic
                          postcards
Cerdic postcards
cerdic badge
The Cerdic Badge
Cerdic Cap
Cerdic's Crown
Kids Sweat Shirt
Cerdic's Kids Jousting Shirt
Cerdic T Shirt
Cerdic's Armour
 White T-shirt
Cerdic Wall
                          Clock
Cerdic Wall Clock Its Been ticking since 497 B.C.
Cerdic Baby Grow
Cerdics Babygrow
Dog T-
                            Shirt
Make Your Dog King For A Day With his own T-Shirt
cerdic
Just click on Cerdic or the Blue Line to go to the purchase site. 
Cerdics merchandise 

Cerdic
                          Teddy bear
Cerdic Teddy Bear
Cerdic Drinking Vessel
Cerdic's Saxon Lager Drinking Vessel
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                          TRUST MAP

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