Here are plenty of ideas of things to do, where to stay and what's on in this gentle, breathtakingly beautiful part of the county.
When life gets hectic, we all dream of getting away from it all to enjoy life’s simple pleasures of fresh air, space to breath and the chance to savour delicious local food. Rural Dorset is the perfect place to do all these things and more.
Take time to explore the area’s rich history, discover country houses and glorious gardens, ramble along miles of footpaths in stunning countryside or take in some rural crafts at a local event.
Dorset’s countryside is almost entirely designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It includes iconic landmarks such Gold Hill in Shaftesbury and many ancient hill forts such as Badbury Rings and Hambledon & Hod Hills. The countryside is varied and includes forests, heathlands, river valleys stunning landscapes and spectacular views - all at your fingertips.
There’s plenty of opportunity to get out and about to explore and discover new things, have fun and get back to nature. Uncover some of the county’s flora and fauna from unusual orchids to otters and kingfishers, water voles to rare reptiles and Dorset is also home to 85% of the UK’s butterfly species. There are also RSPB and nature reserves full of new wonders to visit across the county.
Historic market towns in Dorset offer a fusion of old and new with thriving shopping, beautiful places to stay and outstanding medieval landmarks and buildings. Wander along cobbled streets, discover hidden courtyards and listen to fascinating tales through history.
Take a look through a window in time and visit Sherborne, Dorset's medieval gem with magnificient history within its very foundations or ramble down the steep cobbled streets of Gold Hill in Shaftesbury, famous for the backdrop to the 1970s Hovis advert.
Blandford Forum is a small Georgian Town with stunning architecture its own brewery. The lavish Kingston Lacy house which was inspired by an Italian palace is nearby.
Sturminster Newton is a book lover's paradise as it was once home to Thomas Hardy and William Barnes and lastly, the beautiful, historic market town of Wimborne Minster set in a picturesque location on the banks of the rivers Stour and Allen is home to a intriguing historic buildings and ancient sites including its Minster church and unique Chained Library created in 1686.
All of these towns are found in Dorset's beautiful countryside, overflowing with incredible history!
Explore more than 4,700 footpaths to wander, archaeological sites to uncover, fun attractions to enjoy, stately homes to treasure and glorious gardens to discover.
Anglers will enjoy the area’s well-stocked lakes and rivers, and golfers have a fantastic choice of high quality, varied courses to challenge them.
Too active? How about indulging in our favourite pastime, savouring Dorset's deliciously famous local food. Tickle your taste bud's with a scrumptious Dorset cream tea, or treat yourself to our very own rich Blue Vinney cheese and Moor's Biscuits. Why not visit one of our splended food festivals for the very best locally produced tasty treats.
There’s a colourful calendar of fun events throughout rural Dorset which are hugely anticipated and attract thousand's of visitors year after year. Wimborne Folk Festival, Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Show, Great Dorset Steam Fair, Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival, Sting in The Tale Festival of Stories and Milton Abbas Street Fair are just a few of the events that reflect the vibrant and diverse qualities of rural Dorset.
Don't forget the superb Farmers’ Markets which are held regularly all year round. Get your fix of fresh, high quality local food & drink no matter what month of the year!
There’s plenty more to choose from!
Feeling tempted and want to explore more? Start planning your break away to your own little corner of Dorset by booking your accommodation - keep an eye on the Special Offers pages for some great value late deals.
For the latest events in Dorset, check out what's on or for more ideas look for things to do for a vast range of attractions, activities, shopping, entertainment and lot's more!
Follow us on social media for up-to-date information, holiday inspiration, competitions, picturesque Dorset imagery, events and everything else in-between.
Cosy cottages, farm houses, homely B&Bs or country inns - the choice is yours.
Museums, mills, stately houses, tree top trails, hot air balloon rides, model towns, animal farms and theme parks - the list is endless!
With music, food, historical and art events happening all year round - there is always something to keep you entertained in rural Dorset.
Impressive Georgian architecture, a charming parish church and a wonderful market place.
Quintessential Dorset, with thatched cottages, quaint tea shops and small independent shops in one of the oldest and highest towns in England.
Medieval and mellow-stoned, this Dorset gem has a reputation for art, antiques and world famous schools.
A charming rural town that is rich in history and famed for it's festival of cheese.
The beautiful, historic market town of Wimborne Minster, is famed for its gracious Minster Church, heritage and family attractions, and picturesque riverside location.