A Week in Dorset
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Planning a holiday in Dorset? Whether you're visiting for the coastline, charming towns, countryside walks, family attractions, or stunning scenery, Dorset is one of the best destinations in England for an unforgettable week. This 7-day itinerary is just a snapshot to explore the best beaches, towns, scenic spots, and attractions Dorset has to offer.
Day 1 - Welcome to Dorset & Explore Weymouth
Morning - Weymouth Beach
Relax on Weymouth Beach, famous for its golden sands and calm waters. Stroll along the Esplanade and soak in the seaside views.
Afternoon - Weymouth Harbour
Explore Weymouth Harbour with colourful boats, quaint cafes, and lively seaside charm. Perfect for a gentle afternoon stroll.
Evening
Dinner at a harbour-side restaurant and a sunset walk along the beach to begin your Dorset holiday.
Day 2 - Portland & Coastline Adventure
- Visit Portland Bill Lighthouse for stunning coastal views.
- See Pulpit Rock, one of the most photographed rocks in Dorset.
- See Chesil Beach of the most famous beaches in the UK.
- Visit Portland Castle for history and panoramic views.
- Stop off at Church Ope Cove and see the Bow and Arrow Castle ruins and the isolated Church Ope Cove Beach - likely a hotspot for smugglers many year ago.
- Walk around the Portland coastline and see some of the most dramatic rugged coastline in the area.
Day 3 - Jurassic Coast Wonders
- Visit Durdle Door, the iconic limestone arch.
- Explore Lulworth Cove and surrounding geology trails.
- Enjoy lunch in Lulworth.
- Take a walk to Stair Hole for spectacular coastal views.
Day 4 - Dorchester & Countryside Charm
- Explore Dorchester's independent shops, cafes, and Borough Gardens.
- Visit the county towns museums.
- Visit Hardy's Cottage or Max Gate the homes of Dorset's most famed author.
- Pay a visit to the Maumbury Rings a Roman Amphitheatre in the centre of town.
- Walk around Maiden Castle an iron age Hill Fort.
- Eat at one of the many Dorchester Restaurants
Day 5 - West Bay & Bridport Coastline
- Marvel at the West Bay cliffs, filming location for Broadchurch.
- Walk around the harbour and enjoy seafood at a local eatery or one of the harbourside huts
- Explore Bridport town, known for its market, quirky shops and museum.
- Try a coastal walk up the cliffs to nearby villages like Eype or Seatown and enjoy stunning views along the way.
Day 6 - Swanage, Corfe Castle & Tyneham
- Ride the Swanage Steam Railway for a nostalgic experience.
- Visit the iconic Corfe Castle ruins.
- Stroll Swanage Beach & Pier.
- Lunch or cream tea at one of the local cafe's or restaurants.
- If it's open, pay a visit to the historic and unique Tyneham Village, requisitioned by the MOD in WW2, the villagers were never allowed to return and today it stands as a ruined village stood still in wartime England. (It's advisable to check opening times first).
Day 7 - Relax, Explore & Farewell Dorset
Spend your last day revisiting favourite spots, relaxing on the beach, enjoying a coastal walk or souvenir shopping before heading home.
Why Dorset is Perfect for Your Holiday
- Beautiful beaches & seaside towns
- Stunning Jurassic Coast scenery
- Family-friendly attractions
- Charming villages & countryside
- Relaxed holiday atmosphere with plenty to see and do
Insider Tips & Practical Advice
- Summer months are busiest; early mornings are best for popular spots.
- Check opening times for castles, museums, and attractions.
- Parking is available at most attractions; Usually car parks require payment.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; many coastal paths and countryside walks are uneven.
FAQs - Planning Your Week in Dorset
Is one week enough to explore Dorset?
There is certainly enough to do on a seven-day visit. This page provides just a small snapshot of some of the things you can do.
Do I need a car in Dorset?
A car is recommended for full access to rural and coastal attractions. Public transport can cover central towns like Weymouth and Dorchester.
What's the best time of year to visit Dorset?
Spring to early autumn (April-September) is ideal for beaches and coastal walks. Winter offers quieter visits and festive events in towns.
Start planning your Dorset holiday today and make the most of everything this beautiful county has to offer!
Explore More of Dorset
- Weymouth Day Trip - A perfect and simple Day Trip to Weymouth.
- Weymouth Beaches - Read about the Beaches around Weymouth.
- Weymouth Harbour - What to do around Weymouth Harbour.
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Discover our newest guides exploring Dorset's history, hidden gems and fascinating places.
The Nothe Fort is a victorian fort now a museum of life in Weymouth during world war II.
The Pirates Graveyard at Church Ope Cove on Portland is found high above Church Ope Cove.
Tyneham Ghost Village is a deserted village.
There are plenty of things to do in Weymouth when it rains and lots more things to do around Dorset too.
Did you know that the Black Death arrived in England in 1348 through the port of Weymouth.
Portland Harbour History, the Portland Breakwaters, the sinking of HMS Hood and Portland at war.