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A guide to Dorset, England, highlighting attractions, history, and visitor information.
 
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Home > England > Dorset > Gazetteer of Countryside
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Dorset Coast and Countryside


Dorset is well provided with places to explore for those who enjoy getting out and about.

Walking Trails
The South West Coast Path follows the entire coastline of Dorset on its way to Devon and Cornwall.

Coastal Attractions

  • Jurassic Coast - the Dorset coast from Studland to Devon has been awarded World Heritage status for its geologic importance. Visitors can try their hand at hunting for fossils or join a guided fossil walk.
  • Chesil Bank and The Fleet - A striking shingle beach stretching 8 miles from Portland to Abbotsbury, Chesil Bank protects a shallow lagoon called The Fleet from the ravages of the sea. The Bank and Fleet provide habitat for a variety of bird and plant life, as well as a large colony of mute swans at the Abbotsbury Swannery.
  • Durdle Door - A natural stone arch which allows the sea to pass through. Located just to the west of Lulworth Cove.
  • Lulworth Cove - Lulworth Cove is a horseshoe shaped harbour within the grounds of the Lulworth Estate. The region is a geologist's dream, featuring some of the finest geomorphology and folding strata in Europe.
  • Purbeck Heritage Coast
    The heritage coast runs from Arne, in Poole Harbour, along the southern shore of the Isle of Purbeck to Weymouth Bay.
  • West Dorset Heritage Coast
    The heritage coast extends from Seaton in the west almost to the Bill of Portland in the east. This is excellent walking country. The South West Coast Path runs along the clifftops, but there are also numerous waymarked trails looping inland from the coast.

Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
This AONB takes in the heritage coasts of Purbeck and West Dorset (see above), and stretches inland to cover the broad chalk valleys and ridges of central Dorset. For information, visit the Dorset AONB Partnership website at www.dorsetaonb.org.uk/ or telephone them on 01305 224279.

Also partly in Dorset is the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs AONB. More information at www.ccwwdaonb.org.uk/


 Chesil Bank and the Fleet
We had the pleasure of visiting here, and our information is based on our personal experiences  

Chesil Bank and the Fleet The Chesil Beach Centre near Portland tells the story of the region's unique geology through a series of interactive displays. Visitors can also take a trip on the glass-bottomed Fleet Observer boat to examine the marine world of Chesil more closely. more...
Chesil Beach Visitor Centre, Portland Beach Road Portland, Dorset, England, DT4 9XE

Attraction Type: Countryside
Location: off the A354 between Weymouth and Portland
Website: Chesil Bank and the Fleet
Email: reserve@chesil.fsworld.co.uk
Phone: 01305 760 579
Fax: 01305 759 692
Location map
OS Grid SY669 756
Photo Credit: David Ross and Britain Express
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 Jurassic Coast
  

Jurassic Coast Much of the coast of Dorset has been designated a World Heritage Site for its geological importance. Dubbed "The Jurassic Coast", this area, stretches 95 miles from Studland Bay in the east to Exmouth in Devon. The best place for visitors to try their hand at fossil hunting is at Charmouth, West Dorset. The visitor parking lot at Charmouth gives access to the beach, and a short stroll along the beach often results in discovery of small fossils. The Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre provides information about the area's unique geology and tips for what to look for as you explore. more...
Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre, Lower Sea Lane Charmouth, Dorset, England, DT6 6LL

Attraction Type: Countryside
Location: In the village of Charmouth, 3 miles from Lyme Regis.
Website: Jurassic Coast
Email: info@charmouth.org
Phone: 01297 560 772
Fax: 01297 560 772
Location map
OS Grid SY3657093470
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   Nearest: hotels - cottages - Bed and Breakfasts





  



Accommodation
Dorset

Main House and Annexe

Broadoak
Self catering cottage

MAIN HOUSE AND ANNEXE WHEN BOOKED TOGETHER. optional ajoining door for when the whole house is booked

Will sleep 12 consisting of 3 double rooms … more >>
Sleeps 12

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Dorset

Maple

North Chideock
Self catering cottage

Maple offers 1 spacious double, 1 twin, bathroom, spacious lounge (with double sofa bed £30 charge for use)/kitchen dining area with all equipment. more >>
Sleeps 6

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Bournemouth (Hotel)

Norfolk Royale Classic Hotel

The Norfolk Royale - a member of Classic British Hotels, is a fine Edwardian hotel, at the heart of Bournemouth close to the elegant shops, magnificent gardens and renowned theatres. Glass domed Leisure Spa with pool, Jacuzzi, steam and sauna. Echoes Restaurant offers wide choices. The hotel offers luxury rooms … more >>

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Bournemouth (Hotel)

Wessex Hotel

Ideally located on the West Cliff just a minute from the beach and within easy walking distance of the town centre. Extensive parking, a restaurant and a modern leisure centre with indoor and outdoor heated pools, sauna, solarium and gym have made it one of the most popular hotels in … more >>

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