Dorchester Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Dorchester which includes street scenes as well as a large group of people
Tutankhamun: The Exhibition which includes heritage architecture
Maiden Castle which includes tranquil scenes
Dorchester featuring street scenes and heritage architecture
Maiden Castle featuring tranquil scenes

With greater historical legacies than many far bigger cities, Dorset's county town is rich in sights and activities for the curious traveller.

Explore prehistoric ruins, ancient amphitheaters and literary locations in cultural Dorchester. Founded by the Romans in a land previously inhabited by Stone Age farmers, this town still displays the heritage of these two distinct groups. Walk through the town and surrounding area to see the lasting impact of Dorchester's colourful history.

Orient yourself by finding the centrally located obelisk, which was once the town pump. Learn about the region's past at the Dorset County Museum, which houses local archaeological findings, Tudor paintings and manuscripts from local writer Thomas Hardy. Many of the exhibits relate to Dorchester's most famous sights.

Travel further back in time at the Tutankhamun ExhibitionOpens in a new window, featuring recreations of Egypt's most famous mummy. Discover different facets of history at the Keep Military Museum, the Dinosaur Museum and the Terracotta Warriors Museum.

Continue your journey into history outdoors, stopping at the Maumbury RingsOpens in a new window. This ancient circle, a short walk from the town centre, is made of three different layers dating from the Neolithic, Roman and English Civil War eras. Find out how Romans lived at the remains of a Roman Town House and relax in the green Borough Gardens which hosts many of the town's cultural events.

Outside the city limits, discover even more area stories. Marvel at the mysterious Cerne Abbas GiantOpens in a new window, Britain's largest chalk drawing. Historians disagree on the origins and purpose of the famous naked figure. View the drawing from afar for the whole picture or stroll around it to see pleasant scenery and local wildlife.

South of town lies Maiden CastleOpens in a new window, a hill fort about 5,000 years old. Examine the Roman temple and Neolithic defenses and admire spectacular views over the town. The ancient settlement is free to visit and open year-round.

Dorchester has two railway stations, both 5-minute walks from the town centre. Trains from London regularly head to Dorchester South. Arrange to visit in spring or summer to thoroughly appreciate the outdoor attractions that make the town such a fascinating destination.

George Albert Hotel & Spa

George Albert Hotel & Spa

3 out of 5
Wardon Hill Farm, Evershot, Dorchester, England
The price is AU$225 per night from 17 Aug to 18 Aug
AU$225
17 Aug - 18 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star spa hotel in Dorchester. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (442 reviews)
"Very comfy bed, room was a good size & light & clean. Bathroom had both shower & bath & was clean. Did not have any charging points in the room. Breakfast was very good, however not organised in keeping items in hot section topped up so ended up not having all items."

Reviewed on 10 Aug. 2025

George Albert Hotel & Spa
Summer Lodge Country House Hotel

Summer Lodge Country House Hotel

5 out of 5
9 Forestreet, Evershot, Dorchester, England
The price is AU$622 per night from 19 Aug to 20 Aug
AU$622
19 Aug - 20 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Dorchester. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Mapperton Gardens and Cerne Abbas ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (118 reviews)
"It was just great overall."

Reviewed on 3 Aug. 2025

Summer Lodge Country House Hotel
Laguna Hotel

Laguna Hotel

3 out of 5
6 Suffolk Road South, Bournemouth, England
The price is AU$106 per night from 7 Sept to 8 Sept
AU$106
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Bournemouth. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
7/10 Good! (1,008 reviews)
"All of the staff were friendly and helpful. Breakfast - lovely! Nice comfy bed and spacious room."

Reviewed on 9 Aug. 2025

Laguna Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Dorchester Nook

Dorchester Nook

Dorchester
Stay at this apartment in Dorchester. Enjoy free WiFi. Popular attractions Borough Gardens and Tutankhamun: The Exhibition are located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
Room near Dorchester centre
"Good sized en suite room in private flat. Powerful shower, good wifi. Convenient for Dorchester centre, no parking but public (paid) car park just across the road. There is a cat. Comfortable bed and very quiet location even though close to centre"

Reviewed on 23 Apr. 2025

Dorchester Nook
4 Bed-2 Bath-sleeps 8-large Garden-pet Friendly

4 Bed-2 Bath-sleeps 8-large Garden-pet Friendly

2 out of 5
Dorchester
Stay at this residence in Dorchester. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Cerne Abbas Giant and Badger Watch Dorset are located ...
4 Bed-2 Bath-sleeps 8-large Garden-pet Friendly
The Ivy Apartments

The Ivy Apartments

2 out of 5
2-4 Crescent Road, Bournemouth, England
Stay at this aparthotel in Bournemouth. Enjoy free WiFi and housekeeping. Popular attractions Bournemouth Beach and Poole Harbour are located nearby.
The Ivy Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Activities

Cities near Dorchester