Dorset offers extensive free, natural, and historical attractions, primarily centered on the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast. Top free sights include the iconic Durdle Door arch, fossil hunting at Lyme Regis, hiking Old Harry Rocks, exploring the "ghost village" of Tyneham, and wandering the scenic South West Coast Path.
There's no single "prettiest" town in Dorset as it's subjective, but popular contenders include the historic market town Sherborne, the iconic ruins of Corfe Castle village, the charming seaside town of Lyme Regis, and the picturesque thatched cottages of Milton Abbas, alongside others like Shaftesbury, Swanage, and Abbotsbury, each offering unique coastal beauty or countryside charm.
Yes, parts of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince were filmed in Dorset, specifically at Abbotsbury Swannery, where the reed beds were used to digitally create the exterior of the Weasley family's home, The Burrow, for night shots. Dorset's film locations, Dorset's film locations
One of the most well-known TV series shot in Dorset, Broadchurch features West Bay, Weymouth and Charmouth as key locations. Starring David Tennant and Olivia Colman, this gripping crime drama highlights the dramatic cliffs and coastline of the Jurassic Coast.
Did you know that Alnwick Castle played a starring role as the magical Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in two Harry Potter films? That's right, you can visit the real-life Harry Potter castle location in Northumberland.
Gold Hill, Shaftesbury. Gold Hill is a steep cobbled street in the town of Shaftesbury in the English county of Dorset. The view looking down from the top of the street has been described as "one of the most romantic sights in England."
Dorset is famous for its unique local foods like the hard, savory Dorset Knob biscuit, often eaten with Blue Vinny cheese, a crumbly blue cheese. Other specialties include rich Dorset Apple Cake, spicy Dorset Naga chillies, fresh Portland Crab, and hearty puddings like Portland Pudding, showcasing the county's rich dairy, coastline, and agricultural produce.
Sandbanks has always attracted celebrities, famous faces and successful business people. With it's Miami-like peninsula, multi-million pound property, yacht clubs and world famous beaches. The exclusive holiday resort of Sandbanks in Dorset, England, is home to many celebrities and famous faces.
While "prettiest" is subjective, Lyme Regis, known as the "Pearl of Dorset," is consistently praised for its stunning Jurassic Coast scenery, historic Cobb harbour, and charming, fossil-rich beaches, rivaled by the classic Victorian charm of Swanage with its sandy bay and colourful beach huts, and the lively, family-friendly Weymouth with its Georgian seafront and vibrant harbour.
Go walking or have a bike ride. Exploring your local surroundings is free and a great way to get some exercise and see some beautiful scenery all at the same time. ...
Drink is also in abundance for you choose from; Dorset cider producers, craft brewers of beer, creators of the famous Black Cow Vodka & Conker Gin and soft drinks like Dorset Ginger, there are so many in fact that it's impossible to list them all. The county also has many fresh milk vending machines to look out for.
Visit the Cerne Abbas Giant. One of the more intriguing chalk figures in the UK is the giant that can be found in Cerne Abbas, he's famous for a particular reason and is a symbol of fertility. ...
Which Dorset village is known for its hillside giant?
The Dorset village famed for its hillside giant is Cerne Abbas, home to the Cerne Giant, a massive, ancient chalk figure sculpted into the hillside, known for its mysterious origins and association with fertility, Hercules, or even Oliver Cromwell. The 180-foot tall figure, managed by the National Trust, overlooks the charming village of Cerne Abbas, which grew from an old Benedictine abbey and boasts a rich history, including a renowned brewing tradition.
Castle Combe is often called the prettiest village in England and one of the most beautiful towns in the Cotswolds. Walking through this village truly feels like stepping back in time; no new houses have been built here for over 400 years, so it has kept its authentic, old-world charm.
CECIL COURT THE REAL DIAGON ALLEY. Cecil Court being "just off Charing Cross Road" and with its curious mix of bookshops and antique shops, is widely believed to be the real Diagon Alley, or at least the thoroughfare on which Diagon Alley was based.
Hagrid's Hut – film set location in Glencoe, Scotland. Glencoe, Scotland – the surrounding valley and filming area. Clachaig Gully – the specific spot/pathway where Hagrid's Hut was built. Clachaig Inn – the nearby inn, a short walk from the site.
