2013 Rural Dorset - Visit Dorset

Tour this captivating
unspoilt County;
With picturesque countryside little
changed from the times of author
Thomas Hardy, the stunning World
Heritage Jurassic Coast, resorts
with sandy beaches, historic market
towns and quaint villages, Dorset is
England at its finest.
Charming Christchurch has a
fascinating heritage epitomised
by its 900 year old Priory Church,
Highcliffe Castle and the Norman
Hall and Castle ruins. The
picturesque harbour at the mouth of
the Rivers Stour and Avon is perfect
for fishing and watersports and
Christchurch’s lovely natural beaches
and attractions ensure its popularity
with all age groups.
Visitors to Swanage and the Isle of
Purbeck can enjoy fantastic sandy
beaches and breathtaking views
over the Jurassic Coast from the
South West Coast Path. Durlston
Country Park and Wareham Forest
are the perfect places to discover rich
wildlife, flora and fauna and there
are renowned attractions to explore;
Monkey World, the Tank Museum
and Swanage Railway.
Go fossil hunting at Charmouth
along the Jurassic Coast in
West Dorset or marvel at the
natural phenomenon of Chesil
Beach and the Fleet, home to
hundreds of swans and cygnets
at Abbotsbury Swannery.
Discover Dorchester, once
home to Thomas Hardy, or
soak up the atmosphere at the
Lyme Regis Jazz Festival, by the
harbourside in West Bay or at
Sherborne’s famous Abbey and
Castle.
The rugged coastline of
Portland with its famous
‘Bill’ is a contrast to the safe,
shallow waters of Weymouth
and the traditional harbour
where the day’s catch is
delivered by trawlers. The area
offers exceptional watersports
opportunities for all, it is also
the setting for numerous
events and festivals and home
to a rich variety of flora and
fauna.
Dorset’s mild climate is great
for gardens and many of the
magnificent manor houses, for
which Dorset is famed, have
marvellous gardens to explore.
The county is a treasure trove
of arts and foods - work up an
appetite by taking part in one
of many activities available,
from walking and cycling, to
windsurfing and kayaking –
delightful Dorset offers so many
wonderful opportunities
to escape, explore and enjoy!
Weymouth Old Harbour
Durdle Door on
the Jurassic Coast
Burton Bradstock
www.visit-dorset.com
To discover more of Dorset visit:
www.visit-dorset.com
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