South Dorset

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South Dorset is a region of stunning coastal scenery, historic landmarks, and vibrant seaside towns. Key areas include Weymouth, a popular seaside resort with a beautiful sandy beach; Portland, a rugged island known for its quarrying history and wildlife; and Swanage, a charming town with a Victorian pier and steam railway. The region also includes Wareham, a historic town surrounded by walls and rivers. South Dorset is a gateway to the Jurassic Coast, offering a mix of natural beauty, history, and outdoor activities.

Coastal Wonders: Discovering the Jurassic Coast

From £

Tour Highlights | 10am - 4.30pm

Durdle Door: Marvel at the iconic natural limestone arch and enjoy breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast.
Lulworth Cove: Explore the stunning horseshoe-shaped bay and its crystal-clear waters.
Corfe Castle: Discover how the Normans shaped this landscape more than 1000 years ago!
Isle of Portland: Discover the rugged beauty of Chesil Beach and the Olympic Rings.
Portland Bill: We travel to the southen most tip of the Jurassic Coast where the famous Portland Bill Lighthouse is situated.

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Jurassic Coast Explorer: Durlston Park to East Cliff

From £

Tour Highlights | 9am - 5.30pm

Durlston Country Park: Start your adventure with dramatic cliffs, stunning coastal views, and a wealth of wildlife.
Durdle Door: Marvel at the iconic natural limestone arch and enjoy breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast.
Tyneham Village: Step back in time at this abandoned village, frozen in history since World War II.
Isle of Portland: Discover the rugged beauty of Chesil Beach and the Olympic Rings.
Abbotsbury: Stroll through this charming village and experience Dorset’s timeless beauty.
East Cliff (Broadchurch): End your day at the towering golden cliffs of West Bay, famously known as the setting for Broadchurch.

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Private Southwest Tour: Your Adventure, Your Way

From £

Why Choose a Private Tour?

Tailored to You: No rigid schedules—this tour is all about your preferences.
Comfort & Convenience: Travel in a private vehicle with door-to-door service.
Exclusive Experience: Enjoy the undivided attention of your guide and a tour designed just for you.
8 Passenger seat vehicle: Exclusive use of an 8 passenger seat vehicle with guide for your day in the south-west!

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Scenic Jurassic Coast: Half Day Jurassic Treasures

From £

Tour Highlights | 10am - 2pm (Half Day)

Durdle Door: Marvel at the iconic limestone arch and enjoy panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast.
Lulworth Cove: Explore the stunning horseshoe-shaped bay and its crystal-clear waters.
The Etches Collection Museum: Step into the world of fossils and discover the incredible collection of Steve Etches.
Corfe Castle (time permitting): Wander through the ruins of this thousand-year-old fortress and soak in its dramatic history.

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Nature & Wildlife

South Dorset is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in Dorset, including the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include Chesil Beach, an 18-mile shingle beach, and the Isle of Portland, a rugged island with stunning cliffs and wildlife. The Fleet Lagoon, behind Chesil Beach, is an important habitat for birdlife, including terns and oystercatchers.

The South West Coast Path offers breathtaking views and opportunities to spot seabirds, dolphins, and seals. Inland, the Purbeck Hills provide scenic walking routes and panoramic views of the coastline. Durlston Country Park, near Swanage, is a haven for wildlife, with its cliffs, meadows, and woodland. The park is home to rare species like the Adonis blue butterfly and peregrine falcons.

History & Heritage

South Dorset is rich in history, with landmarks dating back thousands of years. Weymouth has a long history as a seaside resort, with its Georgian seafront and historic harbour. The town played a key role in the D-Day landings during World War II. Portland is known for its quarrying history, with its famous Portland stone used in buildings like St Paul’s Cathedral. The island is also home to Portland Castle, built by Henry VIII.

Swanage is a charming Victorian town, with its historic pier and steam railway. The town’s Durlston Castle is a unique Victorian folly, now a visitor centre for the Jurassic Coast. Wareham is a historic town surrounded by walls and rivers, with landmarks like Lady St Mary Church and the Wareham Town Museum. South Dorset’s history is deeply connected to its coastal location, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.

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Picturesque street view in Corfe Castle, England, showcasing stone buildings and a historical monument.

All Hotels South Dorset

From £ 99

Explore all hotels in South Dorset here. We’re constantly adding more unique places to stay across Dorset—stay tuned for exciting updates!

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South Dorset

South Dorset