Dorset with its long swathes of Jurassic coastline has always been one of South West England’s most popular seaside destinations. It forms part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage.
The county is also known for its pretty, rural villages (there are more than 300) that offer beautiful walks and quaint local pubs serving proper English cider and delicious home-cooked food.
Yet Dorset isn’t only about picturesque views and seaside frolics. There are so many fun things to see and do here, and if you like the great outdoors you’ll never get bored. I should know – I grew up here!
Here’s a round-up of some of my favorite activities.
Explore the Jurassic Coast
Avoid the risk of overcrowding at the likes of Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door and head to one of Dorset’s less well-known spots along the Jurassic Coast. One of my personal favorites is Kimmeridge Bay near Wareham, which is a fantastic place for fossil spotting (just don’t take them home with you)
The coastline near Worth Matravers offers fun, challenging walks and dramatic views of crashing waves and jagged cliffs. Head to the Anvil Point Lighthouse and walk along the coastal path to Winspit Quarry for some good old-fashioned exploration.
The disused quarry is full of eerie caves and is a great spot for a picnic. Exploring both Kimmeridge and Worth Matravers would benefit from good walking boots and trekking poles – even if you’re young and fit.
Take a walk from Bournemouth Pier to Boscombe
The two-mile beach walk from Bournemouth Pier to Boscombe Park is a delight, especially as the sun sets on a warm summer evening. The white, sandy beach is about as close as Britain gets to the French Riviera, and the calm waters seem to stretch to the end of the world. As you make your way to Boscombe Pier, you’ll see long rows of cute multi-colored beach huts, which can be rented by the day.
At Boscombe Pier, you’ll see a little roundabout and you can take the left path to Boscombe Gardens, which has a playground for kiddies and mini-golf as well. Otherwise, head straight past the pier and there’s a couple of boulders on the beach for kids and adults to climb on. If you’re feeling peckish, Urban Reef is a great sea-front restaurant.
