Dorchester is Dorset’s county town, historic and elegantly beautiful, surrounded by lush, green countryside, and birthplace of author Thomas Hardy. It has been a centre since the Romans moved in in AD 70, but much of its current architecture dates from the Regency era — expect quaintly thatched and whitewashed cottages on the outskirts, elegant Georgian townhouses closer to the centre, and pretty churches dotted throughout. The best places to stay in Dorchester can be found not only in the middle of town, but also just outside. We've tracked down a country house B&B, and a couple of cracking coaching inns.
As well as Roman relics, Dorchester has a Saxon fort and an Iron Age castle, Maiden Castle, on the outskirts. You’ll find Thomas Hardy’s cottage, now a museum, also just outside town. This is where he was born, but during his life he built a grander house in the centre, called Max Gate, which is owned by the National Trust and also a museum. There’s a farmer’s market on the fourth Saturday of every month on Dorchester’s South Street, and on the first Saturday of the month in Poundbury, which is an experimental town lead by the Duchy of Cornwall aiming to reduce car use and build community. And definitely worth visiting! There’s also a military museum, a courthouse museum, and a dinosaur museum and teddy bear museum, plus lots of lovely little shops and galleries, and restaurants and pubs.
The surrounding area is an inspiring place to explore on foot or on two wheels. The landscape to the south and west of the town are part of the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and our recommendations for the best places to stay in Dorchester include several properties which are ideal for walkers and cyclists.
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Dorchester
Set in a glorious 18th century property, the Duchess of Cornwall Inn is a spectacular hotel in Poundbury just outside Dorchester. History and heritage permeates through the hotel with antique furnishings, period artwork, ornate beds and a real country house ambience. A stunning Dorset gem.
Dorchester (Dorset )
A pretty Edwardian country house set in a charming part of rural Dorset. Individually styled rooms are light and spacious and filled with antiques; the best have heavy wooden four-posters. An award winning breakfast, swimming pool and tennis court make this a special stay.
Dorchester
This superb, stylish boutique hotel/restaurant in the heart of Dorchester and Hardy country is luxurious, full of history and incredible value. Whether travelling with a partner, family, foodies or oldies, this place really does tick all the boxes. A chic stay.
Dorchester (LOWER BOCKHAMPTON)
A charming cottage set in a particularly picturesque corner of Dorset. A handful of rooms are simply and traditionally dressed with exposed beams, whitewashed walls and light-wooden furniture. Downstairs, cosy lounges are warmed by roaring fires and the restaurant serves superb gourmet dishes.
