Dorset and Somerset : A Destination Guide

Dorset’s coastline and rich countryside has been a location for many films, including The French Lieutenant’s Woman and Far from the Madding Crowd. The area has plenty to see, from beautiful Blue Flag beaches to sites of historic interest.

During the clement days of spring the displays of bluebells and wild primroses are spectacular, and the cottage gardens and village greens are looking their best. Visit out of season during the autumn months and you’ll discover a completely different but equally rich palette of golds and vibrant reds. This variety makes both Dorset and Somerset perfect, year-round destinations.

Choosing where to stay

There are plenty of places to stay in Dorset and Somerset, with an exclusive selection of luxury cottages located throughout both counties. A self-catering cottage holiday is more flexible, and allows you to choose a cottage close to specific attractions. This lets you tailor your holiday to your own needs. Self-catering doesn’t mean cooking every night, either. There are plenty of superb restaurants and pubs to please even the most refined or fussy eaters.

Places of interest for visitors

As one of the UK’s most popular film locations, both Dorset and Somerset have plenty of attractions. Dorset’s greatest asset is its Jurassic coastline, and from Weymouth all the way to Lyme Regis the coastal views are spectacular. There are plenty of opportunities to go fossil hunting, and Dorset’s coastal paths are hugely popular with hikers, particularly in the summer. Further inland around the county town of Dorchester is a cluster of museums, stately homes and gardens to explore. In the north of the county around Sherborne you’ll find castles and unique lakeside gardens.

Romans and mythical Kings

Further west into Somerset the Roman influence really takes hold. A visit to the Roman city of Bath is a must for history lovers. Here, you’ll also find some of the best boutique retailers outside London, with everything from fine art to exclusive jewellery on offer.

Travel even further back in time to Glastonbury, a location surrounded by myth, magic and Arthurian legends. The county town of Taunton is full of medieval splendour and superb shopping opportunities. An extensive museum gives visitors a guided tour through the county’s rich agricultural history.

Swimming and horse trekking

Dorset and Somerset has some of the best coastlines and beaches in England. Water sport fans will be spoilt for choice, with water-skiing, wake-boarding and some superb snorkelling opportunities in clear, safe waters. Further inland, horse treks across the Quantocks are a perfect way to see this rolling countryside from a different perspective.

Festivals

If you like festivals and music, then Dorset and Somerset are definitely the right destinations. The region is probably best known for Glastonbury Festival – one of the UK’s biggest music festivals.  But if you prefer things a little less crowded then Dorset’s Camp Bestival, housed in Lulworth Castle, offers the best of local arts, music and literature.

Food, glorious food…

Food lovers are well catered for in both counties. The Pommery Dorset Seafood Festival in Weymouth is the UK’s largest free street seafood festival. Over in Somerset the county may be best known for its cider, but it’s also building a reputation for exquisite culinary delights too. From the Cheddar Valley Chocolate Festival to the Royal Bath and West show’s extensive selection of produce and local specialities, even the most refined palate will find something special in Somerset and Dorset.

Plan ahead for a pleasant holiday experience.

The key to getting the most from your holiday is careful preparation. Log on to websites of places you want to visit and check their opening times. You can also plan ahead and find out if there are any special events throughout the year. Once you’ve worked out what you want to see you can plan your schedule and book your luxury holiday cottage in the most convenient place.

If you’ve got children, you’ll know that the busy times are from July to September. Booking your cottage in advance can help you make sure that you’re not disappointed. But if you don’t have children and you want avoid the holiday crowds, then it might be worth booking out of peak season.