11 Most Beautiful Towns and Villages in Dorset: Your 2025 Travel Guide

Explore Dorset’s Most Charming Towns & Villages in 2025

 

Dorset’s landscape is a treasure trove of quintessential English charm. From idyllic villages with thatched cottages to historic towns and stunning coastal communities, this southern county captivates visitors with its diverse beauty. Famous as filming locations for period dramas and blessed with some of Britain’s most spectacular beaches, Dorset offers endless exploration opportunities.

Planning your 2025 visit to this picturesque region? Whether you’re seeking a single perfect base or planning to tour multiple destinations, choosing where to go can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve curated this guide to Dorset’s most beautiful towns and villages—each with its unique character and must-see attractions.

 

Shaftesbury

 

Perched atop one of Dorset’s highest points, historic Shaftesbury stands as the county’s most beautiful Saxon town. Located about 30 miles inland from the coast, this charming settlement borders Wiltshire and the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty—making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers alike.

Most visitors recognize Shaftesbury from the iconic 1973 Hovis bread commercial “Boy on the Bike,” which featured the town’s famous Gold Hill. This steep, cobbled street lined with picturesque thatched and stone cottages has become one of England’s most photographed scenes. Challenge yourself to climb to the top, where the rewarding Gold Hill Museum awaits with fascinating local history exhibits. While exploring Shaftesbury, don’t miss the impressive ruins of Shaftesbury Abbey, once one of England’s wealthiest and most important nunneries.

 

Corfe Castle

 

The enchanting town of Corfe Castle shares its name with the magnificent 11th-century fortress that dominates its skyline. Nestled in the heart of the Purbeck Peninsula between Weymouth and Bournemouth, this charming settlement of gray stone buildings has grown around the impressive medieval ruins that tell tales of a thousand years of history.

While the castle ruins remain the town’s most famous attraction, Corfe Castle offers much more to explore. Don’t miss the delightful Corfe Castle Model Village, which provides a fascinating glimpse into local life as it was in 1646. For families seeking adventure, the exciting Dorset Adventure Park lies just outside the town limits, offering water-based challenges and muddy obstacle courses that children and adults alike will love.

 

Lyme Regis 

 

Nestled in West Dorset along the world-renowned Jurassic Coast, Lyme Regis captivates visitors with its timeless coastal charm. This beloved seaside town boasts bunting-lined streets, a sweeping golden beach, tranquil blue waters, and the iconic curved harbor wall known as the Cobb—made famous in Jane Austen’s “Persuasion” and the film “The French Lieutenant’s Woman.”

Beyond its stunning shoreline, Lyme Regis has earned international recognition as a fossil-hunting paradise. The town’s excellent Lyme Regis Museum offers fascinating guided fossil walks where visitors of all ages can discover their prehistoric treasures along the ancient coastline. Literature and film enthusiasts can enjoy Jane Austen-themed walking tours or explore locations featured in the popular TV drama “Broadchurch.” No visit to Lyme Regis is complete without stopping at the charming Marine Aquarium, where local sea life is displayed in its natural habitat.

 

Milton Abbas

 

Milton Abbas, a hidden treasure in central Dorset, feels like walking onto a film set despite its modest size. The village is known for its charming thatched white cottages, each with a spacious front lawn. You can tell them apart only by their colorful front doors and unique house names.

Every July, the village celebrates the historic Milton Abbas Street Fair, which originated in the 18th century. This popular event happens on the last Saturday of July in even-numbered years. During the fair, locals dress in period costumes while hundreds of vendors sell arts, crafts, and delicious food throughout the village streets.

 

Weymouth

 

Weymouth offers everything you need for a perfect British summer holiday. This charming coastal town features a vibrant beach community set against a backdrop of colorful homes and beach huts lining the shore—definitely Instagram-worthy!

This destination makes an ideal spot for unforgettable family vacations. When you tire of building your sandcastles, marvel at professional creations at Sand World Sculpture Park. The historic, award-winning Nothe Fort is well worth exploring, as is Portland Island, accessible via a scenic causeway drive. Don’t miss spending time in Weymouth’s bustling harbor area to complete your visit.

 

Burton Bradstock

 

Burton Bradstock may be small in size, but this charming seaside village captivates visitors with its well-preserved historic center and picturesque thatched cottages. The stunning scenery in and around the village provides a compelling reason to visit, with some of Dorset’s most spectacular landscapes just a short journey away.

Hive Beach is a must-see destination, featuring dramatic sandstone cliffs that make it a highlight of any coastal walk—be sure to bring your camera. Continue your journey to reach West Bay, famous as the filming location for the BBC’s popular drama “Broadchurch.” After a day of exploration, return to the Hive Beach Café to enjoy delicious, locally caught seafood while reflecting on your adventures.

 

Cerne Abbas

 

The quaint village of Cerne Abbas holds a surprising secret that becomes apparent only when you spot the naked figure carved into the chalk hillside above the settlement. The ancient and iconic Cerne Abbas Giant, reaching an impressive 180 feet tall, stands just a short walk from the village.

Beyond its famous hillside figure, Cerne Abbas offers many other attractions worth exploring. Visitors should make time to see the historic Benedictine Cerne Abbey, and the village’s excellent pubs are not to be missed. These welcoming establishments serve fresh brews, ciders, wines, and spirits produced at the nearby Cerne Abbas Brewery—perfect for rounding out your visit to this charming Dorset destination.

 

Upwey

 

Upwey, a picturesque hamlet on Weymouth’s outskirts, offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city center. Though technically a suburb of Weymouth, this community works diligently to preserve its rural character and charm.

Once a bustling tourist destination in Dorset, Upwey has transformed into a quiet, scenic village where birdsong and flowing water create the soundtrack to daily life. The moss-covered Wishing Well, nestled within beautiful water gardens, has become the area’s most renowned landmark in recent years. Its accompanying tearoom, serving traditional afternoon high tea, provides the perfect spot to relax and enjoy this serene corner of Dorset.

 

Sherborne

 

Sherborne is a delightful market town rich in history and lined with fascinating historic buildings. Movie enthusiasts may recognize Sherborne Abbey and Sherborne School from films like “Far From the Madding Crowd” and the 2014 hit “The Imitation Game” starring Benedict Cumberbatch.

This charming town, situated along the River Yeo, offers a wonderful exploring experience with its distinctive art galleries, bookshops, and restaurants. Visitors shouldn’t miss the magnificent abbey, as well as Sherborne Castle and its beautiful Gardens. For the best experience, check the town’s calendar of events and festivals before planning your trip to this picturesque Dorset destination.

 

Dorchester

 

If you want to fully immerse yourself in local culture, look no further than Dorchester, the county town of Dorset. This central location makes an ideal base for exploring the wider region while offering numerous landmarks and museums worth discovering in its own right.

The Dorset County Museum provides an excellent introduction to the area’s rich heritage and history. For something more creative, Sculpture by the Lakes offers a beautiful setting where imagination can flourish among artistic displays. Literature enthusiasts will appreciate visiting the homes of renowned author Thomas Hardy—both Max Gate and Hardy’s Cottage are popular destinations that provide insight into the writer’s life and inspirations.

 

Evershot Dorset

 

Evershot is a picture-perfect village nestled among gently rolling Dorset countryside. This small community along the Frome River consists of just a handful of streets, preserving the authentic atmosphere of the 19th century. History enthusiasts will appreciate the coaching inn mentioned in Thomas Hardy’s classic novel “Tess of the d’Urbervilles.”

A perfect day in Evershot includes countryside walks and tours of magnificent rural estates in the area. Don’t miss indulging in a traditional English afternoon tea featuring Dorset cream tea at the elegant Summer Lodge Country House Hotel & Restaurant.

While visiting, take time to explore nearby attractions like the famous Cerne Giant—a remarkable club-wielding figure carved into a chalk hillside in Cerne Abbas. Just outside town, the Dinosaur Museum offers fascinating insights into the prehistoric fossils discovered throughout the region.

 

FAQs: Dorset’s Most Charming Towns & Villages

 

1. Which Dorset towns are best for first-time visitors?

For first-time visitors to Dorset, Weymouth offers a classic British seaside experience with beaches, attractions, and harbor views. Lyme Regis combines coastal charm with fossil hunting opportunities. Dorchester makes an excellent base with central location and cultural attractions including the Dorset County Museum and Thomas Hardy sites.

2. When is the Milton Abbas Street Fair held and what can I expect?

The Milton Abbas Street Fair is held on the last Saturday of July in even-numbered years (next in 2026). During this historic event dating back to the 18th century, locals dress in period costumes while hundreds of vendors sell arts, crafts, and food throughout the village streets. The fair transforms the already picturesque town with its thatched white cottages into a vibrant celebration of local heritage.

3. Which Dorset locations feature in famous films and TV shows?

Several Dorset towns have appeared in popular media: West Bay (near Burton Bradstock) served as the filming location for BBC’s “Broadchurch”; Sherborne Abbey and School appeared in “Far From the Madding Crowd” and “The Imitation Game”; Shaftesbury’s Gold Hill featured in the iconic 1973 Hovis bread commercial “Boy on the Bike”; and Lyme Regis appeared in “The French Lieutenant’s Woman” and has connections to Jane Austen’s “Persuasion.”

4. What are the must-see natural landmarks in Dorset?

Dorset’s most impressive natural landmarks include the Jurassic Coast (particularly accessible from Lyme Regis and Burton Bradstock), the 180-foot Cerne Abbas Giant chalk figure, Gold Hill’s panoramic views in Shaftesbury, and the dramatic ruins of Corfe Castle. For nature lovers, the areas around Shaftesbury border the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with excellent hiking opportunities.

5. Where can I experience authentic local culture and food in Dorset?

For authentic Dorset experiences, visit the pubs in Cerne Abbas serving locally brewed beers and ciders from the Cerne Abbas Brewery, enjoy traditional Dorset cream tea at Summer Lodge Country House Hotel in Evershot, sample locally caught seafood at Hive Beach Café in Burton Bradstock, and time your visit to coincide with local events like the Milton Abbas Street Fair. The Dorset County Museum in Dorchester offers insights into regional heritage and traditions.