When planning your three-day trip in Dorset, selecting the right base is crucial to maximizing your experience in this diverse county. Bournemouth is a great hub to base yourself in. Offering a dynamic blend of coastal charm and vibrant urban energy. This seaside resort town boasts an array of accommodations, from luxury hotels to cosy bed-and-breakfasts, ensuring a comfortable stay. With its sandy beaches, bustling promenade, and lively nightlife, Bournemouth provides both relaxation and entertainment. However, if you're looking for a more tranquil setting, consider alternatives like the historic town of Dorchester, where quaint charm meets fascinating history. Alternatively, the enchanting village of Corfe Castle offers a rustic retreat surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Each area provides a unique feel of Dorset, allowing you to tailor your stay to your preferences and make the most of your three-day trip. If camping is your thing then there are plenty of spots along the Jurassic Coast or further inland where you can pop up your tent and enjoy being out in nature.

Dorset can be visited on a very small budget or a very luxurious budget. Opt to stay in guesthouses or budget hotels or blow your budget and stay in a beautiful 5-star hotel. The choice is yours.

Embark on a three-day journey through the picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and rich history that the English county of Dorset is packed full of. With its dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and rolling hills, Dorset offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the iconic Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the quaint market towns and historical landmarks, this insider's guide is your key to unlocking the best experiences, hidden gems, and local secrets that make Dorset a truly unique and unforgettable destination. So, lace up your walking boots, embrace the coastal breeze, and get ready for an adventure in the heart of Dorset.

Dorset is well connected to the rest of England via trains, an airport and buses. If you're arriving by air, the nearest major airport is Bournemouth Airport, conveniently located for international and domestic flights. From there, you can easily access Dorset by car, taxi, or public transportation. If travelling by train, the county is well-connected, with major railway stations in towns such as Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth and Dorchester, providing efficient links to other parts of the country. Road trippers will find Dorset accessible via well-maintained motorways and scenic routes, allowing for a picturesque drive through the English countryside. Additionally, numerous bus services operate within the county, offering a budget-friendly and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. Dorset is located approximately a 2 hour drive from London.

Dorset, located on the South Coast of England is BEAUTIFUL. It's home to crumbling castles, the gorgeous Jurassic Coast, natural spots you can't miss and some wonderful towns. Here is are handy guide (written by two people who grew up in Dorset) for 3 days in Dorset. Including all of the best spots, where to stay, when to go, how to get around and more. If you're planning a visit to England and Dorset then this guide has everything that you need!

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3 days in Dorset: An Insiders Guide

Our favourite hotel in Bournemouth. Complete with a spa, rooftop bar and beautiful, modern rooms. If you're looking for a comfortable, luxurious stay close to public transport links then The Hilton Bournemouth is a great choice!

The Hilton Hotel Bournemouth

The Castle Inn is a quintessential English pub right in the heart of the Jurassic Coast. Located just a stone's throw from the beautiful Lulworth Cove. With welcoming rooms packed full of modern amenities the pub serves wonderful British food and has live music throughout the week.

The Castle Inn

If you're travelling as a family then a caravan holiday is a great option! Located in the seaside town of Weymouth, the caravan is fitted with all of the modern amenities and has 2 bedrooms plus a sofa bed, WIFI, a kitchen and a fireplace if it gets a bit chilly. Weymouth is well-connected and has an abundance of restaurants and a wonderful long beach.

2 Bedroom Deluxe Caravan Sleeps 6 with WI-FI 

Dorset is well connected via railway lines and trains are a great way to get around. You can book your tickets online before hand via The Train Line.

If you're travelling to Dorset from a different area in the UK then a coach is a great way to travel to one of the main cities. Use National Express to book your coach before hand.

Start the day with a beautiful walk Start along Hengistbury Head, a wonderful headland packed with natural beauty. Take a stroll along the trails that offer breathtaking views of the coastline and the Isle of Wight. Explore the unique ecosystem of the Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve, home to diverse wildlife and an array of habitats. If you want to grab a coffee for the walk, then head to Hiker Cafe just before you enter Hengistbury Head. The cafe serves food options and coffee, so grab one from here before you head off. If you can wait until halfway through your walk then on the tip at Mudeford is a wonderful little selection of ‘pods’ called Beach House. Here you can sit down and watch the world go by with a breakfast bap or coffee.

Hengistbury Head

Head to Bournemouth town centre for a delightful lunch at one of the local eateries. Bournemouth is great as it has many independent restaurants and classic chains. Whether you're craving traditional British fare or international cuisine, the bustling centre has an array of options to satisfy your palate. We recommend <a href="https://twelveeatery.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Twelve Eatery</a> for wonderful vegan food, Ojo Rojo for wonderful Mexican, or <a href="https://7bone.co.uk/locations/bournemouth" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">7 Bone </a>for a burger. If none of these spots takes your fancy, then plenty of traditional English pubs are&nbsp;dotted around or smaller cafes.

Lunch

After lunch, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bournemouth Centre. Explore the charming shops along Old Christchurch Road, stroll through the Lower Gardens, and perhaps indulge in some ice cream as you wander along the pier. Take a ride on the iconic Bournemouth Wheel for a panoramic view of the town and its surroundings.

Bournemouth Wheel

As the sun begins to set, make your way to Boscombe Pier along Bournemouth Beach. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the pier, taking in the coastal views and the soothing sound of the waves. Consider dinner at one of the seafood restaurants nearby for a taste of fresh, locally sourced dishes. Or, head to our personal favourite Urban Reef. Located right on the seafront the restaurant serves a whole range of dishes including plant-based, meat and some great cocktails.

Dinner on the seafront

Your first day will take you around Bournemouth exploring the well-known spots and some hidden gems along the way. I'll recommend the best places to eat, where to grab a coffee and what to do from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to sleep.

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Exploring Bournemouth and Boscombe

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Your second day starts by heading off in the direction of the quaint town of Swanage. Located at the eastern end of the Isle of Purbeck. Explore its charming streets, visit the local shops, and savour a delightful breakfast at one of the cosy cafes that are dotted along the front and the cute high street. The golden sands of Swanage Beach should also not be missed, head off on a walk along the beach towards Old Harry Rocks, you’ll see them jutting out at the end. If the weather allows it, the water here is incredibly calm and clear and it’s a lovely spot to sit and take in the morning light. Once you’ve headed back into town head into the amusements or watch a Punch and Judy show for a classic British treat.

Explore the town of Swanage

Hop aboard the nostalgic <a href="https://www.swanagerailway.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Swanage Railway</a> for a scenic steam train ride to the lovely little town of Corfe home to the crumbling ruins of Corfe Castle. As you approach the village, the imposing ruins of the castle atop a hill will captivate your attention.

Ride the historic Swanage Railway

For lunch, you have two options. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the village, perhaps opting for a traditional pub or tearoom. Corfe Castle provides a quaint backdrop for a relaxing meal. Alternatively, head slightly away from the town of Corfe to the Scott Arms in Kingston. A beautiful pub in the middle of the countryside with incredible sprawling views of Corfe Castle in the distance. The pub is known for its Jerk Shack in the summer months and their food is authentic and epic!

Enjoy lunch at Corfe

Spend time exploring the castle's rich history and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. You can opt to walk around Corfe Castle entrance costs £11 for adults or is free for National Trust members. Walking around the castle takes around 2 hours so bear this in mind for your day. Alternatively, spend your time exploring the town of Corfe. It’s fairly small so won’t take too long but, it has some lovely traditional shops including a sweet shop, a teddy bear shop and a gemstone shop.

Visit the historic Corfe Castle

Return to Swanage and explore its evening ambience. Consider dining at a seafood restaurant along the waterfront, enjoying the catch of the day with a view of the sea. Reflect on the day's adventures and relish the unique blend of history and natural beauty that Dorset has to offer. Alternatively, if you’re feeling a bit worn out from the day you can head back to Bournemouth or the area that you’re staying in for dinner. Dorset has plenty of country pubs so you could even stop at one on the way home.

Dinner at a country pub

Day 2 will take you slightly west to the quintessentially English seaside town of Swanage you'll then head on the nostalgic <a href="https://www.swanagerailway.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Swanage Railway</a> for a scenic steam train ride to the lovely little town of Corfe home to the crumbling ruins of Corfe Castle. Day 2 is action-packed and a wonderful day out for the whole family.

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History and Costal Towns: Swanage & Corfe Castle

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Some say that we have saved the best for last, and we think that we agree. Embark on your final day in Dorset with a visit to the iconic Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. Witness the breathtaking natural beauty of the Jurassic Coast as you explore the charming Lulworth Cove, a picturesque horseshoe-shaped bay. There are plenty of cafes and pubs here for you to grab a coffee or some breakfast. Alternatively, walk up the viewpoint to see a view over the whole of the cove.

Explore Lulworth Cove

Hike along the cliffs from Lulworth Cove to reach the world-famous Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch standing against the backdrop of the azure blue sea. The walk takes around 30 minutes - 1 hour and is moderate. Durdle Door is my favourite place in the whole of Dorset. There’s not much to do here but it’s truly breathtaking. In the car park there is usually a coffee van, so grab yourself one ahead of the walk down. If you're coming from the car park at Durdle Door then note that the walk down is quite steep so be sure to wear trainers.

Hike around Durdle Door

After spending some time in these two spots make your way to Poole. Home to the second largest natural harbour in the world, after Sydney, Australia. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring the historic harbour and its surroundings. Poole offers a mix of maritime history, contemporary art, and vibrant shopping districts. Stroll along the Quay and take in the views of the boats and vibrant atmosphere.

Explore Poole Quay - the second largest natural harbour in the world

For your final afternoon, you’re going to embark on a boat trip from Poole Harbor to Brownsea Island, a haven for wildlife and a place of historical significance. Explore the island's trails, discover its diverse flora and fauna, and learn about its role in scouting history. Brownsea Island is one of the best spots for seeing the Red squirrel. If you really want to see one then the Woodland Walk offers a great feasting ground for squirrels. To get to Brownsea Island you’ll need to take a boat from Poole Harbour. The journey takes around 20 minutes and costs £13.50 for an Adult and £6.75 for a child (aged 5+). Once you reach Brownsea Island it is free to go on if you are a National Trust member however, if you are not then entrance costs £10.00 for an adult and £5.00 for a child. Alternatively, you can stay on the boat and come straight back. Brownsea Island takes around 2-3 hours to look around, so keep this in mind if you want to get off.

Brownsea Island boat trip

As the sun begins to set, return to Poole Quay for a magical evening atmosphere. Choose a waterfront restaurant for a delightful dinner, accompanied by views of the harbour.

Dinner on Poole Quay

Our favourite day! Day 3 will see you heading along the Jurassic Coast to discover some of the best spots including Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. Then back to Poole to see the second largest natural harbour in the world and the little Brownsea Island, home to the red squirrels.

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 Coastal Marvels and Harbour Bliss

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Come along with us to enjoy a great day out exploring the coast &amp; countryside or one of our magical cities. Based in Bournemouth, we use our knowledge and experience to ensure that you see the best of the sights, with the minimum of hassle and the most fun. All our guides are very knowledgeable and love sharing their tales and stories to help bring the places to life. Whether you are travelling alone, as a couple, a family or group, we have tours and trips to suit all. We have been taking visitors around the area since 2004, each year giving thousands of people unforgettable memories. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!