Dreamy Dorset

This beautiful county is well known for its stunning coastline that extends eastwards from Lyme Regis. The town of Poole is home to one of the world's largest natural harbours. It is well renowned as being the most desirable places in England to live. Its most famous son was Thomas Hardy, who based many of his novels and poems on this stunning region. Other famous residents have included Jane Austen and Sir Walter Raleigh.

A range of local hotels, subject to availability, can be offered to suit individual requirements.

PLACES TO VISIT/THINGS TO DO

Lulworth Castle - In 1929 Lulworth Castle was all but ruined after a great fire, but in the 1970’s careful restoration work began and the exterior is now back to its former glory. Owing to the fire hidden passages and staircases, formerly used by serving staff, were uncovered to reveal secrets of what life really was like ‘upstairs downstairs’. In the grounds lies the Chapel of St Marys reputed to be one of the finest pieces of architecture in Dorset. Lulworth Park hosts events throughout the year including jousting shows and open air concerts.

Sherborne Abbey - Founded by St Aldhelm in AD705, the Abbey developed from a Saxon Cathedral to a Monastic Community, and is now one of the most beautiful of English Parish Churches. Included in' England's Thousand Best Churches'.

Abbotsbury Swannery & Sub Tropical Gardens - The Swannery is the only place in the world where you are able to walk through the heart of a colony of nesting Mute Swans. The mass feeding of up to 600 swans takes place at noon and 4 pm everyday. The magnificent 20 acre garden is filled with rare and exotic plants. Famous for its Camellia Groves and Magnolias, Rhododendron and Hydrangea collections.

Athelhampton House & Gardens - This 15 th century house is a fine example of early Tudor architecture with its magnificent interiors and antique furnishings. The grounds boast formal gardens, the famous 30 foot high topiary pyramids and many pools and fountains throughout with a 15 th century dovecote still housing dozens of white doves.

Milton Abbey & Milton Abbas - Milton Abbey is tucked away in this idyllic part of the country. Milton Abbas, the first planned settlements in England, has delightful whitewashed, thatched cottages remaining much as they did when built in the 1700’s.

Portland Bill - Found at the southernmost tip of the Isle of Portland, overlooking the English Channel and famous for its Portland Stone. With three lighthouses and renowned for its cream teas it’s another one of those must sees!! Adventurers can walk to the caves in the cliffs where there are huge caverns once used for smuggling!

Lyme Regis - This historic unspoiled seaside resort and fishing port on the world famous Cobb Harbour is situated in the south west of Dorset. Pay a visit to the Marine Aquarium, try your hand at fossil hunting, meander around the art galleries and shops or just relax and enjoy the beautiful coastline.

Dorchester - County capital where you will identify scenes from Thomas Hardy's 'Far from the Madding Crowd', and 'Tess of the D'Urbevilles.

Insurance details on request. Booking conditions apply. Dates strictly subject to availability. All tours fully bonded by BCH - the Bonded Coach Holidays Section of the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK.

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