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Welcome to West Dorset

Book your break to West Dorset... Take a look at what West Dorset has to offer you and your family and look ahead to a fantastic spring or summer holiday. There is a great range of accommodation in West ...

New Year Break in West Dorset: The New Year is a time for new beginnings -and what better New Years resolution than to visit a new place or return to a place that you loved and want to enjoy all over again! West Dorset offers a ...
Win a Short Break!: Win a fantastic short break at Bay Lodge self catering holiday cottages for 4 people. Simply fill out the competition form to be in with a chance of winning this excellent prize. Bay Lodge 5 star luxury cottages are beautifully ...

Accessibility Statement

We believe in access to information over the Internet for all. This accessibility statement provides an overview of the accessibility features we have implemented on this website. If you have any questions regarding the accessibility of this site, please contact ...

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Contact Us

To contact one of our Tourist Information Centres please click here . If you would like to contact a member of the Tourism Promotion and Development team, please email us .

Data Protection Policy

Under the Data Protection Act, West Dorset District Council has a legal duty to protect any information it collects from you. The Council uses leading technologies and encryption software to safeguard your data, and keeps strict security standards to prevent ...

Itineraries

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Kent Messenger Competition

Kent Messenger readers... enter our competition today, to win £200 off any self catering holiday courtesy of Lyme Bay Holidays. One lucky winner will get to choose their ideal break from more than 200 quality assessed properties in beautiful country ...

Links

On this page you will find links to other organisations which you may find useful when planning your holiday. West Dorset District Council accepts no responsibility for the content of any website to which a link from this website ...

Link Your Website to westdorset.com: Help visitors to your website find out what to do, where to stay and what's on in West Dorset by adding a link to westdorset.com from your website! Website URL http://westdorset.com HTML code to cut and paste into your website: ...

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Please click here to request a copy of our 2008 West Dorset Holiday Guide.

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Terms & Conditions

Terms of Use 1.Access to and use of this website is provided by West Dorset District Council and is subject to the following Terms and Conditions. 2. Your use of this website constitutes acceptance of these Terms and Conditions ...

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West Dorset Weddings

Where to Stay in West Dorset

There is a superb variety of holiday accommodation in West Dorset to suit all tastes and budgets which is available for you to search and book online . Whether you're looking for self catering Dorset holiday cottages, an elegant ...

Short Breaks & Special Offers: Enjoy a break away from it all and take advantage of the wonderful things happening in West Dorset over the coming months with some great deals on accommodation! Browse our range of superb short breaks and special ...
Accessibility: A free booklet ' West Dorset for Visitors with Additional Needs ' is available free of charge, please contact us for a copy. The National Accessible Scheme for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility: Accommodation that ...
Accommodation Types Explained: For serviced accommodation there are two separate schemes - one for hotels and one for guest accommodation. All accommodation is put into a category as described below. Hotel categories Hotels have a minimum of six bedrooms, but more likely to ...
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Booking Service: To secure accommodation that best suits your requirements, it is advisable to book in advance. Website Room availability can be checked using the search facility on the right. You can either contact the establishment of your choice directly or, if ...
Family Accommodation: West Dorset's vast array of child-friendly accommodation makes it the ideal destination for your family holiday. Why not book a family room in one of our hotels, guest houses or B&Bs, take the children camping or book a holiday cottage ...
Holiday Agencies: In addition to the properties listed on our accommodation pages, self-catering holidays can be booked through the folowing local agencies. Dream Cottages - Nearly 200 hand picked cottages, converted barns and apartments accommodating from 2-12 people in wonderful Dorset coastal ...
Quality Grading Explained: All accommodation featured on this website has been quality assessed by either VisitBritain or the AA. The VisitBritain and AA ratings are your clear guide to what to expect, in an easy-to-understand form. All properties are visited annually by ...
Search Tips: Self Catering Search Tips Most establishments do weekly lets with a specific start date (typically a Friday or Saturday), although some businesses do offer short breaks of two nights or more. Hotel and B&B Search Tips Some establishments only accept ...
Valentines short breaks and special offers: You and your valentine can enjoy excellent accommodation at excellent prices. Many of West Dorset's Hotels are offering superb deals this Valentines, including 3 nights for the price of 2! Surprise your loved one with a romantic break to West ...
West Dorset Hotels: You'll find a range of hotels in West Dorset, whether you want a luxurious hotel with spa facilities, a stylish boutique hotel or a charming country house hotel- you're sure to find it here. Simply browse our ...
Self Catering Holidays in West Dorset: West Dorset's self catering accommodation offers you the ultimate flexibility and freedom. You can get up when you like, come and go as you please and eat when you want. Whether you are looking for a rustic Dorset holiday ...
West Dorset B&Bs and Guest Houses: If you're looking for a home from home atmosphere, there are a variety of good quality bed and breakfasts in West Dorset. Our B&Bs offer that personal touch, with a warm and friendly welcome. You'll be ...
West Dorset Inns: West Dorset inns or traditional pubs, usually provide accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis (with an option of an evening meal). Many of our inns are located in idyllic rural locations and all offer a warm welcome. Wherever ...
West Dorset Farm Accommodation: West Dorset's green surroundings and stunning natural beauty provides the perfect setting for a relaxing stay on a farm. Set in tranquil locations, many with breathtaking views, farm accommodation is ideal for couples or families wanting to escape the pressures ...
Caravan & Camping Holidays in West Dorset: If it's a night under canvas that you're looking for or a break in a luxury caravan - try one of West Dorset's campsites or holiday parks. Our holiday parks offer the very best in terms of quality and some ...
Green Tourism: West Dorset tourism businesses are making their own contribution to sustainability by participating in the Green Tourism Business Scheme. This is a national scheme to promote the best environmental practice within the tourism sector. Green Tourism Business Scheme participants: Farm ...

Press & Media

West Dorset's stunning coastline , beautiful rural landscapes , delicious local produce and fascinating history have attracted many television and film researchers, journalists, and many other press and media professionals. The area has become famous as the setting for premier ...

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Filming in West Dorset: Anyone who wishes to film will be required to sign a letter of agreement and also supply the following: · An event schedule · Risk assessment · Public liability insurance certificate (minimum of £5 million) ...

Things To Do in West Dorset

West Dorset is full of so many exciting things to do and see, whether you're here for the weekend or longer, make sure you make the most of your stay by visiting the best attractions and magnificent sights . ...

West Dorset Activities: Whether you want to stroll through the rolling green countryside , eat up the miles on a bike or try a less energetic way of chilling out, you'll find the perfect answer in West Dorset. Enjoy the fresh air and ...
West Dorset Attractions: West Dorset's attractions are second to none. Look no further for ideas for days out in West Dorset, there is something for everyone. Arts & Crafts West Dorset is rich in artistic wealth and history. Local arts ...
Summer Holidays: The Summer holidays are here so it's time to get your swimmimg gear on and head down to one of West Dorset's fantastic beaches . Make the most of the sun, sea and sand and discover some of the best ...

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What's On in West Dorset

There are some very important dates approaching so make sure they're in your diary! Mother's Day is the perfect excuse to bring your Mum to West Dorset and treat her to a special day. Dine out together in one of ...

Mother's Day - 14th March 2010: Treat your Mum this Mothering Sunday to a short break in West Dorset. There's an excellent range of accommodation available to search and book online. Whether it's a short break in a countryside cottage or a stay in a luxurious ...
Easter Fun: Easter is a great excuse to come and visit West Dorset with the whole family. Experience a wealth of fun-filled attractions , some excellent Easter events and take part in amazing activities ! This Easter, there are tons of great ...

Towns

About the Area

West Dorset is an area of amazing contrasts, come and drink in our breathtaking scenery, absorb our history and heritage or simply relax in one of the most beautiful and diverse parts of England. World Heritage Coastline ...

Ancient Sites: Cerne Giant Looming high on the hill over the picturesque village of Cerne Abbas is the Cerne Giant, an 180ft high male figure believed to be an ancient symbol of spirituality. The giant is also thought to be representative ...
Countryside: Come and explore all of Dorset's beautiful countyside. Over 42% of the county has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty , and in West Dorset you can lose yourself amongst the peace and tranquility of this unspoilt part ...
Famous Residents: West Dorset has attracted and inspired many famous visitors and residents. Thomas Hardy , our most famous literary resident, lived in Dorset for most of his life. A Thomas Hardy Trail is available that guides you around Dorset and the ...
Film / TV Locations: Film-makers, TV researchers, poets, authors and local celebrities have all been captivated by the outstanding beauty of the landscape and coastline of West Dorset. Productions of all kinds have been filmed on location here, many of them choosing our spectacular ...
Thomas Hardy: Thomas Hardy, internationally renowned poet and novelist, was born in 1840 at Higher Bockhampton, near Dorchester and spent most of his life in Dorset. 2008 marked the eightieth anniversary of the writer's death on 11th January 1928. The great majority ...
Towns: West Dorset's towns are full of charm and wonderful contrasts. Visit the delightful shops, explore the rolling hills in the countryside , take a stroll along the seaside , and be inspired by some amazing architecture. The picturesque villages ...
West Dorset Beaches: Whatever you want from the seaside, the glorious sweep of West Dorset's coastline will provide it all. Explore our Jurassic Coast , designated a World Heritage Site for it's outstanding geology! The full 25 miles of West Dorset ...
West Dorset Weddings: Imagine saying your wedding vows on a beautiful summers day, amongst pretty gardens with water lily ponds . Or picture your wedding day set in a Georgian mansion with a picturesque backdrop of green gardens and lakes. West Dorset plays ...

Local Food And Drink

West Dorset has an excellent reputation for its fantastic food and drink. From the traditional Dorset Cream Tea to fresh Seafood , our local cuisine is loved by those who live here and those who keep returning! ...

Celebrity chefs in West Dorset: With such a good reputation for local produce , West Dorset has attracted some of the UK's top chefs. The chefs below have given into temptation and set up restaurants and cookery schools in the area. Residents and visitors to West Dorset ...
Eating Out in West Dorset: West Dorset is the perfect place to try something new. The local specialitites are a must when dining out, and there is always a comprehensive menu to satisfy all needs. Whether its Fresh Seafood , a traditional Sunday lunch or ...
Food & Drink Events: West Dorset is renowned for its local produce , and there is no better way to discover it than at an event dedicated to the delectable delights of the region. Kitchen Table Dorset Join Mark Hix ...
Local Produce & Markets: West Dorset is home to a variety of high quality producers of delicious food and drink. There is always somewhere to sample some of their local produce, whether it be at one of our regular farmers' markets , a cosy ...
Reviews: Here are a selection of reviews of West Dorset's restaurants, pubs and cafe's. The Riverside Restaurant "Fish doesn't come any better than the huge range on offer here." - Hardens Restaurant Guide 2009. "One of ...

Travel

Getting Here It's easy to get to West Dorset by road, rail, sea or air. See our how to get here page for more information. Planning Your Visit You can download free maps of West Dorset, to help you ...

How To Get Here: How to get here However you decide to travel, getting to West Dorset couldn't be easier! By Road From the north: Leave the M5 at Junction 25 and follow the signs for Yeovil. From Yeovil follow signs to Dorchester ...
Travel Around West Dorset: West Dorset is ideal for exploring by foot or on two wheels. Walking There are nearly 300 coast and countryside guided walks to choose from and numerous leisurely pub strolls. If you choose to walk some of the ...
Maps Of West Dorset: You can download free maps of West Dorset by clicking the links below. You will require Adobe Acrobat Reader to view these maps ...
Coach Parking: Information to help plan your group or school visit to West Dorset including maps, toilet and parking facilities. Useful Information Diesel Stops - 24 hour Service Stations Olds Peugeot (Shell), London Road, Dorchester Tel: 01305 ...
Parking in Bridport: Bridport has five Long Stay and four Shoppers' car parks. West Bay has one seafront, two harbourside and three Long Stay car parks. All car parks are operated on a Pay and Display basis. Park and Ride: A park ...
Parking in Dorchester: Dorchester has five Long Stay car parks and four Shoppers' car parks. All car parks are operated on a Pay and Display basis. Park and Ride: A Park and Ride scheme operates all year round from the Dorchester Football ...
Parking in Lyme Regis: The best place to park is Charmouth Road, Holmbush and Hill Road car parks on the edge of Lyme Regis. All west Dorset District Council, Lyme Regis Town Council and NCP car parks operate on a pay and display basis.
Parking in Sherborne: Sherborne is served by three long stay car parks and five shoppers' car parks. All car parks are operated on a pay and display basis. Three - Eight Day Parking Permits: Permits covering all of West Dorset District Council's ...

Group Travel

If you're looking to take your group somewhere new and exciting, then look no further than West Dorset. We have something for everyone; a wealth of attractions , historic houses and gardens and bustling market towns . Whether you group ...

Coach Parking: Information to help plan your group or school visit to West Dorset including maps, toilet and parking facilities. Useful Information Diesel Stops - 24 hour Service Stations Olds Peugeot (Shell), London Road, Dorchester Tel: 01305 266066 Shell London Road, 29 ...
Guiding Services: Whilst in West Dorset, why not allow an experienced guide to show you around some of the area's most significant and fascinating sites? Blue Badge Guided Tours take the stress out of organising group visits, and can be arranged to ...
Itineraries: During your visit to West Dorset, why not take the chance to explore the area using some of our suggested holiday itineraries? Whether your party are fascinated by fossils or mesmerized by the area's military past, there is an itinerary ...

Tourist Information Centres

Visit any of West Dorset's Tourist Information Centres in Dorchester , Bridport , Sherborne and Lyme Regis to access a vast range of detailed and up-to-date information for the whole area. Friendly and knowledgeable staff provide a comprehensive information ...

Bridport Tourist Information Centre: Bridport Tourist Information Centre South Street Bridport DT6 3NY Tel: 01308 424901 Email: bridport.tic@westdorset-dc.gov.uk Opening hours: April - October, Monday - Saturday 0900-1700 November - March, Monday - Saturday 1000 - 1500 Location map Publications ...
Dorchester Tourist Information Centre: Dorchester Tourist Information Centre Antelope Walk Dorchester DT1 1BE Tel: 01305 267992 Email: dorchester.tic@westdorset-dc.gov.uk Opening hours:April - October, Monday - Saturday 0900-1700 November - March, Monday - Saturday 0900 - 1600 Location map Publications are ...
Frequently asked questions: Please click on the links below for the answers to some frequently asked questions How do I get to West Dorset ? How can I book accommodation ? What is there to do in West Dorset ? Can I take ...
Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre: Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre Church Street Lyme Regis DT7 3BS Tel: 01297 442138 Email: lymeregis.tic@westdorset-dc.gov.uk Opening hours:April - October, Monday - Saturday 1000-1700, Sunday 1000-1600 November - March, Monday - Saturday 1000 - 1500 Location ...
Sherborne Tourist Information Centre: Sherborne Tourist Information Centre Digby Road Sherborne DT9 3NL Tel: 01935 815341 Email: sherborne.tic@westdorset- dc.gov.uk Opening hours: April - October, Monday - Saturday 0900-1700 November - March, Monday - Saturday 1000 - 1500 The Tourist Information Centre is located in ...