We're here to
make it memorable
Fantastic LODGE holidays now available at Chesil!
New top of the range accommodation available!
The question is, where to start. Go in any direction from the Chesil Park and you will come across stunning views, ancient landmarks, historic houses and gardens, quiet villages and sleepy valleys - to say nothing of the beaches....
On our doorstep is Weymouth, just a bus ride away from the stop outside the entrance. The town has all the attractions of a bustling seaside resort, from its busy harbour to its wide and shallow sandy bay. It is also the starting point for day trips to the beautiful Channel Islands. As you would expect, Weymouth offers a variety of attractions and many great places to eat. Most of the national favourites are here together with family friendly pubs and fine restaurants.
Heading west along the coast road to Bridport, stop at the top of the hill above Abbotsbury and look back at the majestic sweep of the Chesil Beach as it stretches to the Isle of Portland. Abbotsbury itself is home to the world famous Swannery and the Sub-Tropical Gardens. Further west is the towering cliff of Golden Cap and the fossil hunters beach between Charmouth and Lyme Regis. To the east are the Purbeck Hills, Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove and the continuation of the breathtaking coastal path as it heads for Swanage and Old Harry Rocks, above the long sandy beach and shallow waters of Studland Bay. Inland is the County town of Dorchester, made famous by Thomas Hardy in The Mayor of Casterbridge, and guarded by the ancient hill at Maiden Castle.
Discover the giant carved into the hillside at Cerne Abbas, visit fine houses and gardens such as Kingston Lacey at Wimborne and Compton Acres in Poole. Take a boat trip from Poole Quay round the harbour and stop Brownsea Island. Read on, there is so much more for all ages discover and enjoy in Dorset, from its historical coast to ancient hill forts and castles to its more adventurous attractions.
King Charles II, having visited more counties than anyone else at the time, declared on visiting Dorset that he never saw a finer county, either in England or out of it. Who are we to disagree?
Dorset is rich in history with ancient hill forts such as those at Maiden Castle, Eggardon Hill, Pilsdon Pen and perhaps the most impressive of all, Hambledon Hill north of the Market town of Blandford and then of course there are its castles, the most famous being the majestic ruin of Corfe Castle guarding the entrance to the Purbeck Hills. But there are smaller gems to discover such as those at Lulworth, Sherborne, the Nothe in Weymouth and the Military Keep in Dorchester, now a museum.
Talking of museums, forget the old crusty images of static cabinets and sample the reality displayed at the Tank Museum at Bovington and in the fabulous Fleet Air Arm collection at Yeovilton and not forgetting the Motor Museum at Beaulieu, a must if you visit the New Forest. When you want something more relaxing, pick up a National Trust leaflet listing all the houses and gardens within easy driving distance of Weymouth and don't miss the house and gardens at Athelhampton and Ford Abbey.
We know you and the children will want more than history and scenery, so when you need a bit of action why not try the Sea Life Centre in Weymouth and the TV favourite Monkey World at Wool, or sample the attractions of our near neighbour Bournemouth. Whatever you want from Dorset we think you will find it. We have listed some of the brochures you will find in reception, but the Tourist Office in Weymouth may well have a few more.
Find out more about our holiday home charges and how to make a provisional booking for your holiday at Chesil. More...
Look at the fantastic brochure specials for holidays and short breaks all year around. More...
