First time visitors to West Dorset are in for a most pleasant surprise. The downland landscape is idyllic and the coastline fully justifies it World Heritage site accreditation.

There is seaside hustle and bustle at Weymouth, but the true beauty of West Dorset is the rolling downs, magnificent coastal cliffs and pretty villages hidden away both along the coast and inland.

Historic connections include two Thomas Hardys; Sir Thomas was flag captain on HMS Victory, and lived at Portesham, whilst the author was born in Higher Bockhampton and lived for most of his life in Dorchester.

The ruins of Corfe Castle tower over the village of the same name, there are two castles in Sherborne (the modern one built for Sir Walter Raleigh), and there are many fine houses and gardens to visit.

For us, perhaps the best historical features are the Iron-Age forts such as Hambledon Hill and Eggerdon Hill, magnificent sites which offer terrific walking and fabulous views.

For more things to see and do visit the West Dorset Tourism Website.