Dorset, a county renowned for its stunning Jurassic Coast and picturesque countryside, is home to some of the most captivating National Trust properties in England.
From ancient castles to literary landmarks, these sites offer visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the rich history and natural beauty of the region.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore ten of the most remarkable National Trust locations in Dorset, providing you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable visit.
For those planning an extended stay to explore these magnificent sites, consider booking one of our holiday cottages in Dorset. Our properties offer comfortable and convenient bases from which to discover all that this beautiful county has to offer.
1. Brownsea Island: A Wildlife Haven in Poole Harbour
Nestled in the heart of Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island is a nature lover’s paradise and a significant site in the history of the Scouting movement.
Key Features:
- Home to rare red squirrels
- Diverse bird species, including peacocks
- Birthplace of the Scouting movement
- Secluded beaches and forest trails
Visitor Information:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Access | Passenger ferry from Poole Quay or Sandbanks |
| Opening Times | March to October, daily 10am-5pm |
| Facilities | Visitor centre, café, gift shop |
| Activities | Nature walks, birdwatching, camping (pre-booking required) |
Brownsea Island offers a unique escape from the mainland, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature and history. The island’s diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
2. Corfe Castle: A Thousand Years of History
Standing majestically atop a hill in the Purbeck countryside, Corfe Castle is an iconic symbol of medieval power and intrigue.
Historical Highlights:
- Built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror
- Played a significant role in the English Civil War
- Partially demolished in 1646 by Parliamentarians
Visitor Experience:
- Explore the atmospheric ruins
- Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
- Participate in historical reenactments and events
- Visit the charming village of Corfe Castle at the foot of the hill
The castle’s dramatic silhouette and rich history make it a must-visit destination for history buffs and families alike. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top for breathtaking views of the Purbeck Hills.
Visitor Information:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Access | Located in Corfe Castle village, Dorset. Parking available at the National Trust car park, free for members. Accessible via Swanage Railway and Purbeck Breezer buses. |
| Opening Times | Open daily from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. |
| Facilities | Visitor centre, café, shop, accessible toilets. The terrain is steep, but there are accessible paths and facilities available. |
| Activities | Explore the castle ruins, enjoy panoramic views, attend seasonal events and reenactments. Family-friendly trails and activities are also available. |
3. Kingston Lacy: An Italian Palace in the Dorset Countryside
This opulent country house, inspired by Venetian architecture, offers visitors a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Bankes family.
Highlights:
- Extensive art collection featuring works by Rubens, Van Dyck, and Titian
- Beautifully landscaped gardens and parkland
- Egyptian artifacts collected by William John Bankes
- Seasonal events and exhibitions
Garden Features:
- Formal gardens with geometric patterns
- Japanese Garden with authentic tea house
- Kitchen Garden supplying fresh produce
- Fernery and restored Victorian glasshouses
Kingston Lacy is a treasure trove of art and history, set within a stunning 8,500-acre estate. The house’s interiors are a testament to the family’s wealth and taste, while the gardens provide a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll.
Visitor Information:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Access | Located near Wimborne, Dorset. Sat nav postcode: BH21 4EA. Free parking for National Trust members. |
| Opening Times | House: 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM. Gardens and car park: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Open year-round, except for Christmas Day. |
| Facilities | Café, gift shop, second-hand bookshop, plant shop, baby-changing facilities, accessible toilets. |
| Activities | Explore the house and gardens, seasonal guided tours, walks through the parkland and woodland. Events include outdoor cinema and Christmas light displays. |
4. Studland Bay: A Coastal Paradise
Studland Bay boasts four miles of pristine sandy beaches, backed by dunes and heathland, offering something for every beach lover.
Beaches at Studland:
- Shell Bay: Perfect for watersports and views of Brownsea Island
- Knoll Beach: Family-friendly with excellent facilities
- Middle Beach: Quieter, with a more natural feel
- South Beach: Ideal for those seeking seclusion
Activities:
- Swimming and sunbathing
- Watersports (kayaking, paddleboarding)
- Nature trails through the dunes
- Birdwatching in the adjacent nature reserve
Studland Bay is not only a haven for beachgoers but also a site of significant ecological importance. The area is home to all six native British reptile species and numerous rare birds and insects.
Visitor Information:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Access | Accessible by car via the A351 to Corfe Castle and B3351 to Studland, or from the east via Sandbanks ferry. Public transport: Bus 50 connects to Studland. |
| Opening Times | Open year-round from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. |
| Facilities | Knoll Beach has a café, shop, toilets (including Changing Places facility), beach wheelchair hire, and parking. Middle and South Beach have limited facilities. |
| Activities | Beach activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and walking trails. Birdwatching and wildlife exploration across the dunes and heathland. |
5. Hardy’s Cottage and Max Gate: Literary Landmarks
Thomas Hardy, one of England’s most celebrated authors, is intimately connected with two National Trust properties in Dorset.
Hardy’s Cottage:
- Birthplace of Thomas Hardy in 1840
- Charming cob and thatch cottage
- Evocative setting that inspired his early works
Max Gate:
- Designed by Hardy himself in 1885
- Victorian villa where he wrote some of his most famous novels
- Gardens that Hardy personally cultivated
Literary Connection:
Both properties offer insight into Hardy’s life and work, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of the great author and experience the landscapes that inspired his novels.
Visitor Information:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Access | Located near Dorchester, Dorset. Parking at Thorncombe Wood Car Park, a 15-20 minute walk from the cottage. Accessible parking available by prior arrangement. |
| Opening Times | March to October: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Closed in January and February. Advance booking recommended. |
| Facilities | Small visitor centre, toilets, no café. Accessible bridleway available for mobility scooters. |
| Activities | Guided tours, walks through the surrounding woodland, and literary history exhibitions. |
6. Clouds Hill: T.E. Lawrence’s Rural Retreat
This small cottage was the home of T.E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life of this enigmatic figure.
Features:
- Preserved as Lawrence left it, with his personal belongings
- Spartan living quarters reflecting Lawrence’s austere lifestyle
- Library showcasing his literary interests
- Nearby trails for cycling, Lawrence’s favourite pastime
Clouds Hill provides an intimate look at the private life of a public hero, allowing visitors to connect with Lawrence’s complex personality and interests.
Visitor Information:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Access | Located near Bovington, Dorset. Free parking available for visitors, 90 yards from the cottage. Accessible by car from the A35 or via train to Wool (3.5 miles). |
| Opening Times | March to October, daily 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Closed during the winter months. |
| Facilities | No electricity in the house, low light levels to preserve the original contents. Toilets and picnic area available. |
| Activities | Guided tours of the house every 30 minutes, brass rubbing trail, and exhibitions on T.E. Lawrence’s life and possessions. |
7. White Mill: A Slice of Rural History
This beautifully preserved corn mill offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the workings of a traditional water mill.
Highlights:
- Original wooden machinery still in place
- Demonstrations of milling techniques (seasonal)
- Picturesque riverside setting
- Educational programs for schools and families
White Mill stands as a testament to the agricultural heritage of Dorset, providing insight into the rural economy of centuries past.
Visitor Information:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Access | Located near Wimborne Minster, Dorset. Parking is available, with designated accessible parking near the mill. |
| Opening Times | Open weekends and bank holidays from Easter to October. |
| Facilities | No onsite toilets or refreshments, but picnic areas are available by the river. |
| Activities | Guided tours of the mill’s original wooden machinery, walks by the River Stour, and family-friendly activities like a model rat hunt inside the mill. |
8. Cerne Abbas Giant: Ancient Mystery on the Hillside
The Cerne Abbas Giant, a massive hill figure of mysterious origin, continues to captivate visitors and scholars alike.
Key Facts:
- 55 meters tall figure carved into the chalk hillside
- Believed to date from the Late Saxon period (700-1100 AD)
- Subject of numerous legends and folklore
- Best viewed from the nearby viewpoint or from the air
Recent Discoveries:
Recent archaeological studies have shed new light on the giant’s age and purpose, adding to the intrigue surrounding this ancient monument.
Visitor Information:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Access | The Cerne Abbas Giant is located near the village of Cerne Abbas in Dorset. The best viewing point is from the free car park on the A352 at DT2 7AL. |
| Opening Times | Open year-round; free to visit. |
| Facilities | No onsite facilities. The nearby village of Cerne Abbas offers parking, pubs, and walking trails. |
| Activities | Walks around the Giant, viewpoints for photography, and exploration of the historic village. |
9. Old Harry Rocks: Geological Marvels of the Jurassic Coast
These iconic chalk formations mark the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, offering spectacular views and geological interest.
Visitor Information:
- Accessible via the South West Coast Path
- Best viewed at sunrise or sunset for dramatic photography
- Nearby beach at Studland Bay for swimming and relaxation
- Guided walks available to learn about the area’s geology and history
Old Harry Rocks provide a stunning example of coastal erosion and the ever-changing nature of our shorelines.
Visitor Information:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Access | Located near Studland, Dorset. The closest parking is at South Beach Car Park (BH19 3AU), with a 30-minute walk along the coast path to reach Old Harry Rocks. |
| Opening Times | Open year-round; no entry fee. |
| Facilities | Toilets are available near the Bankes Arms Pub in Studland. No facilities at the Rocks themselves. |
| Activities | Coastal walks, wildlife watching (peregrine falcons, gulls), and stunning views of the Jurassic Coast. |
10. Badbury Rings: Iron Age Hillfort
This well-preserved Iron Age hillfort offers visitors a chance to explore ancient earthworks and enjoy panoramic views of the Dorset countryside.
Features:
- Triple ring of ramparts dating back to 800 BC
- Rich in wildflowers and butterflies
- Excellent for walking and picnicking
- Connected to the Kingston Lacy estate
Badbury Rings combines historical significance with natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Visitor Information:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Access | Located near Wimborne Minster, Dorset. Pay-and-display car park available. Free for National Trust members, £1.50/hour or £4 for all day for non-members. |
| Opening Times | Open year-round; no booking required. |
| Facilities | Food and drink trailer available during summer and autumn on select days. No permanent café, but refreshments are available at nearby Kingston Lacy. No toilets onsite. |
| Activities | Walks around the Iron Age hill fort, with views of ancient burial mounds and Roman roads. Suitable for wildlife and history enthusiasts. |
Final Thoughts…
Dorset’s National Trust sites offer a diverse range of experiences, from coastal wonders to historical landmarks. Whether you’re interested in literature, history, nature, or simply seeking beautiful landscapes, these ten locations provide something for everyone. By visiting these sites, you not only enrich your understanding of Dorset’s heritage but also contribute to the preservation of these important cultural and natural treasures for future generations.
