Just show me Dorchester Cottages
If you're looking for somewhere with facilities on hand yet close to amazing countryside, our Dorchester cottages make great contenders. Think elegant architecture, historic sites, thriving culture and excellent shopping.
Dorchester's a fantastic place for browsing. Shoppers will find all kinds of specialist shops, high street names and markets, while museums range from dinosaurs, teddies and Chinese Terracotta Warriors, to Roman artefacts and Tutankhamun. And in between shopping and sightseeing, relish delicious snacks and meals in a wide variety of establishments, from pavement cafes to Michelin-starred restaurants.
When it comes to historic sites, Dorchester features a treasure trove of delights. Don't miss the splendid Roman Town House, the home of infamous 'Hanging' Judge Jeffreys, the huge Iron Age hill fort of Maiden Castle and the Roman amphitheatre at Maumbury Rings.
Thomas Hardy's Wessex a stone's throw from your Dorchester cottage
Dorset's wonderful landscapes have inspired many writers and most of Hardy's novels are based on Dorset; Dorchester is indeed the legendary town of 'Casterbridge'. The Dorset County Museum displays his works, while you can also visit his birthplace Hardy's Cottage and his Victorian villa Max Gate, designed by Hardy and built by his brother. Discover more of his beloved 'Wessex' on foot and stride out from your Dorchester cottage along the Dorchester to Weymouth Trail (10 miles).
To the west of the town centre you'll find Poundbury, Prince Charles' award-winning residential development built in the traditional architectural style of Dorchester and home to a variety of attractions, including a monthly farmers' market.