Inland Dorchester is a town with one foot in the past and another firmly in the future. Some of this country’s best preserved Roman ruins moments away from a thriving high street. For those interested in history the County Museum has information about Thomas Hardy, a host of other Dorset literary figures, the Jurassic Coast, the county’s history and much more. The Keep Museum in High West Street is the most spectacular military museum in the South, what makes this museum so special is that until 1958 the Dorset Regiment’s Depot and Barracks were in active use so the building itself is living history.
There are many attractive walks within easy reach of the town centre leading very quickly to the peace and greenery of the countryside. Here are a few ideas; take the walk from Trinity Street to the Borough Gardens, or try the walk down South Walks to Elizabeth Frink’s celebrated Martyrs statue. For a riverside walk go past Thomas Hardy’s statue by the Top O’Town roundabout then along the road known as The Grove to the free to enter Roman Town House. Just out of town the Maumbury Rings are just off the Weymouth Road. Maiden Castle, one of the largest and most impressive Iron Age hill forts in Europe, is located just to the south west of the town.
Dorchester has something to satisfy everyone’s interest, there are a wide range of specialist gift shops and for those who like to explore away from the main high streets, some hidden treasures are up side streets and around corners.
Near Dorchester, just off the main road approaching from Exeter, the TOLPUDDLE MARTYRS MUSEUM tells the harrowing tale of the Martyrs’ arrest, trial and punishment, leading to the foundation of modern day trade unionism. The museum is modern, informative, and has an educational exhibition telling the story in text and images. Tolpuddle has long been a place of pilgrimage for trade unionists and visitors from the UK and around the world.
Durdle Door Purbeck to Christchurch F 78
rom Dorchester travelling toward the Isle of Purbeck there are too many towns, village & hamlets to describe on these pages, but take a look at Moreton to see the historic St. Nicholas
Church with its beautiful etched glass windows and perhaps visit Moreton Gardens. Just south of the village are the tranquil Tadnoll and Winfrith Heaths. The Jubilee Trail, Lawrence Trail and Lawrence Cycle Ride all pass through Moreton. Nearby Clouds Hill was the home of Lawrence of Arabia. The Lawrence Trail starts at the Tank Museum and follows the story of T.E. Lawrence, taking in where he worked, lived, died and is buried.
Bovington is home to THE TANK MUSEUM where history is brought to life, with the world’s best collection of tanks, and explosive live displays. See almost 300 vehicles as you explore five powerful exhibitions, including; The Tank Story, Battlegroup Afghanistan, The Discovery Centre, The Trench Experience, and new for 2014 Warhorse to Horsepower. As well as our themed family activities and Tanks in Action Displays during the school holidays, visitors can also enjoy a variety of free talks and tours every day. It’s guaranteed to stop you in your tracks!
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