North Dorset

Staying in Minterne Magna feels deeply peaceful and tucked away, with a strong sense of rural Dorset heritage. The village sits in a secluded valley and is best known for the beautiful Minterne House gardens, where landscaped trails, waterfalls, and exotic plantings create a surprisingly lush and atmospheric setting. Accommodation in and around the area tends to be quiet and traditional, making it ideal for anyone looking to unwind, walk directly into nature, or explore the surrounding chalk downlands. Days here are shaped by slow country rhythms—walking, reading in gardens, or visiting nearby villages—while evenings are still and dark, perfect for stargazing or simply enjoying the silence of the valley.

A historic market town which lies on the banks of the River Frome, in the Frome Valley just south of the Dorset Downs. The County town of Dorchester was also made famous by the works of Thomas Hardy, who used the county as the principal setting for his novels.

Dorchester’s roots stem back to prehistoric times. The earliest settlements were around Maiden Castle, a large Iron Age hill fort that was one of the most powerful settlements in pre-Roman Britain. The remains of the Roman wall surrounding the town can still be seen today. The County Museum harbourers many Roman finds and is well worth a visit.

The lively new development of Brewery Square has a wealth of restaurants bars and shops and an outdoor big screen cinema area, well worth bearing in mind for those evenings you don’t want to cook!

There is a weekly farmers market, Teddy bear museum, The Keep Military Museum, Borough gardens to explore and parks for the children, the town of Dorchester is sure to provide something for everyone.