Places of interest in Dorset

Corfe Castle

There is belief it may have been a Roman defensive site, but the castle we see the ruins of today was a rebuild in the 11th century of what was a wood castle back into the 9th century.

The village and its famous castle are built mainly from the local Purbeck stone which is probably the finest limestone available for building and polishing in England, and is used throughout the world.

In 1635 the Castle was sold to Sir John Bankes, the then Lord Chief Justice, more as a holiday home rather than as a first home.

Bournemouth

Renowned for its seven miles of golden beaches and beautiful parks and gardens, Bournemouth blends the contemporary with the traditional to ensure you are truly spoilt for choice.

Just three miles 'up the road' is the idealic town on Poole, probably most well known for its watersport activities.    Poole host's national windsurfing and kite surfing events every year, along with major sailing events too.    There are plenty of schools to learn these watersports too - what better place to learn!    Joining onto the Poole coastline are the beautiful beaches of Sandbanks.    With the Sandbanks chain ferry taking you across to Swanage saving you a twenty something mile round trip!

If you want to get away from it all though you can take a flight to hotter destinations from Bournemouth International Airport.

Weymouth & Dorchester;

Weymouth is situated on the West Dorset Coast between Bournemouth and Lime Regis.   With stunning views across the Weymouth Bay, this is more than just your typical traditional British holiday resort.

Weymouth is steeped with history too and is well known for its watersport activities, visit www.resort-guide.co.uk/weymouth for further information.

Poole.

A bustling Quay, the best beaches in England and the stunning natural harbour make Poole, Dorset a natural first choice on the South Coast. 

"It was hard to believe such a paradise existed in England" Mail on Sunday

"All of a sudden Poole is being tagged the new cool... the Florida Keys of British beach resorts" The Guardian

Poole has held highly coveted International Blue Flags for the past 19 years.  This indicates the beaches have consistently met high standards of management and cleanliness.

In peak season it is ensured that sands are sifted, cleaned and raked on a regular basis, in addition litter is cleared throughout the day.  Specific dog-free zones and activity areas for boarders and swimmers are part of our commitment to you, to provide a relaxing, fun and safe time for all ages.

Sandbanks Beach    has held the additional distinction of having been awarded a 100% rating by ENCAMS.  Naturally beautiful, with more than three miles of golden sand, the Sandbanks Beach area is designated by the EC as one of the few areas in the country, which has achieved the highest standard of cleanliness.

Canford Cliffs Beach  is a natural and tranquil area of our beaches situated between Shore Road and Branksome Chine. The steep sandy cliff face provides a haven for wildlife. Facilities consist of First Aid, Toilets, Refreshment Kiosk and public telephone. Canford Cliffs Village offers some local shops and can be accessed via the Chine (approx 800 yds).

Poole Quay offers a great fun packed day out for all the family with its bustling atmosphere, restaurants, cafes and pubs plus there’s always lots of visiting yachts and vessels to see.    Why not snap up a few bargains in the Poole Pottery factory shop, stop for lunch in the many quay side pubs and restaurants,  where you can enjoy the stunning view.  There’s no shortage of excellent places to eat out whatever your taste and budget.

Maybe a pint is all you require, and there’s plenty of choice including Portsmouth Hoy,  The Quay which offers good family choice, The Jolly Sailor & Lord Nelson. The last two often provide lively evening entertainment with music and the added attraction of a late night license!!

Experience Poole’s exciting and colourful past by walking the newly created Cockle Trail around the Quay and Old Town - discover smugglers and ghosts, see the 18th Century architecture and stroll along the cobbled streets. Pick up a leaflet from Poole Welcome Centre on Poole Quay and simply follow the 78 brass plaques that guide you through over 750 years of Poole’s history.  If you have the family with you why not combine the Cockle Trail with the Poole Quay Treasure Hunt and pick up a Poole Quay Family Fun leaflet from Poole Welcome Centre.  If all this leaves you keen to know more about Poole's history then head for The Waterfront Museum which brings it all to life.