Rural Dorset Brochure

The Rural Dorset guide, produced by Rural Dorset c/o East Dorset District Council, invites visitors to discover traditional England at its finest, with unspoilt countryside, vibrant market towns and hidden villages. Perfectly located between the New Forest National Park, the World Heritage Jurassic Coast and Salisbury, the area offers the perfect ingredients for a memorable holiday or short break.

Escape into the Great Outdoors

Rural Dorset is a haven for those who love the open air. Walkers, cyclists and horse riders can explore miles of footpaths and trails, while ancient hill forts reward visitors with stunning panoramas.

• Miles of footpaths and trails to explore by foot, bicycle or on horseback
• Stunning views over meandering rivers from ancient hill forts
• Sweeping downland rich in rare plants and butterflies

History, Heritage and Culture

The region is steeped in history. Learn about life above and below stairs at one of the area's country houses, or feel the power of a working water mill. With its pretty thatched cottages and cobbled street, iconic Gold Hill vividly recalls times past, while local museums and grand ecclesiastical buildings reveal more of the area's fascinating story.

Food, Events and Shopping

Visitors can enjoy delicious local food and drink alongside fun-filled days out at great attractions and colourful events, whatever the weather. The guide highlights a host of memorable occasions and places to browse.

• Wimborne Minster Folk Festival, with its toe-tapping atmosphere
• The internationally renowned Great Dorset Steam Fair
• The Wimborne Food Festival to set the taste buds tingling
• Quirky local events such as the Ashmore Filly Loo, Milton Abbas 18th Century Street Fair, Stock Gaylard Oak Fair and Cranborne Chase Woodfair
• Quality craft centres, regular markets, independent boutiques and traditional shops in charming market towns

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Rural Dorset located?

Rural Dorset sits between the New Forest National Park, the World Heritage Jurassic Coast and Salisbury, making it ideally placed for a holiday or short break.

What outdoor activities are available?

Visitors can explore miles of footpaths and trails by foot, bicycle or on horseback, and take in stunning panoramas from ancient hill forts overlooking rivers and downland.

What historic attractions can be visited?

The area features country houses, a working water mill, local museums, grand ecclesiastical buildings and the iconic Gold Hill, with its thatched cottages and cobbled street.

What events does the guide feature?

It highlights the Wimborne Minster Folk Festival, the Great Dorset Steam Fair, the Wimborne Food Festival, plus quirky events including the Ashmore Filly Loo, Milton Abbas 18th Century Street Fair, Stock Gaylard Oak Fair and Cranborne Chase Woodfair.

Is there good shopping in the area?

Yes. Rural Dorset offers quality craft centres, regular markets and a wonderful range of independent boutiques, high street stores and traditional shops across its charming market towns.

What food and drink can visitors enjoy?

The guide points to delicious local food and drink, with food-focused events such as the Wimborne Food Festival adding to the experience.

This brochure is part of the Catalink archive and may no longer be available to order. The information above describes Rural Dorset c/o East Dorset District Council. For current details, visit the company's official website.