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Cerne Abbas Giant
Description: You can't visit Cerne Abbas without visiting the Giant and you'd be hard-pressed to miss it. The Cerne Abbas Giant is a famous hill figure of a giant carved into the chalk hillside above the village, believed to date back to the late Saxon period. It's an iconic landmark and a must-see.
Tip: We parked in the car park below the Giant and walked up the hill by the side so you could get a fantastic view of the whole figure (there's no hiding the obvious 'bits' from the kids I'm afraid!). We took a flask of coffee and some snacks for the kids and sat at the top of the hill to enjoy the panoramic views of t he surrounding breathtaking countryside.
Address: The Giant Inn, 24 Long St, Cerne Abbas, Dorchester DT2 7AL
Minterne House
Description: Minterne House and Gardens is just a short drive from Cerne Abbas but may not be on your radar - although they are on The Telegraph’s top 25 gardens to visit!
This Himalayan gardens are an absolute must visit! Imagine Stourhead but less touristy and with secluded gardens famed for their seasonal profusion of rhododendron, azalea, Japanese cherries and magnolia.
You can easily spend a morning or afternoon here and there is a gorgeous cafe serving hot and cold food (all local produce and suppliers) and a large range of drinks (the coffee is fantastic). You can enjoy your food and drink on a picturesque terrace with sweeping views across the estate.
You can view our gallery from our visit to Minterne House, here.
Tip: Keep an eye on Minterne Gardens' events calendar as they host a range of seasonal events throughout the year including the popular Summer 'Dragons and Fairy Trails'
Address: Minterne House, Minterne Magna, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 7AU
Cerne Abbey
Description: Founded in 987 AD, the ruins of this Benedictine Abbey in Cerne Abbas are steeped in history. The remaining parts of the abbey, including the Abbot's Porch and the Abbey Guesthouse, are very much worth exploring for all visiting Cerne Abbas.
Tip: Check out the Abbey's small museum to learn more about its history and significance.
Address: Abbey St, Cerne Abbas, Dorchester, DT2 7JQ
St. Mary's Church
Description: St. Mary's Church is a beautiful 13th-century church with stunning architecture and historic artifacts. Make sure to add St Mary's onto your Cerne Abbas itinery to see their historical artifacts; including medieval wall paintings and an ancient font.
Tip: If you make the trip to St Mary's, ensure that you take a leisurely stroll through the churchyard! The churchyard and gardens are a peaceful and well-maintained spot.
Address: 2 Abbey St, Cerne Abbas, Dorchester, DT2 7JQ
Cerne Abbas Brewery
Description: The Cerene Abbas Brewery offers up a variety of craft beers, with the famous Cerne Abbas Giant on the bottle. It's a great place to sample some local flavors and take a tour of the brewing process! They even have a Merchandise Store of Cerne Abbas shirts and jumpers for those visiting.
Tip: Try their unique brews whilst you're at the brewery, and consider leaving with some souvenirs.
Address: Dorchester Rd, Cerne Abbas, Dorchester, DT2 7JS
Village Walks
Description: The village of Cerne Abbas itself is a quaint spot, and very much full of Dorset character. When visiting and walking around, you’ll see a variety of traditional thatched cottages, historic buildings, and beautiful gardens. Cerne Abbas is a great alternative to the typical Dorset Coastline walks that those visiting Dorset are most often encouraged to take.
Tip: You can pick up a walking map from a local shop or the village information center to ensure you don’t miss any key sights!
Wessex Ridgeway
Description: The Wessex Ridgeway is a long-distance footpath that passes through Cerne Abbas. The ridgeway begins from Marlborough in Wiltshire and runs to to Lyme Regis in Dorset, spanning a whopping 136 miles. It offers excellent hiking opportunities with stunning views of the Dorset countryside.
Tip: Make sure to wear sturdy walking shoes and bring water and snacks if you plan to hike longer sections of the trail.
Giant Inn
Description: The Giant Inn in Cerne Abbas is a must-visit spot for those looking for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink when visitng. The Giant Inn is a classic and traditional English pub named after the Cerne Abbas Giant itself, offering up a cozy atmosphere and delicious food and drinks.
Tip: Make sure to take your food and drink, and head out into the pub gardens if the weather is nice.
Address: 24 Long St, Cerne Abbas, Dorchester, DT2 7JF
Old Mill
Description: The Old Mill in Cerne Abbas is a historic feature of the village, as of 2016 the Mill has now been restored. Although not open to the public and situated on private property, the Mill can still be admired from the outside.
Tip: Whilst enjoying a walk around Cerne Abbas, make sure to keep your eye out for the Mill. With it's central location, you won't find it hard to spot!
Address: The Mill House, 2 Mill Lane, Cerne Abbas, Dorset, DT2 7LB
Annual Events in Cerne Abbas
Description: Check the local calendar for annual events such as the Dragons and Fairy Trail at Minterne House and Gardens, the Cerne Abbas Music Festival or village fairs.
Tip: If you're considering taking a trip to Cerne Abbas for a day out, why not check out the calendar to see if you can plan your visit alongside an event!