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A Week in Dorset

If you are heading to Poole for a week, we suggest fitting in some trips a little further afield during your visit, so that you can make the most of this beautiful area of Dorset.

We’ve put together an itinerary for 7 days in Dorset, mixing slower days in Poole with more adventurous day trips along the Jurassic Coast. 

Poole

Compton Acres Poole

Day 1: Compton Acres & Dinner at The Cliff

On your first day, head to Compton Acres and take in the stunning scenery as you make your way around these beautiful gardens including The Japanese and Italian Gardens

The on-site cafe, serving hot and cold refreshments to enjoy after your walk.

In the evening, head to The Cliff, Canford Cliffs, and enjoy their extensive range of tempting dishes with a cocktail or two - their garden area is the perfect atmospheric spot to wind down on your first day in Poole. 

Lulworth Cove

Day 2: Lulworth Cove | Ringstead

Pack a lunch and head over to Lulworth Cove - one of Dorset’s most iconic landmarks, and a must-see. If the crowds are too much, or you fancy a second stop, just along the coast is a much more secluded and lesser known beach.

Ringstead is a gorgeous spot to enjoy on a sunny day. Get out on the water on a paddleboard or dip your toes in the clear waters. If you like a good walk, you can head to other points of interest, including Lulworth from here.

Branksome Chine

Day 3: Branksome Chine for the day with a beach barbecue at sunset

There are so many lovely beaches in and around Poole, but a must visit is Branksome Chine, which is located between Sandbanks and the Bournemouth beaches. Head there nice and early and have a paddle or a swim in the sea, for those a little braver.

Set up camp and enjoy, or take a walk along the coast to Bournemouth pier. Finish the day with a beach barbecue as the sun sets.

Day 4: Sealife Centre Weymouth | Portland

Day 4: Sealife Centre Weymouth | Portland

A great day out for those visiting the area with children, Weymouth SeaLife Centre is fun-packed full of activities and things to see and do. They recently launched a Behind the Scenes tour, which gives guests the option for an additional VIP experience.

Not a fan, or want to pack out your day more? Portland is a brilliant place to head to, with lots of points of interest, and another fantastic day out in the local area.

Day 5: Swyre Head | Worbarrow Bay | Chapmans Pool

Day 5: Swyre Head | Worbarrow Bay | Chapmans Pool

There are so many gorgeous spots along the Jurassic Coast, it can be hard to narrow the list down. Head to Swyre Head, Worbarrow Bay or Chapmans Pool for dramatic coastlines and breathtaking scenery. Or get adventurous and fit all three into one day, complete with stops at the countryside pubs along the way for some tasty home cooked food and local ales.

A visit to this area isn’t complete without a beer and pastie at the Square and Compass – a true gem!

Brownsea Island

Day 6: Brownsea Island, boat trip over and a picnic

Brownsea Island is a fantastic day out. Pack a picnic and head on over to the island via a boat from Poole harbour, spend the day exploring, looking out for the incredible wildlife, peacocks and red squirrels.

If you fancy something a little different, opt for their performances, which are on during the summer months and are a total bucket-list experience!

Mudeford Christchurch

Day 7: Christchurch & Hengistbury Head

For your last day, make a trip to neighbouring Christchurch for a wander around the town and its ruins, have a spot of lunch at The Boathouse on the waterfront, or an indulgent dinner at The Jetty in Mudeford and make sure you make time to climb up Hengistbury Head and take in the beautiful vista.

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