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Frequently asked questions about Dorset
We have created a list of questions and answers so you can find out everything you need to know about having an Away Resorts holiday in Dorset.
Questions
Where to stay in Dorset and when to visit
- Where is the best place to stay in Dorset?
- Best time to visit Dorset
- What are the best attractions in Dorset?
- How many parks does Away Resorts have in Dorset?
- Which holiday parks in Dorset are closest to the beach?
- What are the best holiday parks in near Bournemouth?
- What are the best holiday parks in Dorset for couples?
- What are the best holiday parks in Dorset for families?
Getting to Dorset
- Where is Dorset
- How to travel to Dorset from London
Dog-friendly Dorset
- Is Dorset dog friendly?
Dorset holiday costs
- How much is a camping pitch in Dorset?
- How much does it cost to stay in a caravan in Dorset?
- How much does it cost to stay in a lodge in Dorset?
Dorset holiday park amenities
- Which holiday parks in Dorset have WiFi?
- Which holiday parks in Dorset have swimming pools?
Where to stay in Dorset and when to visit
Where is the best place to stay in Dorset?
Dorset is an idyllic holiday destination with various locations catering to different interests, from scenic coastal towns to tranquil countryside retreats. Here are some of the best places to consider for a holiday in Dorset:
Bournemouth
Why Visit: A lively seaside town with a wide, sandy beach, vibrant nightlife, and many family-friendly attractions.
Top Activities:
- Relax on Bournemouth Beach and enjoy water sports.
- Stroll through Bournemouth Gardens.
- Visit the Oceanarium.
Lyme Regis
Why Visit: Known as the "Pearl of Dorset," this charming town is part of the Jurassic Coast and famous for its fossils.
Top Activities:
- Walk along the historic Cobb Harbour.
- Go fossil hunting on the beaches.
- Explore the Lyme Regis Museum.
Swanage
Why Visit: A quaint coastal town with a relaxed vibe, beautiful beaches, and access to Purbeck Hills. You can stay at our very own Swanage Bay View Resort!
Top Activities:
- Ride the Swanage Railway to Corfe Castle.
- Visit Swanage Beach and the Pier.
- Hike along the South West Coast Path to Old Harry Rocks.
Charmouth
Why Visit: A smaller, quieter location on the Jurassic Coast, ideal for fossil hunting.
Top Activities:
- Take a guided fossil hunting tour.
- Relax on Charmouth Beach.
- Explore the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre.
Best time to visit Dorset
The best times to visit Dorset largely depend on what kind of experience you’re seeking, but generally, the spring, summer, and autumn months are the most popular. Here’s a breakdown of each season to help you decide when to visit:
Spring (March-May)
- Spring is an excellent time to visit if you enjoy fewer crowds and the beauty of nature coming to life.
- Wildflowers, blossoming trees, and the return of migratory birds make the countryside and coast particularly vibrant.
- The weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and coastal walks.
Summer (June - August)
- Summer offers Dorset's warmest weather and the most vibrant atmosphere, especially along the coast.
- Perfect for enjoying beach days, water sports, and outdoor festivals.
- This is also when many of Dorset's tourist attractions, events, and outdoor cafés are in full swing.
- The beaches are at their best, with Bournemouth, Lyme Regis, and Weymouth offering warm sands and plenty of activities.
Autumn (September - November)
- Autumn offers pleasant weather with fewer crowds than summer. It’s a fantastic time to experience Dorset’s autumn foliage and enjoy crisp, cool days.
- The landscape is stunning, with changing colours across the countryside and coast.
- It is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking or cycling, especially when the weather is still relatively mild in early autumn.
Winter (December - February)
- Winter is the quietest season, making it ideal if you're looking for a peaceful, tranquil getaway.
- The cold weather brings out the beauty of Dorset’s rugged coastline, with fewer visitors and serene landscapes.
- If you love cosy atmospheres, winter in Dorset offers charming pubs, winter festivals, and the chance to see historic towns and villages with festive decorations.
What are the best attractions in Dorset?
Dorset is a treasure trove of attractions, offering natural beauty, historical landmarks, and family-friendly activities. Here’s a curated list of some must-see attractions in Dorset:
- Durdle Door
- Lulworth Cove
- Old Harry Rocks
- Brownsea Island
- Corfe Castle
- Maiden Castle
- Sherborne Abbey
- Nothe Fort (Weymouth)
- The Tank Museum (Bovington)
- Monkey World (Wareham)
- Dorset County Museum (Dorchester)
- Adventure Wonderland (Christchurch)
- Thomas Hardy’s Cottage
- Sculpture by the Lakes
- Compton Acres
- Kingston Lacy
- Swanage Railway
- Poole Harbour
- Abbotsbury Swannery
How many parks does Away Resorts have in Dorset?
We have 2 excellent resorts in Dorset, each providing a unique holiday experience:
- East Fleet Farm: the perfect touring and camping location set around the corner from the stunning Jurassic Coast.
- Swanage Bay View: Located just a few minutes walk from the tranquil town of Swanage next to the stunning Swanage beach.
Which holiday parks in Dorset are closest to the beach?
Our holiday parks in Dorset are conveniently located near some of the region's finest beaches along the Jurassic coast. East Fleet Farm is just minutes from the world-famous Chesil Beach, and Swanage Bay View is just a five-minute drive from Swanage Beach.
What are the best holiday parks in near Bournemouth?
Bournemouth is the perfect day trip if you’re staying at Swanage Bay View, as it's only a 45-minute drive away. You can even take the scenic route via the Shell Bay to Sandbanks ferry.
What are the best holiday parks in Dorset for couples?
Both of our holiday parks in Dorset offer accommodations and facilities perfect for a couple's getaways. For a more tranquil luxury retreat, we recommend Swanage Bay View, set in picturesque surroundings and highly rated by couples.
What are the best holiday parks in Dorset for families?
Our holiday parks in Dorset provide a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere that both adults and children will love. If you're planning a family getaway packed with activities for the kids, we've got you covered.
East Fleet Farm is the perfect touring and camping location for a family getaway. Located in the stunning Dorset countryside and round the corner from the magnificent Jurassic Coast, the kids can have fun at the adventure playground, and you can enjoy seasonal events over the summer period, such as the fantastic colour throw festival.
Getting to Dorset
Where is Dorset
Dorset is a county located in southwest England in the United Kingdom. It is bordered by several other counties, including:
- Devon to the west
- Somerset to the northwest
- Wiltshire to the northeast
- Hampshire to the east
How to travel to Dorset from London
The distance between Dorset and London depends on the specific starting and ending points, but here are some general estimates:
By Road
Approximate Distance: Around 120–140 miles (193–225 km), depending on the route.
Driving Time: Typically takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours via the M3 and A31, though traffic can add extra time. The journey is relatively straightforward and scenic, making Dorset a popular getaway from London.
Dog-friendly Dorset
Is Dorset dog friendly?
Dorset is very dog-friendly, and there are plenty of dog-friendly attractions you and your four-legged friend can visit as part of your trip.
Both of our resorts are dog friendly, each offering pet-friendly accommodations, facilities and even a doggy menu in some of our restaurants!
Check out our list of dog friendly beaches in Dorset!
Dorset holiday costs
How much is a camping pitch in Dorset?
East Fleet Farm offers fantastic camping and touring pitches from March to November. We have plenty of facilities on-site, including a park shop, an adventure playground, and even a restaurant.
How much does it cost to stay in a caravan in Dorset?
Swanage Bay View offers a diverse selection of static caravans to suit every preference and budget.
Our comfort caravans provide great value, with affordable options for short breaks.
Self-catering holidays give you the flexibility to save during your stay, and our self-catering caravans are equipped with fully-stocked kitchens. For those seeking more space and luxury, we also have a range of extra-wide caravans and premium models available for your next Dorset getaway.
How much does it cost to stay in a lodge in Dorset?
We offer a variety of lodges at Swanage Bay View, catering to all budgets. Whether you’re looking for affordable lodge-style accommodations or larger, luxurious lodges, you’ll find the perfect option for your stay.
Our last-minute breaks in Dorset are a fantastic way to save money, while those looking for a little extra luxury can choose a spacious, extra-wide lodge for the ultimate getaway.
Dorset holiday park amenities
Which holiday parks in Dorset have WiFi?
Both of our holiday parks in Dorset offer free WiFi in select facilities. Additionally, WiFi is available in some of our exclusive accommodations for your convenience; check out our ways to stay page for more information!
Which holiday parks in Dorset have swimming pools?
The brilliant Swanage Bay View has a heated indoor swimming pool, which you can use as part of your relaxing Dorset escape.
Explore our Dorset locations...
Explore Dorset Resorts
Whether you're looking for all-action, time to relax, an escape to the seaside, fancy a walk in the forest, or have something to celebrate, we've got a holiday resort to suit everyone’s taste.
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