Dorset Info

Of course, first and foremost Dorset is famous for its stunning coastline, The Jurassic Coast. However, there is an immense variety of landscape in Dorset. As well as its acid heathlands in the North-East there are the chalk downs and rich lush river valleys beyond. Along the coastline is Poole Harbour, one of the largest natural harbours in the world, while the nearby island of Portland Bill features huge white cliffs as well as being home to the amazing Chesil Bank.

Chesil Bank is almost 16 miles of heaped up pebbles, once a major hazard in the days of shipping. Where it meets Portland Bill, it is 42 feet high and 200 yards wide. It gradually diminishes in size towards the West, so by Bridport, this huge mysterious form is nothing more than fine shingle and sand. Meade Faulkner in his book 'Moonfleet' illustrates the effect this great 'bank' had on shipping in the past.

Because of its geological landforms Dorset was appointed as a World Heritage Site in 2001. The whole of the Mesozoic era from Triassic to Cretaceous is detailed along the coastline, where many notable and important fossils, including the first complete Ichthyosaur and fossilised Jurassic trees, have been found.

The largest Iron Age fort is Maiden Castle once used by the Celts. They not only had to defend themselves against the Romans but also later with the Saxon invasion. This magnificent building is still in existence today.

Agriculture was once the chief industry in Dorset, however due to mechanisation the number of workers has been extensively reduced. Since the 19th century tourism has expanded and is probably one of its main industries today.

The Dorset Knob, a hard biscuit, is one of Dorset's famous products and is especially recommended to accompany the local Dorset cheese Blue Vinney. A reflection on a few of Dorset's industries wouldn't be complete without acknowledging the bizarre addition, that of Britain's largest oilfield at Wytch Farm.

Dorset has obviously been an inspiration for many of the country's authors. Thomas Hardy born close to Dorchester used Dorset as the backdrop to his novels. His cottage, set in woodland east of Dorchester, and his house in Dorchester Max Gate are now owned by the National Trust.

"The Hitchiker's Guide to the Galaxy"'s author Douglas Adams lived in Stalbridge. Robert Louis Stevenson, John Le Carre, P.D. James are just a few of the many authors local to Dorset. Madonna and husband Guy Ritchie, actor Martin Clunes, Jonathon Ross, Oasis singer Noel Gallagher, are among the many celebrities making Dorset their home today. Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall's television programme 'River Cottage' is filmed at his home near Bridport.

Two main railway lines connect Dorset to London. The West of England Main Line runs through the north of the county at Gillingham and Sherborne. The South Western Main Line runs through the south at Bournemouth, Poole, Dorchester and the terminus at Weymouth. There are no motorways for Dorset. Bournemouth International Airport is the only passenger airport and the two passenger sea ports are Poole and Weymouth.