The Best of Dorset – The Victorian Barn

Thursday, 2 June 2016

Coast To Countryside

Dorset is such a beautiful county with so much on offer.

Escape To The Country

If you are looking for a great holiday base North Dorset could be for you.

The Victorian Barn, a luxury 4 star self catering holiday cottage provider is situated with the Blackmore Vale in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Nestling under the hills of Bulbarrow, from the top you can see 6 counties on a clear day. The modern cottages and houses offer all you need for a fantastic family break.

You will need a car to explore the county from The Victorian Barn, but within a 25 mile radius you can reach Historic Coastlines: The Jurassic Coast, Georgian Market Towns, Busy shopping centres, Beach holidays.

The Victorian Barn, the hidden gem, the unforgettable escape. Wake up to silence. If you are simply looking for a tranquil relaxing break, with rural walks on your door step then look no further than booking a holiday here. Or please feel free to email your holiday requirements or telephone on 01258 817501.

What is the Jurassic Coast?

The Jurassic Coast is a Walk Through Time. With its rocks and fossils we can uncover detailed stories from Earth’s ancient past. Through its landslides, cliffs and beaches we can learn about the natural processes that formed the coast and continue to shape the world today.

Historical Towns in Dorset

Vibrant and thriving, the historic market towns in Dorset offer a contemporary fusion of old and new.

The county town of Dorchester (Hardy’s Casterbridge) is a perfect example, mixing relics of its Roman past with the recently built Brewery Square, a vibrant new quarter bringing a trendy, Covent Garden feel to the town.

Sherborne is without doubt one of the most beautiful towns in England. Medieval and mellow stoned this Dorset gem has a magnificent abbey, two castles and reputation for art, antiques and unique shopping.

The old Saxon town of Wareham is situated on the River Frome making the pretty town a popular destination for those who enjoy boating up the river or simply relaxing on the Quay.

And close to Dorset’s northerly border you will find Shaftesbury, famous for Gold Hill, the steep cobbled street which provided the backdrop to the 1970s Hovis advert.

Shopping in Dorset

As a thriving county with bags of culture and a plethora of bustling towns, villages and resorts, it’s no wonder that shops in Dorset are among our most visited attractions.

Sherborne and Sturminster Newton and Swanage are crammed with small, independent shops selling unusual gifts, art, antiques and independent fashion.

Seek out Dorchester for antiques, bohemian Bridport for stylish ceramic homeware andLyme Regis for souvenir fossils and fine arts linked to the Jurassic Coast.

The market town of Blandford Forum is home to Badger Ales while Bridport's Palmersproduces beers in a traditional thatched brewery; take some bottles home for a lingering taste of Dorset.

Visit a market somewhere in the county almost every day; pick up the occasional antique, some hand crafted jewellery or plants for your garden borders from the colourful stalls at Shaftesbury, Dorchester, Christchurch, Wareham, Wimborne Minster and Weymouth.

There are farmers' markets across Dorset too; try Bridport, Poundbury or Christchurch for top-quality local produce, from beef and seafood to mustard and marmalade.

It's a great chance to meet the producers and sample some delicious goods direct from the heart of Dorset.

Throughout the year, take your pick of Dorset's fetes, country shows and local festivals for an enjoyable shopping opportunity and the best of local produce.

Strike off the beaten track for a totally different kind of retail experience and uncover potters and painters working in remote studios across the county.

Or for a complete family shopping experience, visit nearby Bournemouth for its mix of high-street chains and long-established department stores.

Traditional seaside fun

The soft golden sands and safe bathing waters make Weymouth a fabulous family holidaydestination.

With a number of beaches to choose from, Weymouth with its Georgian architecture along the esplanade really is a slice of the traditional British seaside complete with donkey rides and Punch & Judy to entertain young and old.

Swanage is known for its crystal clear water and its family friendly setting.

This traditional seaside resort has been enjoyed by families since Victorian times even today you will still see children in the wonderful sunshine competing in making the finest sandcastle in town.

Inspiring backdrop

Further to the west of the county you will find the stunning seaside settings of West Bay and Lyme Regis.

Eagle eyed visitors to West Bay may recognise it as the setting for ITV’s award winning drama Broadchurch.

With its iconic cliffs West Bay provides a breathtaking backdrop for a wonderful day at the beach.

Lyme Regis is another of Dorset’s most popular resorts that continues to be enjoyed by all ages.

Home to glorious golden sand, stunning scenery and safe bathing waters protected to the famous Cobb, Lyme Regis makes for a wonderful day at the seaside.