We were lucky enough to run off to Dorset for a few lovely days last month, catching the first flushes of spring blossom fluttering down from the trees on the breeze and wildflowers poking their heads out in the hedgerows. We enjoyed slowing down to discover historical secrets, communing with nature and spying on plant and wildlife in some of the many beautiful corners. Here is a list of our top six magical things to do in Dorset this summer.
Number 1 & First on our list of favourite finds was – Thomas Hardy’s Cottage and nature trail. A dream home, filled with vintage treasures and scores of freshly hatched ladybirds?! With its old fashioned style garden and woodland walks crossing ancient Roman roads, we were bathed in birdsong and the scents of spring.
Number 2 – discover a new town. Our favourite was Cerne Abbas, a sweet and peaceful little town with beautiful houses, an ancient abbey, a chalk man carved into the hill and an amazing little brewery tucked away down a lane.
We walked along the drove roads and followed human and animal tracks into town past the local allotments, tried out the cosy pubs and friendly cafes. Do pop into the lovely local village stores for friendly local advice and all kinds of supplies and essentials too.
Number 3 – a woodland wander around The Blue Pool. This place reminded us of an old fashioned holiday, a simple day out in nature with other families, enjoying the simplicity of a magical body of water shimmering blue and green, surrounded by dense woodland. Glimpses of turquoise through the rhododendron leaves and pine brush. A place where after a dusty walk through the trees a picnic and refreshing glass of lemonade can be enjoyed in a sunny clearing.
Number 4 – visit a local garden with The National Garden Scheme. We met Rachel the 96-year old owner of this amazing garden in Wareham, where over the last 50 years she has created a wildlife-friendly kitchen garden for self-sufficiency.
Colour fills every corner with forget me nots wafting through the borders and lemons growing in the sun, chickens scurrying around the orchard and ducks rummaging for slugs in the bushes. Splashes of purple honesty and spires of white lilacs caught my eye and the magical moon arch made from local stone was just stunning. 
Number 5 – go bird and deer spotting at Arne Nature Reserve. From densely covered woodland to heather swathed planes to gorse covered coastal beaches, this beautiful reserve is home to many species of bird and if you are lucky (and quiet) you might spot a Sika deer rustling in the wilderness or a herd grazing out in the open.
With chalk paths, shrubs, hidden nooks and sandy beaches, you might also spot a lizard or a slow worm out for a sunbathe, as Arne is one of the few places in the UK to host all six species of native reptile.
Number 6 – salt air and rock formations. At the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast, a walk along to Old Harry Rocks is a refreshing beginning, middle or end to any day. With stunning panoramic views at dizzying heights above the sea and chalk cliffs, I think you’ll love the seagulls squawking, waves crashing and the salty air for clearing your head. Do you have any favourite UK travel destinations, I’d love to hear about them? x
