Dorset

DORSET - AT A GLANCE

• If you want to sample a classic slice of rural England with some impressive coastline thrown in, this is your place. One of the few counties in England without a motorway, Dorset is perfect for a quiet country escape.
   
• Find fossils on the beaches of the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site of hidden bays, sandy beaches and crumbling cliffs and drink ale in ancient inns once frequented by smugglers.
   
• Don’t forget to visit the staggering Maiden Castle, one of the largest, most complex Iron Age hill forts in Europe.
   
• Bordered by Devon, Somerset, Wiltshire and Hampshire it also makes an idyllic base for exploring the South West.
   
• Nearby Wiltshire has the iconic Stonehenge while the New Forest to the east is designated as a National Park for its magical ancient woodland.
   
• The quickest route from London is by train to the seaside town of Bournemouth, which takes around 2 hours.