Some of the most beautiful parts of Sherborne Castle are the rooms you aren’t allowed to photograph. From its unforgettable dining room and Red Drawing Room to Capability Brown’s sweeping lakeside gardens, here’s why this historic family home became one of my most memorable Historic Houses visits.
Looking for the best day trips from Bournemouth by car? Discover 12 brilliant escapes across Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire, from dramatic coastlines and ruined castles to picturesque villages, historic towns and hidden gems worth the drive.
Portsmouth Naval Memorial is more than an enormous stone monument on Southsea Common. Discover why it was designed to be seen from the sea, the meaning behind its sculptures, and a useful three-hour free parking tip for exploring nearby Southsea Castle.
Weymouth was only meant to be a quick stop on the way to Portland Bill. Instead, we wandered through the old streets, crossed the harbour, found Brewers Quay and walked back along the beach. It’s an easy free stop — although summer parking can sting a little.
Sherborne is one of those Dorset towns where history hasn’t been tidied away behind a ticket desk. Honey-coloured streets, medieval gateways, independent shops and one extraordinary Abbey all sit together in a town that still feels very much alive.
We wandered over because Sherborne Abbey looked beautiful from the street. Then we discovered it was free, stepped inside and looked up. Beneath that extraordinary golden fan-vaulted ceiling is more than 1,300 years of history — including monks, kings, riots, fire and the people of Sherborne eventually buying their church back.
You’ve probably passed Bournemouth’s Lansdowne Clock Tower countless times without giving it much thought. But behind that familiar red-brick landmark is a 1910 foundation stone, the origins of local higher education, a 150-foot tower — and a £12 million restoration completed more than a century later.
A 1,300-year-old church, an astronomical clock and books literally chained to the shelves — Wimborne Minster packs a surprising amount into one free Dorset stop.
From sparkling country houses to a castle after dark, National Trust Christmas 2026 has plenty within day-trip range of Bournemouth. Here’s what members can enjoy without paying another admission fee — and which festive experiences still need a separate ticket.
