Dorchester is a Town in the county of Dorset.
Dorchester is a town steeped in history and rich in cultural heritage, located in Dorset, England. Known as the county town, it is an area that boasts a blend of ancient and modern elements, making it a fascinating place to explore. The town’s origins date back to the Iron Age, and it was significantly developed during the Roman period, when it was known as Durnovaria. Evidence of its Roman past can still be seen today, including the remains of the Roman walls and the well-preserved Roman townhouse, which provides a unique glimpse into the domestic life of that era.
One of the most notable aspects of Dorchester is its connection to the famous novelist Thomas Hardy. Hardy was born in a small hamlet near Dorchester and spent much of his life in the area. Many of his novels are set in a fictionalized version of Dorchester, which he called Casterbridge. Visitors can explore various sites related to Hardy’s life, such as his birthplace, Hardy’s Cottage, and Max Gate, the house he designed and lived in later in life. These sites are now managed by the National Trust and offer an intimate look at the writer’s life and inspirations.
Dorchester also hosts a range of cultural and community events that reflect its vibrant local culture. The Dorset County Museum, located in the town, showcases extensive collections that cover the natural, historical, and cultural heritage of Dorset. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts from the prehistoric, Roman, and medieval periods, as well as significant literary collections related to Thomas Hardy. The town also features the Keep Military Museum, which delves into the military history of the county, particularly focusing on the regiments of Devon and Dorset.
In addition to its historical and cultural offerings, Dorchester is known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. The town is surrounded by picturesque countryside, including the rolling hills of the Dorset Downs and the scenic landscapes of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These areas provide ample opportunities for hiking, fossil hunting, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. The River Frome, which runs through Dorchester, adds to the town’s charm and offers pleasant riverside walks.
Overall, Dorchester presents a unique blend of historical depth, literary significance, and natural beauty. Its well-preserved historical sites, connections to Thomas Hardy, and vibrant community make it a destination worth exploring for anyone interested in England’s rich heritage and cultural landscapes. Whether visiting its museums, walking its ancient streets, or enjoying its natural surroundings, Dorchester offers a captivating experience that reflects the essence of Dorset.
Dorchester postcode: DT1 1RG
There are great places to visit near Dorchester including some great towns, waterfalls, villages, historic buildings, historic monuments, ancient sites, hills, castles, ruins and airports.
Dorchester's best nearby towns can be found at Lyme Regis, Charmouth, Weymouth, Bridport, Beaminster, Wareham, and Blandford Forum.
Places near Dorchester feature a number of interesting waterfalls including Jericho Weir.
Villages to visit near Dorchester include Uplyme, Bincombe, Symondsbury, and Abbotsbury.
The Cobb is a great place to visit close to Dorchester if you like historic buildings.
Don't miss King's Statue (King George III Statue)'s historic monuments if visiting the area around Dorchester.
Eggardon Hill, Hambledon Hill, Badbury Rings, Kingston Russell Stone Circle, The Nine Stones, and Maiden Castle are some of Dorchester best ancient sites to visit near Dorchester.
Dorchester is near some unmissable hills like Eggardon Hill,
There are a number of castles near to Dorchester including Corfe Castle.
Don't miss Corfe Castle's ruins if visiting the area around Dorchester.
Dorchester is near some unmissable airports like Bournemouth Airport,
Dorchester History
There are some historic monuments around Dorchester:
Places to see near Dorchester
History of Dorchester
Durnovaria was recorded in the 4th-century Antonine Itinerary and became a market centre for the surrounding countryside, an important road junction and staging post, and subsequently one of the twin capitals of the Celtic Durotriges tribe. The remains of the Roman walls that surrounded the town can still be seen. The majority have been replaced by pathways that form a square inside modern Dorchester known as ‘The Walks’. A small segment of the original wall remains near the Top ‘o Town roundabout. Other Roman remains include part of the town walls and the foundations of a town house near the county hall. Modern building works within the walls have unearthed Roman finds; in 1936 a cache of 22,000 3rd-century Roman coins was discovered in South Street.
