Discover Dorchester
Dorchester – Thomas Hardy’s Casterbridge, or the Roman town of Durnovaria – is awash with history and sights to explore.
Whether it’s the two (where else has two?) Iron Age hill forts of Maiden Castle and Poundbury, the Roman Town House close to the line of the old Roman Walls (the only example of a fully exposed Roman town house in the country); the fantastic Georgian Architecture in the picturesque town centre; the house designed and lived in by Thomas Hardy; HRH King Charles III’s urban extension at Poundbury with its open spaces and interesting shops and eateries or the modern redevelopment of the former brewery with its dancing fountains – there is lots for everyone to enjoy.
Dinosaurs and Romans, literary giants, great scientists, military history, art and architecture, beautiful green spaces, interesting and independent shops and great places to eat – there really is something for everyone.

Dorchester's Festive Season
Dorchester is enchanting during the festive season and definitely worth a visit for some Christmas shopping and festive cheer!
Dorset is home to some wonderful makers and producers whose wares make for brilliant and unique Christmas presents. A Christmas market or craft fair is the perfect place to pick up gifts for friends and family and we have lots happening in Dorchester in the run up to Christmas 2024. Check out our guide. Each is slightly different, some indoor, some outdoor. Some in the town centre, some in Poundbury. All brilliant though and worth a visit!
Dorchester has a fantastic selection of independent shops around the Town Centre, Brewery Square and Poundbury that are perfect for buying presents for others or treating yourself! Check out our little guide of our favourite shops for any recipient and support local this Christmas.
Don’t miss out on free parking days in Dorchester is the run up to Christmas too! Find out more here