Itinerary – 48 hours Exploring Poundbury
Poundbury is a unique urban extension of Dorchester, developed on Duchy of Cornwall land and built in accordance with the architectural and urban planning principles championed by King Charles III in his book A Vision of Britain. With its classical design, strong sense of community, and seamless integration of homes, businesses, and green spaces, Poundbury offers a distinct and charming getaway unlike anywhere else in the UK.
“When I set out on this venture, I was determined that Poundbury would break the mould of conventional housing development in this country, and create an attractive place for people to live, work and play. Many people said that it could never succeed but I am happy to say that the sceptics were wrong and it is now a thriving urban settlement alongside Dorchester.”
HM King Charles, speaking as the 24th Duke of Cornwall
Friday Evening – Welcome to Poundbury
Check in to the Duchess of Cornwall Inn, a grand and beautifully designed inn offering boutique-style accommodation with elegant rooms, plush furnishings, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Dining & Drinks: Poundbury is home to a selection of fantastic restaurants and bars, each with its own unique character. If you’re in the mood for a light yet flavourful evening, Crossroads is a must-visit, offering expertly crafted cocktails and a tempting array of Mediterranean-inspired tapas—perfect for sharing.
If you’re looking for something more substantial, head to The Square Bistro, an intimate 20-seat restaurant renowned for its regularly changing seasonal menu, which showcases the best of locally sourced Dorset produce. Enjoy beautifully plated dishes, a superb selection of ales, wines, and gins, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Nightcap: If you’re not ready for the evening to end, return to the Duchess of Cornwall Inn for a final drink in its stylish yet cosy bar before heading up to your elegantly designed room for a restful night’s sleep.
Image: Duchess of Cornwall Inn
Saturday – Exploring Poundbury
After a great night’s sleep and delicious breakfast at the Duchess of Cornwall Inn, start your day with a choice of activity:
- If you’re feeling energetic, join the local Parkrun at 9 am on The Great Field, Poundbury’s expansive green space, which offers stunning views and a fantastic community atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just fancy a gentle jog, it’s a great way to start the day.
- If a slower pace is more your style, take a leisurely morning stroll around the Great Field. It is Poundbury’s largest green space with over 400 trees, wildflower areas and a network of path
Morning coffee at Pip’s Café: Reward yourself with coffee at Pip’s Café, a local favourite known for its welcoming vibe and excellent selection of pastries and cakes—perfect for a mid-morning treat.
Explore Poundbury’s independent shops & art galleries:
- Take time to browse the charming independent boutiques, where you’ll find everything from luxury homeware and gifts to locally crafted goods. The shops are clustered in charming squares around Poundbury. Don’t miss Crown Square with Punica and The Rhubarb Candle Company. Or the Butter Market area with the Yard, Cherryade and Beyond the Pink Door.
- Art lovers will enjoy visiting the Crown Square Gallery and Gallery on the Square and keen gardeners will not want to miss Poundbury Garden Centre.
Image: Cherryade
Lunch at Peppina’s Sicilian Bakery: Experience an authentic taste of Sicily in the heart of Poundbury at Peppina’s Bakery, where you can enjoy freshly baked arancini, focaccia, cannoli, and traditional Sicilian pastries. This delightful café brings the vibrant flavours of Italy to Dorset, making it a must-visit for food lovers.
Afternoon Architecture Walk: As you continue to explore, take note of Poundbury’s unique architectural vision. The town’s layout encourages a sense of community, with its mews-style homes, grand squares, wrought iron fences, and bricked-up or blind windows—a nod to the classical style seen in historic British towns. Unlike many modern developments, Poundbury is designed with a focus on beauty, sustainability, and walkability, making it a fascinating place to wander.
Evening Meal at the Duchess of Cornwall Inn: Return to the Duchess of Cornwall Inn for a relaxing and hearty meal in its elegant dining area. With a menu focused on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, you’ll find a mix of comforting British classics and innovative contemporary dishes, all served with impeccable hospitality.
Image credit: Peppina’s
Sunday – History & Farewell
Poundbury Hillfort: Start your Sunday morning with a visit to Poundbury Hillfort, an ancient Iron Age fort that dates back over 2,500 years. Perched above the surrounding landscape, this historic site offers panoramic views and a chance to reflect on the area’s deep-rooted history before heading back into town.
Sunday Carvery at the Poet Laureate: No weekend is complete without a traditional Sunday roast, and The Poet Laureate offers a cracking one between 12 pm and 4 pm. The Poet Laureate is located in the oldest part of Poundbury so you get to see where it all began.
Image: Poundbury hillfort