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    Local Attractions

    Abbotsbury is a unique village steeped in history, yet a village where the present is very much alive and the future perpetually evolving. There are plenty of attractions local to us. Both for adults, children and the whole family.

    UNESCO formally granted the stretch of coastline from Swanage in the east to Orcombe Point in the west World Heritage Status in 2001.

    The Abbey House is ideally situated for exploring this unique piece of history, whether by foot, car or using the acclaimed Jurassic Coast bus service, much of the coast is accessible offering spectacular and fascinating views.

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    Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

    A magnificent 20 acre garden filled with rare and exotic plants from all over the world

    Travel time: 5 mins
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    Abbotsbury Swannery

    The only place in the world where you are able to walk through the heart of a colony of nesting Mute Swans

    Travel time: 5 mins
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    Bridport

    Bridport is a small town with a lot to offer! Weekly Wednesday and Saturday Markets take place in Bridport’s three main streets throughout the year, from 8am until mid afternoon. There's also a thriving antique quarter selling vintage furniture & collectables.

    Travel time: 20 mins
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    Cerne Abbas Giant

    The Cerne Abbas Giant or the 'Rude Man' is one of the largest hillfigures in Britain, sat in the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

    Travel time: 30 mins
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    Chesil Bank & The Fleet

    The Chesil Bank and the Fleet Nature Reserve encompass the internationally renowned Chesil Bank storm beach the Fleet lagoon and Portland Harbour

    Travel time: 15 mins
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    Corfe Castle

    Thousand-year-old castle, an iconic survivor of the English Civil War, rising above the Isle of Purbeck.

    Travel time: 45 mins
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    Dansel Gallery

    Dansel first opened in Abbotsbury in 1979. Selling contemporary, handmade interiors in wood from designer makers right across Britain, which has become a centre piece of the Abbotsbury visitor scene.

    Travel time: 5 mins
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    Dorchester

    The birth place of Thomas Hardy, Dorchester boasts several museums & the recently opened Brewery Square offers a whole new area for eating out & shopping. A market is also held every Wednesday. And don't forget to take in Poundbury, built to the principles of Prince Charles.

    Travel time: 20 mins
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    Forde Abbey

    More than 900 years of history and romance are encapsulated in this elegant former Cistercian monastery and its 30 acres of award winning gardens.

    Travel time: 45 mins
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    Hardy Monument

    Erected in memory of Vice Admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy of HMS Victory. Amongst other things, Hardy became famous as it was in his arms that Nelson died, saying the immortal words 'Kiss me Hardy'. On a clear day, you can see five counties from the top of the Monument.

    Travel time: 10 mins
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    Lulworth Cove

    Lulworth is an amazing village and the area around it is some of the most outstanding in Britain, possibly the world. Lulworth Cove and it's remarkable shape has been carved by time, much like the world-famous Durdle Door a short walk away.

    Travel time: 45 mins
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    Lyme Regis & the Cobb

    Situated in the South West of Dorset Lyme Regis is an historic unspoiled seaside resort and fishing port on the world famous Cobb harbour.

    Travel time: 30 mins
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    Sea Life Centre

    Indoor displays include the Tropical the spectacular Turtle Sanctuary and one of the first National Seahorse Breeding and Conservation Centres.

    Travel time: 20 mins
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    The Jurassic Coast

    Stretching from Exmouth in Devon, to Old Harry Rocks in Dorset. The Jurassic Coast covers 95 miles of coastline and boasts 185 million years of our Earth's history. Fossil hunters travel from miles around to Charmouth beach to try and find & own a piece of history.

    Travel time: Variable
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    Thomas Hardy’s Cottage

    Birthplace of novelist and poet Thomas Hardy, set amongst the 26 hectares of ancient Thorncombe Woods.

    Travel time: 30 mins
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    Tyneham Village

    The forgotten village of Tyneham, acquisitioned by the MOD in 1943 for training and to help with the war effort. The residents never returned and the village left to wreck & ruin.

    Travel time: 1 hour
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    Weymouth

    Venue of the 2012 Olympic sailing events, Weymouth is famous for it's golden sands, Georgian seafront and historic harbour.

    Travel time: 20 mins
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    Wilton House

    Wilton House opened its doors to the general public on the 1st May 1951, its 460 year old building with history, architecture, art treasures and 21 acres of gardens and parkland.

    Travel time: over an hour
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