Weekend Breaks in Dorset

Enjoy watching a busy harbour at work, explore Poole Museum, or take a stroll along the quay, looking out at a seascape of numerous little islands. Poole has five beaches, including Sandbanks with its millionaire mansions. The nature reserve of Brownsea Island is just a short boat ride away.

Traditional seaside fun is provided by Bournemouth's seven miles of sandy beach and its traditional pier with funfair rides. Overlooking the beach is the Russell-Cotes Museum and Art Gallery, while Lower Gardens near the pier has an almost tropical feel.

Renowned for its fossils, Lyme Regis lies at the end of the Jurassic Coastline. The Cobb surrounding the harbour is familiar to many from Jane Austen's 'Persuasion' and 'The French Lieutenant's Woman' by John Fowles.

With the huge Nothe Fort and Sea Life Weymouth to explore, this resort is a great family destination. Weymouth was one of Britain's first resorts, seeing a major upgrade when it hosted the sailing events in the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics.

Often seen on screen, the cobble-stoned Gold Hill is just one of the town's attractions. At its top is the Gold Hill Museum, while the Shaftesbury Abbey excavations and museum bring an ancient monastery to life.