Dorset is famous for thespectacular coastline, beautiful countryside and charming towns and villages, but there is much more to discover here than stunning scenery.
From contemporary art and sculpture to fascinating museums, live theatre and cultural events, Dorset has a thriving cultural scene waiting to be explored. Whether you're interested in history, art, literature, music or performance, there are plenty of ways to experience Dorset's creative side during your stay.
So, if you're planning a Dorset Hideaways holiday and want to discover something a little different, take a look at our guide to Dorset culture.
Art in Dorset
Dorset has a wonderfully varied art scene, with galleries, exhibitions, sculpture parks and independent creative spaces found throughout the county.
Sculpture by the Lakes, Dorchester
If you're looking for something different from a traditional art gallery, Sculpture by the Lakes combines contemporary sculpture with beautiful gardens and the Dorset countryside.
Set across 26 acres, the attraction brings together sculpture, nature and landscaped gardens, with works by renowned sculptor Simon Gudgeon alongside pieces by other artists. There is also Gallery by the Lakes, which showcases work by local and international artists.
The setting is very much part of the experience. Rather than moving from room to room, visitors can wander through gardens and around lakes while discovering sculptures along the way.
It's worth noting that Sculpture by the Lakes is intended as a peaceful adult experience and children under 14, including babies, are not permitted on site.
Walford Mill Crafts, Wimborne
For anyone who enjoys contemporary crafts, Walford Mill Crafts in Wimborne is another interesting place to explore.
Housed in a historic former watermill, the venue celebrates contemporary craft and provides opportunities to see the work of makers and artists. Exhibitions and events change throughout the year, making it worth checking what's on before your visit.
Wimborne is also a lovely town to explore, with independent shops, cafés and historic buildings providing plenty to see after your visit to the mill.
Bridport Arts Centre
Bridport is well known for its creative community, and Bridport Arts Centre is an important part of the town's cultural scene.
The centre brings together visual arts, theatre, film, music and other live events, with exhibitions taking place in its gallery alongside a varied programme of performances and events.
Bridport's wider arts scene is also worth exploring, with independent galleries, studios, markets and creative events taking place throughout the year.
Museums in Dorset
If history and culture are more your thing, Dorset has a fantastic selection of museums.
The county's museums cover everything from dinosaurs and fossils to archaeology, local history, art and literature, making them useful options for both sunny days and wet-weather activities.
Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, Dorchester
Formerly known as Dorset County Museum, Dorset Museum & Art Gallery is one of the best places to discover the story of Dorset.
Its collections cover an extraordinary 250 million years of the county's natural and human history. Permanent galleries explore natural history, archaeology, local communities, art and Dorset's literary heritage.
The museum's Hardy's Dorset gallery explores the life and work of Thomas Hardy, while Artists' Dorset features paintings, sculpture, prints, drawings, textiles and decorative art.
There are also regularly changing exhibitions and events, so even returning visitors can discover something new. The museum is currently open daily from 10am to 5pm, with last entry at 4pm.
The Dinosaur Museum, Dorchester
Dorset's Jurassic Coast is world famous for its fossils, so it's fitting that Dorchester is home to The Dinosaur Museum.
The museum takes visitors on a journey into the prehistoric world, with dinosaur skeletons, life-size reconstructions and hands-on displays. You can see reconstructions of dinosaurs including Stegosaurus and T-Rex, while real fossil specimens help explain the prehistoric history of the Jurassic Coast.
There are also interactive activities for children, including an excavation pit and dinosaur puzzles, making this a particularly good family attraction.
The museum is currently open daily from 10am to 4pm, although opening times can vary, so it is sensible to check before travelling. Dogs are also welcome.
The Keep Military Museum, Dorchester
For anyone interested in military history, The Keep Military Museum provides an insight into the history of Dorset's military regiments.
The museum's collections explore military life, campaigns and the experiences of soldiers, with displays covering different periods of military history.
It is another worthwhile addition to a cultural day in Dorchester, particularly if you are interested in the county's more recent history.
Discover more: 15 Museums To Visit in Dorset
Theatre and live performance
Dorset's cultural scene extends well beyond museums and galleries. Throughout the year, theatres and arts centres host everything from drama and comedy to live music, dance and family performances.
Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne
The Tivoli Theatre is a much-loved venue in Wimborne and offers a varied programme of live entertainment.
The theatre hosts music, comedy, theatre, dance, film and family shows, so there is usually something different taking place throughout the year.
Its location in the centre of Wimborne also makes it easy to combine a performance with dinner or drinks in the town.
Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis
Set in the heart of Lyme Regis, the Marine Theatre provides another opportunity to enjoy live performance during your Dorset holiday.
The theatre presents a varied programme of events, with comedy, theatre, music and other performances taking place throughout the year.
Its location makes it particularly appealing for visitors staying along the Jurassic Coast. You can spend the day exploring Lyme Regis, enjoy dinner in town and then finish the evening with a performance.
Bridport Arts Centre
For visitors staying in West Dorset, Bridport Arts Centre is another excellent option for an evening of entertainment.
As well as its visual arts programme, the centre presents theatre, music, comedy, film and family events. Its current programme demonstrates the breadth of entertainment on offer, with performances and screenings running throughout the year.
Literature and Dorset culture
Dorset has a particularly strong literary heritage, with some of the county's landscapes inspiring writers for generations.
The most famous literary connection is undoubtedly Thomas Hardy, whose novels and poetry were heavily influenced by Dorset's landscape and communities.
Hardy's Dorset can still be explored today, with locations around Dorchester and across the county providing an insight into the places that influenced his writing.
Dorset Museum & Art Gallery's Hardy's Dorset gallery is a good starting point, while Hardy's Cottage and Max Gate provide further opportunities to discover the writer's life and work.
Enjoy a cultural break in Dorset
A Dorset holiday doesn't have to be all about beaches and countryside walks.
Spend a morning exploring the collections at Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, discover dinosaurs in Dorchester, wander around Sculpture by the Lakes or browse contemporary crafts in Wimborne. In the evening, you could enjoy live theatre, music or comedy at one of Dorset's many performance venues.
With such a varied cultural scene, you can easily build a Dorset holiday around the things you enjoy most.
And after a busy day exploring galleries, museums and theatres, there's nothing better than returning to your own comfortable Dorset Hideaways holiday cottage.
FAQs
What are the best cultural attractions in Dorset?
Dorset has a wide range of cultural attractions, including Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, Sculpture by the Lakes, The Dinosaur Museum, Bridport Arts Centre and a variety of theatres and galleries.
What are the best museums to visit in Dorset?
Some of the best museums include Dorset Museum & Art Gallery and The Dinosaur Museum in Dorchester, as well as specialist museums covering military history, local heritage and Dorset's natural environment.
Where can I see art in Dorset?
Sculpture by the Lakes, Bridport Arts Centre and galleries across towns such as Dorchester, Wimborne and Bridport offer opportunities to discover contemporary art, sculpture, crafts and exhibitions.
Is Dorset good for art lovers?
Yes, Dorset has a varied arts scene featuring sculpture parks, galleries, craft centres, exhibitions and independent artists. Sculpture by the Lakes is particularly distinctive for combining contemporary sculpture with gardens and nature.
What can I do in Dorset on a rainy day?
Dorset has plenty of indoor cultural attractions for wet-weather days, including museums, galleries, theatres and arts centres. Dorset Museum & Art Gallery and The Dinosaur Museum in Dorchester are popular options.
What theatres are there in Dorset?
Dorset has several theatres and arts venues, including the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne, the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis and Bridport Arts Centre. They host theatre, comedy, music, film and other live performances throughout the year.
What is Dorset famous for culturally?
Dorset is particularly well known for its literary heritage, connections with Thomas Hardy, Jurassic Coast geology and fossils, historic buildings, visual arts and traditional crafts.
What is the best museum in Dorset for families?
The Dinosaur Museum in Dorchester is a popular family attraction, with life-size dinosaur reconstructions, real fossils and interactive displays. Dorset Museum & Art Gallery also offers family activities and exhibits covering the county's natural and human history.
What is Dorset's connection to Thomas Hardy?
Thomas Hardy was born and lived much of his life in Dorset, and the county's landscapes strongly influenced his novels and poetry. Visitors can discover more about his life and work at places including Hardy's Cottage, Max Gate and Dorset Museum & Art Gallery.
Where can I experience Dorset's literary heritage?
Dorchester and the surrounding countryside are excellent places to explore Dorset's literary heritage. Hardy-related attractions include Hardy's Cottage, Max Gate and the Hardy's Dorset gallery at Dorset Museum & Art Gallery.
Is Sculpture by the Lakes suitable for children?
No. Sculpture by the Lakes currently does not permit children under 14, including babies, anywhere on the site. It is designed as a peaceful experience for visitors aged 14 and over.
Is The Dinosaur Museum dog friendly?
Yes. The Dinosaur Museum currently states that dogs are welcome, making it a useful option for visitors looking for dog-friendly things to do in Dorset.
What cultural things can I do in Dorchester?
Dorchester offers several cultural attractions, including Dorset Museum & Art Gallery and The Dinosaur Museum. The town is also closely connected with Thomas Hardy and Dorset's wider archaeological and literary heritage.
Are there free cultural attractions in Dorset?
Some galleries, exhibitions and cultural events offer free entry, although admission policies vary. For example, Gallery by the Lakes within the Makers Yard at Sculpture by the Lakes is free to enter, while the sculpture park itself requires a ticket.
Can I enjoy Dorset culture all year round?
Yes. Museums, galleries and theatres provide cultural experiences throughout the year, while outdoor attractions and seasonal events offer additional opportunities during the spring and summer months.