Just north of Swanage, on the way to Wareham this castle is one of the most stunning in the Country. ON a hill in a gap of hills you can see why it was built where it was. Blown up by Oliver Cromwell the ruins dominate the town of Corfe Castle, and for me no visit to Dorset is complete without a visit here. The views from the top of the castle of the surrounding country side are amazing, and the history of the castle can be felt everywhere. Once a very important Anglo-Saxon castle most of the ruins that remain are from the time of Henry II. A castle not to be missed.

The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham, Dorset BH20 5EZ
nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-corfecastle
Adult £6.20, child £3.10
Google map: tinyurl.com/3ajajub

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Best beer garden in the UK. Unique pub situated in a peaceful village on the Isle of Purbeck with breathtaking views of the coastline. Take a short or long walk along the coastal footpath then grab a cider or local ale with a warm, homemade pasty, sit on the stone furniture to watch the sun go down over the south coast - tranquility.

Worth Matravers, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 3LF
squareandcompasspub.co.uk/
01929 439229

Google map: tinyurl.com/32t8shb

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Fantastic location near the sea, lovely beer, tasty pasties

The Square and Compass, Worth Matravers, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 3LF
Google map: tinyurl.com/32t8shb

squareandcompasspub.co.uk

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This is an excellent, modern B&B offering fantastic value for money. The breakfasts are awesome: tasty and gut streching! Sue is a model landlady, super helpful without being instrusive!

Swanage, Argyle Road
www.agreatescapeguesthouse.co.uk/

Google map: tinyurl.com/y9gx4as

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A cream tea at the Knoll House, at Studland in Dorset, is not for people nervous about their cholesterol levels. Large light scones, freshly made in the kitchen, are accompanied by lashings of thick strawberry jam and cream so stiff it can be cut with a knife. A traditional loaded tea tray is brought out clinking to you on the terrace, so as you eat you can gaze out across manicured lawns through the pillars of mature pine trees to the sea. The view sweeps from Old Harry Rocks to the right, past the Isle of Wight to the townscape of Bournemouth. There is always plenty to see, with sailing boats as well as ferries plying in and out of Poole Harbour.

But visitors must plan their cream tea with military precision. Teas are advertised only on a small board in reception, directing visitors to order tea in the dining room. It is served only from 3.45 to 5.15 pm – five minutes late and you’ve missed one of the best cream teas in England. Cream tea for one is currently £5.

www.knollhouse.co.uk/

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