Dorset Museum

Location

About

Dorset Museum in Dorchester, England is an excellent destination for tourists who want to learn more about the rich history and culture of the county of Dorset. The museum is located in the heart of Dorchester, a historic market town that was founded by the Romans over 2,000 years ago.

The museum has a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Dorset from prehistoric times to the present day. One of the highlights of the museum is the Dorset Gallery, which showcases the county's history, geology, and archaeology through a variety of interactive displays and exhibits. Visitors can see a range of objects, from prehistoric flint tools to Roman coins and medieval artifacts.

Another must-see exhibit is the Jurassic Coast Gallery, which explores the natural history of the Dorset coast and the creatures that lived there millions of years ago. Visitors can see a variety of fossils, including the remains of ichthyosaurs and plesiosaurs, and learn about the geological processes that shaped the landscape of the Jurassic Coast.

For those interested in more recent history, the museum also has a gallery dedicated to the life and work of Thomas Hardy, one of Dorset's most famous writers. Visitors can see personal items belonging to Hardy, including his writing desk, as well as manuscripts and first editions of his books.

One of the unique features of the museum is the Keep Military Museum, which is housed in the same building. The Keep tells the story of the Dorsetshire Regiment, which played a key role in many conflicts, including the First and Second World Wars. Visitors can see a range of military artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and medals, and learn about the experiences of soldiers who served in the regiment.

Overall, the Dorset Museum is an excellent destination for anyone interested in history, archaeology, or natural history. The exhibits are well-presented and informative, and there is something for everyone, from prehistoric artifacts to modern military history. The museum is also easily accessible, with plenty of parking nearby and good public transport links. Whether you are a local or a visitor to the area, a visit to the Dorset Museum is sure to be a fascinating and enjoyable experience.

Gallery

Things to do nearby

Dorset Museum is located in the heart of Dorchester, a charming market town in the south-west of England. The museum showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of Dorset, featuring exhibitions on archaeology, geology, art, and much more. However, there is much more to see and do in the area surrounding the museum, making it an ideal destination for tourists. In this article, we will explore some of the top places to visit and things to do in and around Dorset Museum.

1. Roman Town House
Just a stone's throw away from Dorset Museum, visitors can explore the fascinating remains of a Roman Town House. The house was discovered during archaeological excavations in the 1930s and is believed to have been built in the 4th century AD. Visitors can see the remains of the hypocaust (underfloor heating system), a bathhouse, and other features of the house, providing a unique insight into the lives of the Roman occupants.

2. Maumbury Rings
Maumbury Rings is a historic earthwork situated in the centre of Dorchester, just a short walk from the museum. The site has a rich history dating back to the Iron Age, and was later used as an amphitheatre during Roman times. Today, it is a popular spot for picnics and events, and visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

3. Hardy's Cottage
Thomas Hardy is one of Dorset's most famous literary figures, and his birthplace, Hardy's Cottage, is a must-visit for literature enthusiasts. The thatched cottage, located in the nearby village of Higher Bockhampton, has been preserved as it was during Hardy's childhood, and visitors can learn about the author's life and works, as well as explore the surrounding countryside that inspired much of his writing.

4. Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage site that stretches for 96 miles along the south coast of England, and Dorset Museum is ideally located for visitors who want to explore this stunning coastline. The coast is famous for its unique geology and fossils, and visitors can take part in guided walks, fossil hunts, and boat trips to explore the area.

5. Cerne Abbas Giant
Located just a short drive from Dorchester, the Cerne Abbas Giant is a mysterious chalk figure carved into the hillside. The giant, who is depicted holding a club, is believed to date back to the Iron Age or Roman times, and visitors can explore the surrounding countryside to discover the many myths and legends associated with this iconic figure.

6. The Tank Museum
The Tank Museum, located in nearby Bovington, is a must-visit for military history enthusiasts. The museum boasts an impressive collection of tanks and armoured vehicles, with exhibits dating from the early 20th century to the present day. Visitors can learn about the history of armoured warfare and explore the museum's extensive collection of tanks, including the world's first tank, the Mark I.

In conclusion, Dorset Museum is just one of many fascinating attractions in the area surrounding Dorchester. Visitors can explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Dorset, from the Roman Town House to the Jurassic Coast, as well as discovering the works of Thomas Hardy and exploring the mysteries of the Cerne Abbas Giant. With so much to see and do in the area, it is no wonder that Dorchester is such a popular destination for tourists.