Things to Do in Bridport and West Dorset

Bridport is a bustling market town with a plethora of independent shops, several proactive arts venues, a wealth of highly regarded local food producers, well-established agricultural shows and the internationally noted annual hat festival – it’s easy to see why so many urbanites fall in love with Bridport’s near-perfect amalgam of all that’s great about Dorset’s towns, countryside and coastline. 

East Beach is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and forms one end of Chesil Beach that runs eastwards for 18 miles towards Portland. Its steep, distinctive yellow cliffs are further echoed at Burton Bradstock just along the coast and a popular destination all year round as a starting point for seaside walkers and countryside ramblers. The annual Spring Tide food festival is held on the National Trust beach.

A few miles inland from Bridport, the handsome town of Beaminster owes much of its provenance to the textiles industry, most notably the manufacture of linen made from the flax grown locally that also underpinned rope making in Bridport, and woollens from the sheep kept by surrounding hill farmers. 

When actor Martin Clunes bought Buckham Farm near Beaminster in 2007 he discovered he had also acquired an ancient charter that permits the owner to hold an annual fair, which he now does every August in aid of local charities.

The serene town of Sherborne with its distinctive yellow stone 15th century buildings was once the capital of Wessex. The castle, once the home of Sir Walter Raleigh, and the impressive Abbey offer plenty of interest, as do the bustling town centre shops.

Take a little time to browse through our selection of holiday cottages in Bridport and it's neighbouring villages. We’re certain you’ll find something just right for a truly special Dorset holiday.