Very informative and full of artifacts from the ages, well worth a visit

Look for the yellow phone booth on St. Anne’s High Street and head through the adjacent archway to visit this great little volunteer-run museum. Entry is £5, which is a bargain considering the amount of interesting stuff on display, and the extra details one can obtain from the friendly staff member on duty. There are articles and information on all eras in Alderney’s history, but one can certainly sense how significant the WW2 German occupation is to the islanders. Recommended.

Lovely local museum, small but plenty to see and read about the island

For its size this local museum is well worth a visit for a very interesting collection of local artifacts dating from the bronze age up to the recent history of Alderney including the occupation by Nazi Germany during World War ll. Allow at least an hour to do the place justice and do not miss the larger artifacts outside. As the Romans inhabited Alderney during their pomp surely you can with all the advantages of the 21st Century.

Interesting artifacts, books, displays, and a very knowledgeable guide.

Such a great little museum. Loads of war memorabilia

A very cool little museum to visit. I didn't know much of the history of the island and it's German invasion before visiting and it's got a such fascinating story. Doesn't take too long to go round, but we'll worth the visit.

A great shop to stop by when in Alderney. There is always an updated board outside giving recent sightings on land, sea and in the air. The last time I was there dolphins and seas had been seen recently and the location is given as well. There is always a welcome for you inside with lots of useful books and information from a very friendly staff. (They will even let you use the toilet if you are in need :) All photos taken at the end of July 2019

The Gannet/Puffin cruise is a must - one of the best experiences of the island. Very friendly and helpful staff. Many thanks for a treasured memory.

Great association to protect the island's fauna, very nice staff and interesting tours where you can spot gannets, puffins, seals, hedgehogs and bats. The boutique itself is also the place to get your best souvenirs ;)

Great shop and always something going on to see. Lots of useful information available.

Really good shop. Full of useful guides and clear goals for wildlife on Alderney. Very helpful staff and volunteers!

Very knowledgeable and friendly staff - can highly recommend volunteering on a Wednesday or Saturday, or taking their bat and hedgehog night-time safari.

Always helpful, a super channel Islands jumper shop inside as well. Canoe safari is great fun.

Staff didn't seem that keen to help - our first request for assistance was met with a reluctant 'yes'. Then when we asked whether they could help us call a local boat tour company and explained that we did not have a phone that worked in Alderney, their reply was a simple 'no'. Seemed rather strange considering this is a tourist information centre.

A very useful place to have and information and learning where all the walks and the historical history of the island is. Plenty of information of all source from free brochures to maps available.

Really helpful - even when someone went off with my bike, they helped to get it back. An honest mistake, as all bikes look the same. Route maps, helmets, panniers all available. Regular and electric bikes. Helmets are a good idea. The roads are steep, and some are cobbled. Fabulous island. Excellent way to see it on bikes.

I hired an e-bike for four hours today. It made such a difference to my ease of getting around Alderney. The bike was well maintained and stable and easy to ride. I was given helpful advice about how to operate the bike and some tips for sites to visit.

Absolutely brilliant! Very friendly staff, fixed me up with a good quality & well maintained mountain bike immediately. Did a full circuit of the island in about 4 hours. Highly recommended!

Impressive lovely service. We had 2 bikes for 4 days. They were good quality and faultless. We had great service including their own map which was spot on and invaluable not to miss anything. Fair price too. Will def use again

The nicest people I ever met! So helpful and understanding! Best place to get a bike from

Hired three bikes for a day trip around the island. Very welcoming and very efficient.

Hired 2 bikes to do a 4 hour ride around the island Shown how bike worked very thorough presentation Bike was good quality and power worked well with gears Reasonable price £40 2 bikes 4 hours

Spectacular walking route along gently sloping grassy hills or steep falesie over a blue-green sea that seems to change hue at every turn of the path. Enchanting walk !

One of the most beautiful views of the North Atlantic Ocean with the islands of Jersey and Guernsey visible on a clear day. Spectacular views of the cliffs and a short walk down them will take you to some caves and a beach below. One of Normandy's secrets. There is also a little restaurant on one of the cliffs where you can grab a scenic lunch. Don't forget to switch the data off on your phone as it automatically switches to English networks and international roaming. Yes, you're that close to England! Enjoy.

It has a good view, full of nature. You get to see some British Islands with the sea is calmer. Very refreshing

Beautiful !

One of the most beautiful walks in Cotentin : the landscape is magnificent anf the lights and colors are often mesmerizing.

Gorgeous

Wonderful place

Beautiful beach , park up high to admire the view , then visit the beach for the other view . Nice rock formation on the beach and lots of beautiful little stones.

Walking along the coast is a must

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(Translated by Google) An absolutely fantastic beach, pure Normandy. However, it's difficult to reach, especially with a motorhome. The only access is via a road that's less than three meters wide in places, with steep cliffs on the left and a precipice on the right. (Original) Absolut fantastischer Strand, Normandie pur. Allerdings schwer zu erreichen, vor allem mit dem Wohnmobil. Die einzige Zufahrt führt über eine Straße die stellenweise keine drei Meter breit ist, links Steile Felsen, rechts ein Abgrund.

(Translated by Google) Superb beach near La Hague. Easy to access and where you can swim without worrying too much about the tide. Few people. Swimming is not supervised, but the weather is beautiful and the sea is at 20 degrees (August 2025). (Original) Superbe plage proche de La Hague. Facile d accès et où l on peut se baigner sans trop se préoccuper de la marée. Peu de monde. Baignade non surveillée mai temps magnifique et mer à 20 degrés (août 2025)

(Translated by Google) A beautiful bay and starting point for outstanding coastal hikes. Good infrastructure with parking and even a very good restroom. (Original) Schöne Bucht und Startpunkt herausragender Küstenwanderungen. Gute Infrastruktur durch Parkplätze und es gibt sogar eine sehr gute Toilette.

(Translated by Google) A magnificent natural setting with extraordinary walks along the GR. The endless beaches offer extraordinary panoramas. A must-see when visiting La Hague. (Original) Magnifique lieu naturel avec des balades sur le GR extraordinaires. Les plages a pertes de vues vous offrirons un panorama extraordinaires. A faire absolument lorsque vous venez en visite a la hague.

(Translated by Google) Interesting church from 1633 (Original) Interessante Kirche von 1633

(Translated by Google) A beautiful church to discover when you go for a walk in the Hague. (Original) Une belle église à découvrir quand vous allez vous balader dans la Hague.

(Translated by Google) Magnificent church, with atypical architecture (Original) Magnifique église, avec une architecture atypique

(Translated by Google) The sound of church bells calms my soul (Original) 教堂鐘聲讓我心靈得以沉澱

(Translated by Google) Peaceful...panorama (Original) Paisible...panorama

Absolutely fantastic experience. The staff were among the best I’ve ever encountered, genuinely attentive and welcoming. Climbing the Lighthouse was a highlight, made even better by a tour guide who knew his stuff inside out. The lady in the gift shop was an absolute gem. And the views? Endless. Just breathtaking.

What a beautiful day. The 🌞 was shining and not a cloud in the sky. No queues for the lighthouse, what more can you ask for. If it was the middle of summer I'd book tickets 🎟️ in advance, but at this time of the year... we didn't.

Very interesting - if you're into that sort of thing. Only take kids if they don't mind climbing up and down the stairs - we had a child that screamed half the way up and had to be almost dragged back down from lantern room.

Portland Bill Lighthouse is a stunning coastal landmark with breathtaking sea views. The striking red-and-white tower looks beautiful against the dramatic cliffs and ocean backdrop. It’s a great spot for photography, peaceful walks, and watching the waves crash along the rocks. The area is well maintained, with a cozy café nearby. A must-visit for anyone exploring the Jurassic Coast — truly iconic and unforgettable!

This was a lovely unplanned visit. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable of the area. The history of the place is nice to see and there are plenty of posters around to learn about the different type of lights they used. Definitely worth doing if you are able to manges walking 150 steps and a steep ladder.

Really beautiful area to walk around and the lighthouse was fabulous. The tour was informative and the views from the top were great. I highly recommend going and seeing it

Stunning spot with unbeatable 360° coastal views. The lighthouse is iconic, and the surrounding area is peaceful and perfect for a walk. Great mix of natural beauty and serenity — a must-visit on the Jurassic Coast.

A great place for exploring, lots of lovely winding paths and beautiful view points. Free parking, about 10 spaces or so, wasn't busy when we visited on a Saturday morning. No facilities. We completed a perfect little 30 min walk down to Chiswell beach where there is a cafe and toilets. A steep/stony walk including steps. a stop of at the cafe for refreshments, paddle in the sea which was so clear and still, relax on the pebbles was just lovely before heading back up the path.

This is a hidden gem. Weird and fascinating, these sculptures are a definite find; from the coquettish torso, to the dog with the eyes of it's victims in its coat, the sea creatures, the stone ring.......all very thought provoking. The location of this quarry leads to some beautiful clifftop views and as you explore you may see ospreys and gulls circling overhead. The most incredible thing to me was that this stone world is all free! Absolutely worth a visit.

The car park is hidden at the end of a small industrial estate. When you first enter the park it seems like a bit of a disappointment. It is massively over grown and the first sculptures are a bit boring. But then it opens up and there is so much to explore. We spent over an hour walking round. Car park is free and there isn’t an expensive cafe or gift shop. A true free attraction.

I was a little disappointed. There are loads of sculptures. However, the whole site feels neglected. Lots of sculptures hidden in the undergrowth. There is a map in the entrance by the carpark. Once past this, there are a few random arrows on posts, but nothing to give you a real idea of where to go or to guide you. The views, however, are stunning down to the Chesil, and the drops are sheer and long. The main path is clear but not flat. Once off this it can be quite a challenge. Certainly not for the faint-hearted or anyone not sure footed. I feel we missed areas, and maybe it is set up to be a rugged adventure rather than an easy stroll.

It’s an interesting visit if you don’t mind climbing about there are some lovely sculptures and art works and the views are breathtaking

Bit overgrown and uncared for but sculptures are great. Had a nice wander around.

Clever, arty and interesting sculptures in Portland stone, with a fine view of Chesil beach as a bonus.

We love this castle, our second visit. The kids loved playing with cannons and dressing up and watching the helicopters land next door. Staff in the cafe were excellent and if you're a member kids eat free which was an absolute bargain! Very clean and tidy. The kids did the quiz although didn't fill in all the questions as the pen didn't work and it was very heavy rain outside. When we handed in their quiz sheets the lady on the ticket office asked them to do it again....this slightly ruined their experience. You don't expect the fun police to be out on holiday! 🤣

Henry’s Gun Fort, also known as Portland Castle, is a fascinating historic site built by King Henry VIII. The castle is beautifully preserved, with interesting exhibits and displays that bring its rich maritime and military history to life. The location by the sea is stunning, offering lovely views and a peaceful atmosphere. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, making the visit both educational and enjoyable. A must-see for history lovers and anyone exploring Portland!

It's OK. It's very small, maybe only takes 20 minutes to see it all. Nice views from the gun deck. It's worth a quick pit stop if you are visiting nearby. There were helicopters taking off and landing while we were there, which was a bonus!

Loved that there was parking and the castle is right on the beach front. Interesting history and ties with Henry VIII. Enjoyed the interaction with local community school. Met the lovely Wes in the shop and yes, he is a #SconeAsInGone as is #Nicola. The Dorset Cake was delicious! I also got to see helicopters taking off. A bit noisy but a first for me!

Really interesting place the staff were brilliant and a great audio tour. The cafe is good as well. Does have disabled parking and parts are wheelchair accessible but bits that aren't you can still listen to the audio tour.

Really interesting place with a fair amount to see. Lots of steps though so not very accessible for disabled visitors. Good cafe too mmm nice cakes.

An artillery fort constructed by Henry VIII when there was a threat of invasion from France. Well worth having a look around the small fort and listening to the excellent audio guide. Nice garden.

Loved it. A small car park nearby was free due to construction. Completed pebble beach. Amazing for pebble collectors. And the sunset here is glorious

I've been coming here all my life, it's still one of the most beautiful places in the UK. The beach itself is beautiful, vast and naturally interesting, the views are stunning and at night time you can see millions of stars here. If you're going to the Abbotsbury part of the beach, good parking (paid parking) with toilet facilities and a little cafe. Feels very safe here both day and night.

Beautiful unique beach if you are prepared to walk on the millions of pebbles 😃 You need strong legs to get near the water from Abbotsbury car park, not ideal for trolleys. Once you are by the water the sensation is indescribable 🤩🤩🤩 If you enjoy fishing 🎣 you will have plenty of competitors 😃 There is a carpark that you can pay on the machine by the the bar or by phone

Want a challenge? Walk this entire Chesil Beach from Fortuneswell (Quibbles cafe)to West Bay (The George Hotel). I did it 6 years ago but soon realized that I hadn't taken in just how tiring the pebbles can be for walking on. I ended that walk at Abbotsbury due to not having enough time. So I have done it again for its entire length this time. Forget running. Walking is more efficient. I believe that you can walk this beach all year, even during the bird season, 01/05 to 31/08 as long as you keep to the side of the sea. A lone walker may still be ok to walk as long as they do not disturb nature. But ask at the Chesil Beach visitor centre first. They will also inform you of any recent events, like landslides or rockfalls that may hamper your progress. I made a mistake of asking tourists who misguided me. Not to worry, it didn't put me off. I just got on with it and was soon back on track. Update: Did it for the last time today, Wednesday 24 September, entirely by beach, using tidal times for optimum beach width. No diversions. See proof of route photo. Some tips for those who fancy this walk. Check tide times. Check seasonal restrictions. Check firing range..MOD. Take a fully charged mobile phone. Take snacks and drinks. Don't rush it. Enjoy it. It's a mammoth task for most. Regular breaks. Start early, around 07:00 but before 09:00. Duration depending on the individual is anywhere between 6 hour 40 mins to 13 hours. But most likely, just 9 hours. There is the option to leave the route at the 10 miles ? Point, Abbotsbury car park. No shame if you do. That's the hardest bit to do for anyone. Start from Fortuneswell end of the beach. Begin there at high tide. By the time you get in range of West Bay the tide will be lower. Lower tide means wider beach. Wider beach means safe distance from cliff collapse. Wider beach near Bridport area means no detour to avoid river run off across the beach by Freshwater caravan site. Further on, still keep a safe distance from the cliffs. Due to low tide, some sections of the beach have exposed , hard sand that can be taken advantage of due to low the tide exposing it. See video of smooth, flat gritty sand.

Have a great time fishing for the first time in Chisel beach, we were lucky to catch some mackerels. Shore is mostly pebbles so make sure to have the right footwear. Nice view of the hill and Isle of Portland from this area as well. Camping is not allowed in this beach. Will surely comeback for more fishes.

Beautiful beach, has a swimming area to both sides, one under the cliffs and the other to the west, we were told to stay clear of cliffs as they fall. Bring rubber shoes as it's rocky and watch out for kids and adults throwing rocks to see if they have fossils on th. Of fossil hunting, bring a hammer. Has a nice little shop that sells fossils and mementos as well as a visitor center, which is free. Slippery rocks during low tide and a lot of small pools for little ones to explore.

Lovely place to go for a stroll along the coastline, especially on a sunny day... we'll worth a stop at the cafe for a bap and a sausage roll to replenish. Lots of folk fishing along the shore and big waves to test your running legs against. Well worth the trip to see Chesil beach!

Very enjoyable stroll along both sides of this picturesque harbor & town. Arrived on a cruise ship, opting to venture out on our own & soak up some uniquely European ambiance in this - our first port across 'the pond' - since crossing over from Florida ... Mission Accomplished👍

Beautiful harbour surrounded by lovely shops, cafes, pubs & restaurants. It’s lovely just to sit and watch the comings and goings of the boats.

I love the place. I walk about the place at least once a day. The place always looks different. Morning, afternoon or Night time. It can get very very busy around the harbour on both sides when it's warm and the holiday season. Plenty of places to buy food and other shops. They also do a Christmas day swim across the harbour. Which I found pretty cool as it was Christmas day and the place was the busiest I had seen it at any one give time. The land train buzz's round that way also when it's running. Also a good place too park your Boat up and tease me 😂

Good to see an active fishing industry in the harbour. There are brightly coloured houses lining the harbour waterfront and a few quayside pubs, cafes and restaurants. Seems like the place for fresh seafood although I was too early in the morning for that.

Absolutely love this place it's like heaven totally my vibe so much to see and do

Been to harbour side for a walk. Such an elegant view from the bridge. Colourful buildings just amazing and making very different impact on the atmosphere around harbour area. Just beautiful place, water, blue sky, fishing boats, excellent pubs, nice eating places,happy people and charming atmosphere. I'm so happy that came to this place and spend my all day this lovely city.

So much too see, plenty places to eat and drink, lots of people walking, dinning, sailing, crabbing and so much more. Lovely atmosphere, We went to the "Quayside" for cake and coffee, we sat outside as the sun was shinning, friendly and pleasant staff and the coffee and cake were delicious. The bridge had just gone up, lots of people on the quayside both sides waiting to cross. Boats exiting and entering Weymouth harbour. All was very Very enjoyable.

Excellent beach, dog’s allowed on west beach only until 30th September, plenty of parking but at £4.80/hr near the sea front a bit expensive, if you are prepared to walk it is cheaper near the swannery car park. Plenty of shop’s, cafe’s, etc. Worth a visit

Lovely area, we attend the motocross annually and always great atmosphere and brilliant stalls with plenty of food options. Shops and easy parking nearby, handy disabled spaces down the seafront.

Weymouth Beach is a beautiful and clean seaside spot with soft pebbles and clear waters. The gentle waves and scenic views make it perfect for a peaceful walk or relaxing by the shore. The promenade nearby adds to the charm with plenty of cafés and ice cream stalls. A lovely place to enjoy the classic English seaside atmosphere!

A beautiful clean beach Its always warm on the sea front Plenty of places to sit or eat. Definitely recommend Weymouth its lovely

One of many amazing beaches on the Dorset coast, not as easy to find a parking space unless you use the car parks either end of the beach or use the park and ride from outside the town. Once there the lovely well looked after beaches are so beautiful and through the summer many families enjoy and use the many amenities for souvenirs and snacks to evening meals with plenty of restaurant choice. It has a all year dog friendly beach either side of main beach and dog friendly everywhere after 30th September. The harbour and Nothe fort walks are amazing too.

I really enjoyed our walk on the beach. Wide open beach, plenty of cafes and restarants, arcades and friendly people all around. We were there in October so I can imagine it is gets very busy in summer But I would recommend going off peak

We went in late october. Drizzling with rain on and off but it is still gorgeous there. Lovely long sandy beach. Dogs are allowed. And just crossed the road to shops and cafe.

Went here on a lovely sunny and warm day which is great as a lot of the attractions are outside and ideal for young kids that can play in the play park and water splash areas. Not as many inside tank areas as in other sea life centres. Good access for wheelchair users. Blue badge parking adjacent to the premier Inn car park. Wheelchair accessible toilets are quite small.

I had a good time at Sea Life, everything was clean and the exhibits were well presented. That said, I’d recommend going on a weekend when the full experience is available. Visiting on a Monday meant only the drinks section of the gift shop (located at the exit) was open, and the food kiosks were shut, which was a letdown if, like me, you fancy a drink and a bite to eat during your visit. The signage could definitely be improved. We had to exit through the Shark section just to find our way out via the gift shop, and we weren’t the only ones, other visitors ended up following me through the same confusing route. Overall, it was a decent few hours out, but for a smoother, more complete visit, especially with family - I’d say stick to the weekend.

We visited on a weekday in early November and spent just over 2 hours here. We were very surprised at the size of the site and the large variety of animals housed here. The aquarium is spread out over a few buildings, each housing a themed exhibition from rock pools to rainforests and coral reefs. Each exhibit includes detailed information signs and screens providing more information about the animals and marine life houses here. They also host a variety of free talks and feeding sessions throughout the day and we found these to be very informative. Our highlight was visiting the seals in their open-air pool with underwater viewing area. In addition to the aquarium exhibits, there are also a variety of play areas and other attractions which would certainly keep younger visitors entertained (and could easily extend the visit from a few hours to a day out). There is also a gift shop and cafe at the exit. The site is fairly flat and there are tarmac paths throughout which would make it very accessible for prams, buggies and wheelchairs. There are also lots of signs and maps dotted around the site (as well as the free map they give you when you enter) so you can easily find the exhibits you are looking for. You are also able to pop out and return later in the day if needed. The staff here were all very friendly and helpful and also incredibly knowledgeable. They were a credit to Sea Life and made us feel very welcome. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Sea Life Weymouth and would happily return in future.

Perfect place to visit with family or if you love sea life. It’s not as big as the one in London which I visited before, but it’s still a really nice one. If you can, try to get there around 1 PM so you can catch all the feeding times. The place is small but very well designed, and you don’t really need a guide. Just grab a map from the entrance and you’ll easily find your way around. The one thing I felt was missing was food. There were souvenir shops everywhere, but a coffee machine or a small snack corner inside would’ve been great. The only spot for a warm drink was the cafeteria at the exit. Other than that, it’s a fun and relaxing experience

We had a lovely visit to the Sea Life Centre in Weymouth. The staff were really friendly and welcoming, and the whole place was clean and well looked after. The kids enjoyed seeing all the different sea creatures, and it was a fun family day out overall. That said, we were quite frustrated that none of the refreshment shops were open until the very end. By the time we reached the exit café, it was a bit too late. For the price of the tickets, we were expecting a bit more from the experience. Still, we had a great time and made some nice memories.

Very accessible for a scooter user, only one bridge by the otters wasn't but there was another way around. The aquariums are indoors but you go outside to get to each one and to see the penguins and otters, be aware of this and have a poncho with you!

This is a really small Sea Life, 2 hours and you will have seen everything. The animals and fish appear well cared for. The staff are well informed, courteous and friendly. The cafe by the gift shop served good coffee and had a fair selection of snacks available.

One of the best view to enjoy... Very mesmerising view it gives and worth to travel for. Never miss the place. Should really once in your life time. Parking is available at the top.. And need to walk down a bit to get to the spot and steep on the way

What an absolutely stunning place! The view of the iconic stone arch and the turquoise water is truly breathtaking — pictures don’t do it justice. The walk down to the beach is a bit steep, but totally worth it once you reach the shore. It’s a great spot for relaxing, taking photos, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature. I’d recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing some snacks or a picnic — the atmosphere is so peaceful you’ll want to stay for hours. If you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll catch an amazing sunrise or sunset. Overall, it’s a must-visit place in the UK — calm, scenic, and unforgettable.

An absolutely stunning piece of natural beauty. The walk down the cliff path provides breathtaking views before you even reach the iconic arch. The beach is lovely, and taking a dip in the clear (and bracingly cold!) turquoise water is an unforgettable experience. Pro Tip: Get here at sunrise! We beat the crowds and had the place almost to ourselves. It was absolutely magical and serene. The experience would be completely different in the middle of a busy day. Highly, highly recommend an early start!

What a spectacular! Visited in October, not quite sunny but still perfect to enjoy myself sitting on the shores and looking over such a beautiful natural landscape right in front of me. So thankful to experience and see Durdle Door with 👀.

This year I visited Durdle Door for the first time. The last week of August I went there, and I really loved the place. The scenic beauty is absolutely stunning and truly mesmerizing. It was a bit too crowded because of the holidays, but overall it’s a beautiful spot worth visiting. 🌊✨

Durdle Door is a natural limestone arch that juts out into the sea just west of Lulworth Cove on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, England. Formed from Portland limestone. bournemouth to durdle door distance approx 23 miles by road. Late spring to early autumn is to visit the place. Warm weather to swim, picnic and evening walk. Try visiting May to September . In winter this site is open.

Amazing views and a truly natural marvel. Well worth a visit. There ia quite a steep, chalky loose gravel path, not very accessible for people with mobility restrictions.

This is a very impressive local museum with many top quality display areas but, for me, the visit was spoiled by the arcane charging system. We live 170 miles from Dorchester and were visiting solely to see the museum's current entertaining and informative Jane Austen exhibition. At the cash desk, I was frankly shocked to find that this would cost us £15 each. As avid museum visitors, we found such a charge for a local museum, albeit a rather good one, pretty extraordinary. I was already feeling grumpy when the very pleasant young woman at the till insisted that I must give my full name and email before I could have a ticket. I suggested that it was very unusual for museums to demand personal details before selling a ticket but she explained, very politely, that she could not issue a ticket without these. This left me totally bemused until I later received an email with a link allowing me to claim an annual museum pass. Neither of us had seen any obvious indication at the desk that even the casual visitor had to buy an annual pass to get in, and this was not explained by the assistant. Living so far away, we would certainly not be visiting again within a year and, in my opinion and based on my experience of local museums, £15 is an eyewateringly high price for a single entry. The most liberal local authorities offer free entry, as does my home town of Bedford to its equally impressive Higgins museum and gallery. Some charge £3 to £6 or £7. I would associate £15 with a major collection, which, lovely though it is, this is not

Being a history lover (weirdly it bored me at school 55-60yrs ago) I enjoyed my couple of hours here , especially the Roman mosaics, Victorian hall and the library. The building itself is also worth a second look especially the windows. The cafe looked nice but I didn't use it so can't comment , likewise the toilets.

Spent the day in Dorchester and explored the Dorset Museum & Art Gallery - truly fantastic! This museum is one of the best we've visited, with four floors of surprises around every corner…

What a fantastic place!! There is so much to see, from the prehistoric Dorset coast to Thomas Hardy connections. We were interested in the travelling Gladiators in Britain exhibition which was brilliant. Make sure you allow plenty of time to look round but the ticket does allow you to go back within 12 months.

Very disappointed that it closes at 17:00 hours yet at 16:10 they refused to let me enter because I was 10 minutes late and they needed to close the rooms. Also the cafe doors were locked. So you don’t close at 5:00, you close as soon as the last person leaves as long as it is before closure time. The woman just said come back tomorrow. I won’t bother!! Be aware that traffic getting in to and out of Dorchester is horrendous. I saw the beautiful church next door and got to wander around the local shops. Everyone else I met was friendly and helpful. Shame.

Great museum, lots of Jurassic coast fossils and sea dinosaurs. A fantastic collection of archaeological finds from local locations, Bronze and Iron Age, Roman and Medieval. Human skeletons and fascinating local history including Roman mosaics, funny phalluses and a hoard of Roman coins. Enjoyed the art gallery too especially the Alfred Wallis paintings.

Ticket is valid for a year. Staff friendly & knowledgeable We were directed to exactly the section we were most interested in - Thomas Hardy. Fabulous collection, wish we had more time

When we arrived, it cost more than what was advertised online. Lots of information but pricey for less than 1hour 30mins in there. Was given a cute little Easter Half Term quiz for our child. Little gift shop. Stairs upstairs are narrow, not good if mobility issues.

We visited while on holiday. It was a good visit and our son did enjoy it. I did find it more on the expensive side considering there wasn’t loads and loads to do. But It would be perfect for a child who adores dinosaurs as there are lots of factual information and things they can learn. Wouldn’t recommend for people who struggle with mobility as little steps and narrow staircase however I would recommend overall. 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Small but excellent for young children who loved the displays and the fossils.

Worth to be visited, not too expressive, as I expected. Lots of different marine fossils from the Jurassic period. There are also modern shells and skeletons on display. The museum has a small collection of dinosaur fossils on show (such as a large dinosaur coprolite, a Megalosaurus skeleton and a Chinese dinosaur

Disappointed for the price. 3 rooms, lucky get 30mins walking around. Pletty of good information, but way to high admission price, shocking price for kids. Added price listed.

I was nervous to visit after reading the reviews on google so was pleasantly surprised. We paid £14 per adult and £10? for a child. So £38 for the 3 of us. It is a lot of money and I am sure *would put many off. For our rainy day in Dorchester it was a choice between other attractions (county museum, Tutankhamen, china warriors etc) which felt like a similar ballpark and our 6 year old requested dinosaurs! Was it worth the money? It depends on how much you are into dinosaurs!!! We were met with a friendly welcome. The museum had 3 rooms absolutely ram full of dino facts, models and artefacts and videos. I think for me if anything I found the amount of information overwhelming 🤭 but there was definitely plenty to look at and do. We all enjoyed the museum. I think if you have someone that loves reading and facts they will get a lot out of the displays but equally our 6 year old who will only read a little, enjoyed the models and interactive stations and the quiz. « I loved it » was their verdict. Its a small museum and if you have kids that will whip round and not take things in, it maybe isn’t big enough to keep you busy very long. For us we had about 1hr 15 mins in there and could easily have spent longer. If I could change anything… a picnic area in the yard would have been great to break our visit up. When you have littles with you anything that helps you extend a visit is really parent gold. We certainly didn’t feel ripped off but a little more affordable (in the realms of a family ticket deal?) would make this a no brainer.

Overpriced! I went with my 3 year old niece expecting a dinosaur adventure but I was sadly disappointed. While they offer many interesting facts, the whole thing is contained within 3 1/2 small rooms and takes, at most, 30 minutes to look round. The exhibits are tired and sparse. If you charged us a fiver each to get in, I probably would have expected what we got, but £14 for me and £10 for the 3 year old is outrageous and dishonest. Do not go to the museum if you’re looking for a dinosaur experience, you won’t find it in Dorchester. I have given 2 stars solely for the historic information scattered about.

Great spot with stunning views. Info boards broken which is a shame as it's an interesting place. Inside firing range so check for access (Search MOD lulworth ranges)

Such a stunning location to walk, it’s an easy walk with very little gradient from the whiteway hill car park. The views of Worbarrow bay is just beautiful. So so worth it!

It’s worth the aching legs to get here for the view alone. This is the remaining half of a hill fort of the Iron Age Durotriges tribe. The other half now being in the sea. There is some information and interesting artefacts from here in the information centre at Lulworth if your walk is taking you that way.

Beautiful walk today from tyneham village to flowers barrow then round to tyneham. Lovely little coffee wagon from the salt pig in Tyneham village carpark.

Lovely walk to get to flowers barrow. You'll know you're there due to the information ℹ sign. Amazing views across Tyneham and the Purbecks from this ancient hill fort.

Interesting place. Very very steep descent down on coastal path to Tyneham Bay

Steep climb from Warbarrow Beach but beautiful views. A must do!

Lovely coastal views, great place to picnic. Parking fees are reasonable

One of the highlights of my trip to Dorset no doubt!! Very very easy to find fossils on this beach. Ensure not to walk near the cliffs as recommended, and go when tide is low. You are charged a 6£ fee to enter this beach - totally worth it. Ensure to stop by The Escher Collection on your way to the beach and see some breathtaking findings!!

Very muddy take hot flask and food if climbing to the top great views no loos lol well only the ones nature provided

Truly magical place to spend the day capturing the abundance of fossils and layers of history in and around the bay..

A stunning part of the Jurassic Coast line, with wonderful views looking out to the English channel. The car park is a tad expensive, but the views more than make up for this. A worthwhile spot for any budding photographer.

Had such a wonderful afternoon here never fails to impress. Great car park and now with an amazing cafe. I had a seafood platter which was delicious

Can't fossil hunt, couldn't use the toilets close to car park when we got there at 10:30 so my pregnant wife had to walk all the way to the disgusting public toilets on the opposite side of everything. £6 to look at some rock, didn't see many fossils and turns out you can't hunt for them either so no point going. Hate that someone has a monopoly on this place

It costs 6 pounds but I do like this beach. Certain areas are on flat terraces and are shallow which are great for swimming and paddling. Fossils are embedded into the terraces. You can pick up fallen rocks along the beach looking for fossils. The permanent outdoor cafe serves amazing chips. The Sea Life center is charming and welcoming. There is ice cream and clean toilets.

A gorgeous cove and beach area which still attracts a lot of people but is much calmer than Bournemouth and Poole. It costs £6 to park for the day which is great considering the costs of other car parks. There are places to get food and drink as well as toilets nearby. The scenery is stunning with lots of wildlife, fossil hunting possibility and rock pools to explore. The rock formations in the area are fascinating and just up the road is The Etches Collection Museum to add to that fossil hunting mindset!

Excellent rock-pooling (check the tides) and fossil hunting (beware of crumbling cliffs). A good base for coastal walks. The Dorset Wildlife Trust exhibition is a must, especially with young ones. Food and coffee available although we didn't avail ourselves. Get there early for the best parking spots along the cliff top

Beautiful nature, fresh sea air. Pebbly beach. The layers in the rock face were fascinating to me and you can see a lot of pieces of stone with imprints of fossils. Easy enough walk down but may be steep for some. Not too busy. A nice place to stop on a coastal walk.

Toll road to a car park. Best to see when the ride is out. Lots of fossil's and flat skimming stones to play with. Plenty of people swim here, but not me.

Love Kimmeridge, have been coming here for years. Pleased to see more toilets have been installed, was surprised to see food vans there now. I suppose it's good if you like that sort of thing, typically selling overpriced food and drinks. Will always love visiting this place.

What an absolutely amazing place for swimming and even more so for snorkeling. £6 all day parking, 2 car parks to choose from. We headed to the biggest car park and bagged a space on the front row overlooking the bay but that was quite early (8.30am) In this car park there are nice toilets (don't open until midday for some reason) and a drink/snack truck and a food truck. About 20 downward steps to the beach which is all large pebbles and rocks when you get down there. Very little shade after mid morning so beware of that. Walk along to the right and the rock formations that you walk across are awesome, spot the odd ammonite too. A brilliant spit of rock part way down is great for swimming and snorkeling off at low tide. Drive (or walk) to the other car park that takes you to the Sea Life centre and another beach area to swim off with a slip way to launch paddlebaords/knacks from. Again great snorkeling with some good drops down to the sea bed. The centre is really good, the staff knowledgeable and very happy to answer questions. Interesting selection of living ranks that constantly change inhabitants! Be aware the toilets on the way down to the centre are not that nice!! Not as well wkpt on busy days at all.

A little historical beauty that just oozes history from the 15th century graffiti that I was able to read (probably plenty in there much older) to the mysteries surrounding it’s use since the Norman times. Contrary to a review I read here, this beautiful little place of worship is far from abandoned. As well as congregational gatherings it is possible to be married here. I happened to chat with a couple outside who asked me to take their picture. They posed arms around each other as they stood in the old stone doorway. It had been ten years since they themselves were ‘hitched’ there. As for the building itself, it’s clear the cross on the roof is an addition to the original structure, which adds to the theory of it having had at least one other use in its long history. Ash and carbon deposits around the central part of the roof has lead to an idea of it having been used as a lookout and beacon structure to aid ancient maritime activity. All this adds to a fascinating visit. Once inside, take a minute or two to study the craftsmanship of the vaulted ceiling. From there, move to the Coast Watch building and for a donation enjoy a tea or coffee and a piece of cake. It’s Dorset…enjoy.

St. Aldhelm's Chapel is a hidden gem that will take your breath away. This tiny, ancient chapel is nestled just a few yards from the cliff edge, offering spectacular views of the sea. Despite its small size - possibly the smallest chapel I've ever encountered - it's packed with history and charm. The trek to reach it may be challenging, but the reward is well worth the effort. If you're in the area, don't miss this unique and picturesque spot. It's a perfect destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a tranquil moment of reflection.

Gorgeous. Lovely little chapel, open on the day we went (Saturday) and was lovely to soak up 800yrs of history!

This fantastic place has jumped straight into my top 5 peaceful places in the UK. At least, it was peaceful when I was there . I saw the hoards arriving as I was on my merry way . Quite a long walk from the car park about 30 minutes for those less agile . Nonetheless, we'll worth a visit in my humble opinion

This chapel quite literally became my refuge when I was heading towards it from the car park, the weather suddenly changed and started to rain. Very glad to see it was open! Some services are still held here. Interesting booklet giving you the history of it. I walked from here to Chapman's pool along the coast path- lots of steps both up and down!

A peaceful stop on a longer walk. Light was amazing, and church is small and simple but beautiful with one stainless window. If you drive there the car park a mile and half away. I walk from worth matavers via winspit. I sat for a while and took in the atmosphere.

Little chapel where you can see and feel history. There are plenty of ancient graffiti on the walls and the place seems to be very well looked after by local volunteers. There isn’t much parking, but this contributes to the peace and tranquillity all around. There are plenty of walks in the area and no toilets available to speak of. Furthermore the views from up there are simply stunning. There is a Coast Guard watchtower right next to the chapel, which is open to visitors free of charge. The two retired volunteer workers inside are always very welcoming.

An absolutely brilliant museum. The Etches Collection showcases an incredible range of Jurassic marine fossils, all collected over 40+ years by local fossil hunter Steve Etches. The displays are beautifully presented, with interactive elements and fascinating insights into prehistoric life. As a history teacher with a strong interest in natural history, I found it genuinely inspiring—especially with the new Natural History GCSE on the horizon. A huge thanks to my friend Ben, one of Steve’s colleagues, for the insightful tour and stories behind the collection. A must-visit if you're in Dorset—perfect for families, fossil fans, and anyone curious about our prehistoric past!

A small but incredible collection of prehistoric marine fossils collected over decades by Steve Etches and with other fossils donated by other fossil hunters. The displays are well presented with interesting information without going in to too much detail so you have to stand and read for ages. There are activities for kids to get them interacting and engaged in the fossils too. All of the staff are very friendly and on hand to answer and questions you may have about the exhibits. If you’re a fan of Sir David Attenborough and have watched ‘Attenborough and the Giant Sea Monster’, then you’ll want to visit here as the pliosaur skull is ok display as it was found locally. I’d known about The Etches Collection for a while and live in the area, but never visited, watching the Attenborough show spurred my husband and I on… you won’t regret making a little trip out of it. There is free parking, a lovely pub/restaurant across the road and you’re round the corner from Kimmeridge Bay so you can do your own fossil hunting after! The ticket is valid for 12 months so you can come back as many times as you like… don’t forget to do Gift Aid if you’re a UK Tax Payer - every little helps keep places like this going!

Took our grandchildren to see the collection. Good layout, the children loved the animations up near the ceiling, and the explanatory labels were excellent. Highly recommend watching the BBC documentary on the discovery of the plesiosaur head prior to going. Take a picnic; the pub restaurant across the road is ridiculously expensive and there is literally nothing else there.

A very inspiring place. Discover its secrets yourself! The ticket is valid 12 months. Parking is free.

Absolutely loved this little museum! Amazing collection and very informative. 11/10 would go again

Fantastic place definitely going back. Loved the animation on the ceiling. Things to do for kids as well

Lovely staff. Very helpful and full of information. Also the shop has some good collectibles for all pockets. Was great to see the etches collection of fossils and the famous skull. On a pratical note, easy free parking but is not the easiest place to get too. Clean loos always a bonus when you've travelled. There's a pricy pub across the road, but no cafe at etches itself.

It’s a beautiful place to visit, especially on a summer’s day. Very peaceful and relaxed, you can take you time wandering around the lake - at least two loops to do both halves of the path and see everything. There’s also a small kitchen garden with flowers, vegetables and fruit which is pretty to see. Excellent food and drinks in the onsite cafe - would recommend the sticky ginger cake - but you can also get takeaway sandwiches from the pantry or bring in your own picnic. The tickets were a little on the expensive side at £16.50pp (if you book online there’s a £1.50 discount) but understand they are very focused on conservation and ecology, which probably comes with higher maintenance costs. All in all a nice day out.

Great place for an enjoyable stroll. Lovely lakes setting, interesting sculptures, some you can sit on. Dogs are allowed through the majority of the area. Great cafe too for lunch. Plenty of parking.

Truly amazing place. The whole experience has been well thought through and implemented. From the opening sculpture reminding how important nature is to our wellbeing to the carefully placed seating where you can sit and enjoy the calm. A number of the sculptures are interactive and I particularly enjoyed the one where you lay flat on a suspended round cushioned platform to watch the clouds drift by to the sound of water, the gentle rustling of trees and the watch the wildlife. Sculpture by the Lakes well exceeded my expectations.

Peace and tranquility. I have visited twice now and have been very impressed both times. While there were many more people there the second visit, it still didn't feel crowded. This is a wonderful place to visit to breathe deep and unload. Sit by the river or lay on the grass, wander through the formal gardens and read the plaques in the path. There are many places to sit and ponder or just enjoy the sculpture. The whole place is cleverly laid out and the art is thought provoking. I will be going back again and again.

The sculpture park was relaxing and visually stimulating venue. I loved how tranquility of it was. The vibe of the place is incredible, very chilled, but with a lot to see and great walking around looking at all the art The place is incredible. The coffee was good in the cafe and we had a picnic.

Wow, what a lovely, relaxing and visually stimulating venue. I loved how tranquil it was, the vibe of the place is incredible, very chilled, but with a lot to see. Being a huge owl fan I loved the many barn owl sculptures. I also loved the metal egg swing bench near the river and the large round swing bed/seat near the lake. The place is incredible. The coffee was good and the Kinder brookie was excellent too.

Had a amazing day here walking around their lake. Awesome sculptures set in and around their grounds. Coffee shop and restaurant food looked amazing but didn't eat there. But take your own food and have a picnic at one of the seating area's. We went on a week day out of school holidays so it didn't feel busy.oh and if you book online you pay £15 instead of £16.50

The Tank Museum is an amazing place to spend time with the family. There’s so much to see — from historic tanks to interactive exhibits — and it’s both educational and entertaining for all ages. The staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, making the visit even better. It’s very easy to get to, with plenty of parking available. You’ll definitely want to allow at least three hours to explore everything properly. Highly recommended!

We visited midweek during the October half term school holidays with our 8 year old twins, was worried that with them not being self pronounced armoured fighting vehicle fans, that they may not be entertained for much longer than say 30mins, as last time I visited was a little less than half a century ago! 😳 And it was very bare bones... I needn't have worried the place has grown exponentially, the car park was full, but inside it felt comfortably spacious with loads to do for a very excitable pair of monkeys, who grew more and more interested in what they were seeing. There are loads of looped films explaining the ins and outs of Tank design, Tanks through the ages, Tanks in the movies! You name it there was something for everyone who even has a modicome of interest in the subject. Would highly recommend with over 350 tanks on site of every size and shape and some over a hundred years old! loads to do and see! And a fab gift shop to boot with gifts and toys to suit every pocket! A fab day out had by all, we even saw some real modern tanks driving on the roads outside the museum as its in an active army camp! 5*

Perfect for both tank enthusiasts and those who just enjoy a good museum with lots of physical things to see. The museum is well deserved of its legendary status amongst the military enthusiast community. I’d say it is very child friendly with lots of space, things to do and see as well as an extremely reasonably priced canteen. I went in a day when the Tamiya hall was closed, although entirely my fault due to it being the remembrance weekend. Despite this I still felt I had a lovely time and felt I had seen a lot. I will certainly be back, especially due to the ticket sale lasting for 12 months.

I've been meaning to go for several years now, it was absolutely fantastic everything I dreamed of and more! Getting up close and personal with past giants of military machinery. The variety of tanks on show are breathtaking especially for me the WW2 tanks seeing a tiger 1&2 Vs what the allied forces had to try and combat the German behemoth's. Worth every penny will love to visit over and over again.

This is an absolutely fantastic museum, even if you aren’t particularly fussed on the military. The history, facts, exhibits and children’s activities are amazing! We visited as a family with an 7 old and a 2 year old and spent around 5 hours here. Tickets are cheaper if you book in advance and you can take your own food and drink in as well. The staff were amazing with our 7 year old who has sensory issues, they pointed out the louder parts of the exhibit and they do offer sensory backpacks for the way round. It doesn’t feel cramped either and there is plenty of space for toddlers to wander around. The exhibits themselves are great, essentially takes you from the first tank ever made through to modern day tanks. A big emphasis on WW2 and it was nice to see that there was exhibits on some of the smaller known battles of the war as well as the more obvious parts such as D-Day. There is a walk around the trenches and a part dedicated to horses in the war, both of which are brilliantly done. There are little activities the whole way round such as bunkers with tunnels, mock ups of houses from the war and dress up areas for kids. Probably the best museum I’ve been to in terms of the exhibits and the value for money. If you are on the fence I would say just go, both kids and adults will love it.

Absolutely enormous collection of armour This museum is well run and laid out. It is easy to wander around and see all the "exhibits". Easy to read and informative placards were well placed. Very, very clean. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable. Demonstrations took place with an M24 Chaffee, the M4E8 Fury and Dingo. A ride on the M548 transporter was an enjoyable experience (if a bit short). Spent over 4 hours on site and could easily have spent more time there. Will return in the future to see what else they are restoring.

Had an absolutely awesome day at the Tank Museum. It is a veritable treasure trove of tanks, with accompanying historical displays, informational boards, and interactive exhibits. The museum is incredibly well thought out. The large free car park leads past a small playground, to the entrance point. This then has a ramp up to the display halls, of which there are several. These are broken up and themed across the history of tanks, and naturally draw your attention to the star of the display, including Tiger 131. The usual museum facilities are all present and correct. The restaurant is reasonably priced, and the food was really good. The Tanks in Action display at 1pm is essential viewing. I'd recommend a picnic blanket to sit on, but it is a highlight of the day. I really can't recommend the museum enough, it was great, and tanks are cool!!! 😎

Tiny museum fit into the smallest town hall in England, which is a fun novelty, but there is a good variety of displays fit into the small space.

Really cute museum. Nice to spend 20min

Tiny museum with lots of stuff to see.

Is a nice place,but still not cheap For peo lols like me who like history and museums is ok but I went in summer and there not were enough play games for the children The right thing is that dogs are allowed but again where are the earphones?

Castle Rushen was one of the most impressive medieval castles I have ever visited. Its towering stone walls, well-preserved structure, and commanding presence immediately transported me back in time. As I walked through its narrow passageways and climbed up to the battlements, I could almost imagine the lives of the kings and lords who once ruled from within these walls. The views overlooking Castletown and the surrounding harbour added to the sense of history and grandeur, making it a truly unforgettable experience

Not the best of days outside but it was surprising how warm it was inside the castle rooms. You start in the timeline room and then head to watch a video about the castle. Then you start your journey up the spiral staircase in to the rooms on each level until you get to the top. It was fun been up on the tallest turret with some strong winds to buffet you. Worth a visit and I am sure it would be lovely on a sunny day too!

Amazing Castle which I visited over the summer and nearly got locked in. Super friendly and knowledgeable staff. Lots of incredible rooms to explore with interesting histories. Free disc-display parking nearby. Highly recommend visiting.

Fab castle! Lots to explore. 5 floors, so lots of steps. Tells the story of the castle, with some rooms made up from that period. Great views from the top of the tower on a clear day.

Much better than we thought it would be. Upon entering we thought the £14 entrance fee (£15.50 including donation) was a bit expensive for a small castle. However once inside you can walk around 75% of the outer wall, and can explore around 75% of the inner castle exploring loads of rooms each containing a small amount of reading to explain its history. Would recommend to kill 1-2 hour.

The castle is the backdrop to hundreds of years of history. A visit is highly recommended to learn more about the original centre of the island's politics. National Trust members can get free entry.

Probably one of the most well kept medieval castle in Europe. Built around 1200 AD under Viking King Rognvaldur, guarding the Silver Burn river entrance. Evidence suggests earlier foundations (c. 947 AD), with an oak beam dated to this period uncovered onsite. Expanded between the 13th–17th centuries into a concentric fortress with limestone walls up to 12 feet thick. Key additions included gatehouses, a curtain wall, and five defensive towers. Site of King Magnús Óláfsson's death (1265) and later besieged by Robert the Bruce in 1313 during Scotland's invasion. Served as a stronghold for the Kings of Mann and the Isles. Withstood sieges during the Scottish-Norwegian wars. Headquarters for the Stanley family, Lords of Mann. James Stanley (7th Earl) used it as a Royalist court during the English Civil War. His wife, Countess Charlotte, famously defended it until 1651. Held criminals, political dissenters (e.g., democracy activists Robert Fargher), and Bishop Thomas Wilson (imprisoned in 1722 for challenging state authority). Notoriously harsh conditions led to the 1891 opening of Victoria Road Prison. It has a concentric ddesign with outer glacis, moat, zigzagging barbican, and double portcullises with "murder holes" to trap attackers. 80-foot keep with four towers offering panoramic views of Castletown Harbour. Medieval kitchen with hearth, cooking spit, and cobblestone floor (still used for demonstrations). Secured Manx law books; features a 1597 clock gifted by Elizabeth I. Renovated residence called Derby house for James Stanley, featuring tapestries depicting the Battle of Bosworth. Hosted the House of Keys (early Manx parliament) until 1710 and housed the island's mint and law courts. Featured on the Isle of Man £5 banknote and the corvette HMS *Rushen Castle* during WWII. UNESCO Biosphere Partner since 2021. Climb the spiral staircases to see the stunning harbor views. Explore furnished chambers, prison cells, and the working medieval kitchen. Restored by Manx National Heritage in 1991, now a museum depicting 1,000 years of Manx rule. Venue for events like the 2011 Commonwealth Youth Games closing ceremony. It’s also the start of the 28-mile Millennium Way hiking path to Ramsey. ✨Children born to female prisoners lived within the castle walls during its prison era—a stark contrast to its grim cells.