Hardys Cottage is a charming abode that served as the birthplace of renowned English writer Thomas Hardy. The historic building houses a visitor centre and boasts an idyllic garden. With its quaint ambience, visitors can immerse themselves in the legacy of one of England's most celebrated authors.
The Shire Hall Museum tells the story of local history through interactive exhibits, including original cells and courtroom. The museum is open Monday-Sunday 10-4pm, with ticket prices giving you a FREE annual pass included in the price.
We bought a family pass ,which gives us a years entry. (Excellent value for money). The theme was an Easter chick hunt plus a few country identification questions. Great fun and VERY educational. The Courtroom is fabulous fun, with hats, wigs, gowns,coats etc which everyone can wear and play out their own Courtroom scene. I highly recommend a visit plus there is an Great restaurant/tearoom on site.
Tony Bunyan — Google review
We visited here as part of museums after dark this year and it was great! The initial part was through the cells from different periods in the buildings history including the cell where the Tolpuddle Martyrs were kept. Then there was a court room with great dressing up things which fitted me as well as the children!
It was very busy when we went and we did have to wait to start walking through as it operates a one way system but I would think you wouldn't normally have so many people visiting.
We also went to the cafe and the food was amazing and reasonably priced - well worth a visit even if you don't want to go into the museum.
Corinna Murley — Google review
We enjoyed the Shire Hall enormously the staff were helpful and the exhibitions were excellent. The restaurant was excellent lovely home made pie was delicious thank you
Wendy Broom — Google review
Lovely bright and clean cafe area which is upstairs. Think there is a lift but not sure.
Varied menu for light bites/tea/snacks.
Downstairs is the museum area which was well laid out and welcoming. Toilet facilities on ground floor.
Easy level access for those with pushchairs/ wheelchairs/reduced mobility for ground floor.
It was hallow'een when we visited and there was a themed children's activity going on which seemed to be popular.
Would visit again for coffee/snack.
Fiona Dodd — Google review
Fascinating museum based on the ancient County courthouse and lockup, where Thomas Hardy served as magistrate. Excellent café, good gift shop, informative interactive displays. Not to be missed!
Mike Farley — Google review
Very interesting museum with friendly and helpful staff. Well worth the admission price.
David Watson — Google review
Historic and original courthouse with holding cells..a guided tour is recommended 👍
Also visit the Shire Hall Cafe and shop..
martin warm — Google review
Went to the cafe for lunch while my car was being serviced. Although busy a BLT sandwich and tea were swiftly prepared. Friendly staff and good table service. Previous visits for coffee similarly good.
Geoff Williams — Google review
A fascinating and well run museum. I would recommend taking advantage of the free interactive audio guide. You're likely spend around two hours in the museum. There's also a nice café on site.
Ryan White — Google review
Situated in the heart of the county town of Dorchester this is a good place to spend some time. On a couple of levels it has the usual gift shop and a modern cafe (both of them free to use without paying the entrance fee). Public carpark is a few minutes walk away. About £10 adult entry fee - well worth it.
Roger Lovell — Google review
Helpful staff, good for an hours visit with cafe at the end serving good quality tea and cake and some gluten free options. The prison cells are well worth the visit and the court room is good for trying on the clothes and hats. Only dropped a star as price is £20 for a family of four and I find that higher than normal for a museum of this size. When we visited it had iPads and activities to keep the children amused. Although a paper leaflet would be a nice addition . Well worth a look if you are in the area. Free return for a year with family ticket.
wesley thorne — Google review
Visited the Cafe today for a festive cream tea. The food was excellent and the service helpful and friendly. I would definitely recommend.
Linda Bridle — Google review
Brilliant always is, we do the meet Santa every year too, staff are excellent and kids love it
paul west — Google review
This is a must see when visiting Dorchester. A very interactive museum experience. With individual audio tours available you can experience the trials and tribulations of people's hardships/crimes right back to when he court house first opened its doors. The courthouse is most famous for the trial of the Tolpuddle Martyres who are seen as the early pioneers for the unionist movement - Very Important part of British societal history. The original cell which held the martyres is still there, you can walk around the cell whilst listening to accounts of their time awaiting trial. The original table and bench they would have sat at is still there! There's a photo of this below. Enjoy your visit
James Piper — Google review
We went to visit the Agatha Christie exhibition which was very informative. We were told that a ticket enabled access for the year which is beneficial for those local to the museum.
The history of the hall was very informative, make sure you enquire about the headset tales of those incarcerated, we weren't advised and feel this would have added to the experience. That said the information boards were packed with details and the shop had some excellent reference books (I bought 3) I would definitely recommend a visit and there are lifts for those who find steps difficult.
Mirri-J Brown — Google review
It wasn't accessible for me to see anything in the museum as I have to use a mobility scooter. I spent my time in the cafe while my family went to see everything. I am giving 3 stars because the girls in the cafe were really nice and couldn't have been more helpful. The older people made a pfaff of me getting into the lift telling me I wouldn't fit but hey ho I did. Please bare in mind that not everyone can walk.
Max Gate is the former home of English author and architect Thomas Hardy. The house is open to the public and offers a glimpse into the life and work of Hardy, who was born in this town.
a beautiful Victorian country house, the home of the writer Thomas Hardy... we were blessed by a tour of the gardens and house, bringing to life the story behind the home... well worth a visit, especially on a beautiful sunny day!
Darren Gilbert — Google review
Really interesting place to visit. Max Gate was the home Thomas Hardy had built and where he lived from the age of 40. The gardens are beautifully kept, absolutely gorgeous. I would highly recommend a visit to Max Gate for anyone who has an interested in the life of Thomas Hardy.
We went to see the archaeological dig that was taking place there this week, which was really interesting. The team doing it were really friendly and allowed the kids to get involved with cleaning some of the finds.
Shez Tidball — Google review
Max Gate is the home of Dorset's most famous author and poet Thomas Hardy. The house itself is very apt for the era, and a contrast to the quaint countryside cottage he grew up in. The garden is very much untouched, with high walls and trees surrounding the property.
Much like the gardens, the house is also mostly untouched, lots of furniture and antiques are carefully placed within the rooms and are era-appropriate. Extended on from the reception room is a sunroom, enclosed by multiple exotic plants. To the back of the property on the ground floor is the hallway leading to public toilets (baby change available), the admissions office and finally the kitchen; which still includes the AGA oven.
Upstairs are the two main bedrooms, unfortunately, both are quite bare; with little furnishings. Hardy’s study is further to the back of the house, being the main attraction for visitors, it contains the most items, including desks, bookcases and pictures. Just outside of the study are the stairs leading to the attic ‘Emma’s bedroom’ where Hardy’s first wife, who became unwell spent her final years.
The staff at Max Gate are friendly and helpful. Unfortunately, there are no food/drink kiosks or cafes onsite, however, the café at Hardy’s cottage (10-minute drive away) is usually open for business.
H Smith — Google review
A true hero of mine. Read his books, but like Graham Greene, a man who loved his garden. Stayed in an area where he was born. Cycling through the country lanes of Dorset, exploring, creating fiction for his home. Book your visit soon.
STEVE G — Google review
Dashed over from T.H.'s birthplace. Did a self tour by preference - just before closing time. Parked on road outside. Given pamphlet to walk round with with useful info. Plastic walkway on drive as uneven. Gardens.
Cherry Cheeks (Roberta) — Google review
Interesting house, pleasant gardens in the sunshine. A volunteer had dinner fresh Easter arrangements in every room, made it v welcoming
Chris Gibbs — Google review
Good welcome from staff member. Free introductory tour from volunteer was v. good - informative, funny, setting the scene of Hardy & the pre-history of the site and answering our questions. Garden was restful. NT are short of space at this venue - a tea room would be lovely. Book your visit to avoid being turned away!
Andrew Higgs — Google review
A nice country house of a more modern era. Interesting to see the decor and furniture. It's not a large property and so a couple of hours is lots of time to visit. No cafe when we visited. Worth a look though and well presented by the National Trust as usual.
Julia Daintree — Google review
Limited parking outside. Well restored house, but little original furniture. However, you can see how Hardy added extensions over the years.
Colin Lunt — Google review
Thomas Hardy's home, designed and built by himself, is enough to recommend it for a visit to find out more information about the man and writer. Extremely beautiful, very knowledgeable staff, surrounded by beautiful and very well maintained garden.
Alina B — Google review
A lovely location to visit, with a lot of interesting history. The house is very pretty and pleasant to go around. Personally, I would not recommend going on a tour unless you want a rather detailed and slow paced trip of the house- I found going around the house and reading the ample information panels to be a more enjoyable experience , however the tour guide was very good and the tour was extremely informative.
Griff Hayward — Google review
Lovely house with a very interesting talk before touring the rooms. The day we were there they had had a cookery demo and we were offered some rock cake made with an historic recipe, delicious.
Kathy Fairey — Google review
This property is a lovely place to visit for all budding enthusiasts of novelist Tom Hardy. It is advised that you go online and pre-book an allotted time-slot to visit this property as it has limited capacity, the benefit of this is that you are given a informative guided tour of the estate by an enthusiastic National Trust volunteer.
On a cursory side note, there is no official car park at this National Trust estate for the general public to use. On-street parking is the only option.
Located near Dorchester, Dorset Falconry Park is a unique wildlife attraction in the area. It's a family-run park that houses a diverse range of birds of prey, including Britain's largest eagle, vultures, falcons, owls, hawks and other eagles. Visitors have been pleasantly surprised by the variety and care given to the birds. The bird show led by Martin and his daughters was described as brilliant and interactive.
What an amazing experience! We were visiting from Canada and booked online in advance. Kyle, our guide was so knowledgeable, funny and great fun. We thoroughly enjoyed our time with him as we flew 3 beautiful owls. Our fee included touring the facility and seeing all the incredible birds at the site. They are so well taken care of, healthy and thriving. It was a true delight to spend the afternoon here. Thank you so much! ❤👍
Char Nickles — Google review
What a wonderful afternoon with the birds.
Our experience was led by Kyle who was engaging & knowledgeable throughout; he's a credit to the establishment and someone who cannot get across enough information in the time you have with him.
For our time we handled four birds from small to large. The orientation at the start was simple, brief, but important and set us up for a good couple of hours.
Kyle invited questions throughout the experience and gave us detailed answers, often leading to a more in depth conversation.
All the birds flew well and interacted with us all on cue.
Well worth the drive out, and we'll be going back again.
Richard Sedgley — Google review
We spotted Xtreme Falconry on the map while staying in the area and thought of spending an hour or two, but ended up staying for 5! We were pleasantly surprised by the sheer amount and variety of birds, all clearly well cared for. The family who run the place are lovely and passionate people. Martin and his daughters were in charge of the bird show, which was brilliant. I've never been able to get this close to birds like Kestrels, Eurasian Eagle Owls and Bald Eagles during a birds of prey display. It was great to learn about the birds, ask lots of questions and be treated to some unusual and hilarious anecdotes (will never forget about the vulture from Rotterdam).
Of course, we also visited the little on-site tea room: service with a smile and nice selection of food, snacks and drinks.
All in all a surprising and super successful day out. We'll be back! 🦉🦅
Iris Gernler — Google review
We had a really good day out at Xtreme Falconry. Martin and the rest of the family are passionate about the birds and very knowledgeable. Great flying display and bonus seeing some training with daughter Connie. Very welcoming, well worth a visit.
Kevan Gibbings — Google review
We had the pleasure of visiting the Xtreme Falconry Centre in Dorchester, Dorset, on the 5th of October, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. My elderly mother and I both had a wonderful time viewing the magnificent birds of prey.
One of the standout features of this centre is the incredible variety of birds of prey on display. From majestic eagles to agile falcons, there were so many different species to view and admire. Each bird was expertly cared for and showcased in a way that allowed us to appreciate their beauty.
Overall, our visit to the Xtreme Falconry Centre was a delightful and educational experience, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the fascinating world of birds of prey.
Anna Louise — Google review
Fantastic place to visit. If you love birds, I highly recommend this bird center! Amazing amount of birds from owls to falcons and the staff really know their birds. Also you can see the twice daily bird flights at the centre! Keep up the good work guys! 5*
Duane Sharpe — Google review
COVID and avian flu has made life hard for this falconry. But the staff are still resolutely committed to what they do. Well worth a visit and don't be afraid to ask questions of the keepers, they know their stuff.
Rob Sansom — Google review
Fantastic experience could not believe how much information Kyle relayed to the group.
The birds are beautiful and well looked after and so many to see, my husband was thrilled with being able to see and using special arm hold the birds close up.
The owners are so welcoming and we will be recommending to everyone we know, Thankyou so much from us both 😀🤩
Gillan Best — Google review
What a brilliant experience. Had a fabulous time. Staff really friendly, helpful and very informative. Beautiful countryside setting. I was bought an Ultimate gift experience and it was amazing. Watched the first flying display at 11am then had my own personal experience at 12 noon. Flew four birds ranging in size and type, finishing with Winnie the Bald Eagle. Wow! Highly recommend and will be back! Thank you.
Sally Wallace — Google review
We had the most wonderful experience, there was a group of 5 Adults and 1 toddler. Everyone very much enjoyed and was kept involved. The knowledge of guide was fantastic all members of staff were extremely friendly. They gave us a great day under some very challenging circumstances. Would certainly recommend to anyone thinking of doing a Falconry Experience
Tracy Haines — Google review
It's always bittersweet to see birds in captivity, but these birds are beautiful and well loved with regular exercise and freedom. The place is run by a lovely family who made us feel very welcome. The display was exceptional; very interactive and informative. The work that has been completed here to make it a safe haven for so much wildlife is inspiring, nature is well and truly embraced which is evident by the surveys that they complete on their land. A brilliant day out for all and we will definitely be returning.
Alice — Google review
We visited the UK in August and went to the Falconry. I had been exchanging emails with Tara regarding information and payment and she was extremely helpful and kind. We arrived early for a 9:30 VIP Falconry Session and were paired with Kyle. We were blown away by his knowledge of each and every bird and he was very friendly and patient. He truly loves those birds, it’s not just a job for him. The four of us were able to participate and interact with 4 different breeds of birds – an owl, 2 different falcons and an American Eagle. Each of the birds flew to our gloves, we fed them and they flew back to their perches to do it again. We each got 2 turns apiece with each bird. When the American Eagle came out – Tara’s daughter Connie came and provided information on the eagle – she is wise beyond her years. This experience was exhilarating, everyone was friendly and cheerful. If I lived closer, I’d go back and would recommend anyone to try it.
Cricket Green — Google review
Great day out, staff are passionate, informative and engaging. Family run business who put bird welfare first
We had only intended to go for half a day but stayed all day to watch the last flying session. You can watch practice sessions between the displays as well. You get really close to the birds.
Went on a Friday & not very busy, luckily weather was good as well
Cafe very reasonably priced
Possibly not suitable for very young children
Chris Rush — Google review
Lovely place to visit, my husband and I had an experience trip there with Kyle he's a lovely guy, very informative, knowledgeable and excellent with the birds, we had an amazing time flying the birds. The park itself is peaceful and all the birds are well looked after. Cafe is also good with decently priced items. Will definitely be returning as we are local to the area.
The Dorset County Museum is a historical landmark in the town of Dorchester which houses a large collection of fossils, local fossils, and effects from Thomas Hardy. The recently refurbished building now welcomes visitors who can view a wide variety of interesting exhibits which include items used by the renowned English novelist Thomas Hardy.
First visit after the extensive refit over the last 2 years or so. Excellent displays and if I hadn't been with a 7 year old, I could've spent hours there. The reference library demands further investigation. Don't think I've ever seen so many local books that require a good looking at.
Darren Evans — Google review
Excellent cafe at the newly refurbished Dorset Museum. Varied vegetarian / vegan options outnumbering meat dishes. Good coffee and friendly staff. Wheelchair/ mobility scooter accessible but busy at lunch time. Recommended.
Adrian Pringle — Google review
The building is superbly renovated, and the museum has an amazing array of exhibits. There's art, history and artefacts a plenty. Plus very friendly volunteer staff, a nice café and well laid out and explained exhibits. Recommended.
Nik Lawrence — Google review
Evan though children are free adult cost is high but you can come back as often as you like in a year..lots of interaction and a great place on a wet day,very interesting lots of local history amazing mosaics.
Jill Collins — Google review
Dorset Museum is an exceptional venue, both for temporary exhibitions, and for the quality and range of the permanent exhibits housed within a beautifully renovated and refurbished space. The quality of light and space is wonderful. The café is charming, serving light lunches, cakes etc, and the gift shop stocks beautiful cards. Delightful 👍
Jane Yandell — Google review
First visit since the renovation works, what a change! The new galleries are very interesting and it's now very family and disability friendly. There's even a quiet room if autistic visitors need a break. And it's the only place in the UK where you can walk on Roman mosaics!
Carolyn Fielding — Google review
I spent a couple of hours here looking at the natural history section more specifically although the people I was with were very impressed with the other section. Kevani was very impressive. The shop was rather disappointing but the exhibitions were great. Especially loved walking over the roman mosaics.
Jennifer Anderson — Google review
Absolutely delightful venue...amazing staff and just so a great place..gotta go back again just to visit the museum
Abboman — Google review
Fabulous! The outside entrance doesn’t do it justice. Very well designed and curated, and a very friendly welcome in the cafe. Loved the Muntz, Frink and Hardy exhibit. £14 for 1 yr access! I am definitely coming back.
Ajay Parekh — Google review
I hadn't been here before today recent £12million (?) Improvements but wow, it certainly is a very impressive museum now. There is everything from prehistoric to modern, with fascinating and often interactive exhibits. There are still more exhibits being prepared for display, so will vary each time you visit. We bought annual passes and will be back soon!
Jim Pettitt — Google review
I took my two children aged 2 and 4 here today. They could only manage a few hours but as under 5’s are free it was no matter.
We concentrated on the interactive displays and they loved it! There was also a pebble painting activity which they both loved too. The museum is clean, well planned and the exhibitions are great. We would have spent longer there if little one would have lasted!
We had brunch at the cafe which was also really tasty.
Really recommend, I think the kids will get more out of it at age 7+ but they weren’t bored and the few hours went quickly!
L ?Lk? King — Google review
What a phenomenal museum. There is so much to see. The geological section is wonderful, with some excellent hands-on exhibits. The Victorian Hall with its Roman mosaics is stunning. There is a very full and detailed Hardy exhibition and some first rate archeological artefacts on the first floor. The Frink collection on the upper floor is stunning. Worth every penny!
Iain Robinson — Google review
At £14.50 per adult and being The Museum of Dorset I was expecting so much more. Took us about an hour to go round the whole place. It’s a lovely building with a lot of empty space in it. What exhibits there are are good with some interactive ones. Shop was pretty sub standard compared to other county museums. The museum has so much potential but sadly not worth your time or money at the moment
Victoria Willoughby — Google review
This is an excellent Museum, with things of interest for children and adults. Excellent place for cold days and the days that are too hot. There is an awful lot to see and the guide book rely only mentions the rooms in the museum but nothing about there continence. Not much in the shop at the end so gifts are for kids only. The Coffey shop needs a mention as it is so good. There sandwiches are not to be missed.
Gareth Bahlke — Google review
This is the best local museum outside of London by a country mile. It's much bigger than it looks on the outside. Inside its a great blend of modern and historic with exceptionally well placed and modelled displays. The ticket price is actually very cheap considering its an annual ticket. Its great to see the history of Dorset from the natural world to its best exports in art and culture. For me the Hardy exhibition is sublime.
James Dunford — Google review
Very nice coffee shop in the town center. Good variety of food and nice coffee with soya and oats choice for alternative milk.
Good service and cleanliness.
Beautifil decoration and painting. Lovely old pictures on the walls.
Marta Foronda — Google review
The museum is local for us,
it's a great place to visit with a good range of local history,
As it was half term and raining, there were lots of school children who loved the Jurrasic coast and dinosaur exhibits.
There also was an Elisabeth Frink exhibition on which we really enjoyed.
Tony Edwards — Google review
We visited the Elisabeth Frink exhibition, which was stunning.
We also had a delicious lunch in the café and enjoyed the mosaics, Thomas Hardy exhibition and upper floor art gallery. It was very well curated . I look forward to returning.
Claire Webber — Google review
Recommend place to visit. Some wonderful displays, it's recently clearly had a large amount of investment placed into the whole infrastructure and displays and is vast with a smaller frontage on the high street which is TARDIS like when you get inside.
Great art displays for local artists in Dorset, wonderful Thomas hardy area with something for everyone.
The history of Dorset is fascinating starting with the flint axes , bronze age.
Roman exhibition is brilliant, lots of fascinating local history as Dorchester was a Roman outpost from the first century. Roman mosaics looked beautiful and were prolific.
There was the remains of vikings who landed locally and were massacred by decapitation, grisly.
Lots of other local history information too.
Dinosaurs excavated in dorset were exhibited very clearly and there was the huge skull of a long extinct pleasiosaurus , it was truly dramatic and they had plenty of interesting information relating to this fossilized sea creature.
The cost of entry was very reasonable for the interest inside.
The cafe was expensive and I chose to go to a local bakery for lunch instead.
tim pethick — Google review
Visited on the 1st of April 2024 with my partner and our children.
The museum manages to pack a large and impressive collection in to a user friendly space.
It will take a good couple of hours to look around and more if you wish.
There's something of interest for everyone here.
Entry price is very reasonable and children go free.
Maiden Castle is a vast hillfort built in the first century BC, located on the southern border of Dorchester. It encompasses a significant portion of the horizon and is regarded as the most extensive and intricate Iron Age fortress in Britain. During its prime, it was densely populated with groups of roundhouses interconnected by various roads. Maiden Castle was conquered by Romans in AD 43, and an ancient Briton skeleton with a Roman crossbow bolt lodged in its spine was discovered at the site.
Just awesome to see and walk around it. How did men do this with just basic tools. That's some feat of earth shifting. Free carpark and free to walk around. That's a first as everything is usually pay to see.
Christine Redmond — Google review
Good historical place for a hike.. Good views over Dorchester..... and peace from other people. Saw 1 person and many sheep today . Lol @ the folk expecting toilets, benches, refreshments, sideshows and actual castles this place isn't for you.
T — Google review
Lovely place for a walk, lots of route choices to discover with great views, silent surrounding, good parking area although quite small. A great Free morning out!
Laura Bright — Google review
It's difficult to appreciate the scale of the earthworks until you get into the castle but when you do it makes you wonder at the effort that went into it. Its really interesting but don't expect to see a traditional castle and visit when the weather is good as there is no shelter or facilities.
Peter Hadfield — Google review
Free carpark. Lovely walk all around. Be careful if have a dog as sheep all over. They have lots of lambs at present.
Worth a walk around this historic site.
Donna Upsall — Google review
A great place for a walk and for talking in some local history. Dogs are welcome but should be kept on leads due to the numerous Ewes with their lambs. Very disappointed during my short visit to see someone ignoring the copious warning signs and still letting their dog run free. Really lost for words at how irresponsible some people can be!
Steven Vowles — Google review
We chose a really still, hot, day to walk the old earthworks and it was breezy up on the fort ridges...thankfully! The walk was a slightly steep climb upwards to reach the Fort...but once on the ridges it was very flat, well grassed and manageable. The walk is a clockwise walk and there are some interesting things to look out for. Like an old Roman temple and a disused well. It is really well preserved and has some informative signage. The walk was about 3.5 klm (2 miles). The views towards Dorchester and Poundbury were outstanding! You get a really good sense of what the iron age fort was like back in 370AD...before the Roman invasion.
Linda Knox — Google review
Amazing site. Absolutely massive. Fantastic views from the top, and sheep roaming around. You could spend a good few hours here. Definitely worth a visit
Jarrod Hunt — Google review
Huge! Very impressive earthworks and amazing views all around. Good information on boards on site. A very tranquil spot with free parking. It'd definitely work a visit if you arenin the area.
Mike’s Outside — Google review
Well worth a visit just before sunset. Stunning, not very busy at all and FREE! Loved every moment.
Zahra Rose — Google review
Very nice views, some good history. Pretty simple walk, but beautiful wildlife.
Clash Hoyland — Google review
A brisk yomp to the top for a good view of Dorchester and the surrounding countryside.
Requires a certain level of effort and caution. Also, there's a lot of sheep. I mean a lot.
Parking is easy enough. There are no other facilities at the site.
The earthworks are very impressive in scale. Though treacherous by design. There are remains of a temple, barely an outline yet somehow announces its significance. Definitely worth the climb.
Simon Conroy — Google review
After a delay in the road due to a farmer moving his sheep (it was a bonus to my holiday experience, truth be told), it was an easy walk up a truly massive hill. The scale of the earthworks is a sight to behold.
I would have liked more interpretive signs around the hill itself. I read about it before the visit, but I love to read about things whilst I am at sites. So read up before you go, otherwise it's still an enjoyable walk at an impressive structure, with spectacular views, with sheep to keep you company.
The Keep Military Museum is a family-friendly museum in Dorchester which holds military memorabilia from three British Army regiments and the yeomanry regiments. It's set within a 19th century Portland-stone replica of a Medieval castle, making it both a striking landmark and great activity for all ages.
A very interesting Regimental museum with some fascinating artefacts. The display guides and information boards are excellent. Good selection of uniforms, weapons and medals.
Lee Hadley — Google review
This is a military museum based in the old keep at the top of Dorchester. I was pleasantly surprised to find out it has a lift to all three floors. True you can't access the roof but apart from that the museum is laid out well. I took my son in his wheelchair and had no problems moving around it. The exhibits are well designed and there is a trail to find both rats pictures and a list of objects to spot. A very enjoyable morning spent there.
Elaine Mortimore — Google review
Really great museum with great friendly staff. Some fantastic displays on multiple levels all about the Dorset regiments. I'm biased as I really like uniforms but I love the uniforms with all the relative props from the era, such a great way to display the history.
It's over 5 floors and short of the battlements with great views across Dorchester, every floors packed.
I especially loved the gift shop as it wasn't extortionate like some museums so it's affordable to give the kids a reward. There's also some great interactive displays from handling real deactivated guns, battle table with soldiers, brass rubbing and colouring.
Love this museum! Well done
Hysterical History — Google review
Great military keep, full of great artifacts. Had a fantastic night investigating here, and have already re-booked to visit again.
Tommy McGuire — Google review
A really interesting museum, giving a history of local regiments and their heroism and service.
Bob Shirley — Google review
I've been here a couple of times now. Whilst it doesn't change much, the exhibits are very interesting. It's a great historic building in Dorchester. Fantastic views from the roof
Barry Hodge — Google review
Superb Military Museum, hundreds of interesting artefacts. Really well laid out, covering mainly Dorset and Devon regiments in all their theatre's of war. Highly recommend a visit and the views from the roof are excellent. Good value for money, a nice little shop and free parking. We went midweek, no queues, no problem seeing all the exhibits.
Nick Rose — Google review
Amazing & vast collections, beautiful place!
Quiet museum, allows the visitors to enjoy their time!
Rich history, mesmerizing details!
Ribka Karunia Tahir — Google review
Wow it was much better than I expected. Really interesting and some amazing stuff!
Helen Daniel — Google review
Lovely morning spent looking around and helpful staff thanks 👍
Tim Hopkins — Google review
Looks impressive, didn't have time to go in unfortunately
Malcolm Brown — Google review
After visiting the Dorset Museum down the road we were very disappointed so decided to call in here. Wow. What an amazing museum with friendly staff and a vast collection of objects, medals, uniforms and knowledge. One of the best museums we’ve been to and definitely the best in Dorchester!
Victoria Willoughby — Google review
Great historical placeto visit.Easy to navigate with a great collection of military equipment and it's history.Staff very knowledgeable and helpful will return if I'm back in the area.🏴☠️
Michael Sleeman — Google review
Great displays well set out worth a visit nice to see child friendly areas
Karen , — Google review
As a former soldier, I found The Keep interesting but a bit dull. Not much for children. Best bit was the roof view.
Mark van Cuylenburg — Google review
On a recent trip to Dorset, my eldest son and I decided to visit the keep one afternoon when the weather was dismal.
We spent a good few hours exploring the exhibitions which were very informative and interesting.
There are loads of mannequins dressed in period clothes and uniforms, all of which added to the realism.
I would highly recommend it.
Gary Chambers — Google review
Excellent displays and brilliant view of Dorchester 10/10 definitely will be coming back again.
Bert harris — Google review
A small but interesting and comprehensive set of exhibits from various conflicts all over the world. Some quite poignant artifacts with various bullets lodged in items. Seeing Hitlers desk was certainly a suprise. The views from the roof are really great!
Nicholas Jones — Google review
Had a lovely time here while visiting Dorchester on holiday!! Run by volunteers it's a lovely museum in an old Keep and Prison!! It's the story of the Dorchester regiment and their history over hundreds of years! You can also go up the top of the Keep which has lovely views of the countryside!!
Poundbury is a novel concept for an urban extension situated near the periphery of Dorchester in Dorset, England. This experimental new town was conceived by architect Léon Krier and approved by Charles, Prince of Wales, who provided the land on which it was constructed. The aim of this project is to create a modern yet traditional living space that blends seamlessly with its surroundings.
The Dinosaur Museum in Dorchester is a place where visitors can learn more about dinosaurs and their fossils. The museum contains life-sized reconstructions of some of the largest and most famous dinosaurs, as well as real dinosaur skeletons. Kids will love exploring the exhibits and learning about these fascinating creatures.
Great wee museum. Lots of information on a wide range of subtopics. Loved all of the great models of Dinosaurs that were around the museum. Fantastic way to spend an hour or so. Also a great reading corner with topical books to look through if waiting for another person.
Jennifer Anderson — Google review
We visited the museum as my little boy whos 6 is completely obsessed with dinosaurs and has been for many years with extensive knowledge of these times even at his age.
As a family of 4, 2 adults, 1 child and my elderly father we found it to be a bit pricey and wasn't clear if it was very wheelchair accessible to a 2nd floor. Charging £10 for an adult, £5? for a child it was rather expensive. The lady did give us discount for my elderly relative however it still seemed alot of money for the actual size if the museum with limited amount of exhibitions.
We were given a small trial for my little boy to do and was awarded with a certificate once completed which was a nice touch for the dinosaur enthusiasts.
I suppose and suspect there may not be alot of council or public funding and post covid it quite possible hit hard times however lowering the fee or having the price more attractive and affordable for larger groups or families especially taking into consideration the cost of living rising like it is it may work out better long-term for the museum and its future as I suspect holiday makers this summer visiting my indeed be put off paying such alot of money for what it offers will definitely put people off visiting unfortunately.
Offers, discounts on admissions should be considered especially during busier and during school holidays when families often have already been stung paying over the odds on accommodation due to the holidays. Just an idea....
Lynsey Artell — Google review
Smaller than expected, lots of fibreglass models but enough real bones, fossils and facts to keep it interesting. Took about an hour to do in total including the quiz they have us on entry. Overall. Recommend
Flint Rixon — Google review
Fairly small but well thought out exhibits and models. Lots of Dino models and fossil skeletons. Kids get a fun quizz to complete along the way and rewarded with a certificate at the end.
Daryl Law — Google review
Fairly small for what it is but a lot of information everywhere to read. Mainly for children who would enjoy it. It’s definitely not worth £12 per adult in my opinion but suppose they have to make there money somehow
Jamie — Google review
Very impressive little museum located in central Dorchester.
There was plenty of paid parking near by with just a short walk to the museum.
The museum itself was full of fascinating objects and lots of information to learn.
My kids love dinosaurs so were thrilled to visit and each got a certificate at the end for filling in the quiz as you go around.
It was a little pricey considering how small it was but was worth visiting once.
Takes around 1 hour to get around the whole place if you take your time.
James Hawkins — Google review
It's small so the kids did not get bored. It needs a bit of an update. The game they got to find different info kept them entertained as well.
charmaine adamson — Google review
It is overpriced for what you get. Especially with smaller children which is what it first appears to be aimed at. Little interactive displays minus a sand table, nowhere to sit and rest, very tiny, a lot to read! The info is there and interesting but anyone under 10 gets bored within 30 minutes.
Pippa Melanie Pain — Google review
My wife and I took our four children aged between 3 and 11 and they all loved it. Amazing how much you can squeeze in the space. My grandparents who lived in Dorset took me here when I was around the same age - it was just as fun then. Check it out on the website first and see if it's what you/your family/friends etc would like - I would recommend it for a good family day trip.
Daniel Page — Google review
Lovely idea and remember this as a kid but unfortunately nothing has been updated. The place feels really run down with many things being left broken and less interactive. Definitely needs some investment for the admission charges.
joshua stewart — Google review
The Dinosaur Museum in Dorchester, close to Dorset's Jurrassic Coast is the only museum in the UK solely devoted to dinosaurs. See dinosaur skeletons, walk among life-size reconstructions including Stegosaurus and T-Rex, and learn through hands-on interactive displays too. Enhance your visit with free fun sheets to win a Dino Hunters Achievement Certificate.
Seby D Silva (Rocker) — Google review
Had a great visit here. Good for kids and us 'oldies' alike. Very good explanations, well sign posted. So nice to see Mary Anning fully credited. And you are dog friendly....a big plus in my book.
Robyn Allwright — Google review
Absolutely fantastic museum. This is the ideal place to take a child who is serious about their love of dinosaurs. My daughter absolutely loved every second of our 2.5 hours there, and so did I!
Nigel Gardiner — Google review
Don’t normally post poor reviews as businesses have enough of a hard time nowadays but unfortunately this attraction really needs to have a bit of a rethink. It is a small place stuffed full of Dino info…most of which youngsters don’t read or look at. More interactive things need to be added and emphasis on keeping the young ones enthralled with their beloved dinosaurs. 13pound per adult and not that much less per child for less than 30 mins which is what it took us is not something I can honestly recommend. Shame as could be much better. It’s in an old fashioned”museum” time warp and suitable for those who like reading and watching docs on screen. Sorry….
David Bishop — Google review
It was a lovely little museum for a windy and rainy day. It is a little pricy but we did spend just over an hour inside. We had a few interesting findings, and my 8 years old enjoyed it.
The Tutankhamun Exhibition is a museum that features an exact anatomical recreation of the mummy of King Tutankhamun. It is one of the first exhibitions to do so, and it contains a number of his treasures, including the Golden Mask of Tutankhamun, The Golden Throne of Tutankhamun, and Tutankhamuns mummy.
I arranged a visit for my lady friend's birthday. The exhibition isn't open on weekdays but as a school visit had been there we were allowed in. It was stunning and the detail of the exhibits was superb. Highly recommended to anyone with an interest in ancient Egypt.
Bill Bowdren — Google review
Extra to see the mummies.
Not great for younger kids as a lot of reading. Nothing interactive.
Great if you love Tutankhamen! Fab recreation of the discovery of the tomb, ante-chamber and burial chamber.
You wouldn’t spend too long here so a bit pricey for the size/content.
M B — Google review
I ltook my nine year old grandson because he likes any thing to do with Egypt. I wasn't to keen after reading some reviews but we went. Don't take any notice of those reviews, l don't know what they expected it is a fantastic display. Most things are copies but they look like the real thing. I've been to Egypt and seen it for real. Quite a lot of reading, take your time and watch the videos. The only thing l would say is the price for an adult is OK but l think it's too much for children. You need to get children interested, if the parents think it's to expensive they won't go in.
nigel morgan — Google review
Visited as something to do while on holiday. Went in expecting real items, not just replicas. Paid £60 for 4 adults and we went round in about 20 minutes. Far too pricey for what you get. They have a nice little gift shop, but overall I wouldn't recommend unless you're only after something small
Hannah Moore — Google review
I visit the Museum because a love 100% Tut
I can tell you that enjoy a lot. Was Great time
For two day i visit the Staff was fantastic .The shop with very good gift what make me happy I visit soon Again.
I will hope see you there
Manuel — Google review
This exhibition is amazing and has sustained its brilliance for the many years it has been here !
Staff are welcoming, pleasant and engaging in conversations !
If you are preparing for a trip to, or can't get to, Egypt this is the place to go !!!
Shop items are reasonably priced ...
Chrissie Ayton — Google review
Paid £40 entry for two adults and one child. Very small museum mainly filled with pictures on the walls with text next to them. Creepy wax figures. Completed the entire museum in about 20 mins. Visited as recommended online but sadly we were all disappointed.
Kimmi — Google review
Great little museum/ experience. Realistic with a lot of detailed information. Average prices of £15 an adult and £10 a child.
Free entry to see the Mummy exhibition upstairs.
Would be nice to have a concession price and perhaps a family ticket.
Pleasant staff and interesting small gift shop.
Louise Henry — Google review
It's quite a small exhibition, although there is a lot of information.if you are just looking at the sculptures and models you could probably wizz around in 10-15 minutes, although with reading the information you can quite easily spend and hour or two.
Some of the replicas are amazingly detailed which if I read correctly are all handmade by craftsmen using the same materials as the originals.
There is a gift shop which was reasonably priced with lots of interesting items.
There is a secondary exhibition upstairs with replicas mummies, which although was really interesting, was disappointed with the size of the display.
They did ask that you don't take photographs, so I haven't got any to share other than the a few magnets the kids got from the shop.
andrew corringham — Google review
We visited during our children's half term, driving 40 mins to get there, only to find it closed. The website says 'open at weekends and in school holidays'. I guess it means school holidays for local schools, but why can't the website list the actual opening dates?
Tim Sparks — Google review
A fun and informative museum, albeit a small one. If you take your time it take you about an hour to get around. Overall a fun way to spend a bit of time.
Corey Lane — Google review
Very interesting for myself and my 9 year old. Unfortunately my 6 year old boy soon lost interest and tried to rush us out. Not huge but lots to see and read in a small space.
Ilona Board — Google review
Better avoid to visit on the weekend. But one time u should see this exhibition. Strongly recommendable.
JJ H — Google review
Excellent little mueseum, my son is learning about the Egyptians, Tutankhamum and mummies at school and this was a great and informative place to visit with exact replicas of what was found 4-3 thousand years ago.
One of my favourite local dog walks. Beautiful scenery and lots of different trail options to choose from.
Joanne Hodder — Google review
A lovely gem tuck away with several short walks and Thomas hardys birth place cottage, felt very in touch with nature and a cheap car park
Andy Chick — Google review
Amazing place!!
Forget that you are so near to Dorchester!!
Can hire tramper scooters
Wheelchair accessible
Free blue badge parking
Lisa-marie Smith — Google review
Wasn't expecting much but I was totally wrong.
There is plenty of parking around the place but you will need to pay if you go into the heart of it by the visitor centre.
The short routes are marked up but you can go off route and go for as long as you want, there are different areas of interest and plenty of fauna and flora.
Simon “sid” Hibbert — Google review
Beautiful woods, great for walks, quiet.
Sylvia Sage — Google review
Stunning area to photograph with diverse subjects. Lovely and tranquil with nice not to taxing walks and the bonus is you get to walk past Hardys Cottage 😁
Mary Seer — Google review
Tree huggers paradise. Beautiful walks and some monster trees. The only down side is that parking is £1 an hour and can be limited on busy days. Disabled park for free. They also have a gathering of giant red woods that are pretty breathtaking. We have not sampled the cafe yet but I hear that it's great. We'll worth a visit
Kate Knight — Google review
If you like trees and woodland stuff, this is a great place to visit. Home to Thomas Hardy cottage. Pleasant walks through a mixture of tree species. Parking is available but isn't free. A fab cafe is also near the car park.
You can spend hours there looking at stuff & you always find something. It's bigger than you think & the prices are reasonable too. The inhouse cafe is great, comfortable, good food & really dog friendly too (& gave my 2 a biscuit too, so my dogs loved it so much they didn't want to leave). It's all on the ground level & lots of it are disabled accessible but some asiles are too tight for a wheelchair but navigable on crutches, but the staff are willing to help if needs be.
Alexandra Brancato-Merritt — Google review
There seems to be less antique and more house clearance than in former years though obviously stock changes fairly regularly and it's about being in the right place at the right time. Frequent quick whip rounds are essential. I'd like to see more "curiosity" and less stock pine furniture you can buy elsewhere or late old lady belongings. I go several times a year and have done since it opened. It's one of the larger of such places, great staff. The coffee and cake are very good quality but the room you sit in is extremely drab. Wear a good warm jumper or coat, it's often colder than outside and in winter leaves you frozen right to the bone. It's one of my favourite places to visit but I've dropped from 5 to 4 stars recently. I wish they would be more fussy with their sellers stock. It would be a terrible shame if it just became an indoor flea market.
Matthew Thorndale-Finn — Google review
Cafe is really good, limited menu but good quality and well presented. The centre is in an old bus station and is always cold, so wrap up before visiting. Most traders sell vintage/retro goods, but there are also antiques. Like any antiques place, you never know whether there will be stuff that you like, but it's always worth looking. Parking is right outside, so very convenient.
Ruth Briggs — Google review
Being one of life's moochers, I always enjoy my visit to looking around the diverse items in this place. I have a bacon roll with a cuppa, look at all the stuff, then head back to the cafe for a coffee and cake. Good to visit if it's too wet to be outside.
Rocket Ronnie — Google review
A large antiques and collectibles centre inside what used to be a bus depot. A good range of things to look, tiny and large, at all prices. Worth a visit, especially on a rainy day.
Martin Roberts — Google review
This is a great place for a browse, so much to look at and some really good prices.
Why buy something made of mdf, when you can get real wood.
A great place for shabby chic lovers .
Nice little cafe there as well, hot , cold drinks, selection of cakes and reasonably priced meals.
PETE PIDGLEY — Google review
Large variety of vintage items for the house, garden, and women, but perhaps not enough for men's hobbies. Food is excellent if not a little expensive.
Patrick Hall — Google review
Great selection of products, amazing how much stuff is actually in there. Really helpful staff too that knew where basically everything was, we came looking for specific things and they were able to point us in the right direction. Very fair prices too! Nice little find
James Harrison — Google review
Allow yourself time to browse. Do not rush if you are looking for a bargain. I suggest you leave your other half to their own devices. At least you will not have someone standing over you huffing and puffing. Wrap up warm as it is cold inside.
Christine Lush — Google review
What a great place to look around, I could have spent hours in there. They have everything from large furniture pieces, rugs and fireplace surrounds to all manner of antique and old-fashioned pottery, jewellery, art, crockery and ornaments. You name it, they've probably got it. Managed to restrict ourselves to half a dozen items. Amazing place, I'd highly recommend!
Jim Pettitt — Google review
It's my favourite place to go , when I need to feel the comfort of the old and unchanged , to see people smiling and being nostalgic, to bring my daughters' friends to give them an experience of old world charm and find treasures to take away. James at the counter is very friendly and always helpful. Thank you, all at team DCC!
Sunita Gopalan — Google review
One of my favourite places to spend a few hours. Great cafe too. If you visit in winter, wear an extra jumper.
Ali Mauger — Google review
Absolutely love this place! Its always full of weird and wonderful things. I was looking for a chest of drawers but didnt find one quite right, though there was plenty to choose from. The upcycled furniture is lovely and fairly priced too. If you want somewhere to look round for an hour and have a good dose of nostalgia then its the perfect place to visit!
Molly Price — Google review
This is one of our favourite places, it's full of beautiful antiques and has a lovely cafe and toilets.
Becki Bolland — Google review
Some prices can be a little high, overall always worth a visit
Matthew Lockwood — Google review
Love this place. Been several times. Wrap up well in winter though. Great bargains to be had. Cafe excellent
Jeffrey Stone — Google review
I Really enjoyed the morning in the curiosity centre
After a super tasty breakfast from the caffe
Katia Pulli — Google review
Great place for a windy wet day, miles of it and all undercover. We were particularly looking for drinking glasses and found an amazing array to choose from so that was sorted.
I also wanted some rugs of which there were plenty but unfortunately no help visible so we were unable to even consider making purchases of that type. A pity as I had all my floor measurements with, I'll return when next in Dorset.
There's a great cafe serving brunches, lunches, coffee, tea, cake and more - great veggie choices available.
A bit rough underfoot so, if like me you're a bit deficient in the pins department you'll need to watch your step.
Friendly and happy enterprise to visit...
Borough Gardens is a well-kept garden with a variety of sport fields and a bandstand. The gardens are popular for Easter events, such as Easter egg hunts and local craft markets.
A lovely garden with spacious play area for the kids. Has well maintained restrooms and perfect spot to spend time with family and friends...
siddharth daniel — Google review
A gem of a park in the middle of Dorchester. Mature trees, seasonal flower beds, fountain, children's play area, bandstand, memorial clock and small cafe. Lots of benches and a few picnic tables. Perfect spot for a picnic lunch, a stroll or to while away an hour or two. Summer events, including music are very popular.
Jane Male — Google review
Beautiful park. A lovely surprise. Love the fountain and the trees. The public toilets are exceptional.
Caroline Shaw — Google review
Lovely gardens with toilet and cafe. Unfortunately cars are allowed to park in the gardens so you need to be careful if you have kids as it's not traffic free.
Thomas Hallett — Google review
A relaxing place for the family, good for picnics, has a play ground for children and a tennis court. It's a really nice place for pictures too.
Akinbulire openifoluwa — Google review
Went on a Sunday afternoon to listen to the Originals playing in the bandstand for charity. A lovely park with a great playground for children and a refreshment kiosk.
Andree Fox — Google review
Lovely attractive gardens fit for the county town of Dorchester. The kids playground is popular and the tennis courts are well used. The winding paths take you to all the well maintained flower beds and wild edges. The takeaway cafe is also good, serving hot drinks, ice-creams and cold snacks.
The events in the summer are always great, and the band stand is often used.
Natasha B — Google review
A beautiful park with so much interest ...these well-kept gardens have a gentille Victorian atmosphere where old & young can relax & play. Wonderfully natural areas with mature shrubs & old trees hiding birds with their uplifting songs blend with up-to-the -minute sports & play equipment sensitively positioned ..& never far from very clean toilets. I feel blessed to have this amazing space.
Layla Roberts — Google review
Lovely walk through these Immaculate gardens.
A hidden little treasure just a few minutes walk from the main high street.
It's worth a visit .
SOPHIE JOHNSON — Google review
Lovely gardens that we found when looking around Dorchester. Monuments with information boards, a lovely fountain which was nice and clean, a colourful clock tower and some beautifully kept borders and plants.
Andrea Powell — Google review
Beautiful gardens. A gem in the middle of Dorchester. Play areas for children are good too. A small kiosk sells drinks, ice creams, etc. The gardens always look beautiful and are well kept by the parks staff.
Judy Bird — Google review
Nicely laid out and tidy even when we visited in the winter months. Lovely in warmer weather. Nice to see families enjoying the open space.
Colin Fletcher — Google review
Wonderful place to relax. I just love the flower arrangements and the well-tended lawns.
Oyinda Otutuloro — Google review
Well kept, clean and lovely outdoor area. It had a kids playground, manual excercise area, bandstand, water fountain monument.
A wooden hut refreshment area selling drinks, snacks etc but opening hours may vary depending on the busyness of each day. The lady was just closing up when we arrived about 3pm however she still served us and explained she was only shutting up earlier than usual due to it not being as busy.
The flowers were blooming and well looked after.
Overall a great place and worth a visit
The Dorset Teddy Bear Museum is a small, family-friendly attraction with antique and life-size teddy bears. There is also a Teddy Bear Shop where children can purchase their own bear.
Excellent little museum. Lots of small stories behind and great range of well.. teddies:). Shame no family tickets.
Andrei Sarua — Google review
Nothing to see went round both museums in under 5 minutes the shop had a small selection of teddy’s and for 2 adults and 1 child to go round at the cost of £28 is a rip of. Definitely not worth it and would recommend it even if it was free. It also took the cashier 10 minutes to work out the price and for us to pay.So sorry xx
Millie Saville — Google review
While we had a discount code, we found the ticket prices to be relatively high given the museum’s size. Our visit lasted approximately 20-30 minutes, and even with a £5.00 discount, we paid £36.00 for two kids and two adults. It’s worth noting that the museum is not a registered charity; however, the fees contribute towards staff and maintenance costs. Once you get up the stairs, you notice the museum’s limited space, dustiness, and dim lighting. - It’s like a a small three bedroom house on one floor :(
Mitul Ruparelia — Google review
Small and a bit expensive. Nice quality display. Voucher discount from other museums in the town available
Lucy Hyde — Google review
2nd time visit(not out of choice) with family & a young niece who were visiting..they enjoyed it..but once you've seen it that's it! 1 floor with a few rooms of various teddies past & present..expensive for what it is really but happy to support a small museum. Teddies for sale were a bonus for my niece👍🏼 Parking is free for an hour outside which is plenty of time.
Sez P — Google review
Far too expensive, 2 adults and 2 children £36 for a fairly small exhibition. Nevertheless the children liked it, but really think they need to look at pricing.
Janet Hancock — Google review
Took the granddaughters and Mummy of course.
It really was super. We all loved it. Such a great selection of teddies big and small. Great to see Rupert, Paddington, sooty and Sue and Sweep and so many more. In luvly setting and very hands on. The children could touch them. Thanku so much. We will visit again. Ideal for a damp day.
Elizabeth Reddin — Google review
I loved this place but so expensive for what it is which took the shine off it somewhat.
Only 2 out of 6 of us went in because of the price, had it been £5 we would have all gone in and more money would have gone through the till. The current admission is far too high for a couple of rooms worth of exhibits.
There seems to be a syndicate of smaller museums in Dorchester clinging to some ridiculous gold ticket scheme. It's a shame as none of them are good value on their own, and the museums are so different you are unlikely to find that they all interest you.
I honestly think all would get a lot more footfall if the price reflected the quality and extent of the exhibits.
Shoot McRunfast — Google review
A bit smaller than I thought it would of been but the kids loved it. This is part a 4 attractions in the town, all linked together. Get your Golden Ticket to visit them all in a day.
Mark Stanford (Jethro) — Google review
This is a fantastic collection, the owners have clearly made a big effort to make it interesting for all. There is lots of information and teddies to look at. If you really like teddies then it's worth the visit. Killed 30 minutes for us on a miserable day.
Amy Campion — Google review
Definitely not worth the price! It’s extremely expensive for what is in there! Personally I wouldn’t bother wasting your time or money!
3 rooms of old fashioned teddy’s that’s it!
My son had a max card so 1 adult 3 children cost £26 and we was in there 10 minutes! Went to walk around and the moody women said THAT area costs extra! In a abrupt voice So I then explained to her that it was ridiculous for that price and walked out. Will not return and certainly will not recommend. The attitude needs to change aswell of that staff member. Again don’t bother!
Molly Maze — Google review
The Dorset Teddy Bears Museum offers a quaint setting with a nicely laid out self-tour storyline to follow. Upon entering, one is greeted by a world of teddy bears with an interesting narrative to accompany the visit. However, the overall experience falls a bit short of expectations. While the children initially find novelty in the exhibits, their interest wanes after about 5 minutes.
One of the major drawbacks is the steep entry fee of £10 per person. Considering the relatively small size of the museum and the quick pace at which one can explore it, the price seems quite high. Even if one takes their time and drags their heels, the entire tour can be completed in about 15 minutes, leaving visitors feeling like they may not be getting their money's worth.
In conclusion, while the Dorset Teddy Bears Museum has an appealing layout and an engaging self-tour storyline, the brevity of the experience and the high entry fee may leave some visitors feeling underwhelmed. It could be a charming visit for a quick stop, but for the price point, visitors might expect a more substantial and immersive experience.
michael collier — Google review
To be honest…this place is kinda worth of it.I mean like only if you enjoy looking at old things(I do),but I mean man WHY WAS IT £52 FOR 2 adults and 4 children…being serious!It’s £10 for 1 adult and £4 for a child.Also you need to pay extra if you want to visit the other part of the museum.
Pink — Google review
Lovely friendly, welcoming staff. Happy to listen and chat to my 5 year grandson, who to start with wasn't sure of the big bears but having the story of Edward Bear to read to him going round gave the bears characters and he really enjoyed himself and enjoy telling the staff about what he had seen. Thank you.
Shirley Blackaller — Google review
a bit pricey for a fairly short experience but it was fun! got plenty of cute pictures and got to read up on the history of teddies. can buy tickets online or on the door (:
Liam — Google review
Absolutely wonderful. The teddies are upstairs kids oryoung at heart. You must go. However, it is not really wheelchair friendly
Chris Walker — Google review
The place itself was nice and had lots of Teddies to see. However, it's certainly not worth £10.00 for the few rooms that they have there. Also, they do not cater for people with mobility disabilities it's not wheelchair accessible. The teddies are located on the 1st floor and has slightly winding stairs only for access.