Welcome to the Dorset AONB

Get out and about in some outstanding landscape this summer!

The Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is one of a family of protected landscapes in the UK, working to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of almost half of Dorset's countryside.

In the summer, the whole landscape comes alive. It's not just the wildlife that's buzzing - you'll find the villages and towns coming together to put on fairs, food festivals and outdoor plays which are great for locals and visitors alike.

 

 

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Latest News

  • Would you boat to the shops?!

    If you live near the coast, imagine getting on a boat to get to the shops or work rather than jumping in your car or waiting for the bus! If you are visiting the area – how would you feel about leaving the car behind and using a boat to get around on your day out?

    We are looking into the feasibility of water transport along the Jurassic Coast and would like to hear your views to decide whether this could be a dream or reality.

    Please help us by completing the online survey and you’ll be in with a chance of winning a prize as a thank you. Click here to join in the survey or find out more.

     

  • Coast & Countryside Magazine Out Now

    The new summer edition of Coast & Countryside magazine is out now, great for ideas of what to do and where to go in to get outdoors this summer.
  • South Dorset Ridgeway Festival Programme out now

    The South Dorset Ridgeway is set to come alive at the end of July with a fortnight of events to explore and celebrate the history of this amazing ancient landscape.

    The Festival kicks off on 16th July and runs through til the end of the month. A full programme is out now, available from Tourist Information Centres or you can click here to see all the events online.

  • Wildlife Sites get a helping hand

    A new project is underway to improve the condition of Dorset’s Sites of Nature Conservation Interest, following the success of the Pastures New Project.

  • Dorset Fingerposts Grab the Limelight

    A new project has just been launched to cherish Dorset's distinctive Fingerposts. Help us safeguard and celebrate these iconic road signs by joining in the Dorset Fingerpost survey this Spring. Click here to find out how you can make a big difference to these unique Dorset characters.

Latest Events

  • Thu Sep 02

    The Wessex Wanderer

    The 2010 season of public walks from stations on the Bristol – Weymouth line starts on 15 May and continues on most Wednesdays and Saturdays until 9 October. The walks are led by experienced leaders from the Avon, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire Areas of the Ramblers. The programme will be published at the end of April and can be downloaded from www.avon-ramblers.org.uk or by sending a SAE to the Walks Co-Ordinator, 19 Shaston Crescent, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 2EB.
  • Thu Sep 02 @ 14:30

    Wild About Art

    Enjoy games and activities as you help create a natural masterpiece at Durlston Country Park.

    Booking essential on 01929 424443.

    Meet: Durlston Visitor Centre (SZ 031 773)

  • Tue Sep 07 @ 14:0016:00

    An Artist's Ridgeway

    An Artist's Ridgeway Join artist John Walker as he ventures across the Ridgeway with sketchbook in hand. Bring your own sketchbook and pencil to capture the magic round barrows.

    Tickets Free Bookings Essential