Things to do in Dorset for free

This incredible hillfort makes for a steep climb to the top via some grassy paths. It covers 47 acres at all, once home to hundreds of the ancient Durotriges tribe, who built the site in around 450BC; if you think that’s old, it was built on a 3000-year-old Stone Age settlement. The Romans then came along and built a temple here; you can see remnants of it today. A visit today makes for a slightly calmer affair, where you can simply take one of the various footpaths up to the top and around the temple ramparts, pass by grazing sheep and enjoy the fine views.

Durdle Door puts Dorset on the map; a limestone arch that juts out of the cliffside and curves down into the bay, creating a door-shaped gap in the space in between. Positioned at the end of the beach, it makes for a fun day out to chill out on the shingle or splash about in the water; if you’d prefer to stick to dry land, you can follow an uphill route from Lulworth Cove car park. Dorset holidays needn’t be expensive; there’s a whole range of free things to do in Dorset that will see you wanting to return for another visit!

There’s an abundance of free things to do in Dorset thanks to its stunning natural landscapes and rare wildlife; RSPB Arne Nature Reserve is one of them. Largely unique to Europe is its lowland heathland and wildlife; while you’re here, you can take in over 500 different plants, various species of butterflies and all six types of British reptiles (warning: that means snakes!). The natural colours of the heathland, hues of wildflower and shades of the ancient oak woodland make it one of the most pleasant ways to make the most of the outdoors in Dorset.

In Poole you can visit TheGallery , where among the changing exhibitions are works of sculpture, photography, fine art and film, all created by global contemporary artists. This creative space invites you to use your imagination to interpret the pieces on display; if you’re looking to inject a little art into your Dorset itinerary, this is the place to come to.

The Roman Town House, located in Dorchester, dates back to 4AD and is believed to have been home to a prominent Romano-British family. A visit to the villa will see you take in the well-preserved mosaic floor and remnants of a hypocaust (Roman underground heating system). Some sections are open to the elements while others are housed under a covered roof; this is a great way to find out more about now only how ancient people lived during Roman times, but how Britons integrated Romano culture into their own, too.

One of the most striking sights in Dorset is the Cerne Abbas Giant, a 180-ft tall giant who lies flat against the landscape. This depiction of a pagan idol was created during the Iron Age. With his toned athletic form and armed with a cub, it’s believed that he depicts one of the most famous ancient legends of all time – Hercules – but pay a visit to suss it out for yourself.

Seeing as you’re on the south coast, you should really make the most of the beaches here, and Avon Beach is as fine a place to start as any. Located in Christchurch, the beach is fab for families, where kids (and big kids) can build sandcastles, adults can recline on a deckchair and all can enjoy promenade walks to an ice cream van or fish and chip shop.