Staying in Cerne Abbas
Soak up some true English charm at Cerne Abbas
The picture perfect village of Cerne Abbas is one of Dorset’s gems. Famous for the 180ft Cerne Giant carved into the hillside, the village and its surrounding area have so much more to offer during your stay. From beautiful gardens to world class museums and attractions, we’ve compiled some of our favourite things to do in and around Dorset here.
on the doorstep
Cerne Giant
Carved into the hillside above Cerne Abbas, the chalk giant is world famous and the subject of much myth, legend and speculation! Some believe he is modelled on the Roman God Hercules and is over 1,500 years old, or indeed a Pagan fertility symbol, whilst history tells us he wasn’t recorded before the 1600s. Whatever you believe, he’s an absolute must see when staying with us in Dorset.
2 Miles
Minterne Gardens
Where else would you expect to wander miles of Himalayan Gardens than deep in the heart of Dorset!? The stunning Minterne Gardens are home to a world famous and utterly unique collection of Himalayan Rhododendrons and Azaleas, as well as Spring bulbs, Cherries, Maples and a whole host of beautiful tree species. Stop and rest awhile amidst the serene surroundings.
9 Miles
Hardy's Cottage
Literature lovers will be in their element exploring the birth place of Thomas Hardy! Find out everything there is to know about one of the nations best loved novelists and poets and explore the rooms of the cob and thatch cottage where he not only lived his early years but penned some of his most famous works too. Bordering the ancient woodland at Thorncombe Woods, you can follow in Hardy’s footsteps and find some inspiration.
12 Miles
Sherborne Castle and Gardens
Built by Sir Walter Raleigh, Sherborne Castle is a stunning Tudor house full of rich history and fascinating artefacts showcasing nearly 400 years of British history. The Grade I listed gardens at Sherborne were one of Capability Browns first stunning creations and remain virtually unchanged to this day – well worth a wander.
17 Miles
Abbotsbury Swannery
The only place in the world you can wander through the midst of a colony of mute swans, the swannery at Abbotsbury is a real treat for the whole family. Why not join in the hand feeding of these majestic birds? Or when you’re done, take a meander around the pretty gardens, take on the big willow maze and take a pit stop at the lovely cafe.
22 Miles
Bovington Tank Museum
The famous tank museum at Bovington camp is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in military history through the ages. Housing some 300 tanks and military machines, the museum’s exhibits bring the stories of these vehicles and their crews to life – there’s so much to see, do and learn for the whole family.
22 Miles
Monkey World
The world renowned primate sanctuary Monkey World will capture your heart. Monkeys of every type have been rescued from across the planet to find their safe haven in Dorset. Find out about the utterly unique personalities of these loveable creatures and the invaluable work the charity does to rescue primates and to educate the world.