12 Best Towns in Dorset to Live or Visit
Dorset is located in the picturesque southwest of England.
The county should be high on your radar if you plan to relocate soon, in this article we will explore the range of reasons it is such a great place to live.
Bathed in sunshine, more than 355 hours more than the UK’s average sunshine hour record, Dorset has become a sought-after destination for those looking to embrace a different way of life.
Its charming villages and active market towns attract many former city dwellers, particularly ex-Londoners, drawn to Dorset’s unique blend of countryside serenity and relative safety.
Dorset provides top-rated schools for families, while young professionals can benefit from the growing business hubs in towns like Bournemouth and Poole.
The local towns offer an excellent balance between modern amenities and a connection to nature, with plenty of green spaces, award-winning beaches, and outdoor activities to enjoy.
Whether you’re seeking a slower pace or the allure of historic towns, Dorset offers a refreshing change for anyone seeking their next home.
Dorset provides potential buyers with financial relief compared to many locations around the UK and the luxury of space while maintaining accessibility to key commuting routes.
With so many incredible towns to explore, it can be tough to know where to begin. But rest assured, there’s a perfect spot in Dorset for everyone.
Here’s our guide to the 12 best towns in Dorset to live or visit!
1. Bournemouth
Bournemouth is perhaps the best know place in Dorset.
Bournemouth is undeniably one of the top locations in Dorset, offering an irresistible blend of seaside charm and urban convenience.
With its golden sands stretching along the coastline, it’s no surprise that the town is sought after.
Bournemouth’s beaches are a haven for sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, with an average of 7.7 hours of sunshine per summer’s day—significantly more than most of the UK.
But it’s not just the beaches that draw people to Bournemouth.
The town is a vibrant hub for students and young professionals, thanks to its excellent nightlife, top-tier restaurants, and renowned educational institutions like Bournemouth University.
The town centre offers a bustling mix of high-end eateries, independent cafes, and traditional fish and chip shops catering to all tastes and occasions.
Bournemouth’s cultural scene is equally lively, with venues like the Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre hosting year-round performances.
Strategically located, Bournemouth provides easy access to London, just under two hours away by train.
It’s also a gateway to the natural wonders of the New Forest and the Jurassic Coast, making it an ideal base for exploring Britain’s diverse landscapes.
Whether for living or visiting, Bournemouth stands out as a highly desirable location in Dorset.
To find out more about life in Bournemouth consider reading our in-depth guide.
2. Lyme Regis
Lyme Regis is one of the best places to live in the Southwest.
Named one of the top 10 locations to live in the Southwest by The Sunday Times in 2019, Lyme Regis is a gem nestled along the Jurassic Coast that is well worthy of its place on our list!
This historic seaside town offers residents breathtaking natural beauty and a welcoming community, meaning there is truly something for everyone here.
Its location, perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the English Channel, adds to the appeal and makes it a coveted destination.
Lyme Regis boasts well-regarded schools, making it a family-friendly choice, while its lively social scene provides plenty of entertainment for all ages.
Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely meal at one of the town’s independent restaurants or exploring the one-off shops in its charming streets, there’s always something to discover.
The iconic Cobb harbour, a central feature of the town, offers spectacular views and has a storied history, famously immortalised in literary works like Persuasion by Jane Austen.
Perhaps one of the town’s biggest draws is its direct access to the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here, you can hunt for fossils or take in the breathtaking coastal scenery.
However, the area’s popularity means the housing market in Lyme Regis is highly competitive, with properties often snapped up within days of being listed – so if you see something you like act fast!
For those lucky enough to call it home, Lyme Regis truly offers a unique blend of coastal living and cultural richness.
3. Poole
Perhaps the most premium place in Dorset, Poole attracts various celebrities who call the area home.
Often described as the St Tropez of the South Coast, the Palm Springs of Dorset and the Florida Keys of British beach resorts! Very high praise if we do say so.
It is therefore no wonder that this popular area in Dorset has attracted numerous celebrities over the years.
Famous residents include football legends Harry and Jamie Redknapp, who have owned homes in the area.
Other notable figures include Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher, TV chef Rick Stein, and businessman Mark Constantine, co-founder of Lush Cosmetics.
Poole, home to one of the largest natural harbours in the world, is also a maritime treasure.
The harbour is a hub for water sports, sailing, and fishing, offering picturesque views of the Dorset coastline.
Sandbanks, Poole’s most famous beach, is also frequently rated as one of the best in Britain!
Its soft golden sands and clear waters make it one of the best beaches in the UK, consistently awarded Blue Flag status for its environmental standards and safety.
Its shallow waters are also perfect for families looking for a safe and fun day out at the beach.
Poole’s Quay area is a vibrant part of the town, with a host of smart cafes, restaurants, and bars and a maritime history.
Poole Quay is also a gateway to Brownsea Island, an area managed by the National Trust, where visitors can enjoy scenic woodland walks and wildlife watching.
The town remains a desirable location for both permanent residents and investors, particularly in prestigious areas like Sandbanks and Canford Cliffs, where high-end properties are in constant demand.
The property market in Poole remains highly competitive.
As of September 2024, the average property price in Poole is around £501,000,
4. Christchurch
Located just outside Bournemouth, Christchurch offers excellent amenities and transport links.
Sitting just east of Bournemouth, Christchurch is a charming town considered very highly by its residents for a number of reasons.
One of its standout features is its excellent transport links, offering direct train routes to Bournemouth in just 8 minutes, Southampton in under 50 minutes, and London in just under two hours.
This connectivity makes Christchurch a great option for commuters and those who enjoy easy access to major cities whilst still living in a more relaxed environment.
Beyond its practicality, Christchurch is rich in culture and natural beauty.
The town boasts a great arts scene, with regular live music and theatre performances as well as exhibitions held at venues like the Regent Centre.
Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly day out building sandcastles or a tranquil dog walk along the coast, Christchurch’s beaches offer something for everyone.
The town’s riverside location adds further rustic charm, with picturesque views of the Avon and Stour rivers, which also provide excellent places to walk, such as The Meridians Greenspace.
Christchurch has some lovely places for a bite to eat.
In the centre of town is the oldest pub, Ye Olde George, a 600-year-old coaching inn said to have been the haunt of smugglers in days gone by!
Given its desirable location and lifestyle, property prices can be high, with detached homes ranging from £450,000 to £895,000 and one-bedroom flats starting around £170,000.
Christchurch remains one of Dorset’s most sought-after areas, offering a perfect mix of coastal living and commuter convenience.
5. Weymouth
Weymouth is an affordable yet highly desirable Dorest seaside town.
Weymouth is a traditional holiday destination that many people end up falling in love with after they visit.
Its broad sandy beach, framed by stunning Georgian architecture along the seafront, is one of its most beloved features.
The beach offers safe, shallow waters that are perfect for those with small children.
Additionally, the beach often hosts various events throughout the year, including kite festivals and beachfront concerts, adding to the town’s lively atmosphere.
Weymouth’s historical significance is evident in some of its landmarks like Nothe Fort, a 19th-century fortification that offers spectacular views over the Jurassic Coast and Weymouth Bay.
History buffs can explore the fort’s museum, which provides a great, detailed look into Weymouth’s maritime past.
A short trip away is the Isle of Portland, known for its rugged cliffs, the iconic Portland Bill lighthouse, and the rich legacy of its Portland stone, used in many famous buildings found around the world.
Lined with cafes and seafood restaurants, Weymouth’s bustling harbour provides a picturesque setting for a relaxing day out or catching a ferry to explore the nearby Channel Islands.
Like so many of Dorset’s best locations, the town’s property market is fast-moving, reflecting its appeal.
The average cost of a home is currently a respectable £306,776, certainly not bad for this part of the country!
6. Ashmore
If you are looking for a more secluded location, Ashmore is a top choice.
Ashmore is a charming and secluded village in north Dorset, known for its quintessential English countryside feel and ancient heritage.
With a population of only around 200, Ashmore is one of the highest villages in Dorset, sitting 700 feet above sea level on the stunning hills of Cranborne Chase.
This elevated position affords residents breathtaking views that stretch as far as the New Forest, the Isle of Wight, and the Purbeck Hills on a clear day, offering a sense of vast openness and tranquillity.
At the heart of the village is a serene circular pond, around which beautifully preserved stone cottages and thatched-roof farms stand.
The historic village church adds to its idyllic, timeless appeal.
Ashmore is the perfect place for those seeking peace and an immersive connection to nature. It is within easy reach of nearby towns such as Shaftesbury and Blandford Forum, ensuring that essential amenities are close at hand.
Despite its small size, Ashmore has a vibrant community spirit. Annual events include the lively ‘Filly Loo’ midsummer celebration, which features Morris dancing, live music, and the village’s own Green Man.
Ashmore Cricket Club hosts seasonal matches, encouraging social interaction and participation.
The village has no shops; however, shopping is easily accessible in nearby Fontwell Abbas or via a short drive to Shaftesbury.
For anyone dreaming of a tranquil countryside lifestyle with a strong sense of tradition and community, Ashmore could be the perfect place to call home, an ideal location for those seeking a quiet enclave away from the hustle and bustle of modern commercialism.
7. Swanage
Swanage is famous for its stunning scenery, a top choice for nature lovers.
A Jurassic Coast gem that sits on the Isle of Purbeck, known for its stunning natural beauty, Swanage is surrounded by rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and the sparkling waters of the English Channel – a picturesque location well worthy of its place on our list of best locations in Dorset!
One of its main attractions is the Swanage Steam Railway, a nostalgic ride that takes passengers through the breathtaking Purbeck countryside to the historic ruins of Corfe Castle.
The town’s beach, with its soft sands and clear waters, provides locals and visitors with a quintessential British seaside experience.
Swanage’s iconic pier, first constructed in 1895, is a focal point for local life.
It is the ideal spot for a stroll, even acting as a diving platform for those on the more adventurous side!
A short coastal walk away, the nearby chalk cliffs of Old Harry Rocks provide one of the most famous and scenic viewpoints on the South Coast, a photographer’s dream.
The town’s housing market property prices are generally higher than the Dorset average due to the town’s popularity as both a tourist destination and a place to live.
Seaside cottages, period homes, and modern developments coexist, offering various options for house hunters.
Prices for homes in Swanage start from £120,000 for a small apartment, making it a particularly sought-after destination for retirees and those seeking second homes.
Swanage’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant community make it one of the most appealing places to settle in the county.
8. Dorchester
Dorset’s county town, Dorchester is a great choice thanks to its excellent connectivity.
The county town of Dorset, Dorchester, offers an exceptional quality of life for its 21,000 residents.
Its strong educational offerings are a significant draw, with several primary schools rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted, giving parents peace of mind about their children’s education.
This, combined with its excellent transport links, positions Dorchester as one of the most desirable towns in Dorset.
Served by two train stations, Dorchester South and Dorchester West, which provide easy access to major cities such as London, Bath, Bristol, and Bournemouth, making it another ideal location for commuters.
Dorchester is rich in cultural and family-friendly attractions.
From exploring the town’s Roman history at the Dorset County Museum to enjoying the SEA LIFE Adventure Park in nearby Weymouth, there are always plenty of activities for all ages.
The town itself is full of character, with historic architecture, numerous markets, and a strong sense of community.
Housing in Dorchester ranges from traditional Georgian and Victorian homes to modern developments.
Prices for homes typically start around £250,000 for a two-bedroom property, with larger family homes reaching £600,000 or more, depending on location and amenities.
With its mix of historical charm, excellent schools, and convenient access to both countryside and coast, it’s no wonder Dorchester remains one of Dorset’s most popular places to live.
9. Bridport
Bridport and its wonderful market are excellent for locals looking for a town for full of creativity.
Bridport is a delightful market town in Dorset that beautifully blends the best of town, sea, and countryside living – making it one of the top places to live for a whole host of prospective buyers.
Nestled between the famous Jurassic Coast and the rolling hills of the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), Bridport offers a unique lifestyle that appeals to both locals and visitors alike.
Historically renowned as the centre of rope and net making in the UK, Bridport is more celebrated today for its thriving arts, culture, and food scene.
The town has become a hub for creatives, hosting numerous festivals, events, and galleries that give it a vibrant, eclectic character all year long.
The town centre is home to various independent shops, antique stores, and markets, including the famous weekly street market and the West Bay car boot sale, which attract visitors from far and wide.
Nearby West Bay highlights the town’s connection to the sea, often referred to as the “Golden Gateway” to the Jurassic Coast, with its iconic cliffs made famous by the TV series Broadchurch.
The property market offers a range of options for those looking to settle in Bridport, from charming period cottages to more modern homes.
The average house price in Bridport is above the average for the UK, currently standing at £418,451.
Rental prices range from £735 per month for a one-bedroom flat up to £3,000 for a large family home.
Its excellent transport links to larger towns like Yeovil and Weymouth add to Bridport’s appeal, providing both serenity and convenience for all of its residents – a top pick for certain!
10. Shaftesbury
Shaftesbury is one of the oldest market towns in England.
Shaftesbury, perched atop a hill in north Dorset, is one of England’s oldest market towns and offers all of the features you would expect from a location with this heritage.
With a history stretching back to Saxon times, it was founded by King Alfred the Great in the 9th century.
Thanks to its strategic location and the establishment of Shaftesbury Abbey, one of the wealthiest nunneries in medieval England, Shaftesbury became a key religious and trading centre for the whole of England.
Today, Shaftesbury is best known for its iconic Gold Hill, a steep cobbled street lined with charming cottages, made famous by the much-loved 1970s Hovis bread advert!
From the top of Gold Hill, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the Blackmore Vale, a sweeping expanse of countryside that epitomises Dorset’s rural charm.
The town retains its traditional market town character, with a regular Thursday market and independent shops, cafes, and galleries lining its historic streets that really add to its charm.
Shaftesbury is also home to a lively cultural scene, with events such as the Shaftesbury Fringe Festival and the Food & Drink Festival drawing in crowds from across the region.
The housing market in Shaftesbury offers a mix of period properties, rustic cottages, and modern homes, so there is plenty of choices for those considering making the area home.
The average property price is around £405,000, with more affordable terraced homes for under £240,000, while larger, detached homes can exceed £700,000.
11. Portland
Portland is an excellent island location just off of the Dorset coast.
Portland, a rugged and captivating island located off the coast of Dorset, is connected to the mainland by the natural wonder – Chesil Beach.
This 18-mile-long shingle barrier adds to the area’s dramatic appeal and is only one of three such beaches in the whole of the UK!
Known for its striking coastal landscapes, Portland is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering unparalleled rock climbing, hiking, and birdwatching opportunities along its windswept cliffs.
The island’s most famous landmark, Portland Bill lighthouse, stands proudly at its southern tip.
It guides ships safely through the treacherous waters and provides stunning panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast – a must visit if you move to the area!
Portland’s rich history is woven into its very fabric.
Its world-famous Portland stone is used in iconic structures such as St. Paul’s Cathedral in London and the United Nations headquarters in New York.
The island’s quarries, many of which are now nature reserves, offer visitors a glimpse into its industrial heritage.
At the same time, the rugged terrain invites exploration of hidden coves and ancient landmarks like Rufus Castle, adding to Portland’s appeal for any history buffs out there.
Despite its secluded feel, Portland is home to a tight-knit community and offers a range of amenities, including local shops, cafes, and schools.
Although it is a small island, the housing market is diverse, with cottages, townhouses, and modern properties available.
The average house price is around £232,187, making it among Dorset’s most affordable coastal locations.
Portland offers a unique lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of mainland life while still being well-connected to nearby Weymouth.
12. Ferndown
Ferndown has seen a shift in popularity in recent years thanks to its excellent transport links and amenities.
Ferndown is one of Dorset’s most popular inland towns and the second-largest in terms of population, after Dorchester.
While historically known for its significant elderly demographic, recent years have seen a notable shift towards a more balanced population, with around 20,000 residents now calling it home.
This growth is partly due to Ferndown’s exceptional transport links.
The A31 provides easy access to the M27 and M3, making London and surrounding areas reachable, while the A35 leads westward towards Devon, enhancing connectivity to the broader region.
Situated on the cusp of the picturesque New Forest and within easy reach of Dorset’s famous coastline, Ferndown offers a charming blend of rural and urban living with both right at your fingertips.
The town also boasts a solid infrastructure, with a range of high-street shops and supermarkets.
It is also close to the bustling seaside city of Bournemouth, which offers a wealth of entertainment, dining, and retail options should you need them.
With various clubs and societies catering to diverse interests, Ferndown is a place where you can easily set down roots and make new friends.
The housing market here is busy, with the average property priced at £414,650.
Ready to Move to Dorset?
Have you found the perfect town in Dorset to call home among the 12 highlighted in our article?
Moving to Dorset truly offers something for everyone—families, students, professionals, and retirees alike.
Moving to this stunning part of the UK means enjoying an exceptional quality of life, with its breathtaking landscapes, excellent schools, and a close-knit community feel.
When you’re ready to move, White & Company’s Dorset removal service ensures a smooth, stress-free transition.
With well over 150 years of experience and a long-standing membership with the British Association of Removers, we’re committed to providing reliable, top-tier service you can trust.
Whether you need help with a local move or a long-distance relocation, our professional team will handle every detail carefully and efficiently.
To make things even easier, we now offer a convenient video survey service.
This allows us to conduct a full assessment of your move remotely, right from the comfort of your home.
There is no need for in-person visits; a video survey is a quick, safe, and thorough way to start your relocation.
Contact us today or request a quick quote online and let White & Company help you take the next step toward living in one of Dorset’s beautiful towns!
Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.
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