Historic Dorset and the New Forest

Explore the home of Dorset’s most famous author and poet Thomas Hardy, discover the shipwrights’ village of Buckler’s Hard, and stand beneath the weathered ruins of Corfe Castle. From Kingston Lacy’s refined interiors to the grandeur of Wimborne Minster and Sherborne Abbey, this tour brings Dorset and the New Forest to life through places shaped by power, faith and ambition.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival
Arrival from 15:00. Welcome drink, dinner and talk from Julian Humphrys.

Day 2: Max Gate, Minterne House and Sherborne Abbey
Morning visit to Max Gate, Thomas Hardy’s sophisticated town house located just outside Dorchester town centre. Hardy designed the house in 1885 to show he was part of the wealthy middle classes and to reflect his position as a successful writer. He wrote some of his most famous novels here including Tess of the d’Urbevilles. Next we will have a short stop to view the Cerne Abbas Giant before visiting Minterne House and Gardens. Our final visit of the day will be to Sherborne Abbey, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Day 3: Buckler's Hard and Beaulieu
Start at Buckler’s Hard, a historic shipbuilding village on the Beaulieu River. Then explore the tranquil ruins of Beaulieu Abbey, founded in the 13th century. Conclude the day at the Beaulieu National Motor Museum, home to over 280 vehicles, from vintage classics to Formula 1 racers.

Day 4: Corfe Castle, Kingston Lacy, and Wimborne Minster
Visit Corfe Castle, a dramatic ruin with royal history, then tour Kingston Lacy, a lavish estate linked to Sir Walter Raleigh. Our final visit is to Wimborne Minster for a guided tour and access to the Chained Library. Return to the hotel by 17:45.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 40 passengers.

INCLUDED

• Three nights' accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at the four-star Burley Manor, Ringwood, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Welcome drink and talk from Julian Humphrys
• 3 dinners
• 1 lunch
• All talks, guided tours and admissions as per the itinerary
• Coach touring as per the itinerary
• Expert guide Julian Humphrys throughout the tour

NOT INCLUDED

• Transport to the hotel is not included
• Single room supplement - £300
• Double room for sole use supplement - £375
• Extra nights on bed and breakfast basis 
• Holiday insurance 
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc 
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Burley Manor, Ringwood

Surrounded by rolling greenery and roaming deer, Burley Manor offers a refined country escape in the heart of the New Forest. This characterful manor blends rustic charm with relaxed luxury, featuring cosy lounges, Mediterranean-inspired dining, and soothing spa treatments—perfect for a tranquil break amid the natural beauty of Hampshire.

Hotel Website