Dorset
Properties and events in Dorset
Before heading out for your Heritage Open Days visit, please check entries for last-minute changes.
Back from the Brink: Clavell Tower
Open to the public once a year, Clavell Tower is a circular tower high on the cliffs above Kimmeridge Bay, above one of Dorset's most striking bays. A rare chance to see inside this well-loved landmark, normally let for holidays.
Beaminster Museum
Trace the 170-million-year history of a small market town and its nearby villages. Discover the working lives of past generations – from farm workers and flax dressers to shopkeepers and seamstresses – whose skills and labour shaped the community.
Blandford Forum Parish Church Roof Tours and Open Days
Blandford Forum is described as ‘one of the most satisfying Georgian ensembles anywhere in England’. Come and view the unique Grade 1 Listed Parish Church at its heart, climb into its roof or discover some of its extensive graffiti.
Bridport Town Hall
The Town Hall is in the very centre of the town. Daytime entrance to the Town Hall is normally via the lift in the TIC. You can ask the TIC to open the main door for stair access. Disabled access, toilets.
CWGC Tours 2026 - Portland Royal Naval Cemetery
Join the Commonwealth War Graves Commission for a free tour of Portland Royal Navy Cemetery, led by one of our experienced volunteer tour guides.
Everyday Stories of Upton House
Upton House will be open to everyone for two days! With the House open and bookable guided tours to tell the story of its families and the staff who lived and worked there.
Friends of the New Forest Aviation Heritage Centre
To inform and educate residents and visitors to the New Forest about the local aviation heritage and the twelve airfields, through our Heritage Centre and outreach programme. To preserve the information and memories that we hold in trust.
Hardy Monument
This is a 72ft monument to Vice-Admiral Hardy, built in 1844 stands on an exposed location above the village of Portesham, near Dorchester. Climb to the 120 steps to the top of the monument and enjoy breathtaking views across Dorset.
Hardy's House, Max Gate
Max Gate, home to Dorset's famous author and poet, Thomas Hardy, was designed by the writer himself and built by the Hardy family building firm in 1885.
Life in Studland during WWII
Step back in time to Studland in WWII with a guided walk of the village from Middle Beach, and visit Knoll Beach for an exhibition on WWII, with family friendly activities.
Lulworth Castle & Park
Visit and discover the stunning Lulworth Castle & the Chapel of St Mary.
Lulworth Castle House
Visit the Weld family home in the grounds of Lulworth Castle. The Entrance Hall & Drawing Room will be open to view. The gardens are not open.
Mapperton Gardens
Celebrate Mapperton Gardens’ Heritage Open Day on Tuesday 15 September (10am–5pm) with free entry. Explore the Italianate Gardens - hidden grottoes, tranquil ponds, topiary and gilded orangery - and beyond to sweeping valley views and the arboretum.
Melbury House Tour
Supervised tour of parts of private house and contents including the entrance hall, breakfast room, saloon, square drawing room, dining room and long drawing room. Visits to Melbury Church are also permitted if requested in advance.
The Belle of Lyme Regis: Belmont Open Days
Join us to explore Belmont on Saturday 12 - Sunday 13 September 2026, part of Heritage Open Days. This fine 18th-century maritime villa in Lyme Regis is listed Grade II* and once belonged to the remarkable businesswoman, Mrs Eleanor Coade.