Discovering Dorset: Hardy’s Cottage & Clouds Hill

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RURAL DORSET
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DEPARTURE

OPTIONS

DURATION

7+ HOURS

SMALL GROUP

UP TO 14 PAX
DISCOVERING DORSET
Unveiling the Charm of Rural England
  • Clouds Hill

HIGHLIGHTS

UNGUIDED TOUR
This tour is designed to give you the freedom to explore independently at your own pace. Due to regulations from the National Trust and English Heritage, private guides are not permitted on site. These sites offer their own expert guides and extensive informational resources to enhance your visit, ensuring you receive detailed and historically accurate insights during your exploration. Enjoy the flexibility to engage with the surroundings according to your interests and take the time to appreciate the historical significance at your leisure.
  • Hardy’s Cottage & Resting PlaceVisit Hardy’s Cottage, the birthplace of Thomas Hardy, nestled in the Dorset countryside.
  • Dorchester (Lunch) & Roman Town HouseHead to Dorchester for a lunch break in one of its charming cafes or pubs and visit the only example of a fully exposed Roman Town House in the country.
  • Clouds HillThis cottage, once the peaceful sanctuary of T.E. Lawrence, famously known as Lawrence of Arabia, offers a unique glimpse into the private life of a historic figure renowned for his role in the Arab Revolt.
FULL ITINERARY
Click below to reveal the full itinerary
MORNING
AFTERNOON

Morning: Exploring the Legacy of Thomas Hardy

  • Start your day by immersing yourself in the world of Thomas Hardy at Hardy’s Cottage, his picturesque birthplace in the Dorset countryside.
  • Pay homage at Hardy’s final resting place (his heart!) and visit Max Gate, the residence of his later years, to complete your journey through his life.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through Thorncombe Woods, surrounding the cottage, to appreciate the serene natural beauty.
  • En route, we stop at the remarkable Roman Town House in Dorchester, the only fully exposed example of its kind in Britain.

Lunch: Delights of Dorchester

  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the charming town of Dorchester, selecting from a variety of quaint cafes and traditional pubs.
  • Take this opportunity to explore Dorchester’s delightful streets and local shops, soaking in the town’s vibrant atmosphere.

Afternoon: Visit to Clouds Hill

  • Post-lunch, we will direct our journey towards the enchanting Clouds Hill, a rural retreat famous for its historical significance and serene landscape.
  • This cottage, once the peaceful sanctuary of T.E. Lawrence, famously known as Lawrence of Arabia, offers a unique glimpse into the private life of a historic figure renowned for his role in the Arab Revolt.
  • Explore the quaint and carefully preserved interiors that reflect Lawrence’s modest and thoughtful lifestyle. Each room in Clouds Hill is curated to offer insights into his interests and personal life.
  • Conclude the afternoon by enjoying the tranquil surroundings of this rural hideaway, nestled in the beautiful Dorset countryside, before returning to your minibus.

If Time Allows: Cerne Abbas and its Enigmatic Giant

  • If time permits, journey to Cerne Abbas, a village celebrated for its enigmatic hillside carving, the Cerne Giant.
  • Meander through this quintessential village, adorned with thatched cottages and steeped in history.
  • Explore the Cerne Abbas Church or enjoy a brief walk to gain a closer perspective of the Giant, shrouded in mystery and legend.

Scenic Return Journey Through Dorset’s Countryside

  • Wrap up your day with a tranquil drive back, traversing the picturesque Dorset countryside.
  • As you travel, relish the peaceful landscapes and idyllic rural vistas, a perfect time for reflection on the day’s discoveries.
MINIMUM NUMBER POLICY
If you are not choosing a private tour, this tour is subject to a minimum number of passengers to operate. If this number is not met 72 hours before your tour date the tour will be canceled and you will be refunded in full.

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