Four nights dinner bed & breakfast, nightly entertainment
Perfectly placed on the Esplanade, just across the road from the sandy beach, with beautiful views of the Jurassic coastline, the hotel is a short walk from the busy fishing harbour and town centre. Facilities include restaurant; bar and dancefloor; two guest lounges; games room; seafront coffee shop; WiFi in public areas and a lift to all floors, however level access cannot be guaranteed. Porterage is included.
TUESDAY Outward journey with suitable stops en route.
WEDNESDAY Today we head to the picturesque resort of Swanage on the Isle of Purbeck, with its delightful bay and Victorian pier. We then continue on to the neighbouring resort of Poole where you will find a bustling quay and stunning natural harbour. Much of Poole’s history still survives in the old town; the narrow backstreets offer a degree of tranquillity with plenty of interesting buildings, and also the famous Cockle Trail!
THURSDAY This morning we visit Athelhampton House, one of England's finest Tudor manor houses. Dating from 1485, the Great Hall is a fine example of domestic Tudor architecture, and the house has many interesting rooms, filled with antique furnishings and art. The gardens, remodelled in 1891, surround the House with many 'compartments' built with Ham stone. Later we drive to charming Dorchester, county town of Dorset, for some time at leisure before returning to the hotel.
FRIDAY A morning excursion to the Isle of Portland. This unique, tied island marks the southernmost point on the Jurassic Coast and is joined to the mainland by Chesil Beach. We include a visit to Portland Bill Lighthouse Visitor Centre where, for a small additional charge, those who climb the 153 steps will witness magnificent views. We then have an afternoon at leisure back in our resort.
SATURDAY We commence our homeward journey, making suitable stops en route.