Explore Dorchester
Known for
Thomas Hardy's Casterbridge (the county town of Dorset is the model for every Hardy novel), Maiden Castle (one of Europe's largest Iron Age hillforts), Judge Jeffreys and the Bloody Assizes, and a county town of extraordinary literary and historical significance
A little history
Thomas Hardy was born in a cottage nearby and set virtually all his novels in Dorchester as 'Casterbridge'. Judge Jeffreys presided over the Bloody Assizes here in 1685 after Monmouth's Rebellion — the Old Crown Court where he sat is preserved. Maiden Castle, a mile from the town, is one of the most impressive prehistoric monuments in Europe.
Maiden Castle is extraordinary and free — walk the outer ramparts for the full sense of scale. The Dorset Museum for the Thomas Hardy collections. The Hardy Cottage at Higher Bockhampton for the birthplace. The Wednesday and Saturday markets.
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Food & drink in Dorchester
Dorchester has excellent independent restaurants and cafes. The market for local Dorset produce. Poundbury has good food. Local Dorset lamb, game and cider throughout.
Restaurants & cafes
Roam surfaces the Dorchester food spots locals actually love.
Bars & nightlife
Independent bars and evening spots across Dorchester.
Independent shops
Local butchers, delis and food shops worth exploring in Dorchester.
For businesses in Dorchester
Dorchester is Dorset's county town and commercial hub. Strong independent retail and food. Hardy tourism brings significant visitor numbers.
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Frequently asked questions
Thomas Hardy's Casterbridge (the county town of Dorset is the model for every Hardy novel), Maiden Castle (one of Europe's largest Iron Age hillforts), Judge Jeffreys and the Bloody Assizes, and a county town of extraordinary literary and historical significance Roam surfaces the hidden gems that make Dorchester worth exploring.
Dorchester has excellent independent restaurants and cafes. The market for local Dorset produce. Poundbury has good food. Local Dorset lamb, game and cider throughout. Download Roam free to discover Dorchester's food scene.
Yes — Roam is live in Dorchester and across Dorset. Download free on iOS or Android.
Dorchester is Dorset's county town and commercial hub. Strong independent retail and food. Hardy tourism brings significant visitor numbers. List your Dorchester business on Roam to reach local customers in Dorset.
Roam covers all of Dorchester including Poundbury, Charminster, Fordington, Winterbourne Abbas, Came Down. Maiden Castle is extraordinary and free — walk the outer ramparts for the full sense of scale. The Dorset Museum for the Thomas Hardy collections. The Hardy Cottage at Higher Bockhampton for the birthplace. The Wednesday and Saturday markets.
