Explore

ALL    |    HISTORIC PLACES    |    MUSEUMS & GALLERIES    |    FAMILY DAYS OUT    |    WALKS    |    SPORTS

West Bay Harbour

West Bay Harbour combines dramatic Jurassic Coast cliffs with a lively working harbour and laid‑back seaside charm — a picture‑perfect Dorset day out within easy reach of The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Weymouth Beach

Weymouth Beach offers everything you’d hope for from a classic seaside day — golden sands, safe swimming, and vibrant promenade life — all within an easy drive of The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Stourhead Gardens

Stourhead Gardens is landscape artistry on a grand scale — a sweeping valley of water, woodland, and temples that changes character with every season, all within a short, scenic drive of The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Minterne House & Gardens

Minterne House & Gardens blends historic grandeur with natural elegance — a stately home surrounded by Himalayan‑inspired gardens of waterfalls, colour, and calm — just minutes from The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

The Great Garden Trail

The Great Garden Trail is Dorset in bloom — a showcase of stunning open gardens, creativity, and wildlife, all supporting local conservation. Discover nature’s beauty across the county and relax at The Hillbrook Hotel after a colourful day outdoors.

READ MORE 

Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park

Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park is a dazzling underwater journey — penguins, sharks, turtles, and tropical tanks waiting to be discovered — just an hour from The Hillbrook Hotel. Explore Dorset’s coastal magic, then return to rural tranquillity and five‑star comfort.

READ MORE 

Moors Valley Country Park

Moors Valley Country Park blends forest calm with big‑smile adventures — sculpture‑lined play trails, cycling, a miniature steam railway, and treetop thrills — all within an easy drive of The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park

Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park celebrates the gentle giants of rural Britain with hands‑on fun, heritage displays, and warm hospitality — a joyful day out within easy reach of The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Adventure Wonderland

Adventure Wonderland brings Alice‑inspired magic to Bournemouth — gentle rides, character moments, and a huge indoor soft play — all within an easy drive of The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Monkey World

Monkey World is a must‑visit Dorset sanctuary: rescued chimpanzees, orangutans, and monkeys thriving in naturalistic habitats — an uplifting day out within easy reach of The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Yeovil Country Park

Yeovil Country Park brings together serene lakes, wooded valleys, and airy hilltops in one easy‑to‑explore destination — a refreshing Somerset escape just minutes from The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens & Swannery

Abbotsbury brings the Jurassic Coast to life in two remarkable ways: lush subtropical planting in a sheltered valley and the world‑famous Swannery just beyond. It’s an inspiring Dorset day out, within easy reach of The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Jurassic Coast (Lyme Regis, Charmouth)

Lyme Regis and Charmouth capture the magic of the Jurassic Coast — family‑friendly fossil beaches, historic harbours, and sweeping cliff‑top views — all within an easy drive of The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Cheddar Gorge

Cheddar Gorge delivers big‑sky views and subterranean wonder in one epic day out — cliff‑top trails, glittering caves, and a characterful village — all within easy reach of The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Wookey Hole Caves

Wookey Hole Caves brings Somerset’s subterranean world to life — shimmering pools, dramatic chambers, and playful attractions — all within easy reach of The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Longleat Safari Park

Longleat Safari Park offers an unparalleled wild adventure, from drive-through animal encounters to the historic Longleat House and exciting attractions. It’s a full day of discovery and fun, all within easy reach of The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Dorset Wildlife Trust Reserves

From red squirrels on islands to orchids in ancient meadows, Dorset Wildlife Trust’s reserves reveal the county at its most natural and biodiverse — all within easy reach of The Hillbrook Hotel in Sherborne.

READ MORE 

Hardy’s Cottage & Thorncombe Woods

Hardy’s Cottage and the surrounding Thorncombe Woods distil the timeless charm of Dorset — a thatched literary landmark fringed by ancient woodland and heath. It’s the perfect blend of culture and countryside, a short scenic drive from The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Ham Hill Country Park

Ham Hill Country Park is Somerset at its most golden: an immense Iron Age hillfort with panoramic paths, wildlife meadows, and village charm — all a short, scenic drive from The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Dorset AONB Walks

The Dorset AONB offers some of the most spectacular walking in the UK, with diverse landscapes to explore. Whether you're seeking coastal drama or tranquil countryside, The Hillbrook Hotel in Sherborne provides the ideal luxurious base to begin and end your walking adventures.

READ MORE 

The Tank Museum

The Tank Museum at Bovington is a spectacular deep-dive into armoured history. See legendary machines up close — including the only running Tiger I — and experience immersive exhibits before unwinding in style at The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Haynes International Motor Museum

Haynes International Motor Museum is an unmissable attraction for car and bike lovers. Whether you’re captivated by vintage classics or modern supercars, you’ll find over 400 vehicles to inspire and amaze — all just 20 minutes from The Hillbrook Hotel.

READ MORE 

Fleet Air Arm Museum

The Fleet Air Arm Museum offers an unforgettable day of aviation history — from Concorde to combat jets. Located in Somerset, it’s the ultimate destination for flight enthusiasts, families, and history lovers. Paired with a stay at The Hillbrook Hotel, it’s a perfect blend of discovery and indulgence.

READ MORE 

Glastonbury Tor & Abbey

A visit to Glastonbury is a journey into myth, history, and stunning landscapes. Whether climbing the mystical Tor or exploring the evocative Abbey ruins, you’ll uncover stories of kings, legends, and timeless Somerset beauty.

READ MORE 

Kingston Lacy (NT)

A trip to Kingston Lacy offers a rare chance to walk through an Italianate mansion brimming with treasures, wander Japanese gardens, and explore sweeping parkland. It’s Dorset’s grand country house at its most inspiring.

READ MORE 

Mapperton House & Gardens

A trip to Mapperton House & Gardens feels like stepping into a secret Eden. With its romantic Jacobean manor and tumbling Italianate gardens, this valley estate offers history, beauty, and tranquillity in equal measure.

READ MORE 

Forde Abbey & Gardens

A trip to Forde Abbey & Gardens combines centuries of history with breathtaking horticulture. From medieval cloisters to England’s tallest fountain, it’s a destination that blends architecture, art, and landscape into an unforgettable day out.

READ MORE 

Stourhead (NT)

A trip to Stourhead is a journey into one of England’s most enchanting landscapes — where lakes, temples, and woodlands combine like a living painting. Blending grandeur and tranquillity, it’s the perfect setting for romance, history, and natural beauty.

READ MORE 

Montacute House (NT)

A trip to Montacute House feels like stepping back into the golden age of Elizabethan England. From its glittering stone façade and stately galleries to landscaped gardens and sweeping Somerset views, this National Trust mansion is a heritage jewel with timeless appeal.

READ MORE 

Castle Cary

Castle Cary captures the best of small‑town Somerset charm — from its golden‑stone Market House and artisan shops to its welcoming pubs and museum. It’s a place where heritage and modern creativity meet, framed by rolling countryside.

READ MORE 

Bruton (Hauser & Wirth, Dovecote)

A trip to Bruton brings together the best of old and new — from avant‑garde exhibitions at Hauser & Wirth to the windswept stone Dovecote watching over the town. It’s the perfect day out for art lovers and history seekers alike.

READ MORE 

Gillingham Museum

A trip to Gillingham Museum is a journey through time — from Roman artefacts to wartime memorabilia, with a strong sense of Dorset’s rural identity. This free museum offers intimate, engaging displays that make history accessible, enriching any visit to North Dorset.

READ MORE 

Blandford Forum

A trip to Blandford Forum is a step back into Georgian Dorset — where elegant stonework meets riverside charm. With museums, breweries, and the bustle of a traditional market town, it combines history, culture, and countryside in equal measure.

READ MORE 

Cerne Abbas

A trip to Cerne Abbas is equal parts legend and charm — from its world‑famous chalk Giant dominating the hills to the tranquil ruins of a centuries‑old abbey. Add in thatched cottages, local pubs, and rolling valley views, and this Dorset gem promises a magical journey into history and folklore.

READ MORE 

Sturminster Newton

A trip to Sturminster Newton blends history, literature, and rustic charm. From the turning wheel of its centuries‑old working mill to fascinating museum exhibits and the landscapes celebrated by Thomas Hardy, it’s a North Dorset gem that captures the heart of England’s timeless countryside.

READ MORE 

Shaftesbury

A trip to Shaftesbury is like stepping into a postcard, where the iconic cobbled incline of Gold Hill offers breathtaking views across the Blackmore Vale. Just a stone's throw away, the tranquil ruins and fascinating exhibits of the Abbey Museum whisper tales of ancient royalty and monastic life, creating a truly unforgettable Dorset experience.

READ MORE 

Sherborne Old Castle

Sherborne Old Castle is a dramatic 12th-century ruin that tells the story of bishops, kings, sieges, and civil war. Its crumbling walls and surviving towers stand as a powerful reminder of Sherborne’s medieval past, offering visitors an atmospheric journey into centuries of English history.

READ MORE 

Sherborne Town Trail

The Sherborne Town Trail is a delightful walking route that turns the town into a living storybook. In just over a mile, you’ll uncover medieval conduits, Tudor buildings, Georgian streets, and iconic landmarks — all woven together into a gentle journey through centuries of history that bring Sherborne’s character to life.

READ MORE 

Sherborne Castle & Gardens

Step into a living tapestry of history and natural beauty at Sherborne Castle & Gardens. This magnificent estate, originally built by Sir Walter Raleigh, invites you to explore centuries of stories within its grand castle walls and wander through 42 acres of breathtaking Capability Brown landscapes. Discover tranquil lakes, vibrant borders, and serene vistas, making it a truly enchanting destination where heritage and horticulture harmoniously intertwine.

READ MORE 

Sherborne Museum

Step into the captivating past of Sherborne at the Sherborne Museum, a charming repository of local stories and treasures. Housed within a historic 16th-century building, the museum offers a fascinating journey through the town's evolution, from ancient times to modern-day, revealing the unique character and vibrant history of this quintessential Dorset market town.

READ MORE 

Sherborne Abbey

A beacon of history and architectural grandeur, Sherborne Abbey stands as a magnificent testament to centuries of faith and craftsmanship. Its breathtaking fan-vaulted ceiling and golden Ham stone create an awe-inspiring space, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the profound serenity and rich heritage of this iconic Dorset landmark.

READ MORE 

Sherborne Golf Club

Nestled in the rolling Dorset countryside, Sherborne Golf Club offers more than just a round of golf; it's an immersion in natural beauty and a test of skill on a historic James Braid-designed course. With panoramic views across Blackmore Vale and a welcoming atmosphere, it's the perfect escape for golfers seeking both challenge and charm.

READ MORE 

Opening Day

A new era of opulence has dawned in the town of Sherborne as The Hillbrook, a haven of modern luxury, opens its doors to welcome discerning guests. With its grand unveiling in 2024,

READ MORE 

Savouring Dorset

Dorset, a region known for its picturesque landscapes and charming towns, is also a haven for food enthusiasts. From fresh seafood along the coast to hearty country fare

READ MORE 

Dorset’s Canvas

Nestled in the southwestern part of England, Dorset is a visual feast for nature enthusiasts, a region where landscapes seamlessly blend picturesque coastlines, rolling hills, and historic landmarks.

READ MORE 

Chronicles of Time

Nestled in the heart of Dorset, the picturesque town of Sherborne and its surrounding areas whisper tales of a rich and captivating history. From medieval castles to ancient abbeys, this region is a treasure trove of stories that have shaped its landscapes and communities.

READ MORE 

The Top 5 Places to Explore in Dorset

Nestled in the southwestern part of England, Dorset is a picturesque county that beckons travelers with its diverse landscapes, rich history, and charming towns.

READ MORE 

The Best Towns for Unforgettable Short Breaks

Dorset, with its idyllic landscapes, historic charm, and inviting coastline, stands as a treasure trove of picturesque towns, each offering a unique and enchanting atmosphere.

READ MORE