2 acres hosted by Christopher H.
31 tent pitches
Off-lead friendly
Pets can be off-lead at this Hipcamp.
For a taste of delicious Dorset idyll, book a break at Monarch's Way Campsite, a small site where pitches are set in a sheltered orchard on the edge of a peaceful village. Located just off the Monarch's Way, a 625-mile long-distance footpath that crisscrosses some of England's most scenic rural areas, the pitches here are surrounded by blossoming fruit trees and dappled sunlight.
Listen out for the gentle hum of bees and occasional chirping of the birds as you settle into your cosy camping spot. What you do next is up to you – you might like to just hang around and unwind among the trees as the evening draws in, but there's also a friendly village pub a few minutes' walk away that you can stroll towards for good food and drink.
Back at your pitch, the campsite has good basic amenities, including clean toilets and fresh water taps. Well-behaved dogs and safely set up barbecues are allowed, so bring the whole family along and prepare for an alfresco cook-out or two. Nearby Sherborne (10 minutes' drive) has plenty of places to stock up, as well as other handy amenities like cafés and a railway station.Starting off in Sherborne (10 minutes' drive), take yourselves for a wander around the town's two castles, both of which are located next to a peaceful lake, before heading over to Sherborne Abbey in the bustling town centre. There's a monthly artisans' market in town where you can pick up tasty treats and souvenirs, but there's no need to worry if your dates don't coincide, as there are also farm shops and some excellent independent cafés to try.
Nature and wildlife enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to visit the Abbotsbury Swannery and Subtropical Gardens (50 minutes), both of which are located close to the pretty Dorset coast. After watching the mute swans gliding across the lagoon and checking out the garden's impressive array of flora, head down the road to the sandy beaches at Weymouth (50 minutes) for a traditional bucket and spade experience.
If you're in search of more coastal spots, Jurassic Coast towns like Lyme Regis (an hour) won't disappoint – here you can search for fossils along the water's edge, go mackerel fishing, check out the geology at nearby Charmouth Beach or get up close and personal with local sealife at the town's small aquarium.
