Holiday rentals in Warmwell

The soothing name of Warmwell mirrors its distinctly attractive qualities, this being a picture-perfect Dorset village, a few miles south of Dorchester. Thatched cottages that look as if they’ve just leapt from the canvas of a watercolour painting nestle alongside quaint farms and mills. The Church of Holy Trinity dates from the 13th century and is surrounded by a tranquil churchyard teeming with wildlife. Warmwell House is a Jacobean manor with extensive grounds that for many generations was in the possession of the local aristocratic de Warmwell family. The village is a delightful place to base yourself as you explore the local countryside, the bustling town of Dorchester, the seaside resort of Weymouth, and the world-renowned, fossil-strewn Jurassic Coast, which is just a few miles away.

The high summer season, between July and September, is the busiest time of year here. If you’re looking for a more tranquil experience, you might prefer to visit in late summer or spring, when you can expect fine weather without the crowds. In this sheltered southwestern part of the United Kingdom, extreme weather is unlikely, but you may certainly encounter the occasional rain shower, so it’s good to have waterproofs on hand. This part of the world is delightful at Christmastime, with nearby towns such as Dorchester illuminated for the season. An annual festival to the author Thomas Hardy, who is synonymous with the region, takes place in July.

The Tank Museum

Situated in nearby Bovington, this unique museum contains the largest number of tanks anywhere in the world (other than a few national armies). The story of the armoured military vehicle is explored, from the earliest examples to the latest cutting-edge equipment. And during special events throughout the year, these military marvels are put through their paces during exercises and displays.

Lulworth Cove

Lulworth Cove and the breathtaking scenery surrounding it is a geological wonder. The sedimentary rocks and erosion by the ocean have created a number of unique landforms such as the famous Durdle Door stone archway. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site-designated Jurassic Coast, Lulworth Cove is a great spot to search for fossils, and a visit to the nearby Lulworth Castle is recommended.

Hardy’s Birthplace

There’s no escaping it: This part of the world is Thomas Hardy country. Though he disguised it as Wessex in his novels and poems, he was a Dorset man through and through, born in nearby Higher Bockhampton. The Hardy’s Birthplace Visitor Centre is a short walk from the cottage where the author was born, both of which are run by the National Trust. You’ll encounter ephemera from the writer’s life and information about his inspirations and work.