r/Dorset

Currently looking at potential areas in Dorset to move to. Been looking around Christchurch or around Verwood / Ferndown. We have 2 boys 7 & 9 so would like somewhere wjth good schools, quick ish drive to the beach and things for kids to do. Any ideas on the best areas please? Would also need to be able to access the A31 for commuting. Thanks!

I was wondering if anyone had any advice for making like-minded alternative/gothic friends around the Dorset (or Hampshire) area, or knew of any good spaces where there are events etc…?

I’ve been really struggling for a long while to meet friends with similar interests to me, especially living in such a rural area… I just don’t see many people like myself about.

If there’s anyone similar on here, I’d love to hear any recs on where I can go or visit, how you made your friends, or even if theres any online groups etc. you know of for making new friends?

Thanks so much 🥺

Hello all, 31-year-old male here who can't drive (at the moment).

Just like the title states, I'll be moving to Dorset (Dorchester or Weymouth) for a new job (in Dorchester) in July 2026.

Does anyone have any opinions on where in Weymouth or Dorchester I should look for accommodation (most likely to be in a shared house)? Any areas to avoid?

All replies are much appreciated :)

Hi, I'm thinking of coming up to Dorchester for an overnight stay with my 2 kids both under 6. I don't have a particular reason to visit Dorchester other than I've never been. What is there to do for a 3 year old and a 6 year old? They are quite easy to entertain and love outdoor stuff, parks, animals, soft play, castles, farms anything. Just wanted to get out of Plymouth this weekend and see a neighbouring county.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated, places to stay, things to do etc

Thanks

Hi!

My parents were basically child brides so are coming up to their 50th wedding anniversary and we're going away to Dorset as a family to celebrate them.

My sisters and I want to treat them to a really nice seafood meal (they love seafood), and I've got a shortlist of places nearish to where we're staying.

Would love to get some recommendations and maybe a consensus on the best one(s) 😊

Parnham - 15 min drive away

The Dog House - 52 min drive

Sandro's in Lyme Regis - 44 minutes

The Seaside Boarding House - 32 minutes

The Green, Sherborne - 29 minutes

Brassica restaurant Beaminster - 15 minutes

Catch at the Old Fish Market - 33 minutes

A friend of mine is looking for a room to run her aesthetics and bodycare treatment sessions out of - she's an NHS certified practitioner and does laser hair removal, electrolysis, tattoo removal, etc. A lot of her client base are part of the LGBTQ+ community so she's looking for a space where they'd feel comfortable and welcomed.

Let me know if anyone knows of any spots that I can put her in touch with? :)