Dorset County Museum tells the complete story of Dorset from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum houses an outstanding collection including Jurassic fossils, Roman mosaics, and the world’s finest Thomas Hardy collection showcasing his study recreated in detail. Explore galleries on archaeology, natural history, geology, and social history. Recent renovations have created modern interactive spaces while preserving Victorian gallery charm. The museum provides essential context for understanding Dorset’s rich heritage, making it a perfect rainy-day activity and educational resource.
Photo by Ian Capper from Geograph, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Dorset County Museum
Location
Photo Gallery
Gallery images from Geograph Britain and Ireland, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. Hover over images to see photographer credits.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more places within 10km
0.0 km
Shire Hall Historic Courthouse Museum
Dorchester
18th-century courthouse where Tolpuddle Martyrs were tried, with Victorian cells and immersive justice history.
0.0 km
Dorset Museum
Dorchester
County museum with world-class Roman mosaics, Hardy's study, and comprehensive Dorset heritage.
0.0 km
Tutankhamun Exhibition
Dorchester
Recreated tomb of Tutankhamun with exact facsimile treasures in gold and precious materials.
0.0 km
Dinosaur Museum
Dorchester
Britain's first independent dinosaur museum with hands-on exhibits and real fossils.
0.0 km
Old Crown Court and Cells
Dorchester
Historic Victorian courthouse with preserved courtroom and atmospheric prison cells.
0.5 km
Max Gate
Dorchester
Thomas Hardy's Victorian villa home where he wrote his greatest novels and poetry.