The Local Area
We have compiled a list of recommendations entailing all the lovely things you can do whilst visiting us here in West Dorset. We hope to exhibit the wide variety this area has to offer, from beautiful beaches and historic houses to fantastic local food and vibrant events. There truly is something for everyone to enjoy.
The Local Area
We have compiled our list of best recommendations for all the lovely things you can do whilst visiting us here in West Dorset! From beautiful beaches and historic houses to fantastic local food and vibrant events, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Places to Eat
Places to Eat
There are so many dining options nearby that showcase what Dorset has to offer culinary-wise. Whether you are after a quaint local pub with home-cooked classics, experts in fresh-caught seafood, or a relaxing light lunch, we have got the place for you. These are a few of our favourite, tried-and-tested local places we think you have to visit!
The Winyard’s Gap
Under two miles from Buckham Mills sits The Winyard’s Gap, a traditional country pub home to one of the West Country’s most spectacular views. You can either arrive with the ease of a 5-minute drive or adventure with a 35-minute scenic walk. Whatever you choose, you will be rewarded with excellent pub food, local ales, and an unforgettable panorama across the Dorset countryside. This pub is a perfect spot for lunch or dinner.
Admiral Hood
Our local pub, The Admiral Hood in Mosterton, is just a 10-minute walk down the road from Buckham Mills. A proper family-friendly village pub with a great selection of beers and a lovely pub garden, that is perfect for those summer afternoons!
Ollerod
4.5 miles from Buckham Mills in the lovely town of Beaminster, sits The Ollerod a restaurant that is absolutely great for lunch or dinner. On the finer end of dining locally, The Ollerod offers a touch of class without pretension. The menu is fantastic, the cocktails are excellent, and the waiting staff truly take care of you.
Rise
A 25-minute drive from Buckham Mills, situated in the seaside location of West Bay, is Rise.This café/ bar features a broad menu that offers something for everyone, which can be enjoyed alongside fantastic cocktails. Great for families and dog-friendly, boasting a beautifully designed, trendy interior, Rise offers a relaxed dining experience. The restaurant features large glass windows overlooking the atmospheric views of West Bay harbour.
Stableyard Broadwindsor
Just ten minutes down the road from Buckham Mills is The Stable Yard Café in Broadwindsor. A lovely, down-to-earth café serving simple lunch options and delicious homemade cakes for all. The Stable Yard is a perfect local spot. It is unfussy, with simple honest food and a friendly welcome for those looking for lunch.
Dorshi
Dorshi, in Bridport, is one of our absolute favourite local restaurants. This small, intimate Asian fusion restaurant is a real hidden gem that has earned itself quite the reputation locally. Nestled away in a Bridport backstreet, it is a perfect spot for a special evening out, though tables can be hard to come by, so we definitely recommend booking ahead. The creative menu features their famous dumplings, alongside other innovative pan-Asian small plates, all complemented by fantastically imaginative cocktails.
The Station Kitchen
(They have recently rebranded as The Platform, but it’s all the same and just a great!)
The Station Kitchen in West Bay offers a truly unique dining experience in a converted railway station and restored railway carriage. With a menu that celebrates local produce and seafood, it’s a must-visit destination that perfectly combines great food with distinctive character.
Brassica Restaurant
Brassica Restaurant in Beaminster is a dining spot that’s earned quite a reputation for its seasonal, locally-sourced menu. Just a short drive away, this charming restaurant offers refined European cuisine in an elegant but relaxed setting. It’s a perfect choice for a special dinner out during your stay.
Places to Eat
There are so many dining options nearby that showcase what Dorset has to offer culinary-wise. Whether you are after a quaint local pub with home-cooked classics, experts in fresh-caught seafood, or a relaxing light lunch, we have got the place for you. These are a few of our favourite, tried-and-tested local places we think you have to visit!
The Winyard’s Gap
Under two miles from Buckham Mills sits The Winyard’s Gap, a traditional country pub home to one of the West Country’s most spectacular views. You can either arrive with the ease of a 5-minute drive or adventure with a 35-minute scenic walk. Whatever you choose, you will be rewarded with excellent pub food, local ales, and an unforgettable panorama across the Dorset countryside. This pub is a perfect spot for lunch or dinner.
Admiral Hood
Our local pub, The Admiral Hood in Mosterton, is just a 10-minute walk down the road from Buckham Mills. A proper family-friendly village pub with a great selection of beers and a lovely pub garden, that is perfect for those summer afternoons!
Ollerod
4.5 miles from Buckham Mills in the lovely town of Beaminster, sits The Ollerod a restaurant that is absolutely great for lunch or dinner. On the finer end of dining locally, The Ollerod offers a touch of class without pretension. The menu is fantastic, the cocktails are excellent, and the waiting staff truly take care of you.
Rise
A 25-minute drive from Buckham Mills, situated in the seaside location of West Bay, is Rise.This café/ bar features a broad menu that offers something for everyone, which can be enjoyed alongside fantastic cocktails. Great for families and dog-friendly, boasting a beautifully designed, trendy interior, Rise offers a relaxed dining experience. The restaurant features large glass windows overlooking the atmospheric views of West Bay harbour.
Stableyard Broadwindsor
Just ten minutes down the road from Buckham Mills is The Stable Yard Café in Broadwindsor. A lovely, down-to-earth café serving simple lunch options and delicious homemade cakes for all. The Stable Yard is a perfect local spot. It is unfussy, with simple honest food and a friendly welcome for those looking for lunch.
Dorshi
Dorshi, in Bridport, is one of our absolute favourite local restaurants. This small, intimate Asian fusion restaurant is a real hidden gem that has earned itself quite the reputation locally. Nestled away in a Bridport backstreet, it is a perfect spot for a special evening out, though tables can be hard to come by, so we definitely recommend booking ahead. The creative menu features their famous dumplings, alongside other innovative pan-Asian small plates, all complemented by fantastically imaginative cocktails.
The Station Kitchen
(They have recently rebranded as The Platform, but it’s all the same and just a great!)
The Station Kitchen in West Bay offers a truly unique dining experience in a converted railway station and restored railway carriage. With a menu that celebrates local produce and seafood, it’s a must-visit destination that perfectly combines great food with distinctive character.
Brassica Restaurant
Brassica Restaurant in Beaminster is a dining spot that’s earned quite a reputation for its seasonal, locally-sourced menu. Just a short drive away, this charming restaurant offers refined European cuisine in an elegant but relaxed setting. It’s a perfect choice for a special dinner out during your stay.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
Beaches and Coastal Areas
One of the best things about staying at Buckham Mills is having some of Dorset’s most spectacular beaches right on your doorstep. From fossil-hunting to perfect sea swimming areas, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful coastal spots. Here are some of our favourite local beaches we love sharing with guests!
West Bay
West Bay stands out with its stunning golden cliffs and bustling harbour atmosphere, an easy 25-minute drive from Buckham Mills. Famous for its feature as a backdrop in the TV series Broadchurch, but we also love it just for a trip to the beach. It has some great pubs and cafes, such as Rise, as previously mentioned.
Hive Beach
Hive Beach at Burton Bradstock is another great part of the Jurrasic coastline, around 30 minutes from Buckham Mills. The National Trust car park makes it easy to visit (free for members). The beach itself is a sweeping mix of shingle and sand, backed by impressive cliffs, and it is a lovely spot for a paddle or a walk along the shore.
Lyme Regis
Lyme Regis is one of Dorset’s most famous seaside towns, right on the Devon/Dorset border and about 35 minutes from Buckham Mills. It can get busy in peak season, (and for good reason),but its sandy beach, historic Cobb harbour wall, and excellent selection of eateries make it well worth a visit. The Cobb itself is quite a sight – this curved stone pier has protected the town for hundreds of years and offers fantastic views back across the bay. The main beach is perfect for swimming and sandcastles, especially for families with young children.
Golden Cap
Golden Cap is the highest point on the entire South Coast, offering absolutely incredible views across Lyme Bay – on a clear day you can see all the way along the coastline in both directions. We recommend parking at Langdon Hill car park and walking from there. It is a proper hill walk that will get your heart pumping, but the views from the top make every step worthwhile.
Charmouth Beach
Charmouth Beach is famous worldwide for its Jurassic fossils, and you have got a great chance of finding your own piece of prehistoric history, especially after stormy weather or high tides. The Heritage Coast Centre right on the beach is brilliant for identifying your finds and learning more about what to look for. It is a perfect spot for families who fancy trying their hand at some fossil hunting.
Durdle Door
Durdle Door is the iconic image of Dorset and, even though it is an hour’s drive (33 miles) from Buckham Mills, it is absolutely worth making the trip. This natural limestone arch is truly incredible to see in person, and the beach and coastal views are simply stunning. We should mention it can get very busy, especially in peak season, but there is a reason it is Dorset’s most photographed landmark. If you are staying with us for more than a few days, we would definitely recommend making the journey – just try to avoid peak times if you can.
Dancing ledge
Dancing Ledge is a fascinating spot on the Purbeck coast, and if you are making the trip to Durdle Door, it is worth extending your adventure to visit this unique place. This wild swimming spot was formed from an old quarry platform cut into the cliff, the pool was carved out by quarrymen so that local school children could swim in it. The pool fills up with seawater at high tide, creating a fantastic seawater pool that you can enjoy today. It is a bit of a walk to get there, but that adds to the adventure.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
One of the best things about staying at Buckham Mills is having some of Dorset’s most spectacular beaches right on your doorstep. From fossil-hunting to perfect sea swimming areas, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful coastal spots. Here are some of our favourite local beaches we love sharing with guests!
West Bay
West Bay stands out with its stunning golden cliffs and bustling harbour atmosphere, an easy 25-minute drive from Buckham Mills. Famous for its feature as a backdrop in the TV series Broadchurch, but we also love it just for a trip to the beach. It has some great pubs and cafes, such as Rise, as previously mentioned.
Hive Beach
Hive Beach at Burton Bradstock is another great part of the Jurrasic coastline, around 30 minutes from Buckham Mills. The National Trust car park makes it easy to visit (free for members). The beach itself is a sweeping mix of shingle and sand, backed by impressive cliffs, and it is a lovely spot for a paddle or a walk along the shore.
Lyme Regis
Lyme Regis is one of Dorset’s most famous seaside towns, right on the Devon/Dorset border and about 35 minutes from Buckham Mills. It can get busy in peak season, (and for good reason),but its sandy beach, historic Cobb harbour wall, and excellent selection of eateries make it well worth a visit. The Cobb itself is quite a sight – this curved stone pier has protected the town for hundreds of years and offers fantastic views back across the bay. The main beach is perfect for swimming and sandcastles, especially for families with young children.
Golden Cap
Golden Cap is the highest point on the entire South Coast, offering absolutely incredible views across Lyme Bay – on a clear day you can see all the way along the coastline in both directions. We recommend parking at Langdon Hill car park and walking from there. It is a proper hill walk that will get your heart pumping, but the views from the top make every step worthwhile.
Charmouth Beach
Charmouth beach is famous worldwide for its Jurassic fossils, and you’ve got a great chance of finding your own piece of prehistoric history, especially after stormy weather or high tides. The Heritage Coast Centre right on the beach is brilliant for identifying your finds and learning more about what to look for. It’s a perfect spot for families who fancy trying their hand at some fossil hunting.
Durdle Door
Durdle Door is the iconic image of Dorset and, even though it is an hour’s drive (33 miles) from Buckham Mills, it is absolutely worth making the trip. This natural limestone arch is truly incredible to see in person, and the beach and coastal views are simply stunning. We should mention it can get very busy, especially in peak season, but there is a reason it is Dorset’s most photographed landmark. If you are staying with us for more than a few days, we would definitely recommend making the journey – just try to avoid peak times if you can.
Dancing ledge
Dancing Ledge is a fascinating spot on the Purbeck coast, and if you are making the trip to Durdle Door, it is worth extending your adventure to visit this unique place. This wild swimming spot was formed from an old quarry platform cut into the cliff, the pool was carved out by quarrymen so that local school children could swim in it. The pool fills up with seawater at high tide, creating a fantastic seawater pool that you can enjoy today. It is a bit of a walk to get there, but that adds to the adventure.
Gardens, Historic Houses and Museums
Gardens, Historic Houses and Museums
Beyond Dorset’s stunning coastline, our corner of the county is dotted with beautiful gardens, historic houses and museums, just waiting to be explored. From manor houses with centuries of history, to peaceful gardens, here are some of our favourite cultural spots to visit during your stay!
Mapperton House and Gardens
Mapperton House and Gardens is just down the road from Buckham Mills, and it is an absolute Dorset gem. This beautiful family home and estate sits in the heart of West Dorset, with stunning gardens that are typically open to visitors from late March through to September. The house itself is a magnificent example of a Tudor manor, and the gardens are just as wonderful.
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is a stunning visit, about 40 minutes from Buckham Mills. These spectacular gardens have been flourishing since 1765, thanks to the special microclimate that allows exotic plants to thrive. It is a beautiful place to wander through at any time of year, with stunning magnolias in spring, bright colours in summer, and amazing autumn foliage.
Corfe castle
Corfe Castle is one of Dorset’s most dramatic sights, about an hour’s drive from Buckham Mills. The magnificent ruins sit high on a hill, dominating the village below and telling tales of 1,000 years of history. The castle’s position offers incredible views across Purbeck, and it is easy to spend hours exploring the ruins and imagining what this mighty fortress was like in its heyday. The charming village of Corfe Castle itself, with its traditional pubs and sweet shops, makes it well worth the journey.
Sherborne Castle and Gardens
Sherborne Castle and Gardens offers a perfect day out, about 30 minutes from Buckham Mills. Built in 1594 by Sir Walter Raleigh, this historic house sits in 42 acres of stunning landscaped gardens designed by ‘Capability’ Brown. The gardens are beautiful year-round, with spectacular displays of tulips and daffodils in spring, and the lakeside walks are particularly peaceful. Inside, the castle is packed with fascinating historical artefacts and artwork spanning 400 years of English history.
Dorset Museum and Art Gallery
The Dorset Museum & Art Gallery sits in the heart of Dorchester, about 35 minutes from Buckham Mills. This recently transformed museum is a fascinating place to explore 250 million years of the county’s history. There are four main galleries to discover – from amazing archaeology and dinosaur bones to Thomas Hardy’s study and stunning artwork.
Gardens, Historic Houses and Museums
Beyond Dorset’s stunning coastline, our corner of the county is dotted with beautiful gardens, historic houses and museums, just waiting to be explored. From manor houses with centuries of history, to peaceful gardens, here are some of our favourite cultural spots to visit during your stay!
Mapperton House and Gardens
Mapperton House and Gardens is just down the road from Buckham Mills, and it’s an absolute Dorset gem. This beautiful family home and estate sits in the heart of West Dorset, with stunning gardens that are typically open to visitors from late March through to September. The house itself is a magnificent example of a Tudor manor, and the gardens are just as wonderful.
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is a stunning vist, about 40 minutes from Buckham Mills. These spectacular gardens have been flourishing since 1765, thanks to their own special microclimate that allows exotic plants to thrive. It’s a beautiful place to wander through any time of year, with stunning magnolias in spring, bright colours in summer, and amazing autumn foliage.
Corfe castle
Corfe Castle is one of Dorset’s most dramatic sights, about an hour’s drive from Buckham Mills. These magnificent ruins sit high on a hill, dominating the village below and telling tales of 1,000 years of history. The castle’s position offers incredible views across Purbeck, and it’s easy to spend hours exploring the ruins and imagining what this mighty fortress was like in its heyday. The charming village of Corfe Castle itself, with its traditional pubs and sweet shops, makes it well worth the journey.
Sherborne Castle and Gardens
Sherborne Castle and Gardens offers a perfect day out, about 30 minutes from Buckham Mills. Built in 1594 by Sir Walter Raleigh, this historic house sits in 42 acres of stunning landscaped gardens designed by ‘Capability’ Brown. The gardens are beautiful year-round, with spectacular displays of tulips and daffodils in spring, and the lakeside walks are particularly peaceful. Inside, the castle is packed with fascinating historical artifacts and artwork spanning across 400 years of English history.
Dorset Museum and Art Gallery
The Dorset Museum & Art Gallery sits in the heart of Dorchester, about 35 minutes from Buckham Mills. This recently transformed museum is a fascinating place to explore 250 million years of the county’s history. There are four main galleries to discover – from amazing archaeology and dinosaur bones to Thomas Hardy’s study and stunning artwork.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor Activities
There are so many great outdoor activity options in the area, some near and some a bit further away – it all just depends what you are looking for!
Local Walking
There are plenty of beautiful walks right from your doorstep at Buckham Mills, with footpaths leading you through the surrounding countryside. For something a bit different, Lewesdon Hill (Dorset’s highest point) and Pilsdon Pen are both nearby, offering fantastic views across the countryside from their summits. If you are happy to venture even further, the South West Coast Path of course gives you access to some of Britain’s most spectacular coastal walking.
Lyme Bay RIB Charter
Lyme Bay RIB Charter offers fantastic trips along our stunning coastline, running from Easter through to October (weather permitting). Based in West Bay harbour, they take you out on high-speed RIB boats to explore the dramatic Jurassic Coast from a completely different perspective. They offer everything from gentle sightseeing cruises to more exciting fast-paced trips – it is a brilliant way to see those famous cliffs from the water.
Bridport and West Dorset Golf Club
Bridport and West Dorset Golf Club is home to one of the most spectacular par 3s you will find anywhere. The famous 6th hole, known as Port Coombe, is only 129 yards long but has a dramatic 90-foot drop from the clifftop tee to the green below. It has been voted one of the top 50 par 3s in Great Britain and Ireland! The rest of this cliff-top course offers stunning views across Lyme Bay, making it a really special place for a round of golf.
Cricket St Thomas Golf Club
Cricket St Thomas Golf Club is just over the Somerset border, about 15 minutes from Buckham Mills. This parkland course offers a different golfing experience from the coastal challenges of Bridport, winding through beautiful countryside with lovely views across the Axe Valley.
Outdoor Activities
There are so many great different outdoor activity options here, some near and some a bit further away – it all just depends what you’re looking for!
Local Walking
There are plenty of beautiful walks right from your doorstep at Buckham Mills, with footpaths leading you through the surrounding countryside. For something a bit different, Lewesdon Hill (Dorset’s highest point) and Pilsdon Pen are both nearby, offering fantastic views across the countryside from their summits. If you are happy to venture even further, the South West Coast Path of course gives you access to some of Britain’s most spectacular coastal walking.
Lyme Bay RIB Charter
Lyme Bay RIB Charter offers fantastic trips along our stunning coastline, running from Easter through to October (weather permitting). Based in West Bay harbour, they take you out on high-speed RIB boats to explore the dramatic Jurassic Coast from a completely different perspective. They offer everything from gentle sightseeing cruises to more exciting fast-paced trips – it’s a brilliant way to see those famous cliffs from the water.
Bridport and West Dorset Golf Club
Bridport and West Dorset Golf Club is home to one of the most spectacular par 3s you’ll find anywhere. The famous 6th hole, known as Port Coombe, is only 129 yards long but has a dramatic 90-foot drop from the clifftop tee to the green below. It’s been voted one of the top 50 par 3s in Great Britain and Ireland! The rest of this cliff-top course offers stunning views across Lyme Bay, making it a really special place for a round of golf.
Cricket St Thomas Golf Club
Cricket St Thomas Golf Club is just over the Somerset border, about 15 minutes from Buckham Mills. This parkland course offers a different golfing experience from the coastal challenges of Bridport, winding through beautiful countryside with lovely views across the Axe Valley.
Shopping
Shopping
A short drive takes you to some of the region’s best shopping spots – from traditional market towns to fascinating antique shops.
Bridport market
Bridport’s street market is a real West Dorset institution, taking over the wide main streets every Wednesday and Saturday morning. It is a bustling mix of local food producers, antiques, crafts, and pretty much everything in between! The town really comes alive on market days, with stalls stretching down South Street and East Street.
(Top tip: arrive early for easier parking on market days.)
Crewkerne, Dorchester and Yeovil
Crewkerne, Dorchester and Yeovil are all within an easy drive when you need larger shops and supermarkets. Each town has all the high street names you would expect, mixed in with some excellent independent stores. Yeovil is the largest, with several retail parks and a good selection of major chains. Dorchester offers a nice blend of familiar brands and local shops along its historic streets. Crewkerne, our closest town, is smaller but has everything you might need for everyday shopping, including a great traditional butcher and a Lidl and Waitrose,
Bridport’s Antiques & Vintage Quarter
Bridport’s Antiques & Vintage Quarter on the St Michael’s Trading Estate, is a must-visit for anyone who loves hunting for treasures. It is a large antique market with a wonderful mix of dealers spread across the old rope-making buildings. Open most days but particularly lively on weekends, you will find everything from vintage furniture and collectibles, to retro clothing and architectural salvage.
Exeter
Exeter makes for a great day out shopping and it is easy to reach – just over an hour on the train from Crewkerne station. Devon’s capital city offers a much wider shopping experience than our local towns, with all the major high street brands in Princesshay Shopping Centre and along the High Street. There is also a lovely historic quarter around Cathedral Green with independent shops and restaurants, plus the covered Guildhall Shopping Centre.
Shopping
A short drive takes you to some of the region’s best shopping spots – from traditional market towns to fascinating antique shops.
Bridport market
Bridport’s street market is a real West Dorset institution, taking over the wide main streets every Wednesday and Saturday morning. It’s a bustling mix of local food producers, antiques, crafts, and pretty much everything in between! The town really comes alive on market days, with stalls stretching down South Street and East Street.
(Top tip: arrive early for easier parking on market days.)
Crewkerne, Dorchester and Yeovil
Crewkerne, Dorchester and Yeovil are all within an easy drive when you need larger shops and supermarkets. Each town has all the high street names you would expect, mixed in with some excellent independent stores. Yeovil is the largest, with several retail parks and a good selection of major chains. Dorchester offers a nice blend of familiar brands and local shops along its historic streets. Crewkerne, our closest town, is smaller but has everything you might need for everyday shopping, including a great traditional butcher and a Lidl and Waitrose,
Bridport’s Antiques & Vintage Quarter
Bridport’s Antiques & Vintage Quarter on the St Michael’s Trading Estate, is a must-visit for anyone who loves hunting for treasures. It is a large antique market with a wonderful mix of dealers spread across the old rope-making buildings. Open most days but particularly lively on weekends, you will find everything from vintage furniture and collectibles, to retro clothing and architectural salvage.
Exeter
Exeter makes for a great day out shopping and it is easy to reach – just over an hour on the train from Crewkerne station. Devon’s capital city offers a much wider shopping experience than our local towns, with all the major high street brands in Princesshay Shopping Centre and along the High Street. There is also a lovely historic quarter around Cathedral Green with independent shops and restaurants, plus the covered Guildhall Shopping Centre.
Local Events
Local Events
Throughout the year, our corner of Dorset comes alive with traditional festivals and events
The Melplash Show
The Melplash Show (held annually in late August) is one of Dorset’s biggest and best-loved agricultural shows. This traditional country show brings together the best of local farming, food and rural life. You will find livestock competitions, horse shows, local craft stalls, food producers, and plenty of family entertainment. It is a wonderful day out that gives you a real taste of West Dorset country life – and the perfect chance to sample some delicious local food and drink!
The West Bay Power Boat Racing
The West Bay Power Boat Racing event is a thrilling spectacle that takes place right off our coast. The event usually takes place in May. It is quite a sight to see these powerful boats racing against the backdrop of West Bay’s famous cliffs, and you can watch all the action for free from various viewing points along the harbour and beach. The event brings a real buzz to West Bay, with boats launching from the slipway and plenty of racing throughout the day.
Band on the Green
Band on the Green is a wonderful summer event to look out for during your stay. Throughout the summer, local bands sometimes perform on Mosterton’s village green at weekends – the perfect way to enjoy some live music on a summer evening!
Bridport Food Festival
Bridport Food Festival is a highlight of the summer calendar, celebrating the fantastic local food and drink that West Dorset is famous for. Held in June, the week-long festival features cooking demonstrations, food markets, and special events at local restaurants. The festival culminates in a fantastic Food & Beer Festival day in Asker Meadows, where you can sample delicious local produce, watch chef demonstrations, and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Local Events
Throughout the year, our corner of Dorset comes alive with traditional festivals and events
The Melplash Show
The Melplash Show (held annually in late August) is one of Dorset’s biggest and best-loved agricultural shows. This traditional country show brings together the best of local farming, food and rural life. You will find livestock competitions, horse shows, local craft stalls, food producers, and plenty of family entertainment. It is a wonderful day out that gives you a real taste of West Dorset country life – and the perfect chance to sample some delicious local food and drink!
The West Bay Power Boat Racing
The West Bay Power Boat Racing event is a thrilling spectacle that takes place right off our coast. The event usually takes place in May. It’s quite a sight to see these powerful boats racing against the backdrop of West Bay’s famous cliffs, and you can watch all the action for free from various viewing points along the harbour and beach. The event brings a real buzz to West Bay, with boats launching from the slipway and plenty of racing throughout the day.
Band on the Green
Band on the Green is a wonderful summer event to look out for during your stay. Throughout the summer, local bands sometimes perform on Mosterton’s village green at weekends – the perfect way to enjoy some live music on a summer evening!
Bridport Food Festival
Bridport Food Festival is a highlight of the summer calendar, celebrating the fantastic local food and drink that West Dorset is famous for. Held in June, the week-long festival features cooking demonstrations, food markets, and special events at local restaurants. The festival culminates in a fantastic Food & Beer Festival day in Asker Meadows, where you can sample delicious local produce, watch chef demonstrations, and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Some Useful Local Information
Some Useful Local Information
Here are some recommendations for the more practical things you might need during your stay
The nearest supermarkets are Waitrose and Lidl in Crewkerne (10 minutes drive), where you can find everything you need for your stay. For those last-minute essentials, there is also a small Spar shop in Mosterton, just a few minutes from Buckham Mills.
There are pharmacies in both Beaminster and Crewkerne. For anything more serious, Yeovil District Hospital is about 20 minutes away – though hopefully you won’t need it!
Crewkerne railway station is just 10 minutes from Buckham Mills, offering direct services to London Waterloo in one direction and Exeter in the other. It’s on the South Western main line.
Some Useful Local Information
Here are some recommendations for the more practical things you might need during your stay
The nearest supermarkets are Waitrose and Lidl in Crewkerne (10 minutes drive), where you can find everything you need for your stay. For those last-minute essentials, there is also a small Spar shop in Mosterton, just a few minutes from Buckham Mills.
There are pharmacies in both Beaminster and Crewkerne. For anything more serious, Yeovil District Hospital is about 20 minutes away – though hopefully you won’t need it!
Crewkerne railway station is just 10 minutes from Buckham Mills, offering direct services to London Waterloo in one direction and Exeter in the other. It’s on the South Western main line.