Here are a few of our favourite scenic drives, all within easy reach of Wimborne.
The Purbeck Route: Corfe Castle to Swanage
Few drives capture the beauty of Dorset quite like the route through the Isle of Purbeck. Starting at the iconic Corfe Castle, you'll travel through rolling countryside with stunning views before arriving at the traditional seaside town of Swanage.
Along the way, you'll pass pretty villages, open heathland and some of Dorset's most recognisable landscapes.
Recommended stop: Enjoy coffee and homemade cake in Corfe Castle village before continuing on to Swanage for a stroll along the seafront.
The New Forest Explorer
Just across the county border, the New Forest National Park offers one of the most relaxing driving experiences in the region.
Quiet roads wind through ancient woodland, open heathland and charming villages where free-roaming ponies, donkeys and cattle are a familiar sight. The route can be tailored to suit your schedule, with plenty of places to stop and explore.
Recommended stops:
- Lyndhurst for independent shops and cafés
- Brockenhurst for a traditional village atmosphere and lunch
- Beaulieu for riverside views and local attractions
The Jurassic Coast Drive
For spectacular sea views, it's hard to beat a drive along sections of Dorset's famous Jurassic Coast.
Travelling west from Poole towards Weymouth and beyond, you'll discover dramatic coastal scenery, historic harbours and beautiful beaches. The route offers plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the views or enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the sea.
Recommended stop: The harbour area in Weymouth is perfect for fish and chips, a waterfront walk or simply watching the boats come and go.
Wimborne to Cranborne
For a shorter outing, the drive north from Wimborne towards Cranborne takes you through some of Dorset's most attractive rural scenery.
Passing through rolling farmland and quiet country lanes, this route showcases the peaceful charm of the Dorset countryside. Cranborne itself is a delightful village with historic buildings, local shops and welcoming cafés.
Recommended stop: Enjoy lunch in the village before taking a stroll around the surrounding countryside.
The Coastal Road to Christchurch
Heading east from Wimborne towards Christchurch provides a wonderful combination of countryside and coastal scenery.
Once you arrive, you'll find a historic town centre, beautiful riverside walks and views across Christchurch Harbour. It's an ideal destination for a relaxed afternoon exploring independent shops, cafés and waterside paths.
Recommended stop: A waterside lunch overlooking the harbour makes the perfect end to a summer drive.
Enjoy the Journey
One of the pleasures of living at Merley Court is being perfectly positioned to explore the very best of Dorset and Hampshire. From coastal roads and historic landmarks to charming villages and countryside views, there are endless opportunities for memorable days out.
Sometimes the best summer outings aren't about rushing to a destination—they're about taking the scenic route and enjoying everything along the way.
