Slow Dorset by Alexandra Richards

Dorset is one of my favourite English counties and picking up Slow Dorset and reading some of Alexandra Richards' wonderful commentary has made me immediately think that I should plan a return visit soon!

The first few pages reveal an eclectic montage of colour photographs which whet your appetite for what is to follow. The six sections are:

1. North Dorset
2. Dorchester and the Piddle and Frome Valleys
3. The Marshwood Vale and West Dorset
4. Weymouth and the southern coast
5. Isle of Purbeck
6. Poole, Bournemouth and the East

and each one contains information on getting there and around and accommodation.

Throughout Alexandra Richards brings in history and literary references from Dorchester and Hardy to Lyme Regis and the Cob, well known for its appearance in the film of The French Lieutenant's Woman.

If you've never visited this county, Slow Dorset will make you want to plan a visit soon. If you do know the area, Alexandra Richards' insights will make you want to return quickly! From the typically English seaside town of Weymouth to the natural splendour of Durdle Door, one of the best known feaures of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, there is something for everyone on the coastline and a lot more inland to explore!

PWT rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

Slow Dorset: Local, characterful guides to Britain's special places (Bradt Travel Guides (Slow Guides))is available from Amazon.