Yearly visitors are pulled back to Wareham each year for a reason; its rich history, beautiful placement between two rivers and activities sure to amaze and relax.
Whether you’ve been before and are looking for a new experience, or new to the scene and want to see what’s on the horizon, we will be your virtual tour guide, so you’re ready to experience it at its fullest.
Next to one of those rivers? Our wonderful grade II listed country house hotel awaits you. Choose from a variety of thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, each featuring plush furnishings, modern amenities, and stunning views of our gardens and River Frome.
See more at Priory Wareham today.
See local events in Wareham here.
Explore Wareham’s History
The best place to start when wondering what to do in Wareham is right in the town centre. Wareham is a historic market town situated between the River Piddle and the River Frome 8 miles southwest of Poole, and its rich heritage is evident at every turn. The town’s most distinctive feature is its ancient Saxon walls – some of the best-preserved examples in the country. Wareham is famous for the monumental Saxon defensive walls which surround the town, originally built by Alfred the Great in the 9th century to protect against Viking raids.
Take a leisurely walk along the Wareham Walls Walk, a one-mile signposted route that offers scenic views and fascinating insights into the town’s 1,000-year history. Along the way, you’ll discover remnants of the old Norman castle and enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.
Discover the Picturesque Wareham Quay
No visit to Wareham would be complete without spending time at the iconic Wareham Quay. The Quay, the place that’s always been at the heart of Wareham. It surely is one of the most photographed locations in Dorset! This charming riverside spot is perfect for a relaxing afternoon, whether you’re enjoying a riverside meal at The Old Granary or simply watching the world go by.
The Quay also serves as your gateway to river adventures. You can hire boats, kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards to explore the beautiful River Frome at your own pace. For a more leisurely experience, consider taking a trip on the Paddle Steamer Monarch, one of only three operational paddle steamers in Britain.
Immerse Yourself in Culture and History
When considering what to do in Wareham Dorset, culture enthusiasts shouldn’t miss St Martin’s Church, which houses a remarkable stone effigy of T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) lying in full Arab dress. St Martin’s church features a striking effigy of T.E. Lawrence, lying in full Arab dress. He was based at nearby Bovington Camp.For a dose of local history, visit the Wareham Town Museum on East Street, which tells the fascinating story of Wareham from prehistoric times to the present day. Film lovers will appreciate The Rex Cinema, The oldest running cinema in Dorset! The Rex is a much loved community cinema run by volunteers, offering everything from recent releases to live-streamed theatre and opera.
For young adults
Wareham’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Dorset’s most beloved family attractions. Just a short drive away, you’ll find Monkey World, a primate and ape rescue centre. They rescue chimps, monkeys, and apes from things like the illegal pet trade and entertainment industries. The 65-acre park is home to over 250 primates and features outdoor play areas that children absolutely love.
For history buffs and military enthusiasts, The Tank Museum at Bovington offers “the biggest day out in history.” With the world’s biggest collection of tanks, exhibitions covering over 100 years of history and live action displays, you’ll be sure to have tonnes of fun at the Tank Museum.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
The area around Wareham offers spectacular natural attractions that showcase Dorset’s diverse landscapes. The tranquil Blue Pool is a scenic beauty spot and a great place for a relaxing wander along the woodland walks, now featuring the UK’s longest rope bridge for added adventure.
For wildlife enthusiasts, RSPB Arne Nature Reserve provides breathtaking views across Poole Harbour and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. The reserve features diverse habitats including heathland and ancient oak woodlands.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Corfe Castle, one of Britain’s most iconic ruins. Corfe Castle ruins are one of Britain’s most iconic and evocative survivors of the English Civil War, partially demolished in 1646 by the Parliamentarians.
The Southwest 660!
Why not take a road trip on the Southwest 660?
Looking to explore as much as possible during your trip? Take a journey from Poole to Dorset to Watchet in Somerset – following the breathtaking coastline of South West England. If you’re coming from afar, this is the perfect way to sightsee on a schedule.
The Southwest 660 website has all the information needed to plan your trip, find experiences along the way, and of course, suggest restaurants and hotels.
Coastal Wonders Within Easy Reach
What to do in Wareham extends beyond the town itself to include some of England’s most stunning coastal scenery. The nearby Jurassic Coast offers world-famous landmarks like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, both easily accessible from Wareham.
For fossil hunters, The Etches Collection Museum of Jurassic Marine Life in nearby Kimmeridge showcases incredible marine fossils discovered locally, including new species found at Kimmeridge Bay.
Events and Festivals Throughout the Year
Wareham’s calendar is packed with exciting events that add extra charm to any visit. During the summer, Wareham Quay plays host to Wareham Wednesdays with raft races, tug of war, live music and fireworks taking place on Wednesday evenings during the school holidays.Other highlights include the mid-July Wareham Carnival, the Purbeck Film Festival (the UK’s longest-running rural film festival), and various markets and craft fairs throughout the year.
Make Priory Wareham Your Perfect Base
After a day of exploring all that Wareham has to offer, retreat to the luxury and comfort of Priory Wareham. This Grade II-listed hotel sits beautifully beside the River Frome, offering individually designed rooms filled with antique furnishings and elegant 20th-century pieces. The hotel’s Garden Room restaurant showcases the finest local Dorset ingredients, while Cloisters Bar provides the perfect setting for unwinding with handcrafted cocktails made from locally inspired ingredients.
Located just a 10-minute walk from Wareham’s town centre, Priory Wareham offers the perfect combination of tranquil riverside setting and convenient access to all the attractions mentioned above. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, family adventure, or peaceful retreat, the hotel’s exceptional hospitality and stunning river views provide an unforgettable base for your Wareham experience.
Book your stay at Priory Wareham today and discover why this historic Saxon town continues to captivate visitors from around the world. From ancient walls to river adventures, from family attractions to coastal wonders, Wareham truly offers something special for every traveller.
