Things to do on Portland

Things to do

Things to do on Portland

On a day out in Dorset, a place which is probably not on the tourist map so much as its neighbouring town of Weymouth, is Portland. The peninsula, which dangles off the south coast, has a surprising amount to do, so if you want to avoid the summer beach crowds in Weymouth, then head over to Portland for something a little different.

It wouldn’t be 'days out' article without a reference to a castle, and luckily for all you culture vultures, Portland does have its very own castle. Possibly not quite what you’d expect, as it is in fact more of a coastal defensive fort, but it served Henry VIII very well and is still standing. Portland Castle has several floors to explore, as well as interactive displays, dressing up, and a fabulous tea room and gift shop as well. Free to English Heritage members and a small fee for non-members, an audio guide is included in the price, and is well worth listening to if you want to brush up on your history. 

If a castle isn’t what you’re after, then perhaps one of the three museums on the isle can tempt you instead. There is, quite naturally, the Portland Museum, or for something a little more specific, then there is also the Castletown D-Day Centre, and The Grove Prison Museum. The prison museum in particular attracts many visitors off the beaten track and is completely free to go in and absorb some of the history of the island.

For the geologists and nature lovers among you, then the Tout Quarry Sculpture Park and Nature Reserve is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The quarry has created its very own stone circle, similar to that at Avebury, and stands proudly erected in white stone. If you want to stretch your legs for a couple of hours then you will be welcomed by peace and quiet, along with natural rock formations, sculptures, wildlife and sea views. Plus free entry and free parking is always a hit! 

After all the fresh air and exercise, then you’ll have more than earned some good grub. The Lobster Pot at the far end of the island offers amazing crab sandwiches, as well as excellent cream teas. There is even the stunning view of Portland Bill Lighthouse for you to enjoy in the background. 

Alternatively, particularly in the height of summer, Quiddles Cafe Beach Bar provides excellent quality food for all the family, situated right on the beach so the kids can go and play whilst you brood over a well earned cuppa. 

Naturally there are also beaches surrounding you pretty much anywhere you go in Portland, so there is nothing wrong with simply setting up a pitch on the sands and enjoying the seaside with all the family.

Portland

 

The Captain's House, Portland

More reading

Famous regional foods across the UK

Famous regional foods across the UK

From the Cornish pasty to sticky toffee pudding, the UK has many delicious dishes to its name. Here are some of our regional favourites…

Classic Fodder 1 year ago Annie Cowen
Top ways to celebrate the Bank Holiday

Top ways to celebrate the Bank Holiday

From bluebell walks and cream teas to garden parties and picnics, here are some of our favourite ways to celebrate a bank holiday weekend.

Things to do 1 year ago Annie Cowen
Dorset festivals 2018

Dorset festivals 2018

Yet another reason to make sure that at least part of your summer holiday is spent in Dorset, there are festivals a-plenty to add excitement to your visit.

Places to Go 6 years ago Becky Bye
Dorset escapes

Dorset escapes

With the children back at school it is safe for the parents and grandparents to get out into the world unhindered; this might be the perfect time for a romantic getaway, just the two of you on a Dorset escape.

Places to Go 6 years ago Becky Bye