In the heart of Hardy Country sits the market town of Dorchester. Founded by the Romans in C 43AD, the town has much history. Places of interest include the archaeological sites of Maiden Castle, the largest Iron Age hill fort in the country, and Maumbury rings, originally used as a roman amphitheatre.

The Old Crown Court is worth a visit. This is where the Tolpuddle Martyrs were sentenced in 1834. The town is home to several museums including the Dinosaur museum.

The statue of Thomas Hardy takes pride of place at the top of the town. He was born nearby and set his famous novel ‘The Mayor of Casterbridge’ in Dorchester.