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Wareham

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About Wareham

Situated in the heart of rural Dorset, Wareham is a picturesque market town nestled between rolling countryside and miles of unspoilt coastline. The historic town lies on the banks of the River Frome and boasts plenty of attractions to explore, from nearby Corfe Castle, to the Swanage steam train and vibrant local festivals. Our pick of the best places to stay in Wareham includes a lovely coaching inn and luxurious restored monastery, perfect for a delightful stay in this pretty rural town.

Start your visit to Wareham by heading to the striking, 11th-century Corfe Castle (about 5 miles south of town), the location for Enid Blyton's Kirrin Island. This Grade I listed building and Scheduled Monument offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Take a tour of the castle and explore its grounds, to uncover its history spanning more than 900 years. Explore more of Wareham's history at the abandoned village of Tyneham (6 miles to the south). Its 15th century limestone church and school house museums provide a fascinating snapshot into its past.

Head to nearby Farmer Palmer's Farm Park for a great day out for all the family, where you can meet a range of animals and enjoy tractor rides, a play area and a cafe. Admire the bright blue waters of the Blue Pool Nature Reserve, or explore the surrounding trails and activities that are available to under 7s. Purbeck Park, with its steam train, bike and bus rides, is another perfect spot for a family day out. Enjoy all these fun attractions in and around the town by booking your stay at one of the best places to stay in Wareham, below!

The Best Places to stay in Wareham

For a boutique Coaching Inn

  • The Bear is a charming boutique hotel set in an 18th-century inn in the centre of Wareham. Quaint rooms have a rural chic feel with pops of bright colour, simple modern furniture, and the best boasting enormous copper baths. The restaurant serves very good seasonal British fare. An ideal base for local exploring.

For Luxury

  • The Priory Hotel feels like a slice of old England served with China tea! With pretty gardens bordering the river, The Priory is a delightful and luxury historic hotel on the edge of Dorset’s Isle of Purbeck. Don't miss the fine dining restaurant and gorgeous individually styled rooms.

For a holiday cottage or apartment

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner booking.com.

Travel information

  • Wareham is easily accessible from London, with frequent train services from Waterloo Station and regular National Express buses from Victoria Station.
  • Visitors coming from Bristol can also hop aboard the train, whilst Southampton Airport (1.5 hours away) is the nearest hub for national and international flights.
  • Alternatively, contact our partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • The British weather is famously unpredictable, but Dorset has some of highest recorded sunshine in the UK and temperatures hit their peak between May and August. Do book well in advance if visiting during these months as accommodation fills up fast!

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Weather

Monthly Weather in Wareham

Best Hotels in Wareham

  • The Bear Wareham 10 rooms from CA$221

    Active Holiday  -  From historic castles to some of the most famed (and scenic) walking trails in the country, this is ideal for an active break
    Great walks  -  With Purbeck Way and the South West Coast Path nearby, there is miles of scenic walking country to explore
    Sights nearby  -  Walk the Wareham Walls and view the ruins of Wareham Castle or visit Corfe Castle
    Restaurant  -  Seasonal British menus are served using mostly local produce
    RestaurantPet friendly
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A charming boutique hotel set in an 18th-century inn in historic Wareham. Quaint rooms have a rural chic feel with pops of bright colour, simple modern furniture, and the best boasting enormous copper baths. The restaurant serves very good seasonal British fare. An ideal base for local exploring. See More

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  • Priory Hotel Wareham (Dorset) 17 rooms from CA$371

    Local exploring  -  From the Saxon town walls of the ancient market town of Wareham to the rolling Dorset countryside there is plenty to see.
    Great walks  -  The lovely gardens slope down to the River Frome, a perfect starting point for an afternoon stroll.
    Sights nearby  -  Check out nearby Corfe village with the spectacular ruins of Corfe Castle, only a few miles away.
    Restrictions on children  -  Not under 14
    RestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    A slice of old England served with China tea. With pretty gardens bordering the river, The Priory is a delightful and luxury historic hotel on the edge of Dorset’s Isle of Purbeck. See More

    Check Availability