Seaside Special – Weymouth & the Dorset Coast

Staying at the Hotel Rex, Weymouth

6 DAYS | 15th June 2026

Nestled halfway along the Dorset coast, Weymouth is a lovely seaside town steeped in history. A fishing village, a port, and a fashionable 18th century holiday resort, today the town is also the perfect base for exploring the surrounding coast and countryside.

The Georgian character and splendour of the Hotel Rex is twinned with all the expected comforts of a modern hotel. Situated on the esplanade overlooking the stunning golden sands of Weymouth Beach, it is just a few minutes’ walk to the town centre with its variety of shops and cafes. Relax in the lounge or bar and enjoy a delicious dinner in the restaurant, where locally sourced fish is the regular headliner. All rooms are en-suite with complimentary WiFi, and there is a lift that serves all floors.

MONDAY

We depart calling for coffee en-route to Sanders Garden Centre, where we stop for lunch. We then continue south to Weymouth.

TUESDAY

Our excursion today takes us to the Isle of Portland, past Chesil Beach and to Portland Bill Lighthouse. After a recent renovation, the Lighthouse Visitor Centre boasts an impressive exhibition detailing the 500-year dutiful history of its keepers. After time to explore, admire the view, visit the shop and have morning coffee. Late morning we venture to Portland Castle, one of Henry VIII’s coastal artillery forts; trace the fort’s long and varied story through presentations, interactive exhibits and an audio tour. The Tudor kitchen, armoury and gun decks are also well worth a look. Enjoy dramatic coastal views in the Governor’s Garden as well as refreshments in the Captain’s House Tearoom.

WEDNESDAY

No holiday to this corner of England would be complete without a visit to the historic market town of Dorchester. Lying on the on the banks of the River Frome there is a wonderful traditional market and a fantastic local museum. After lunch enjoy a scenic coach ride through the Dorset countryside, taking in the view of the Cerne Abbas Giant on the hillside, before returning to our hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure.

THURSDAY

A free day for you to explore Weymouth. Why not go for a stroll around the shops or a paddle in the sea?

FRIDAY

We begin the day with a trip to West Bay; a charming fishing village located on one of the most dramatic stretches of the Jurassic Coast, West Bay is a popular tourist destination. After ample time for coffee, we take the short journey to Abbotsbury where we visit both the Swannery and Sub-Tropical Gardens.

SATURDAY

We say a sad farewell to Weymouth and head for home. We make our morning coffee stop en-route to Dobbies Garden World and the Cotswold Designer Outlet in Tewkesbury where we call for a browse and lunch. We then head north and aim to arrive early evening.