Dorset
Dorset is Thomas Hardy country - an appealing mixture of rolling heathland, secluded valleys, picturesque villages, great houses and estates, and a coastline awash with natural beauty. The spectacular and varied coast has shaped the county’s history - from the rugged Isle of Purbeck and the sweeping Chesil Beach to the quaint charm of Lyme Regis and Brownsea Island in Poole Harbour. National Trust properties in Dorset include Corfe Castle, Kingston Lacy and Clouds Hill once the cottage retreat of T E Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia).