A Slice of History
If it's museums you are interested in, Corfe Castle Museum (located in the smallest Town Hall in England) offers a great insight into the town's history, with images and artefacts from Corfe's past. In particular, it focuses on the local clay, stone and marble industries. Then make your way to the impressive castle itself. Originally built 1000 years ago to defend the principal route through the Purbeck Hills, this fortification now stands in dramatic ruins atop its hill above the town of Corfe.
English Heritage's Lulworth Castle is a nearby 17th-century castle-like stone building. It is stunning from the grounds and largely unchanged, but the newer interiors, which are open to the public, are equally as special.
Reaching further back in time, the unique Roman Town House in Dorchester has been remarkably preserved and dates from the 4th century. The remains show a number of architectural details including a floor mosaic.