Langton House, Dorset, England

Athelhampton House and National Trust properties Hardy's Cottage and T.E. Lawrence's Clouds Hill are all within easy driving distance of Langton. The many museums and heritage centres that contain revealing insights into Dorset's past are also close by.

The Tank Museum at Bovington has possibly the finest collection of tanks in the world. From the first tank ever built to the modern Challenger II, the museum's definitive collection comprises over 250 vehicles and supporting artefacts from across the globe.

A Slice of History

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.

Local sights

Local sights

The lovely market town of Wimborne Minster and the elegant Kingston Lacy (with its 'Old Masters' and red Devon cattle) make a good day out. The National Trust's Stourhead House and gardens offer lots for all ages. Parnham House, near Beaminster is a beautiful Elizabethan manor house, one of Dorset's finest, and is surrounded by brilliant gardens.

Don't forget! Dorset is blessed with unrivalled coastal scenery thanks to the World Heritage Jurassic Coast stretching from Exmouth to Studland Bay. Lulworth Cove, Old Harry and Brownsea Island are just a few of the unmissable places calling your name. And keep your eyes peeled for the local marine life – dolphins favour the waters off the Isle of Purbeck.

Exciting Sports

Exciting Sports

For active holidaymakers, windsurfing is available throughout the year, as is deep-sea diving. There are spectacular beaches along the Purbeck coast, with Dorset enjoying nearly 100 miles of coastline! Climbers should head to nearby Swanage where the impressive sea cliffs are all within driving distance.