Tours

Thomas Hardy Explorer

Discover the Casterbridge and countryside of Thomas Hardy, one of our greatest novelists and poets, who was born near Dorchester in 1840.

The half-day Explorer Tour takes in Hardy’s birthplace, the Vale of the Great Dairies and Max Gate with an optional lunch or cream tea in West Stafford.

Thomas Hardy Country

Thomas Hardy set most of his famous novels in Dorset and you can explore the countryside and villages of Tess of the D’Urbervilles, Far from the Madding Crowd, The Mayor of Casterbridge, Under the Greenwood Tree and The Return of the Native with Alistair’s expert guidance.

Alistair’s velvet voice will bring you readings from the novels and poems so that Hardy’s Dorset will be brought alive and you’ll discover the author’s own story too.

We can adapt your tour to visit the scenes from your favourite Hardy novel – you could visit Tess’s Marlott, Bathsheba’s Weatherbury or Clym Yeobright’s Egdon Heath. And why not combine it with a picnic or a stop in a rural pub?

Bespoke and Group Tours

Dorset has a great deal to offer – from a rich history and ancient landscapes to new attractions and surf beaches.

If you would like your own tour of Dorset we can arrange a day, half day or short tour to suit your needs.

Dorset picnic tours and special events

Alistair can also provide tours, walks or talks for special occasions. Why not turn your tour into a really special occasion? We have teamed up with The Fridge, a local Dorchester delicatessen, to provide Dorset picnics.

Using local ingredients as far as possible, The Fridge will provide a meal that’s as fantastic as the scenery it was produced in.

Perfect for a birthday, anniversary or any celebration – or just because it’s a lovely day for a picnic. Must be booked in advance.

School and student groups

A former teacher, Alistair (who is CRB checked) can lead groups on tours relevant to the Curriculum.

If your school or university is studying Thomas Hardy, the Tolpuddle Martyrs or aspects of Dorset’s history or geography, contact him to arrange a walking or coach tour, or a visit to a particular attraction such as the Roman Town House, the Dorset County Museum or the Old Crown Court.

Costs

Tour charges

Half day tour from £120 per party
Day tour from £200 per party

Tours are suitable for large or small groups, families or individuals. Please note transport costs are not included.

Transport charges

Alistair will join you in your coach or car, or can arrange a minibus, people-carrier or coach (depending on the size of your party) with a local provider at an additional charge.

Contact Alistair for details or book directly with a local firm.
» Yell.com

Picnics

Must be booked at least 2 working days ahead.

No matter which tour you require, Alistair will be pleased to answer any questions you may have.
» Contact Alistair to discuss your requirements.