Visit Wareham, Dorset
Wareham is one of those Dorset towns you love as soon as you arrive. Set between the River Frome and the River Piddle, it’s one of England’s few surviving Saxon walled towns.
You can still walk along the raised grassy walls that once protected it. The circular route around the town offers wide views across rooftops, church towers and the open countryside.
The town itself is a charming riverside market town, with independent shops, cafés, and traditional pubs clustered around the square and along the quay. The Rex Cinema, dating from 1920, is one of the country’s oldest working cinemas and still screens today’s blockbuster films.
While we don’t currently offer holiday accommodation in Wareham, it’s a place we know well.
Discover Things to See & Do in Dorset
Whether you’re seeking rugged coastal walks, charming market towns, or the freshest seafood the south coast has to offer, our guide to Dorset has everything you need, from the best places to eat and drink, to unmissable attractions and outdoor adventures to make the most of your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Walking the historic town walls is a must. The elevated earth banks form an almost complete ring around Wareham and are among the best-preserved Saxon town defences in England. When you’ve finished exploring the walls, it’s well worth walking along the river.
Wareham Forest is nearby and excellent for cycling and woodland walks. We often park at the Sika Trail car park and follow the marked forest trails.
Boat trips run along the River Frome to Poole Quay, Sandbanks and Poole Harbour. During the summer, evening cruises coincide with Poole’s fireworks displays. We’ve watched them from the water, and it’s a wonderful way to see the harbour lit up. Kayaks and small motor boats can also be hired from the quay too. Saturday market day is worth visiting, with local produce, meats and cheeses on offer.
View our Explore guide for more recommendations.
Yes, particularly if you enjoy small historic towns with riverside walks and countryside nearby. It’s perfectly placed for The Blue Pool, RSPB Arne and the wonderfully secluded Shipstal Beach. Corfe Castle and Studland are also just a short drive away.
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Wareham has a good mix of traditional pubs, riverside dining and independent restaurants. Along the quay, you’ll find waterside spots serving classic pub dishes, while the town square offers a range of options, from Italian and Indian restaurants to relaxed cafés.
There are also several excellent gastropubs in the surrounding countryside. For something more special, The Priory Hotel offers a great afternoon tea in its riverside gardens, booking ahead is essential.
View our Explore guide for more recommendations on places to eat and drink in Wareham.