Never underestimate Bridport! It may only be a small Dorset market town,
but there’s a lot going on. From its friendly market vibe and independent
shops, to its splendid arts scene and captivating heritage, it’s a thriving,
bustling town that’ll definitely keep you busy when you stay with us
Of course, Bridport is also a great base for enjoying beautiful coastal walks,
gorgeous beaches and fabulous places to eat. It’s also a handy spot for exploring top Jurassic coast
destinations like Lyme Regis and Dorchester – so you really are spoilt for
choice. Here is our round up of 7 best things to do in Bridport to put on your
Bridport ‘to do list’ today.
1. Bridport Market | Best for: Treasure Hunting
What is it? Three streets of independent stalls selling fresh fruit and veg, clothes, pictures, flowers and plants, books, food – and much more besides. The market started operating in 1253, when King Henry III granted a chatter to Bridport and it has been attracting treasure hunters ever since.
Why go? Because you never know what you will find! Ed and Dom are often
knee-deep amongst the collectible antiques at Bridport Market, hunting for
something special to add to one of the Outbuildings’ rooms.
Don’t miss: On Saturdays, South Street fills up with bric-a-brac stalls and
there’s nearly one hundred to choose from.
Details: Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8am – 2pm-ish.
2. Bridport Arts Centre | Best for: Culture Vultures
What is it? A multi-arts venue in the heart of Bridport serving up year-round
things to do: theatre, comedy, gigs, visual arts and screenings. Originally a
Methodist Chapel and school house, it’s now a hub of creativity attracting
visitors and famous name from around the region and the UK.
Why go? Because there is always something interesting going on: whether
it’s an exhibition of local art (the Allsop Gallery is the largest gallery space in
Dorset, and one of the most important cultural assets in the county) or a
lecture from a visiting speaker.
Don’t miss: The Bridport Arts Centre is one of the venues for the Bridport film
festival – From Page to Screen - and is also home to the international creative
writing competition, The Bridport Prize.
Details: Events take place all year round, so please check the website for
details.
3. Furleigh Estate Vineyard and Winery | Best for: Vino Lovers
What is it? A former dairy farm that is now an 85-acre vineyard and winery - and the vineyard where we get the wines for your homemade food hampers. Over 22,000 vines grow on the south-facing slopes
of the Estate, producing award-winning sparkling and still wines, including
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Bacchus.
Why go? Because there’s wine to drink! The tours run from May – October,
but there are tastings throughout the year if you stop by the shop and ask. If
you need a ride home, your exclusive Outbuildings Discount Card gives you
money-off a local taxi. Just saying.
Don’t miss: The Grand Tour experience gives you a fascinating tour of the
vineyard and winery, history on English winemaking, and seated tutored
tasting of three of their still and two of their sparkling wines.
Details: Grand Tours run at 10.30am and 2.30pm on Thursdays, Fridays and
on Saturdays until the end of October. They last around 2 hours and cost £30
per person.
4. Bridport Museum | Best for: Rainy Days
What is it? Everything you need to know about Bridport’s rich history in one
16th-century building. Step inside to discover why the town became world
famous for ropes and check out some of the incredible fossils found on the
nearby beaches.
Why go? Because you never really get under the skin of a town like Bridport
until you understand its past, its characters and its cultural influences. Plus,
Bridport Museum do a fascinating job of making Bridport’s heritage come to
life with interesting exhibitions and events!
Don’t miss: Discovering all about the infamous ‘Bridport Dagger’ – and we
don’t mean the Dark Bear cocktail that you can order from our virtual bar.
We mean the local hempen rope that was made into
the hangman’s noose in Bridport’s rope factories. Gulp.
Details: Open Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm, and Saturdays 10am-4pm
5. The Potting Shed | Best for: Al Fresco Cocktails
What is it? A trendy, vibing pop-up cocktail bar run by local mixologists, Dark
Bear, set in the walled garden of Bridport’s Bridge House Hotel.
Why go? Obviously, there is more than just one reason! First, the venue is
fab. It’s a small and intimate outdoor space, in a quiet part of the town near
the river. Get comfy next to a firepit and you’ll be waited on by friendly and
attentive cocktail staff. Second, the cocktails are delicious – they reflect the
town’s history and are all made with specially-crafted fusions, syrups and
local spirits (where possible).
Don’t miss: After a visit to the Bridport Museum, try one of Dark Bear’s
Bridport Dagger cocktails – Blackberry gin, lime, balsamic, cassis and ginger
beer. Actually, make that two!
Details: Open Monday-Saturday, 4:30pm-9:30pm
6. Electric Palace | Best for: Movie Fans
What is it? A stunning 1920s’ art deco cinema which has transformed itself into an ultra-cool film and events venue.
Why go? Bridport’s Electric Palace has been operating since 1926, showing
some of the most iconic films to grace the silver screen. It’s a living time
machine that’s survived a German air raid in 1942 and played host to the
world premiere of The Young Victoria in 2009. Go and soak up the historic
atmosphere as you watch the big screen or enjoy a music or comedy gig.
Don’t miss: Upstairs there’s an elegant bar for pre-show drinks and chat.
Details: Opening times and events have been affected by Covid, so Please
check the website for details.
7. Colmer’s Hill | Best for: Lazy Picnics With a View
What is it? An iconic cone-shaped hill with a few trees dotting the summit,
visible from Bridport’s high street.
Why go? Colmer’s Hill has a special place in many local hearts. This pretty hill
stands at 417 feet high, and sits above the village of Symondsbury on the
edge of Bridport. It’s one of the most recognisable sights in West Dorset,
giving you incredible panoramic views when you climb to the top.
Don’t miss: If you stay at Outbuildings in the spring, put
Colmer’s Hill at the top of your Bridport to do list. At this time of year, the hill
is awash with bluebells and crying out for a lazy afternoon picnic.
Details: Find it
