Car Hire Dorset and Devon - Mini guide to Dorset and Devon

Lying on the southwestern English coast between Hampshire and Cornwall, the West Country counties Dorset and Devon combine to enthrall visitors with their stunning array of picturesque coastline, ancient Roman and medieval sites, exciting cities and tranquil countryside.

Dorchester is the main town of Dorset county and the most convenient base for exploring the county. The town boasts some excellent examples of Georgian architecture and remnants of the original fortified Roman walls. Within a radius of a few kilometers of the town are several noteworthy attractions, including the fascinating Roman ruins of Maumbury Rings and the intriguing prehistoric Maiden Castle. On the coast are the ancient fishing ports of Poole and Weymouth, both of which feature enchanting historic architecture. Poole has a traditional old quayside quarter that includes hundreds of quaint buildings, while Weymouth claims the spectacular ruins of Sandsfoot Castle and the restored Tudor House. Inland are charming villages and towns, namely Cerne Abbas, Blandford Forum, Shaftesbury and Sherborne.

Further west is Devon county, which separates Cornwall from the rest of England and includes some of the most untouched areas of English countryside. Exeter is the best base for those wishing to explore the moorlands of Exmoor and the wilderness of Dartmoor, havens for outdoor enthusiasts seeking some solitude from the comparatively busy coastal resorts and towns. The city itself has fine restaurants and some of the best nightlife in the region. On the coast, the main city of Plymouth is worth a visit to sample some of England’s illustrious maritime history.

Sprinkled along the Dorset and Devon coast are a number of outstanding beach resorts ideal for enjoying watersports such as swimming and windsurfing. Bournemouth is famous for its clean sandy beaches, while Torquay and other East Devon resorts combine to make up the ‘English Rivera’. All towns in the area have quality accommodation, excellent restaurants and an assortment of vibrant nightlife activities.

Penetrating westward, you will discover more attractive resorts and magnificent scenery in remote Cornwall. Boating enthusiasts will love Falmouth, while surfers should head for the beaches at Newquay. Alternatively, magical Tintagel conjures up Arthurian legends while jagged Land’s End creates a more somber atmosphere.

London’s Heathrow International Airport serves direct flights from most world cities, and there is a myriad of frequent and reliable transportation options to the Dorset/Devon region.