Although Dorset is well explored by myself and Momma Wood, it remains largely uncharted territory for Santa. This week we’re based at Corfe Castle, and our plan is to revisit some of Dorset’s iconic spots whilst also uncovering a few hidden gems along the way.
We travelled via Somerset, and with the weather (unsurprisingly) awful, our planned coastal walk was quickly scrapped. Instead, we stopped in Ilminster for a wander around the charity and antique shops. A special shoutout has to go to Cafe No57 — a treasure trove of cosy rooms filled with antiques and vintage clothing at reasonable prices, not to mention some genuinely delicious coffee and cake.
As none of us had been to Dorchester before, we swung by to kill some time before check-in. It didn’t quite win us over however, so we didn’t stay long.
Luckily, our host let us check in early, and we’ve chosen well — a gorgeous cottage with a stunning interior and a basket full of treats waiting for us.
We spent our first afternoon and evening getting our bearings in Corfe Castle, watching the steam train roll in and out and chatting with a very enthusiastic volunteer about the heritage railway.
Santa’s Sesh 🎅🏻 Palmers 200 – a 5% premium ale in The Bankes Arms. This will no doubt be one of many real ales over the course of the week.
The Travelling Ginger 