Local history and heritage

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Dorset's history and archaeology is rich and varied. There are many ways to explore and enjoy the county's spectacular historic environment and achieve careful and sensitive development within it.

Finding Dorset

Information, advice and activities centered on archaeological finds

Historic Environment Record

Information about Dorset's archaeology, historic buildings and landscapes

Local heritage list

Highlight the local heritage that you value across Dorset

Dorset History Centre

Find out about the archives service and local studies library at the Dorset History Centre

Dorset Historic Towns Survey

Dorset has a rich variety of historic towns, each with its own special character and story. Explore our surveys.
Information and advice

Where to go for information and advice on your project or application.
Volunteer

Find out about opportunities for volunteering with the historic environment team.
Heritage crime

Find out about national and local efforts to reduce and investigate heritage crime

Archaeological investigations and mapping projects

Find out more about mapping archaeology from aerial photographs
NRHE to HERs data transfer project

The National Record of the Historic Environment (NRHE) to Historic Environment Records (HERs) data transfer project
Historic buildings

Dorset’s rich heritage of historic buildings and scenic villages contributes to the county’s unique character and identity.
Archaeological fieldwork on Dorset Council land

Find out about our policy on undertaking archaeological fieldwork on council land.