Many travellers stick to the usual tourist spots in Weymouth.
However, this means missing out on some of the most unique and intriguing sites the area has to offer, leading to an underwhelming and repetitive experience.
Here are 13 unique things to do in Weymouth that will make your trip truly special and entertaining for all.
Table of Contents
St. Catherine’s Chapel
St. Catherine’s Chapel in Abbotsbury is a 14th-century chapel that stands high on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views over Chesil Beach and the Dorset countryside.
Visitors should be prepared for a steep climb, but the stunning vistas make every step worthwhile.
Monks from the nearby Abbotsbury Abbey built the chapel. Its barrel-vaulted design and sturdy buttresses are architectural highlights.
Today, the chapel is in excellent condition, sitting proudly on the hill. Visitors can explore its nooks and crannies, including the intriguing “wishing holes.”
📌 Good to know:
- Livestock nearby
- Dogs on leads are welcome
- Uneven surfaces
📍 Chapel Hill, Abbotsbury, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 4JH
The Weymouth Cannon Ball
The Weymouth Cannon Ball is an intriguing historical relic found embedded in a wall in Weymouth.
During the 1645 battle, a cannonball was fired into the town, where Roundheads and Royalists fiercely fought.
Visitors can see this unique mark of history and imagine the intense battle that took place.
📌 Good to know:
- Publicly viewable in the town
📍 40A Maiden Street, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8AY
Pirate’s Graveyard
The Pirate’s Graveyard at St. Andrew’s Church is located just a ten minute drive from Weymouth and is a must-see for those intrigued by history and legends.
This historic site showcases graves adorned with skulls and crossbones.
These eerie symbols capture the imagination and bring to life tales of seafaring rogues.
Set above Church Ope Cove, the graveyard offers stunning views and an atmosphere steeped in mystery. The chapel ruins add to the otherworldly feel, making it a unique and memorable destination.
You can read our article on The Pirate’s Graveyard here for more details.
📌 Good to know:
- Suitable footwear is advised
- Steep inclines and uneven surfaces
- Not suitable for wheelchairs/ pushchairs
📍 Pennsylvania Rd, Isle of Portland, DT5 1HT
Sandsfoot Castle
Sandsfoot Castle, built in 1539, is a fascinating historical site in Weymouth.
Henry VIII commissioned its construction to protect against invasions from France and the Holy Roman Empire.
The castle features an octagonal gun platform and a residential blockhouse. It sits opposite Portland Castle, offering strategic defence for Weymouth Bay.
Although the ruins are closed to the public, visitors can explore the outside of the castle and take in the breathtaking views of the harbour and nearby Portland.
📌 Good to know:
- Dogs are welcome on a lead
📍 39 Old Castle Rd, Weymouth DT4 8Q
Osmington White Horse
The Osmington White Horse is a fascinating hillside chalk figure carved in 1808. It portrays King George III riding his horse, Adonis.
This striking landmark is a short drive from Weymouth and is well-loved by locals, walkers and history buffs.
Visitors can embark on the Osmington White Horse Circular Walk, a 3.9-mile loop trail. This trail offers stunning views of the Jurassic Coast and a moderate challenge with some steep climbs.
Make sure to explore the charming village of Osmington with its 12th-century church and thatched cottages from the 16th century.
📌 Good to know:
- Dogs are welcome (no restrictions)
- Suitable footwear is advised
📍 Weymouth DT3 6LU
Rodwell Trail
The Rodwell Trail is a scenic 2-mile route between Weymouth and Portland. It follows an old railway line, making it a perfect path for walking, cycling, or scootering.
The fully surfaced trail is suitable for everyone, including those with mobility scooters.
Along the way, one can enjoy historical sites like Sandsfoot Castle and old station platforms.
The trail also boasts beautiful views of Portland Harbour, making it a delightful experience for nature lovers.
📌 Good to know:
- Dogs are welcome
- Suitable for mobility scooters
📍 Weymouth DT4 0AB
Upwey Wishing Well
Nestled in the heart of Upwey village near Weymouth, the Upwey Wishing Well is a truly enchanting spot.
This award-winning tearoom offers a delightful experience for visitors.
The tearoom is known for its beautiful subtropical gardens and the famous wishing well. It’s a perfect place for a light lunch or a luxurious afternoon tea.
Visitors can explore the gardens, which provide a serene backdrop to the delicious meals served in the tearoom.
📌 Good to know:
- Dogs are welcome in restaurants and gardens
- Wheelchair access to the restaurant and most of the gardens
📍 161 Church St, Weymouth DT3 5QE
Tout Quarry Sculpture Park
Tout Quarry Sculpture Park is a hidden gem in Dorset. This unique park has transformed an abandoned quarry into an open-air gallery brimming with art and nature.
Visitors can wander through labyrinthine paths and discover over 60 sculptures carved directly into the stone.
Some pieces are worn with age, while others remain crisp and clear.
One of the most intriguing sculptures is the Roy Dog, a mythical creature with one green eye and one red.
The park also plays host to rare wildlife and beautiful flora, showcasing a blend of natural history and creative human expression.
📌 Good to know:
- Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead
- It may not be suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs
📍 Tout Quarry, Adjacent to Tradecroft Industrial Estate, Portland, DT5 2LN
Jordan Hill Roman Temple
In Weymouth, the Jordan Hill Roman Temple offers a fascinating peek into the past. Situated above Bowleaze Cove, this site dates back to the 4th century AD.
Visitors can explore the temple’s foundations, which are all that remain. These ruins reveal that it was a Romano-Celtic temple with a single-storey open ambulatory supported by columns.
Excavations have uncovered numerous artefacts, including Roman coins. Some of these coins are displayed in The County Museum in Dorchester.
English Heritage maintains the temple and provides stunning views of Weymouth Bay, making it a perfect spot for both history buffs and nature lovers.
📌 Good to know:
- Uneven surfaces
- Dogs on leads are welcome
- Not suitable for wheelchairs
📍 Bowleaze Coveway, Weymouth DT3 6PL
Tudor House Museum
The Tudor House Museum is a must-see for history lovers. This gem is considered one of Weymouth’s treasured Tudor buildings.
It’s believed to have originally been a merchant’s property.
Visitors can explore the well-preserved rooms and learn about the lifestyle of the time.
This museum offers a cosy yet informative experience, with its guided tours lasting about 45 minutes.
📌 Good to know:
- Cheap entry fee
- Open May to October, Tuesday to Friday
- Wheelchair accessible
- Gift shop
📍 3 Trinity Street, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8TW
Bennett’s Water Gardens
Located in Chickerell, Bennett’s Water Gardens is a hidden gem that every nature lover should visit.
Spanning 8 acres, these gardens are home to the National Plant Collection of Water Lilies, which bloom from late May to September.
One of the key attractions is the Monet style Japanese Bridge, reminiscent of those seen in Claude Monet’s famous paintings.
Visitors can also explore the Tropical House, where exotic plants thrive, and tread the Woodland Walks.
The gardens also host a small museum, providing insights into the history of water lilies and the garden itself.
Photographers are welcome to capture the beauty, but it’s strictly for personal use only.
📌 Good to know:
- On-site cafe
- Gift shop
- No dogs allowed (except assistance dogs)
- Free Parking
- Some wheelchair access is available; however, during wet weather, the gardens are closed to wheelchair users
📍 Putton Ln, Chickerell, Weymouth DT3 4AF
Greenhill Gardens Floral Clock
Greenhill Gardens in Weymouth is a place filled with beautiful sights and a relaxing atmosphere.
One of the standout features is the Floral Clock. This clock is not only functional but also a piece of natural art.
The clock is made entirely of flowers, regularly changed to reflect the seasons. It is located near the entrance, making it hard to miss.
People love taking photos with this floral masterpiece. The design includes colourful blooms arranged in intricate patterns that form the clock face.
A unique and pretty spot to visit and great for all ages.
📌 Good to know:
- Dogs are allowed on lead
- Some areas are wheelchair accessible
📍 Weymouth DT4 7SG
Abbotsbury Abbey Remains
Abbotsbury, a quaint village in Dorset, is home to the Abbotsbury Abbey Remains.
This abbey once flourished under King Cnut after being founded in 1044.
Most of the visible remains date back to the 13th and 14th centuries, showcasing historical architecture.
One significant feature is the huge tithe barn, built around 1400. This impressive structure, only half its original size, is a must-see for fans of medieval architecture.
📌 Good to know:
- Uneven surfaces
- Shops, cafes, and toilets close by
- Dogs on leads are welcome
📍 Church St, Abbotsbury, Weymouth DT3 4JJ
