Get to know Dorset! Volunteer in England with a sustainable charity – helping out with gardening and maintenance. Experience one of the most beautiful areas of the UK while being on a budget. Get more information here:
Overview
- Location – Dorset
- Host – NA
- Duration: 7 days
- Minimum Age – 18+
- Available Spots – 5 helpers
- Weekly Hours – 38 hours
- Room Type – Single Private
- Meals – Full-board
- Nearest Airport – Bournemouth Airport (BOH)
Join this charity for a rewarding volunteer experience where you’ll collaborate with the community on incredible projects and enhance your skills.
The charity is dedicated to promoting sustainable living practices. As a volunteer, you’ll gain hands-on experience with the innovative systems, including a Wetland system for wastewater, water recycling, and solar energy.
Tasks
Your responsibilities will include gardening, cooking, cleaning, and general maintenance of the house and grounds.
You’ll have your own room with either a single or double bed, and access to hot water and a shower. During busier periods, you may need to share a room.
You’ll work alongside the community on various projects, all while learning or practicing valuable skills related to sustainable living. You’ll have two days off to explore local attractions, such as the Jurassic Coast and Lyme Regis, located just three miles away.
Accommodation
You’ll have your own room with a single or double bed, along with access to hot water and a shower. During busy times, sharing a room may be necessary.
Location
To reach Dorset, the nearest major airport is Bournemouth Airport (BOH), which offers domestic and European flights. Alternatively, you can fly into London airports like Heathrow (LHR) or Gatwick (LGW) and take a train or bus to Dorset.
If you’re traveling by train, major towns in Dorset such as Bournemouth, Poole, and Weymouth are well-connected by direct train services from London Waterloo, taking around two to three hours.
For those driving, the M3 and M27 motorways link London to the South Coast, making Dorset accessible by car. National Express and Megabus offer coach services to various locations within Dorset.
Things To Do
Dorset is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the iconic Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit landmarks like Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, and the Isle of Portland for breathtaking coastal views and unique geological formations.
Lyme Regis, known as the “Pearl of Dorset,” offers a mix of history, charming shops, and a picturesque harbor.
For history buffs, Corfe Castle is a must-see. This ancient ruin offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The town of Dorchester, the county town of Dorset, has several museums, including the Dorset County Museum and the Teddy Bear Museum.
The New Forest National Park, although primarily in Hampshire, extends into Dorset and offers excellent opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.
Food In Dorset
Dorset boasts a rich culinary scene with an emphasis on fresh, local produce. You can enjoy seafood dishes in coastal towns, traditional pub fare in charming inns, and fine dining in sophisticated restaurants.
Don’t miss the chance to try Dorset apple cake, a local specialty.
Food festivals, such as the Dorset Seafood Festival in Weymouth, provide an excellent opportunity to sample a variety of local dishes. Many farm shops and farmers’ markets across Dorset offer fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade goods.
Nature and Adventure
Dorset is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to exploring the Jurassic Coast, you can hike in the Purbeck Hills, cycle along the numerous trails, or enjoy water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
The South West Coast Path offers stunning coastal walks with varying difficulty levels.
For a more leisurely experience, visit the Abbotsbury Swannery, the only place in the world where you can walk through a colony of nesting mute swans. The nearby Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens are also worth a visit.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit Dorset is during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities. However, Dorset’s mild climate makes it a year-round destination.
Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Dorset, especially if you want to visit rural areas and hidden gems. However, the county is also well-served by public transport, including buses and trains.
Always pack layers and waterproof clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the many trails and coastal paths.
Respect the natural environment, especially along the Jurassic Coast. Stick to marked paths, take your litter with you, and be mindful of erosion.
Dorset’s towns and villages have a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Take your time to explore the local culture, engage with residents, and enjoy the slower pace of life.
More Information
Monkton Wyld Court is a registered charity situated in a Grade II listed 19th-century Neo-Gothic rectory in Dorset. This idyllic location is surrounded by eleven acres of land, nestled in a secluded valley within walking distance of Lyme Regis and Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.
The house and grounds, which include a meeting hall, a marquee, and a private cabin, are perfect for hosting large groups, conferences, weddings, and other events.
They offer a variety of low-impact living and educational courses, as well as bed-and-breakfast and self-catering accommodation in simple, comfortable rooms at affordable rates.
Most of the seasonal produce served by the kitchen is organic and sourced from their walled vegetable garden.
