Spring is around the corner, and with the promise of longer days ahead, we wanted to share 5 of our favourite locations for a Sunday drive. Whether it’s a romantic day out with a loved one or a family-friendly trip, you are sure to find a stunning destination in and around Dorset and Wiltshire. Our selection includes helpful timings from our local Nissan dealership, as well as local website links, so you can begin to plan your day!
STONEHENGE, Wiltshire
Around 1 hour 13 minutes from Dorchester Nissan, via A354
The iconic Stone Circle is world-renowned, so we’re sure that if even if you’re not a local, you’ve heard of it. But we couldn’t do a list of 5 best local Sunday drive destinations without including this must-see monument. Surrounded by the Salisbury Plains in the heart of Wiltshire, you can visit the Heritage site itself, or simply enjoy stop off at local villages and take advantage of walks across the vast countryside with Stonehenge in the distance. You could even add in a trip to see Britain’s tallest spire, Salisbury Cathedral and the original 1215 Magna Carta, adding in an extra historical element to your day. If you’re heading out in your New Nissan ARIYA, take advantage of the many EV charging points in and around Salisbury whilst you stop for a spot of lunch!
--------
National Trust’s CERNE GIANT, Dorset
Around 15 minutes from Dorchester Nissan, via A352
Another ancient spectacle located right on our doorstep in Dorset, is the Cerne Giant. A figure sculpted into the chalk hillside just above the charming village of Cerne Abbas. Although the origins of the Giant are shrouded in a combination of theory and speculation, one thing for sure is that the surrounding Dorset countryside is a joy to drive through, especially on a sunny, leisurely Sunday afternoon. For a more active afternoon, park up in the Giant’s View car park itself, put on your walking boots and enjoy a stroll up the hillside with views over the rolling green hills of Dorset. After a refreshing walk, there are an abundance of local pubs to quench your thirst or enjoy a hearty Sunday lunch. Simply type in, ‘local pubs’ to Nissan’s easy navigation system to find your closest!
--------
STUDLAND BAY, Dorset
Around 44 minutes from Dorchester Nissan, via B3390 and A351
Another National Trust must visit, Studland Bay holds miles of sandy beaches and coastal walks, perfect for a day out on a family adventure. Driving an SUV? Pack your spacious boot full of picnics and beach gear to make the most out of your visit! You have a number of options to get there too. If you’re not in a hurry and want to take your car for a longer spin, you can enjoy a longer, scenic drive via the Saxon, riverside town of Wareham and Corfe (passing Corfe Castle’s 1,000 year old ruins). Or for a more direct route, you can take the Sandbanks Ferry* straight over to Shell Bay Terminal and onto the Isle of Purbeck. Of course, you cannot spend a day in Studland without tasting the award-winning Purbeck Ice Cream, produced just a stone’s throw away from Studland Bay itself.
*At the time of writing, the ferry is under a refit, and due to be returning to service in Spring 2023 Always check website for current running times.
--------
ABBOTSBURY, Dorset
Around 17 minutes from Dorchester Nissan, via A35
The area of Abbotsbury itself is rich with little gems to visit on a relaxed Sunday afternoon. From pebbled beaches, an Iron Age hillfort, the stunning Jurassic Coast path, to a Swannery and Sub-tropical gardens; this destination really has something for everyone. If it’s spectacular scenery you’re after, a brisk walk to the top of the Iron Age hillfort will offer you incredible views (pictured below) across West Dorset. Or if you’re looking for a more tranquil and relaxed day, the Swannery*, home to a colony of nesting Mute Swans is a sight to behold. Alternatively, the Sub-tropical gardens, once voted garden of the year, is famous for its Camelia groves, a Magnolia walk with stunning views, as well as a Victorian Garden and Rhododendron and Hydrangea collections.
*Open for business from 18th March 2023.
--------
LULWORTH COVE, Dorset
Around 29 minutes from Dorchester Nissan, via A352
Last but not least on our top 5 Sunday drive destinations, Lulworth Cove. The Jurassic Coast is abundant with incredible views, coves and bays that are truly jaw-dropping, and Lulworth is no exception. Make this a more active day trip with watersports, rock-pooling, or even an energetic stroll along the coast towards popular Durdle Door. During the height of the Summer, the drive down to Lulworth can be busy along the narrow village lanes, so our easy navigating in our agile Nissan LEAF would be perfect for this picturesque drive.