Purbeck Vineyard

The chalk hills around Wareham do something unexpected with grapes. Purbeck Vineyard sits on south-facing slopes that catch enough sun to ripen English wine varieties properly - no mean feat in Dorset. You're looking at a working vineyard with tasting rooms where you can sample their output, which tends toward crisp whites and the occasional sparkling that doesn't embarrass itself next to the French stuff.

It's fairly low-key, which is either brilliant or disappointing depending on what you want. There's no gift shop theatre or lunch venue, just straightforward wine tasting and a shop. Serious wine types will appreciate the chance to talk to actual producers rather than restaurant staff. Families with young kids might find an hour stretches thin, though if someone in the group genuinely wants to learn about English viticulture, it works. The vines themselves are pleasant to walk among, especially late afternoon when the light's right.

Stay at Woodyhyde Campsite just down the road - it's practically on the doorstep - and you've got a proper base for exploring. Ulwell Holiday Park and Swanage Bay View are within easy reach too, so you could tack this onto a seaside holiday without much bother. Worth ringing ahead about opening hours and admission costs, as they're not listed online. If you're already in the Wareham area visiting the Jurassic Coast, call in. Don't drive here as your main event.