DORCHESTER’S South Street – with its town pump and pedestrianisation – could be called the shopping heartland of the county town, but in recent years this has expanded so much, including in the new development of Poundbury.

If you’re taking a leisurely pace this is a great opportunity to look out for landmarks. Look out for various plaques put up in tribute to some of Dorchester’s famous sons. The tourist information centre will help you find these tributes.

Several new shops, restaurants and coffee shops have opened in the last two years – both in the main streets and in the delightful more hidden-away corners, such as in historic Durngate Street and Princes Street off Trinity Street to name but two. There are also arcades to seek out, including bustling Antelope Walk linking Trinity and South Streets, Hardye Arcade, Tudor Arcade and Napper’s Mite off South Street, too.

The new visitor to Dorchester should take in the whole of South Street including the southern end, with its attractive clutch of specialist, owner-run shops selling everything from toys, sportsgear and kitchenwear to gifts from around the world to DIY and a high-quality butcher. Lower South Street links up with the town’s famous avenue of trees South Walks.

The London-bound High West and High East Streets, with Thomas Hardy’s statue at the Top o’ Town and William Barnes near St Peter’s Church, are buzzing with interest and opportunity. The shops range from a honeypot art and crafts shop near Top o’ Town, passing on the way down this long street florists, wedding gowns, colourful materials, specialist ladies’ boutiques, a camping shop, men’s wear, skiing gear and a kitchen designer along with a wide choice of pubs, hotels, restaurants and takeaways.

Trinity Street, parallel to South Street has recent additions including dancewear and teddy bears, two new restaurants joining two long established ones, a new butcher-cum-delicatessen.

POUNDBURY

Prince Charles' Poundbury development can no longer really be called new, although development will continue for several years yet. It has become well established as a vital, buzzing area visited by many and enjoyed by residents for its expanding shops and services, attracting people from central Dorchester, the surrounding villages and far out of the area.

They come to see and enjoy this unique development which has attracted interest from architects worldwide, and to shop. Along with the village stores, several other food outlets have opened including restaurants and cafés.

Among other shops and services are art galleries, boutiques, hair and beauty salons, a garden centre, a therapy centre and the brand new medical centre housing two Dorchester GP practices, a pharmacy and dental care.