This month's travel team and their caravans: Practical Caravan deputy editor Adèle Donaghie in a Sprite Alpine towed by a Ford Focus Estate, Jennifer Stuart-Smith in a loaned Sunseeker 534 and enthusiasts Paul and Hilary Harris who tow a Bailey Pageant Vendée with a Citroën C5 estate 2.2HDi.
Dorset
After just a few hours in Dorset, you'll understand why it's the fictional home of The Archers. Its quintessential Englishness lends itself to a bygone era, when men drank cider and women wore crinolines to herd the cattle. In some ways, little has changed, except the fashions. So, if you're looking for a trip back in time, and a break from the fast-pace of everyday life, Dorset could be just the ticket.
For our visit, we focussed on the western section of the county This part of Dorset is also known for being Thomas Hardy's 'Wessex' and the setting for such books as Tess of the d'Urbervilles and The Mayor of Casterbridge. Its patchwork of fields, heathland and prehistoric earthworks are much as they would have been when Hardy pondered his plots. Even Dorchester, which many recognise as the real Casterbridge, retains its rural feel.
Out of town, it's easy to find a country pub, a picture-postcard beach or a windswept walk. There's the legendary Square and Compasses pub at Worth Matravers for starters. You could also nip across to Studland Bay and walk along the expanse of pale sand along its edge. Finally, give your legs a workout by walking up to the Hardy monument, just inland from Bridport, and enjoy your reward: a view of the whole of Dorset.

SEE ALSO IN THE NOVEMBER 2005 ISSUE OF PRACTICAL CARAVAN
Cool Ghouls, Holiday Hints, Nature Notes, Military, Contacts, History and Culture, Foodies' Corner, Holiday Souvenirs, Family Fun, Festivals & Events