Hardy's Dorchester

At the center of Thomas Hardy's Wessex region is the fictional city of Casterbridge, based loosely on Dorchester, Dorset. Dorchester is the perfect place to begin any tour of Hardy country; take advantage of all the literary resources it has to offer!

The Dorset County Museum on High West Street has a rich selection of Hardy memorabilia, donated by the author's second wife, Florence. The exhibit includes several manuscripts, painting, and letters belonging to the author. You can also see a reconstruction of Hardy's study at Maxgate composed entirely of his own furniture and possessions. The museum provides a thorough introduction to the life and works of Dorset's most renowned author.

While in Dorchester, make sure to visit the Kings Arms Hotel located at 30 High East Street; this location provided Hardy with the inspiration for the inn featured in The Mayor of Casterbridge. Some local places of interest include the Hardy Statue located on the corner of High West Street and the Grove and the Frome River--the inspiration for the river mentioned in The Return of theNative.You may find Dorchester to be the perfect place to start your adventure in Hardy country, not only because of its proximity to Higher Bockhampton and Stinsford Church, but also because of its wealth of resources on the author himself. For more information visit the Dochester city website.