A LITTLE HISTORY
Thomas Hardy
Thomas Hardy’s involvement with the architecture of Lorton House makes it a perfect retreat. For those passionate about wanting to learn more about this legendary wordsmith, we’ve put together some must see locations that nod to his life, death and celebrate him even today.
9 miles
Hardy's Cottage
A cob and thatch cottage built by his great grandfather, Thomas Hardy was born here in 1840. The house is where Hardy wrote his early works, including ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’. The house and garden are now open to visitors, but you will need to book before you go. Bookings include a 15 minute introductory talk, after which you can immerse yourself in Hardy’s home or wander the atmospheric grounds.
9 miles
Hardy's Cottage
A cob and thatch cottage built by his great grandfather, Thomas Hardy was born here in 1840. The house is where Hardy wrote his early works, including ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’. The house and garden are now open to visitors, but you will need to book before you go. Bookings include a 15 minute introductory talk, after which you can immerse yourself in Hardy’s home or wander the atmospheric grounds.
9 miles
Thorncombe Woods
This stunning 26 hectare mixed woodland and heath site was not only a favourite location of Hardy’s, but also a great influence on his work! Lose yourself amongst the diverse trees, including beech and magnificent mature oaks, keeping an eye out for the plentiful wildlife that call this special spot home.
9 miles
Thorncombe Woods
This stunning 26 hectare mixed woodland and heath site was not only a favourite location of Hardy’s, but also a great influence on his work! Lose yourself amongst the diverse trees, including beech and magnificent mature oaks, keeping an eye out for the plentiful wildlife that call this special spot home.
8 miles
St Michael's Church
Stinsford Church is closely tied to not only Hardy’s life, but also his death. In life he was baptised in the font at Stinsford and attended services here as well as taught at Sunday school. In fact, the church was so impactful on Hardy that it was used as the model for Mellstock Church in his novel ‘Under the Greenwood Tree’. In death, Thomas Hardy’s body is buried in Westminster Abbey, but his heart is buried here in a grave beside his two wives.
6 miles
Hardy's Statue
One of the most recognisable landmarks in Dorset and a must see for any Hardy fan, the Thomas Hardy Statue was created to commemorate Hardy’s life and works, three years after his death. Designed by Eric Kennington, the statue has been a Grade II listed monument since 1950.
9 miles
Hardy's Statue
One of the most recognisable landmarks in Dorset and a must see for any Hardy fan, the Thomas Hardy Statue was created to commemorate Hardy’s life and works, three years after his death. Designed by Eric Kennington, the statue has been a Grade II listed monument since 1950.