All Things Thomas Hardy
Hardy’s Cottage
The birthplace of Thomas Hardy and Max Gate (both less than 10 minutes’ drive, and are National Trust properties). Hardy’s Cottage is located in Thorncombe Woods which is fantastic for walking, and has lovely picnic spots.
Max Gate
Atmospheric Victorian home designed by Thomas Hardy.
Walk in Hardy’s footsteps
As a child, Thomas Hardy attended school first in Lower Bockhampton and then in Dorchester. His daily walk was from Hardy’s Cottage across the Kingston Maurward estate and then followed the Frome river into town.
Hardy’s Heart
Hardy’s Heart is buried in St Michael’s Church in Stinsford, which is about ½ hour’s walk away from The King’s Arms.
Photo Credits
A view towards the cottage from the garden at Hardy’s Birthplace, Dorset.
© National Trust Images/Chris Lacey
NTPL Commissioned (NTPL)
The garden facade of Max Gate, Dorset
©National Trust Images/Andrew Butler
NTPL Commissioned (NTPL)
A family exploring the garden in summer at Hardy’s Cottage, Dorset.
©National Trust Images/James Dobson
NTPL Commissioned (NTPL)