Hello all. First trip back to UK in 15 years. We're dipping our toes in. Keep extending the days in London as so much ground to cover there, so cutting into the minimal time we have
'countryside' before heading to France. So thinking we will train from London to Salisbury early a.m. have breakfast, see the Cathedral and pick up car. Then head to Wool for our BandB for the next 3 nights.
First day thinking heading a bit west...how far can we bite off, we're early birds and not adverse to driving a bit. Interests are castles, gardens, historical sites, short walks, cream teas and fish and chips.
Second day we have to work in the Tank musuem in Bovington, which might take most of the day (according to hubby). Third day thinking Durdle door, ???. Will drop car off that night. Last night in Poole to catch the 0830 ferry to Cherbourg following day. Thanks for your ideas and help.

Corfe Castle
Maiden Castle
Badbury Rings
As many barrows as you can shake a stick at
Lulworth and the Jurassic coast
The swannery and Chesil beach
Portland (a bit more meh until you know the history)
You know about the footpath system (https://footpathmap.co.uk/ )

The Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens are next door to the Abbotsbury Swannery.

I also enjoy the Lyme Regis Museum, which has occasional fossil walks. It’s even more fun if you read Tracy Chevalier’s Remarkable Creatures before you go.