Explore Dorset

Explore Dorset by open-top bus!

Dorset's Jurassic Coast, a designated Unesco World Heritage Site, is a special place where towering cliffs, spectacular coastlines, unspoilt beaches, towns full of charm and pretty villages are set in a rich rolling landscape. And there is no better way to see it from onboard one of our Explore Dorset open-top buses.

Your day ticket lasts all day, so there's no need to rush. If a beach, café or viewpoint catches your eye, simply hop off for a wander and pick up the next bus when you're ready. 

If you're travelling one way, single fares are available too, and our group ticket makes things easy for families travelling together.

However you do it, just explore.

Explore routes

We have four dedicated Explore open-top bus routes

11 Weymouth - Portland Bill (operates daily from 23rd May to 19th September)

55 Lulworth Cove - Wool - Bovington (operates daily from 23rd May to 19th September)

X50 Weymouth - Lulworth - Wool - Wareham - Swanage (operates daily from 23rd July to 31st August)

X52 Weymouth - Abbotsbury - Bridport (operates Monday to Saturday from 23rd May to 19th September)

The open-top routes are shown in light blue on the map above, with regular closed top routes shown in purple. If you’re on board then simply ring the bell and then please stay seated until the bus has stopped. If you’re waiting to get on, please signal clearly to the driver so they will know to stop and pick you up.

Explore times

Buses operate all summer – you’ll find specific times in the leaflet you can download below.

Download your 2026 Explore Dorset [PDF] leaflet here

Explore fares

As well as singles and returns, you can also buy day tickets which are valid for travel all day on any First Bus service so you can hop-on and hop-off as much as you like whilst you explore.

Tickets for the Dorset Zone are valid on all open-top bus routes, as well as any local First Bus service in Dorset. If you're only planning on riding the 11 to Portland Bill, then our Weymouth Zone tickets offer the best price. 

You can buy your ticket from the driver when you get on the bus with contactless or cash, or buy it in advance on the First Bus app.

*group tickets are valid for five people of any age travelling together.

The highlights

Portland Bill - 11
Climb the distinctive red and white tower and see for miles along the beautiful Jurassic Coast.

Durdle Door - 55, X50
Watch and listen to the sea crashing through this famous natural cliff arch.

Abbotsbury - X52
World famous for its ancient swannery, this beautiful village of thatched cottages is home to over 600 free-flying swans.