YETMINSTER

Our train stops (on request) at one of Dorset's most enchanting historic villages, perfect for a stroll back in time (many of the houses and manors date back to the 17th century).

A day out here could include a pub lunch or light refreshments at the brand new Jolin Gallery and Cafe (Tel: 01935 873044). Turn left out of the station forecourt area and then right, passing the village stores. Continue straight on and you will come to The White Hart Inn (Tel. 01935 872338 for opening times). A short walk beyond that is Boyles Old School, part of which John and Linda Powell have recently transformed into the Jolin Gallery displaying the work of local artists and craftspeople, a cafe (you may be able to sit in their peaceful walled garden), a space for part of their specialised collection of the past and present of the Royal Navy and a bespoke picture framing service.

Robert Boyle, the scientist famous for Boyles Law, left money in trust for a school for children of poor families, and the main part of the gallery is in the old hall of this school. Open 10.00 am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday. Tell Linda you have come by train and she'll share her knowledge of the history of the village, and, if she is not too busy, might even take you on a little tour herself!

The light-filled, 15th century St. Andrews Church is well worth a special visit, with its cherished living history of the village. Look out for the delightful carved capitals, still bearing traces, like other parts of the church, of the original medieval colour scheme, the 300 year old faceless clock which chimes the national anthem six times a day, and some of the utterly captivating Millennium Hangings created by the villagers themselves.

On the 2nd Saturday in July, the village comes vibrantly to life for Yetminster Fair, one of the oldest street fairs in Wessex.