Wareham is yet another Dorset coastal town which was of vital strategic importance. Built in Saxon times by King Alfred the Great: Warehams massive earth ramparts were built to protect this ancient burgh from the frequent raids by the Danes, otherwise known as the Vikings, that were only too prevalent at the time. However even earlier the Romans, had also recognized its strategic importance, and fortified the town during their occupation of England. But the Town only sprung into real prominence during the Saxon era. At the east end of the town, excavations have unearthed a number of interesting artifacts, ranging from hoards of Roman coins to Saxon graves. You can find out all about the artifacts: and Warehams history from Roman, times till to-day at the Town Museum on East Street. Even today the visitor can still see how charming the walled market town of Wareham was and still is. For it still contains many fascinating, and historical buildings from another age. Situated between the Frome, and Piddle rivers, it is also the gateway to the Isles of Purbreck, Purbeck is not a isles as such but like Portland a peninsular jutting out in to English Channel. Up until the middle ages Wareham was considered a very important port. Unfortunately however it was subjected to silting, which was washed down-stream by the Frome, and Piddle rivers. This problem with silt was so great that gradually most of the ships transfered to Poole, with the result that Wareham was used, less and less frequently

The Towns quaint back lanes are a treasure trove, for they contain many old houses, and cottages, while the medieval church of St Mary, still casts a benevolent, and protective eye over the town.The center of the town consist of a meting of four streets, rather like a crossroads, they are named East Street, West Street, South Street, and North Street ah the imagination of town planners. The building of  a by-pass several years ago helped to ease the town's traffic problem. However you still get a lot holidaymakers who think it will be quicker to get to Swanage through the town center, than use the by-pass its not !!! The towns of Bournemouth, Poole, Dorchester and Swanage all within easy traveling distance making the town ideal as a holiday location, only if there was  adequate accommodation sadly there is a dearth of reasonable priced accommodation. 
             
In 1762, Wareham suffered a fire an event that was all to frequent in the days of wooden buildings. Unfortunately quite a few of the older structures were destroyed, to be replaced by Georgian buildings. This is not as disastrous as it first appears, for it has left Wareham adorned with some very fine examples of Georgian architecture.

There are many places of interest, and things to do in Wareham and the surrounding area. Which makes the lack of holiday accommodation even the more puzzling. Boat trips are still run from the harbour. The Isle of Purbeck, is on your doorstep, and is the perfect place to accommodate ramblers, water sport enthusiasts, naturalists, rock climbers and ornithologists. For ornithologists the rare Dartford Warbler has been seen locally. Yes Wareham is the perfect place for lovers of nature and the great outdoors to base themselves.
Yes if you prefer solitude, nature ,scenery and a peaceful rustic retreat this is the place for you, plus there are plenty of typically picturesque historic, villages, and hamlets dotted all over Purbeck awaiting your visit. !

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