Dorset

Dorset hugs the channels shore

to ancient cliffs its waters roar

waves uncovering 'beasts' of old

unvieled; then their stories told

enthusiasts flock to dig the ground

in hope that fossils can be found!

Above it's chalky bedrock; grow

its wheat and barley; row by row

terraced tracked-marked meadows steep 

the work of many cattles feet

iron-age forts; their ramparts still

mark the top of many a hill

Its almost empty countryside 

boasts panoramas; far and wide

the 'A35' like a ribbon; winds

the real Dorset it never finds

hurrying the tourists along their way

to where they think they ought to stay

In Dorset many a country pile 

was build in every size and style

'Athelhampton' or 'Charborough House'

both large enough for many a mouse

a 'Lion' and a 'Stag' on an arch; up high 

impressive to many a passer-by

'Max Gate', once the Dorchester abode

of 'Thomas Hardy'; it comands the road

Its pretty villages scattered about

with the funiest names; there is no doubt!

'Hazelbury Bryan', 'Hengistbury Head'

'Hermitage', 'Herston' - from 'Highcliffe' it's said

the views across to the 'Isle of Wight'

on a summers morn' make a wonderful sight!

To 'Durdle Door' the tourists march

to see the famous limestone arch

and 'Bournemouth's' beach; on summer days

is full with tourists 'catching rays'

The many faces of Dorset show

they're are many Dorsets to get to know

I know but a few; but with time to kill

I hope to discover more

and I'm sure that I will!