Wareham is a small riverside town dating back to the time of King Alfred in the 9th century. Up until the 14th century Wareham was a port, the trade gradually moving to Poole as the ships got too large for the river.

The grassy banks called "The Town Walls" are based on the original Saxon banks, which were re-inforced during the Norman period. These provide good views of the town and make for a pleasant walk.

The great fire of 1762 was one of the most significant historic events. The fire started at about three o'olock in the afternoon in the grounds of the Bulls Head Inn. A careless servant is thought to have thrown some hot ashes onto a rubbish heap. The subsequent fire spread very quickly through the dry thatched roofs and timber walls of the town.

The Quayside is the most picturesque part of the town, the riverside seats providing the perfect location for an ice cream, before or after a leisurely walk alongside the river.

The Farmer's Markert is held on the Quayside every Saturday.

Rowing boats can be hired on the other side of the road and river boat trips are available to and from Poole Harbour.

St Martin's Church on North Street is well worth a visit. Built in 1030 its a superb example of a Saxon church. For added interest it contains a full length marble effigy of T.E. Lawrence in arab dress.