DORSET is the perfect place to live in many ways, with the best beaches and countryside spots you're never far from natural beauty.
The county is a myriad of beautiful towns and chocolate box villages, so it comes as no surprise that many areas have seen a huge surge in buyer searches, according to the latest Rightmove data.
The new figures reveal the top nine most desirable places to live in the county.
READ MORE: Bournemouth named as one of top UK holiday hotspots
READ MORE: Inside 5 of the most expensive homes in Dorset
Here are the areas in Dorset that have seen the biggest rise in interest over the last year:
Dorchester
Annual increase in buyer searches: 75%
(Image - Google Streetview)
The birthplace of famous author and poet Thomas Hardy, Dorchester is also Dorset's county town.
The town enjoys a rich history dating back as far as the Iron Age and is steeped in history.
With plenty of attractions, railway stations and a range of restaurants and bars it is fast becoming Dorset's most desirable town.
The average property in Dorchester costs £312,418.
Northbourne
Annual increase in buyer searches: 60%
(Image - Google Streetview)
Located to the north of Bournemouth, Northbourne borders Ensbury Park along the River Stour.
The delightful suburb of the town has grown in popularity over the past year, potentially due to its cheaper house prices and increased space.
The average property in Northbourne costs £287,119.
Bridport
Annual increase in buyer searches: 29%
(Image - Google Maps)
The popular market town of Bridport is a bustling hub along the south coast, with a range of shops, restaurants and cafes to enjoy in your free time, there is even an antiques quarter.
The gorgeous stone town is just one mile from the Jurassic Coast at the village of West Bay, made famous by the hit show Broadchurch.
Charmouth, Lyme Regis, Dorchester and Weymouth are all just a short drive away.
The average property in Bridport costs £353,301.
Bournemouth
Annual increase in buyer searches: 25%
(Image - stock)
Our beloved Bournemouth is becoming an ever-popular location to move to in Dorset.
With links to Waterloo commuters can arrive in London within two-hours and as less and less of us are going to the office, more are looking for a home by the sea.
The average property in Bournemouth costs £314,246.
Southbourne
Annual increase in buyer searches: 23%
(Image - Google Streetview)
Southbourne is home to one of Bournemouth's favourite Blue Flag award winning beaches situated just west of Bournemouth Pier.
Away from too much of the hustle and bustle of central Bournemouth, Southbourne has a village vibe that's popular with young families.
The average property in Southbourne costs £383,848.
Lyme Regis
Annual increase in buyer searches: 20%
(Image - Google Streetview)
An ideal location for any proper foodie's, this stylish seaside town is quickly gaining a reputation for its epic seafood bars, bistros and restaurants.
There's plenty to keep the whole family entertained with a range of sports clubs, safe beaches and independent shops to enjoy - it's no wonder this is one of the most sought after locations to buy property in Dorset.
The average property in Lyme Regis costs £462,720.
Gillingham
Annual increase in buyer searches: 18%
(Image - Google Maps)
The quieter town of Gillingham sits in the Blackmore Vale area of Dorset, close to Shatesbury which is one of the oldest and highest towns in England.
Gillingham is the most northern town in Dorset, bordering Somerset and Wiltshire. The town enjoys stunning countryside and has connections to the famous oil painter John Constable.
Properties in Gillingham average at £287,712.
Chickerell
Annual increase in buyer searches: 18%
(Image - Google Streetview)
One of the newest towns in Dorset, Chickerell is close to Weymouth and Chesil Beach.
To the west of the town lies the atmospheric Fleet Lagoon, the setting for the famous book 'Moonfleet' by J. M. Falkner which is part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
Chickerell is also home to Bennett’s Water Gardens, a visitor attraction set over 8 acres.
The average property in Chickerell costs £268,310.
Weymouth
Annual increase in buyer searches: 17%
(Image - Google Streetview)
Surrounded by the coast, Weymouth is a stunning and bustling town with lots of energy and vibrancy.
Located halfway along the Jurassic Coast, there's plenty to do for everyone from cliff top hikes to town centre shopping.
The average property in Weymouth costs £277,580.
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