The 10 most desirable places to live in Dorset have been revealed with west Dorset more than pulling its weight.

Muddy Stilettos compiled the list in an attempt to guide potential buyers to local hot spots and up-and-coming areas.

Here's what the lifestyle magazine had to say about some of the entries.

The site describes Beaminster as a laid-back, pretty town with a bit of an arty feel and an attractive conservation area around the market square.

It also mentions two restaurants in particular: Brassica in the market square, founded by Cass Titcombe of Spitalfield’s Canteen, and, restaurant and hotel The Ollerod, run by Michelin-starred Chris Staines and Silvana Bandini.

Whilst Bridport is said to have a "vibrant community, rich cultural scene, indie shopping and eateries" combined with "stunning countryside".

Praise is also heaped on Lyme Regis with clamour for its Georgian streets, old alleyways and array of independent shops and eateries. 

The historic county town of Dorset, Dorchester is said to be great for families with "very good schools, close proximity to the Jurassic coast as well glorious countryside".

The website also heaps praise on Shaftesbury which it says is a "sleepy hill top town nestled within the glorious Blackmore Vale in north Dorset."

Culturally, it highlights the historic market town of Wimborne as well as the stunning Jurassic Coast that can be admired across the Purbecks whilst describing Swanage and Sherborne as "picture perfect". 

Southbourne and Canford Cliffs are the only entries on the list from the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole council area with Southbourne being described as ideal "for young professionals and families".

Canford Cliffs marked the most expensive location on the list where the  average house price last year was £788,556: a detached house would set you back on average around £1.5m.

Whilst Dorchester was reportedly the cheapest for property buyers with the average house price last year being £326,685: detached properties fetched an average £503,035.

The full list of the most desirable places to live in Dorset, according to Muddy Stilettos:

  • Canford Cliffs
  • Beaminster
  • Bridport
  • Dorchester
  • Shaftesbury
  • Sherborne
  • Wimborne
  • Swanage
  • Southbourne
  • Lyme Regis