Thomas Hardy homes

In Dorset, England, travelers may visit the thatched cottage where writer Thomas Hardy was born in 1840, as well as Max Gate, the Victorian home he designed and lived in for much of his life.

In 2014, the cottage and house are open March 12-Nov. 2. Cottage entry, £5.50 (near $9). Home entry, £6.50 ($11). Contact the National Trust (Higher Bockhampton, near Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8QJ, U.K.; phone +0844 800 1895).