The hospital was founded in 1840 as the Dorset County Hospital and the first purpose-built buildings, designed by Benjamin Ferrey, were completed in 1841 south of Princes Street in the town centre. During the 20th century the poet Thomas Hardy and the surgeon Sir Frederick Treves provided financial support to the hospital.
The hospital was established in 1840 as the Dorset County Hospital and the initial purpose-built structures, designed by Benjamin Ferrey, were finished in 1841 south of Princes Street in the town centre. During the 20th century, the poet Thomas Hardy and the surgeon Sir Frederick Treves contributed financially to the hospital.