things to do in Dorset
- family-friendly
- holidays
- places to visit
Located on the southwest coast of England, Dorset is known for so many incredible things with plenty to see and do.
So, we thought it would make sense to put together this blog with a range of things to do in Dorset. The list below varies and has something for everyone so whether you are after a day out as a family with young kids or you are looking to do something as a couple, you’ll be sure to find something in this blog. And if you are looking for somewhere to stay in Dorset to enjoy all these things to do we have our Wareham Forest Lodge Retreat in Poole which will make the perfect base for exploring Dorset.
Jurassic Coast
95 mile stretch along Dorset coastline
The Jurassic Coast is a World Heritage Site on the English Channel coast and one of the most iconic parts of Dorset. The best part about the Jurassic Coast is the number of things to do from beaches to rock formations and incredible walks to take in the breath taking views. Along the 95 mile stretch of coast you will find endless activities and days out to suit all. You can even enjoy fossil hunting and explore some of the fossil museums or even join a fossil walk.
Weymouth Beach
The Esplanade, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 7AN
Right at the heart of the Jurassic Coast is Weymouth Beach, an award-winning stretch of sand that makes the perfect day out for all. It became popular in the late 1700’s by King George III who visited the beach on multiple occasions. Now it is popular for swimmers, water sports and relaxing. Families can make the most of the classic seaside attractions such as Punch and Judy, pedalos, children’s rides and donkeys.
Kingston Lacy
Kingston Lacy, Wimborne, BH21 4EA
This stunning country house and estate has an impressive history to discover during your visit. With 8,500 acres of estate to explore there is so much to see from Iron Age hill forts, water meadows and even the world’s oldest pedigree herd of Red Ruby Devon Cattle! Throughout the year there are plenty of events that take place at Kingston Lacy so make sure you check their page before your visit to see if anything suits your group.
Durdle Door
Wareham, BH20 5PU
Known for being one of Dorset’s most photographed and iconic landmarks, Durdle Door is an impressive natural limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast. It had been created when the sea pierced through the limestone around 10,000 years ago. You could incorporate a walk along part of the famous Jurassic Coast and head down to see Durdle Door during your walk. The limestone arch is owned by Lulworth Estate but it free for the public to visit.
Poole Harbour
Poole, BH13 7PS
Poole Harbour is Europe’s largest natural harbour in Dorset with plenty to see and do whilst you’re there. Whether you are after a coastal walk, a water sport experience or just want to sit and watch the world go by with a bite to eat. There is plenty to do water sports wise from water skiing and wakeboarding to jet skis and water bikes. Whatever you fancy doing with your family or friends you will find something fun to do and suit everyone at Poole Harbour.
Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre
Tout Hill, Longthorns, Wareham, BH20 6HH
The Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre is a huge 65-acre ape and monkey sanctuary which you can visit. It’s a huge rescue centre with over 250 rescued chimpanzees, orangutans, lemurs, gibbons, macaques, monkeys and more. There are guided tours and talks that you can book onto and keeper talks. Enjoy food and drink at one of the many cafes and kiosks and let your children play in the Great Ape Play Area! It’s the perfect fun day out for all whilst learning about the rescued and endangered species.
Corfe Castle
The Square, Corfe Castle, Nr Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5EZ
Corfe Castle is a 1000-year-old royal castle that was shaped by warfare. It was one of the most iconic survivors in Britain during the English Civil War and is visited and explored by many. Whilst you’re there you can learn all about the years of history behind the impressive structure. There are various events on throughout the year at Corfe Castle so make sure you see if anything is on during the time you will be visiting.
Adventure Wonderland
Merritown Ln, Hurn, Christchurch, BH23 6BA
Enjoy a day out at a family theme park with Adventure Wonderland. There are over 30 rides and attractions that are perfect for families with children aged 10 and below. Whether you fancy going on the flying elephants or Wild Bills runaway train or even the Alice in Wonderland Maze. There is so much to see and do to have fun during your time at Adventure Wonderland. There is also a Wild Thing Café open every day serving various hot and cold food and drinks.
Moors Valley
Horton Rd, Ashley Heath, Ringwood, BH24 2ET
Whether you want a peaceful walk with friends of an adrenaline fuelled activity you can enjoy it all at Moors Valley. This country park and forest has over 800 acres to explore and so much to see and do. With a Moors Valley Railway, cycle hire and trails, golf course, Go Ape and Segways, Hawk walks, fishing, children’s play area and so much more. There is also a restaurant and takeaway kiosk serving food and drinks throughout the day.
Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park
Wareham Rd, Organford, Poole, Organford, Poole, BH16 6EU
Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park is a fun park with so much to see and do from farm animals, woodland trails, indoor and outdoor play areas and a seasonal maize maze. There are plenty of animals to see and learn about such as donkeys, guinea pigs, goats, alpacas, chickens, ducks, deer cows, sheep and more! You can also enjoy a tractor ride or your children can go on pedal go karts and tractors. The Hen House Restaurant is also open all day serving delicious food and drink for all.
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