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We’d love to be able to tell you that the sun shines all year round in Dorset, but sadly that’s not always the case.
But there’s no need to be down in the dumps if it does get a little damp on your holiday.
Take a look at some of our rainy day ideas and we will have you singing in the rain in no time!
Join a Brewery Tour
Go behind the scenes in the historic brewery buildings of Palmers Brewery to watch every stage of the centuries-old brewing process.
The tour ends with a beer tasting (or a soft drink for those drivers!) in Palmers Wine Store, where you will receive a Palmers glass tankard commemorating your visit.
Have an underwater adventure
Take a fascinating journey below the ocean at Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park and discover a magical underwater world filled with a dazzling array of amazing creatures. Every step will reveal something new, from a face-to-face encounter with sharks to a hands-on rockpool experience.
Experience life under the sea at Bournemouth's Oceanarium. See the penguins dipping in and out of the water, watch the turtles as they swim over your head in the underwater tunnel and gaze at the tiny seahorses.
See a show
A great way to cheer up a miserable day is to take a trip to the theatre. Book in to see a matinee performance at the Weymouth Pavilion or Lyme Regis' Marine Theatre and get ready for an afternoon of entertainment.
If you’re more of a film buff, there are plenty of local cinemas showing the latest blockbusters as well as independant films, so get the popcorn at the ready.
Get wet at Splashdown
When getting wet is unavoidable if you go outside, why not just bite the bullet and go to one of the South’s biggest and best waterparks!
Splashdown is home to 13 thrilling indoor and outdoor flume rides and 3 under 5's splash zones.
It’s flumin' great fun for the whole family!
Uncover Dorset’s history and heritage
Don’t waste the day; take the opportunity to visit a museum you’ve never visited before.
Whether it’s the quirky Montacute TV, Toy and Radio Museum or the astounding Jurassic Coast Gallery at the Dorset County Museum make sure you discover somewhere new in Dorset.
Indulge in a spa day
Aah what could be dreamier than spending a dull day wrapped up warm in your robes at a spa enjoying a hot stone massage, bubbles in the Jacuzzi and just relaxing by the pool.
Afterwards, delight in the tastes of a delicate afternoon tea with cucumber sandwiches and fondant fancies whilst watching the pitter patter of the raindrops on the window.
Heavenly!
Enjoy the biggest day out in Dorset!
Have tonnes of fun at the Tank Museum, Dorset’s largest indoor attraction. The award winning attraction tells the story of armoured warfare spanning more than 100 years of history.
Bringing history to life, with the world’s best collection of tanks and explosive live displays.
Go for a pub lunch
When the rain is lashing down outside, spend the afternoon in one of Dorset’s country pubs.
Many have award winning menus and hearty food so take the excuse to enjoy a long lunch with your family and friends before relaxing in the lounge area by the fire.
Some pubs have books or games to borrow as well to keep you entertained all afternoon.
Let the kids run riot
Oodles of soft play fun for the little ones! Lemur Landings is perfect for keeping your rascals occupied on rainy days with bridges to cross, tunnels to explore, plenty of clambering up, sliding down, and running around. You can fire the cannons, jump in the ball pit or play hide and seek – great fun!
Let's bowl. Pick one of Hollywood Bowls 24 lanes at Tower Park Entertainment Centre and compete to see who's going to be top of the score card. There is also American Pool, acrade games and a family amusement centre.
Don your waterproofs
Who said that you had to stay indoors on a rainy day?!
Whack on those wellies, grab that umbrella and make the most of the English weather – go for a fun muddy walk and let the kids jump in the puddles.
It won’t take long to dry off afterwards and it’s one of life’s simplest pleasures!
More inspiration?
We've compiled a whole host of Dorset's best attractions with indoor cover for those rainy days...
