Things To Do in Dorset
Not sure of what to see or do during your visit? Whatever you’re interested in, you’ll be sure to find it in Dorset.
From fantastically fun family attractions to intriguing museums and some of the most stunning stately homes and gardens to be found anywhere. The variety of attractions on offer will blow you away!
No matter if you are a day tripper or visiting on holiday, there are so many incredible things to do in Dorset, it will make your visit live long in the memory.
Looking for things to do in Dorset with the kids?
Have a day of monkeying around at Monkey World - home to over 250 rescued and endangered monkeys and apes. Once you have learned more about our closest living relatives, let the kids unleash their inner chimp by swinging and climbing on the south of England’s largest play area.
If you prefer your activities to be a bit more adrenalin pumping, Dorset is stacked with heart racing activities to keep every thrill seeker entertained. Racing carts, firing guns or scaling the heights rock climbing, we’ve got it covered. With all these extreme sports to choose from we just hope you can keep up!
Things to do in Dorset for everyone to enjoy!
Dorset is the perfect playground for you to explore, with mile upon mile of thrilling cycle routes, some of the finest walking trails to be found anywhere and scenery to die for!
Cast your fishing line off of one of Dorset’s stunning beaches and land your own monster from the deep or sit back and relax alongside one of the tranquil fishing lakes and watch the world go by. There are also plenty of boat trips and tours to take advantage of - enjoy our county from the water!
Why not visit the world’s best collection of armoured vehicles at the Tank Museum, where the history of the tank is brought to life?
Shop 'til you drop
There is such a large range of shopping experiences in Dorset, we’re sure you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. From big named brands to small, independent retailers and everything in-between, our shops will produce the goods...and more!
Whether you are looking to get something new for your wardrobe, find a stunning piece of art for your home or pick up some tasty food and drink for dinner, Dorset's high streets, shopping centres and retail parks have everything you could ever wish for.
And don't forget to take a break from all that retail therapy with a coffee break or lunch in one of our amazing cafes, bistros or restaurants.
Let Dorset entertain you!
If you're looking for entertainment, we've got it covered! From performing arts in wonderful theatres to the latest blockbuster at a nearby cinema. And not forgetting places to let your hair down and party all night long!
Dorset is lucky to have a great variety of traditional theatres, as well as modern art centres where you can watch everything from Shakespeare's plays to live orchestras. And they are also host to touring theatre productions, local amateur dramatics and famous comedians.
If you're looking for a big night out to see your favourite band or artist, you won't be disappointed with the choice on offer. We've got big names, up and coming artists and all time legends.
Book your break in Dorset today
So what are you waiting for? Book your action packed break to Dorset now! We’ve got loads of holiday accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes and you can easily book the accommodation of your choice by using our easy-to-use booking facility.
Last but not least, we would definitely recommend you visit the filming location of ITV's hit drama 'Broadchurch' so you can see first hand how the amazing landscape helped play its part in its success.
Highlighted for you
3D Zombie Woodland Archery in Dorset
Unleash Your Inner Zombie Slayer: Thrilling Woodland 3D Archery in Dorset Learn advanced Archery Skills & Conquer our 3D Zombie Woodland Challenge Ever wanted to learn archery or apply your...
Brewery Square
Brewery Square is a lively open air shopping and leisure destination. With a mix of independent boutiques and well-known brands. Enjoy delicious dining at our many cafés and restaurants, catch...
Brownsea Island
The perfect day’s adventure, this island wildlife sanctuary is easy to get to but feels like another world from the moment you step ashore. The island sits in the middle of Poole Harbour, with...
Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle ruins are one of Britain's most iconic and evocative survivors of the English Civil War, partially demolished in 1646 by the Parliamentarians. Discover 1,000 years of its...
Cumulus Outdoor Adventure
Cumulus Outdoors offers unrivalled outdoor experience and a range of outdoor adventure experiences for families and private groups, a range of school residential programmes including field studies,...
Cyclexperience
Get tranquility and exercise on a bike whilst exploring the woodlands, heaths, beaches and hills of the Isle of Purbeck! Ride top of the range mountain bikes or modern...
Dorset Adventure Park
Reopening Easter weekend from Friday 18th April 2025 Located in Corfe Castle, Dorset Adventure park is a family fun Waterpark and Mud Trail. Featuring 18 acres of woodland and lakes with stunning...
Dorset Foot Golf
Looking for a fun and unique way to enjoy the great outdoors? Dorset Foot Golf offers the perfect blend of football and golf, providing an exciting and competitive activity for children and adults of...
Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park
~ A day delivered with passion at Dorset's favourite family run attraction ~ AS SEEN ON TV – An award-winning family run farm park offers a unique day out for EVERY GENERATION with a...
Farmer Palmer's Farm Park
Farmer Palmer's is where young adventurers can frankly ‘let their hair down’ without older children around to stifle their enjoyment! Designed specifically for children aged 0-8years,...
Forde Abbey and Gardens
Forde Abbey is a treasure set in the beautiful rural Dorset, on the banks of river Axe; 900 years of history is encapsulated in this elegant former Cistercian monastery and its 12ha (30 acres) of...
Furleigh Estate Wine Tours
Set in West Dorset’s wonderful green and rolling hills, Furleigh Estate makes some of the best sparkling wine in the country. We have over 22,000 vines and a purpose-built winery containing...
Gorcombe Xtreme Sports
Welcome to Gorcombe Extreme Sports, where we offer a multitude of activities for the young and not so young. You can experience the thrill of:- Quadbiking, in 40 minute, 60 minute and 90 minute...
Henderson's Dorset
Henderson's Dorset offers private tours of Dorset, both guided day tours by car or self-guided walking tours. We can book your accommodation, recommend the best places to eat and we can even...
Highcliffe Castle
Highcliffe Castle is not only a beautiful and historical building, but the surrounding grounds are perfect for a relaxing stroll or a family picnic on the lawns. There is direct access to both...
Holme For Gardens
Holme for Gardens is a family business run by Simon and Liz Goldsack. Set in the wonderful Isle of Purbeck not far from the Jurassic Coast, Holme is all about beautiful surroundings, the relaxing...
Kingston Lacy
Kingston Lacy is an elegant 17th century Italian inspired country mansion set in attractive formal gardens and extensive parkland. Step inside the residence of the powerful and flamboyant Bankes...
Laserguys Activities
Laserguys Activities is a premier outdoor activity venue in Blandford Forum, right in the middle of Dorset. We're dedicated to providing exciting and thrilling experiences for players all year...
Mega Slip and Slide
The UK’s Longest Slip and Slide – Only in Dorset! Get ready to experience 150 metres (492 feet) of fast-flowing, refreshing fun on the Mega Slip and Slide...
Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre
Enjoy a fun-filled, fascinating day out for all the family at Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre in Wareham. The 65-acre park is home to the stars of TV’s ‘Monkey Life’ and...
Moors Valley Country Park and Forest
To inject a sense of fun into your family days out then head to Moors Valley Country Park and Forest to get active in the outdoors and have yourself a family adventure. You are sure to find something...
Museum of East Dorset
Come and enjoy a family day out at Wimborne’s award-winning museum. Step off the busy High Street into an historic town house in the heart of beautiful Wimborne Minster. Wander around the house...
Museum of Jurassic Marine Life - The Etches Collection
Come and visit the ‘Jewel’ in the crown of the Jurassic Coast, The Etches Collection Museum of Jurassic Marine Life situated in the village of Kimmeridge, Dorset Housing the finest single...
Palmers Brewery
Guided brewery tours now run throughout the year Monday to Friday. Book on to one of our brewery tours and take a look around the only thatched brewery in the UK. Palmers ales are brewed in one of...
Portland Castle
Overlooking Portland Harbour in Dorset stands one of Henry VIII's finest coastal forts, built in the early 1540s to protect against French and Spanish invasion. Today it provides a great day out...
Purbeck Park
Purbeck Park - Where adventures begin… Located in the centre of the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset, Purbeck Park is a 'must visit' location. Start here and explore nearby attractions and the...
Purbeck Sports Centre
A family friendly sports centre offering something for everyone. Swimming sessions for all abilities, sauna, football and cricket pitches, racket sports, modern gym and a packed timetable of...
Redlands Yard
For nearly 40 years Redlands Yard (previously called Broadwindsor Craft Centre) has been a firm local and visitors favourite. No visit is complete without a treating yourself to something delicious...
Rock Reef Activity Attraction and Pier Zip
RockReef is an all year, all weather activity attraction located at the end of Bournemouth Pier. There is a huge range of amazing activities to suit all ages, from 4 to 94! Inside you will find 28...
RSPB Arne Nature Reserve
Arne Nature Reserve is situated on Poole Harbour and within the Dorset National Landscape, it's a stunning landscape which consists of dramatic open heathland and ancient oak woodland. Arne...
RSPB Weymouth Wetlands (Radipole and Lodmoor)
The RSPB Weymouth Wetlands nature reserves are hidden gems in the heart of Weymouth. Comprises of 2 reserves (RSPB Radipole Lake and RSPB Lodmoor) and a Discovery Centre. Nestled in...
Sail Tortuga – Boat Trips, E-foiling and Private Catamaran Charter
Tortuga is a 12m luxury sailing catamaran with space for up to 12 guests. Enjoy the peace and tranquillity sailing around Weymouth Bay with stunning views of the Jurassic Coast, whilst our crew take...
Sherborne Castle and Gardens
Please check the website to confirm the opening times. Built by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594 and the stately home of the Digby family since 1617; a fascinating visit to the historic Sherborne...
Sherborne Old Castle
Wander in the footsteps of Sir Walter Ralegh and discover his country home. Originally a 12th-century bishop’s palace, Sherborne Old Castle became the home of Sir Walter Ralegh (an English...
Shire Hall Museum
Shire Hall Museum brings over 200 years of justice and injustice to life. Walk in the footsteps of people whose lives were forever changed in the historic court at Dorchester’s Shire Hall...
Splashdown Poole
Please note, tickets are ONLY be bookable through the Splashdown website. Splashdown is an all action water park with some of the UK's best water flumes. A roaringly good welcome awaits those who...
The Blue Pool Nature Reserve and Tearooms
Discover The Blue Pool Nature Reserve & Tearooms, a hidden treasure nestled in the Furzebrook Estate in the Isle of Purbeck. Wander along sandy paths, surrounded by acres of heath, woodland, and...
The Mowlem Theatre, Cinema and The Showbar
Situated on Swanage seafront The Mowlem, cinema, theatre, function rooms and sea view bar offer the perfect entertainment during your visit to Swanage. The refurbished and comfortable auditorium hosts...
The Official Test Centre Ltd
The Official Test Centre (OTC) is the windsurfing, kitesurfing and stand up paddling (SUP) centre located right on the water’s edge, within the grounds of the National Sailing Academy on...
The Sandbanks Ferry
Visitors to Dorset can easily discover the beautiful Isle of Purbeck by hopping on The Sandbanks Ferry, which saves a 25-mile return car journey from Bournemouth to Swanage and offers spectacular...
The Sherborne
The Sherborne opened its doors in the Spring of 2024 with an inspiring artistic programme. The Sherborne is an ambitious and dynamic arts and events venue complete with a modern British dining...
The Tank Museum
The Tank Museum brings history to life, with the world’s best collection of tanks and explosive live displays. Come face-to-face with over 300 huge military machines and hear about amazing...
TheGallery
Welcome to TheGallery at the Arts University Bournemouth - a major resource for contemporary art and design in the South of England. We seek to enhance the cultural capital of the students, staff...
Wimborne Model Town and Gardens
Walk around 1950’s Wimborne in 1/10th scale, set in delightful NGS listed gardens. Fun for all ages at our unique and historic attraction. Lots to see, hear, touch and do! Try the free quizzes...
Woodland Archery, Axe Throwing and Crossbow Shooting in Dorset
Nestled in a beautiful Dorset woodland, you will find award winning outdoor activity company, Insight Activities. Here to offer you one of the most fun and memorable experiences you can have during...
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is no ordinary garden, with its own micro-climate in a sheltered woodland valley on the Jurassic Coast. The special plant collection has been built up over the last...
Abbotsbury Swannery
Abbotsbury Swannery is the only place in the world where you are able to walk through the heart of a colony of nesting Mute Swans. A visit to this beautiful and tranquil place is one of the most...
Athelhampton House and Gardens
Athelhampton nestles in the Piddle valley, between Tolpuddle and Puddletown and is easily reached from the A35 main road. ​The ancient manor of Athelhampton has been continually lived in since Saxon...
Bournemouth International Centre
Situated in the heart of Bournemouth, the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) hosts comedians, musicians, sporting events and plenty more. The BIC is a 6,000 capacity arena and...
Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre
Situated in the heart of Bournemouth, the Pavilion Theatre is host to comedians, musicians, sporting events and plenty more. Bournemouth Pavilion has a 1,400 capacity seated...
Coastal Cruises Poole Ltd
We offer a wide selection of cruises along the Jurassic Coast, trips to the Victorian resort at Swanage and the Steam Railway, Poole Harbour cruises, evening cruises or private charters. A smart...
Condor Ferries Boat Trips
Onboard, relax in one of our spacious passenger lounges, or enjoy a breath of fresh air out on deck, as we sail high speed from Poole. Condor provides High Speed Ferry crossings to Guernsey...
Discovery Village
Looking for an enchanting place to spark your child’s imagination during your visit to Dorset? Discovery Village offers a unique role-play experience for children aged 1-8 years and their...
Dorset Museum & Art Gallery
Welcome to Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, a place to connect with 250 million years of history. From amazing archaeology, to dinosaur bones and the story of Mary Anning, the archive of Thomas Hardy...
Dorset Nectar Cider Farm and Cider Tour Experiences
Visit this Cider Farm destination in the heart of West Dorset, with it’s beautiful traditional cider orchard, Tasting Room and Garden. Dorset Nectar Cider Farm is unique in that the...
Go Ape Moors Valley
Located 10 miles north of Bournemouth and 5 miles west of Ringwood, you can find us in Moors Valley Country Park. We're just off Horton Road - near to Ashley Heath and the New Forest. Go Ape Moors...
Lyme Bay RIB Charter
Get ready to be blown away by unforgettable boat trips from West Bay with Lyme Bay RIB Charter . From fast paced adventures to relaxing sightseeing cruises and private hire options, we...
Lyme RIB Rides
Looking for unforgettable things to do in Lyme Regis? Book a boat trip with Lyme RIB Rides and experience the Jurassic Coast like never before. Whether you're after a thrilling fast paced...
Monart Spa Poundbury
Monart day spa has been created with only one purpose in mind to help you rest, relax and rejuvenate in a beautifully tranquil, adult only environment. This unique journey begins with a personalised...
Moonfleet Adventure Sailing
Sailing daily from Portland - check website for availability and to book Gift vouchers now available - Prices start at just £42 for a 2 hour cruise on the Tallship Moonfleet. Treat yourself...
Swanage Railway
Whatever the weather, take a journey back in time with an enjoyable day of excitement and nostalgia at the award winning Swanage Railway. Sit back and relax during a leisurely trip behind a historic...
The Lighthouse Poole Arts and Entertainment
Lighthouse in Poole is one of this country's largest arts centres, offering a year round programme of live music, theatre, dance, comedy, film, visual arts, pantomime and family shows. ...
The Saltwater Sauna
The Saltwater Sauna offers a Nordic bathing experience rooted in ancient wisdom and progressive wellness. Connect with nature, reap the benefits of contrast therapy and join us for golden sunsets and...
Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park
Explore an amazing underwater world and journey to the ocean depths at Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park! Get up close to over 2,000 creatures, including our playful otters and rescued sea turtles....
Wild Chesil Centre
The Fine Foundation Wild Chesil Centre is your gateway to exploring the iconic Chesil Beach and Fleet Lagoon, renowned for its diverse wildlife, remarkable geology and stunning views. Managed by...
Discover things to doin Dorset
Entertainment & Arts
Enjoy a night out at the cinema or theatre
Shopping
With a large range of shopping experiences in Dorset, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.
Walking
Explore Dorset's rolling hills, peaceful country lanes, dramatic clifftops and woodland trails.
Gardens & Parks
Dorset’s mild climate makes it a perfect location for some truly magical gardens.
Family Friendly
If you’re seeking fun-packed days out in Dorset, we've got loads of ideas for all ages.
Cycling & Mountain Biking
Dorset has a great range of cycling routes for you to choose from.
Nature & Wildlife
Dorset has some of the best wildlife and natural landscapes found anywhere in the UK.
Heritage & Culture
Discover Dorset's rich and intriguing heritage and soak up the atmosphere of bygone eras.
Coast & Beaches
Dorset's stunning coast is waiting to be explored.
Active & Outdoor
Dorset's mix of glorious countryside and superb coast make the ideal setting for a great escape.
Animals & Farm Parks
If your family like to ‘go wild’ and get close to nature, Dorset has lots to offer.
Food & Drink Experiences
Visit a vineyard, book a brewery tour, fish for your dinner or learn new skills at a cookery school.
Share your Dorset
What does your day out in Dorset look like? A romantic walk in the Dorset countryside? A day out with the family at a farm park? Or coasteering off the Dorset coast? Discover a sample of your #VisitDorset activity and attraction images below and share your love for Dorset using the hashtag on Instagram.
Plan Your Visit
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Autism Friendly Days Out
Visit Dorset's attractions which provide quiet zones, sensory backpacks, ear defenders or quiet...
Stargazing
Discover Dorset's dark skies. Stargazing is fun for all ages with shorter days during the winter.
Group Friendly Days Out
Attractions and activities offering group discounts, tours or coach parking.
Things To Do Indoors
From castles, museums and spas to indoor swimming pools, rock climbing, soft play and much more.