Attractions in Dorset

What would you plan for your perfect day out in Dorset? Family fun, exciting entertainment, a spot of history and culture? Well whatever you choose to do, Dorset has it by the bucket loads!

Dorset provides such a variety of fantastic attractions; you’ll never find yourself struggling to find things to do, whatever you’re interested in.

Attractions in Dorset for everyone

Dorset boasts some of the best family attractions that you will find anywhere.

Puff your way through the picturesque Purbeck hills on one of Swanage Railway’s classic steam trains. It's a memorable day out for young and old.

The kids will love a day out at Moors Valley Country Park, set in 1000 acres of parkland and woods. See if you’ve got a head for heights with the tree top walk ways and conquer the high wire adventure. There is so much to explore - you might even bump into the Gruffalo!

Dorset boasts heritage in abundance! Find out how Weymouth defended itself against attack at the Nothe Fort and learn more about the tanks that descended upon Purbeck in the war at the Tank Museum.

Fashion lovers will delight at the vintage collections on display at the Blandford Fashion Museum and if you love a thrill, try zip lining along the world’s first pier to shore zip wire in Bournemouth!

Animal Antics

If you’re looking for some farmyard fun then we’ve got you covered.

Head over to Farmer Palmers Farm Park for a whole day of farmyard fun in the beautiful Dorset countryside. Your little ones will be well and truly worn out after a day of demonstrations, animal handling, tractor rides, bouncing, play area…the list goes on!

If you’re looking for something a little different why not go on a picnic with your very own donkey companion at Donkey Walking Adventures? You’ll help get the donkeys ready for their walk then take in the very best of the Beaminster countryside on a trip you’ll never forget.

Or have a day with the cheeky chimps at Monkey World - the world renowned ape rescue centre with hundreds of rescued and endangered apes and monkeys. Read the marvellous stories of their rescue and you’ll be astounded by the amazing work carried out by the foundation.

Make a Splash

There’s plenty of fun to be had on the water here in Dorset.

Take a leisurely boat trip with City Cruises Poole and see Dorset’s famous landmarks from the sea. There are cruises to suit everyone, from wildlife watching trips to summer sunset cruises to watch the fireworks.

If speed is your drug, then you’ll love racing along the glorious Jurassic Coast on a RIB ride. Scream if you want to go faster!

If you prefer to be in the water, you can take the family to Splashdown and zoom down the exciting flumes and shuts or you can have great fun at the Dorset Waterpark as you tackle the inflatable obstacles.

Explore Dorset’s hidden treasures

If you prefer your day to go at a more relaxed pace Dorset still has plenty to interest you as Dorset is home to some of the most fascinating and beautiful stately homes and gardens. 

Stroll around magnificent homes such as Kingston Lacy or Highcliffe Castle and unearth their stories, some of the past residents were some real characters!

Marvel at the manicured lawns and mature shrubs bursting with colours at some of Dorset’s glorious garden attractions.

Soak up the Dorset sunshine while discovering the exotic paradise of Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens before enjoying some light refreshments in the Colonial Restaurant.

If you’re after something a bit different, a visit to Keyneston Mill will certainly stir the senses! It’s the largest private botanic gardens in the country dedicated solely to aromatic and scented plants.

If you want to go on a real treasure hunt, then pick up a Dorset Treasure Trail and solve the many fictional mysteries hidden in Dorset’s towns and villages.

Attractions in Dorset that don’t cost a penny!

Don’t worry if you’re working to a tight budget, Dorset has a fantastic range of free days out, fun activities and of course not forgetting our wonderful array of beaches.

Check out our Top 10 Free Days Out and visit some of our fantastic free attractions.

It always seems that the low cost days out are the ones that we remember the most, so come and make some memories of your own.

Don’t just come for the day, come and stay!

Accommodation and dining is available for all tastes, budgets and needs. Whether it’s for families, couples or large groups we’ve got it covered.

Browse the various accommodation and food and drink on offer by using the links below or alternatively you can use our search facility to find exactly what you are looking for.

So what are you waiting for? Book your Dorset getaway now!