Fun and adventure awaits you in Dorset
Family fun at the Dorset Heavy Horse Centre
Monkey World Primate Rescue Centre

You are here: Things To Do > Families & Children

Family Friendly Things To Do

Search Things to Do

Highlights

Museum of Jurassic Marine Life - The Etches Collection

The finest single collection of Late Jurassic age fossils in Britain, housed in a purpose built,…

Weymouth Beach

This award-winning sandy beach is overlooked by a magnificent Georgian seafront, located at the…

Farmer Palmer's Farm Park

Farmer Palmers Farm Park has re-opened - pre-booking admission is now essential. Please visit…

The Tutankhamun Exhibition

*Temporarily closed*. The world's greatest discovery of Ancient Treasure - Tutankhamun's tomb,…

Literary Dorset
Dorset's Jurassic Coast

Visit our stunning Jurassic Coast and enjoy 'a walk through time', you might even find your own fossil along the way!
Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre

Enjoy a fun-filled, fascinating day out for all the family at Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre.
1. 1 Jan 000131 Dec 9999
2. 1 Jan 201830 Jun 2018
3. 1 Jul 201831 Aug 2018
4. 1 Sep 201831 Dec 2018
5. 1 Jan 201930 Jun 2019
6. 1 Jul 201931 Aug 2019
7. 1 Sep 201931 Dec 2019
8. 1 Jan 202030 Jun 2020
9. 1 Jul 202031 Aug 2020
10. 1 Sep 202031 Dec 2020
11. 1 Jan 202130 Jun 2021
12. 1 Jul 202131 Aug 2021
13. 1 Sep 202131 Dec 2021

If you’re seeking fun-packed days out in Dorset with the kids, we've got loads of ideas to keep all ages entertained.

There’s animals to meet, dinoaurs to discover, castles to explore, thrilling rides and sports of all sorts.

One thing’s for sure, we can guarantee you and the family won’t be bored on your holiday. Get ready for some great fun!

What shall we do today?

It’s not difficult to keep the kids (and parents) entertained in Dorset as there’s a fair share of star family attractions hidden in amongst all that lovely West Country scenery.

One of the most renowned ape rescue centres in the world, Monkey World is home to over 230 rescued and endangered apes and monkeys. A great day out for your cheeky chimps!

Moors Valley Country Park has something for everyone. Set in 1000 acres of parkland and forest you can explore the way marked trails, tree-top walkways and tackle the high wire adventure.

Enjoy some fun down on the farm at Farmer Palmers. This is a great day out for under 8s with a brilliant adventure playground and a number of animal based activities.

If a family theme park is what the kids crave, Adventure Wonderland is the place for you. With over 30 family rides and attractions, the park takes its inspiration from Lewis Carol's Alice in Wonderland. The children will love meeting Alice, Mad Hatter, Queen of Hearts, Mr Rabbit and the Cheshire Cat.

Inspirational days out

You’ll never be stuck for interesting things to see and do in Dorset, even when the British weather takes a turn for the worse. Don’t panic, Dorset has plenty of indoor fun to keep everyone entertained.

For your little soldiers, the Tank Museum is a must. Learn the story of the tank and look around a massive display of armoured vehicles; you can even take part in a trench experience. Tonnes of fun for everyone!

Kids will love the amazing variety of museums in Dorset where children of all ages can learn, explore, touch, and discover. Board a Concorde aircraft, be amazed at life sized dinosaurs and teddy bears, see Tutankhamun’s tomb and have your photo taken with Mr Bean’s yellow mini!

If the children need to let off some steam, take them to Lemur Landings – a huge soft play centre with bridges to cross, tunnels to explore and plenty of clambering up, sliding down and running around.

Get back to nature

For any animal lovers in your family, Dorset won’t disappoint. Dorset is home to some of the very best riding stables that cater for little ones and big ones!

Enjoy a trek across the open countryside or enjoy one on one tuition with an experienced instructor with Rosewall Equestrian or Lulworth Equestrian Centre.

For those of you not keen on riding your animal companion, why not lead a loving Donkey or exotic Llama while taking some of the sites and sounds of the countryside on an organised walk.

On the crest of a wave

It’s not surprising that with Dorset’s fantastic coastline that we have some of the very best water based activities that you’ll find anywhere. Dorset is home to the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy and its waters hosted the sailing events for the London 2012 Olympics. Spend a day out on the water and see if you’ve got what it takes to be the next Ben Ainsley.

The best view of Dorset’s world heritage coastline is most certainly from the water so the chance to enjoy a blast along the coast in a specially adapted RIB shouldn't be missed. Book a session with Lyme Bay RIB Charter to experience a ride you’ll never forget, just remember to hold on tight!!

Did you know that the RNLI headquarters and national training college is in Poole? Why not take a behind the scenes tour of the RNLI College to find out how their crews and lifeguards are trained and be given the chance to explore the college and its training facilities, including their world-class Sea Survival Centre, which hosts the wave tank and Lifeboat simulator. Maybe the little ones will be inspired to become a lifeguard?

Be creative

If you'd like to try something different, then a visit to Burngate Stone Carving Centre is a must. They run 2 hour sessions for both adults and children. Try carving a flower, name or your favourite animal.

Fit and fun

Don’t forget that Dorset also has a number of modern sports centres offering a vast array of activities, from badminton and squash through to family fun session’s poolside or outside.

Experience the country life

The biggest and best attractions in Dorset aren’t those that would immediately spring to mind; they’re our beaches, cliffs, harbours, woods and meadows – places that are absolutely free to go and see! If you’re after a great family day out that won’t cost you a penny, come and experience some of Dorset’s finest natural wonders.

A picnic at Durdle Door will entertain the whole family. Spend the day at Dorset’s most famous landmark and soak up the atmosphere at this magnificent beauty spot. Splash in the sea, play games, relax and enjoy some quality family time.

Start planning your family adventures today

In order to get the most out of your stay in Dorset and experience as many attractions as possible, it is advisable to book some accommodation.

We are proud to offer a wide range of accommodation that is suitable for families, whether you’re looking for hotels, B&Bs, holiday cottages, caravan parks or camping facilities, you can rest assured we have everything here for you to enjoy during your stay in Dorset.

Number of results:

Number of results: 127

, currently showing 101 to 120.

Sort By: A-Z Lowest A-Z Highest

V.W. Campervan Rental

Type

Type:

Car/Vehicle

WAREHAM

Classic VW Campervan hire located in Wareham, Dorset. Explore the area in the comfort of a fully equipped 1970's classic VW. All campervans are 4 berth and are great for weekend breaks, family holidays, weddings and promotional work.

Price £350.00 to £720.00 Per Ticket
Mudeford Sandbank

Type

Type:

Beach

Mudeford, CHRISTCHURCH

A unique spit which adjoins the ancient headland of Hengistbury Head and forms a natural barrier between the harbour and the open sea. The area is designated a Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI).

Free
Wareham Forest

Type

Type:

Forest

WAREHAM

Walk or cycle through heathland and forest by Morden Bog National Nature Reserve: one of the largest valley mire habitats in England. Numerous picnic benches and a waymarked walk. Cyclists welcome on 2 metre paths or the Sika Trail - a 7 mile family…

Free
RSPB Arne Nature Reserve

Type

Type:

Country Park/Nature Reserve

WAREHAM

Arne is celebrated for its lowland heathland, which is rare in Europe, and its wildlife including Dartford warblers, nightjars, all six species of British reptile, plus many species of butterflies, dragonflies, and moths.

Free
Convent Walk

Type

Type:

Walking Route

Christchurch, CHRISTCHURCH

The Convent Walk is a tranquil walk that follows the course of Mill Stream, as it runs parallel to the River Avon, from Town Bridge to Place Mill on Christchurch Quay.
Kimmeridge Bay

Type

Type:

Natural Feature

Kimmeridge, WAREHAM

Kimmeridge Bay lies within a marine Special Area of Conservation and boasts the best rockpooling and safest snorkelling site in Dorset.

Free
Purewell Meadows Nature Reserve

Type

Type:

Natural Wildlife Site

Purewell, CHRISTCHURCH

Purewell Meadows is a nature reserve with four hectares of public open space, most of which is grasses and sedges but there are also a large number of flowering plants. These include Ragged Robin and Devils Bit Scabious.

Free
RSPB Weymouth Wetlands

Type

Type:

Country Park/Nature Reserve

WEYMOUTH

Weymouth is very lucky to have two top class nature reserves in the centre of town. Radipole lake has always been a favourite place for wildlife enthusiasts. Lodmoor is where you can encounter a vast range of bird species.
Wareham Two Rivers Walks

Type

Type:

Walking Route

WAREHAM

A network of signposted footpaths around Purbeck's internationally important wetlands, seen at their best from autumn to spring.
Rodwell Trail

Type

Type:

Walking Route

Weymouth

From Weymouth to Portland, the Legacy Trail follows a disused passenger railway line, now a wonderfully, accessible wildlife corridor.
Steamer Point Nature Reserve

Type

Type:

Country Park/Nature Reserve

Friar's Cliff, CHRISTCHURCH

Steamer Point is a 24 acre cliff top designated Local Nature Reserve (LNR) that is situated between Highcliffe Castle and Friar's Cliff on the Christchurch coastline. It comprises of woodland, aquatic habitats, flora and fauna.

Free
Gundimore Beach

Type

Type:

Beach

Mudeford, CHRISTCHURCH

Great views of the Isle of Wight and Mudeford Sandbank.

Free
TheGallery

Type

Type:

Gallery

POOLE

TheGallery at the Arts University Bournemouth is a major resource for contemporary art and design in the South of England. It is open to the public and admission to the exhibitions and supporting events is free. The regular programme of exhibitions…

Free
Paddle Steamer Monarch at Wareham

Type

Type:

Boat Trip

WAREHAM

Monarch is the world’s smallest commercial paddle steamer and one of only three operating in Britain. She is now operating on the River Frome from Wareham, licenced to carry 12 passengers. Monarch is also available for private party bookings and…

Price £5.00 to £10.00 Per Ticket
Condor Ferries

Type

Type:

Boat Trip

POOLE

*LATEST UPDATE* Day trips to Guernsey are currently suspended. Some ferries are operating with restrictions in place - visit their website for the latest information.

Price £24.00 to £34.00 Per Ticket
Walking & Cycling Trail

Type

Type:

Cycle Route

Mill Lane, Symondsbury

The scenic trail leads you down tracks and across fields where views of hills and valleys stretch to Colmers Hill and the sea beyond.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
344 reviews
Clouds Hill - Home of T.E .Lawrence

Type

Type:

National Trust Property

BOVINGTON, Wareham

*LATEST UPDATE* Clouds Hill is currently closed.
T.E. Lawrence's (Lawrence of Arabia) retreat containing his own furnishings and photographs.

Price Free to £19.30 Per Ticket
Royal Signals Museum

Type

Type:

Museum

Blandford Forum

*Temporarily closed*. Interactive History, Science and Technology of army communication from Crimean War to Afghanistan . Codes and Code Breaking, Cyberwarfare, Special Forces, Vehicles, Equipment, uniforms, medals and badges on display.

Price £3.00 to £22.00 Per Ticket
Land and Wave

Type

Type:

Adventure Sport Centre

SWANAGE
Awards
- Visit Britain We're Good to Go 2020
Climbing, Coasteering, Sea Kayaking, Bushcraft, Raft Building, Stand Up Paddle Boarding & more in Swanage and The Purbecks. Excellent instructors, top notch kit and passion for the Great Outdoors.
Price £25.00 to £137.00 Per Ticket
Friars Cliff Beach

Type

Type:

Beach

Friars Cliff, CHRISTCHURCH

This shingle and sand beach is an ideal spot for a family trip to the seaside. Beach huts line the promenade which is accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

Free

Search Accommodation

Search What's On

Search Food & Drink

Follow Visit Dorset

thank you

Download our Guide

thank you

Know Before You Go - Covid-19 information We're Good To Go Dorset, Know before you go town centres, Repect, Protect and Enjoy Dorset,	Things To Do Family Friendly, Dog Friendly, The Jurassic Coast, Fossil Hunting, Shopping, Active and Outdoor , Families & Children, Heritage & Culture, Animals & Farm Parks, Gardens & Parks, Tours & Boat Trips, Food & Drink Experiences, Entertainment & Arts, Nature and Wildlife,	Accommodation Hotels, Bed & Breakfast, Self Catering, Self Catering Agencies, Dorset Holiday Cottages, Caravan & Holiday Parks, Campsites, Glamping, Pubs & Inns, Farm Stays, Eco Friendly, Group Friendly, Pet Friendly, Accessible, Gradings & Awards,
Shopping	Food & Drink Restaurants, Pubs & Bars, Cafes & Coffee Shops, Afternoon Tea, Farmers' Markets, Local Produce, Celebrity Chefs, Food Events, Food & Drink Experiences,	Ideas & Inspiration Special Offers, Visit Dorset Blog, Top 10 Ideas, Dog Friendly, Eco-friendly, Short Break Ideas, Film & TV, History & Heritage, Dorset Weddings, Dorset Videos,
Explore Jurassic Coast, Areas To Visit, Villages, Coast and Beaches, Countryside, Areas Of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB),	What's On Festivals, Food & Drink Events, Art Events, Music Events, Nature Events, Sporting Events, Submit Event,	Visitor Information Maps, Brochures & Guides, Tourist Information Centres, Travel Information, Group Travel, Litter Free Dorset, Accessibility, Social Media, Contact Us,
Home

Industry

Family Friendly Things To Do

Accommodation

Things To Do

What's On

Food & Drink

Search Things to Do

Highlights

What shall we do today?

Inspirational days out

Get back to nature

On the crest of a wave

Be creative

Fit and fun

Experience the country life

Start planning your family adventures today

Number of results:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Type

Type:

Awards

Type

Type:

Search Accommodation

Search What's On

Search Food & Drink

Follow Visit Dorset