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 visting 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.

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 us 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 dissapointed with the choice on offer. We've got big names, up and coming artists and all time legends. 

Book your break in Dorset today

Dorset businesses are preparing to welcome visitors back to our beautiful country again, carefully putting in place the necessary procedures that are required by government during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that you will once again feel confident to book up or visit Dorset.

Many businesses are also signing up to the ‘We’re Good To Go’ scheme, the UK Industry standard launched by VisitEngland. This scheme enables businesses to display a logo to let you know which businesses have not only put in place the COVID-19 government requirements to reopen but they have also gained the ‘We’re Good To Go’certificate which they hope will offer you the additional confidence to choose their business and visit them.

Read more about the ‘We’re Good to Go’ VisitEngland scheme.

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.