Discover Dorset's Delights

From the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Jurassic Coast and the bustling golden sands of Bournemouth beach to the rolling countryside and quaint villages, there’s natural beauty around every corner in Dorset.

Here are some of our favourite things to do in Dorset.

Dorset is home to a selection of fantastic attractions, perfect for all the family, for exciting, fun filled days out with the grandchildren, try Dorset Adventure Park with their inflatable outdoor water park and mud trail obstacle course. If you prefer something a bit more chilled visit Monkey World, a beautiful monkey rescue sanctuary with 65 acres of monkey paradise.

For the perfect day’s adventure visit island wildlife sanctuary, Brownsea Island, where you can see red squirrels and only a short boat trip from Poole but feels like another world as soon as you step ashore. For an interesting day full of facts, visit the famous Tank Museum where they bring history to life, with the world’s best collection of tanks and explosive live displays.

Take in the History

Dorset has a long history rich in culture and this can be seen all over the county.

See how the British aristocracy lived in stately home visits for a day out at the likes of 17th century Kingston Lacey with beautiful interiors and a large fine art collection or Athelhampton House, with striking Grade 1 listed gardens that date back to 1891.

Discover heritage railway attraction, Swanage Steam Railway, operating full size steam and diesel passenger trains with rides along the scenic 5 mile line in the picturesque town of Swanage.

Marvel at the dramatic ruins of Corfe Castle that stand on a natural hill guarding the main route through the Purbeck Hills or visit Tyneham Village, Dorset’s ‘lost village’, evacuated in 1943 during World War 2 and preserved as it was when it was deserted.

Get outside and breathe in the fresh air

Dorset’s sprawling countryside means you can take your pick of miles and miles beautiful trails. Spending time in green space or bringing nature into your everyday life can benefit your wellbeing, so get your walking boots at the ready!

Here’s our top 5 walking routes, covering coastal and countryside:

• Golden Cap Walk, Seatown – The highest point on the South Coast with panoramic views in all directions.

• The Purbeck Ridgeway, Corfe Castle to Swanage – Within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty walk along the ridge and take in the scenic views stretching for miles.

• Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door – The path connecting two of the standout stars of the Jurassic Coast. Stunning coastal views to one side and beautiful rolling countryside and pretty villages on the other.

• Tollard Royal to Win Green, Cranborne Chase AONB –Breath-taking views and the feeling of peace and tranquillity make the long uphill walk so worth it!

• The Stour Valley Way – This trail stretches a huge 64 miles long starting at Stour Head and ending in Christchurch, Dorset. We recommend visiting the Stour Valley Nature Reserve, home to over 120 different species of birds including the Kingfisher.

Whatever you choose to do in Dorset, whether it be planning a day of family fun, exciting entertainment or a spot of history and culture? We know Dorset has it all, by the bucketload.