20 Family Days Out in Dorset to Try This Summer

The summer holidays are fast approaching, and as parents, we all know the challenge of keeping the kids entertained for those six long weeks! If you’re wondering what to do with your little ones in Dorset this summer, I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a local or visiting for a family holiday, here’s a comprehensive guide with the top 20 family days out in Dorset to keep everyone happy and entertained!

1. National Trust Days: Discover Dorset’s Beautiful Heritage

Dorset is home to some incredible National Trust sites that are perfect for family outings. If you’re a member, you’re in luck! The whole family will love exploring Kingston Lacy, the medieval ruins of Corfe Castle, or taking a boat trip to Brownsea Island. Brownsea Island features a stunning natural play park that your kids will adore.

2. Moors Valley Country Park: Adventure Awaits

A visit to Moors Valley Country Park is a must! This park offers a fantastic play trail, a large play park, and plenty of picnic spots for family downtime. If you’re feeling adventurous, try Go Ape, an exciting treetop adventure course within the park (book ahead for Go Ape). With bike hire, walks for all abilities, and great facilities, it’s a fun-filled family day out.

3. Free Yoga in the Park

Kick-start your summer mornings with some free yoga in the park. It’s a fun and healthy way to enjoy time together as a family. You can find sessions all over the UK, so why not join one near you? It’s a great way to stretch and energize for the day ahead!

4. Splash About at Upton Country Park

Upton Country Park is a fantastic family-friendly spot in Dorset. Enjoy walking, playing, and splashing around in the walled garden fountains. There’s plenty to keep kids entertained!

5. Mega Slip & Slide

The Mega Slip & Slide in Dorset is set to return this summer! With 120 metres of slippery, wet, and wild fun, this slide is sure to be a highlight of your summer. It’s perfect for kids (and adults) who love water-based adventures!

6. Dorset Adventure Park: Muddy Fun for the Family

If your kids love adventure, the Dorset Adventure Park is a must-visit. Known for its muddy obstacle course, this park is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Just prepare to get dirty! It’s a fantastic way to bond and burn off energy together.

7. Fossil Hunting on the Jurassic Coast

A trip to Charmouth or Lyme Regis for some fossil hunting is an exciting way to explore the famous Jurassic Coast. Kids will love searching for ancient fossils and learning about the history of the area.

8. Paddling Pools

Dorset is home to some fantastic outdoor paddling pools and splash parks including the Hamworthy paddling pool, Redhill paddling pool and Christchurch splash park!

9. Poole Quay Firework Night

Every Thursday evening, Poole Quay hosts a stunning firework display with family-friendly fun, live music, and more. It’s a great way to wrap up a summer evening in Dorset.

10. The Tank Museum: A Day of History and Discovery

For something unique, take your kids to The Tank Museum in Bovington. With a vast collection of tanks and military history, this museum offers exhibitions, activities, and lots of fascinating facts that your kids will love. It’s a great way to combine fun and learning.

11. Monkey World: Meet the Primates

Monkey World is an amazing rescue centre in Dorset that’s home to hundreds of primates. It’s educational and fun for the whole family, with incredible stories of conservation and protection. Your kids will love seeing the monkeys up close!

12. Ramp Rats: Indoor Skate Park

For a rainy day or when the kids need to burn off some energy, head to Ramp Rats. This indoor skate, scoot, and ride park is perfect for toddlers to 10-year-olds. It’s a fun way to get active and keep the kids entertained for hours.

13. Weymouth Sea Life Centre: Explore the Ocean

Weymouth Sea Life Centre is one of the best family-friendly attractions in Dorset. With over 2,500 creatures and 13 different zones to explore, it’s an exciting day out for kids. Don’t forget to pack your swimming gear, as the splash park is a big hit with little ones!

14. Mighty Claws: Outdoor Crazy Golf

Looking for a fun outdoor activity? Head to Mighty Claws for a family-friendly round of crazy golf. With life-sized dinosaurs to add extra fun, it’s a great activity for the whole family. Afterward, enjoy some pizza and milkshakes at the café!

15. Rock Reef: Indoor Climbing and Adventure

If your kids love climbing, Rock Reef in Bournemouth is a must-visit. With activities like Clip ‘n Climb, pier zip, and high-line courses, it’s a fantastic option for adrenaline-loving families. It’s also great when the weather isn’t cooperating.

16. Tower Park: Fun for the Whole Family

Tower Park in Poole is an ultimate family destination with everything you need for a full day of fun. From Splashdown water park to Lemur Landings soft play, Vue, and Hollywood Bowl, there’s something for every family member to enjoy.

17. BH2: Bournemouth’s Entertainment Hub

For a fun-filled day in Bournemouth, visit BH2. It’s home to Mr Mulligan’s mini golf, ODEON cinema, escape rooms, VR centres, and loads of great restaurants. It’s the perfect place for families looking for entertainment all in one spot.

18. Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park: A Perfect Day for Little Ones

Farmer Palmer’s is a fantastic farm park that’s perfect for younger children. With a splash park, hay bale slides, pedal tractors, and more, it’s an interactive and fun way for kids to spend their day on the farm, use the code “AMFP26” to save £1 on entry tickets.

19. Water Sports at Sandbanks and Knoll Beach

Dorset is the perfect place to enjoy water sports as a family. Try paddle boarding at Sandbanks, sailing at Rockley, or renting a pedalo at Knoll Beach. These activities are great for kids and adults alike and offer an exciting way to enjoy the coast.

20. Swanage Railway

A day out is only as good as the journey, and there is nothing quite as special as traveling by steam train. We love catching the train from Corfe down to swanage its so much fun!

Make Memories in Dorset This Summer

Dorset offers endless possibilities for things to do with kids this summer. Whether you’re exploring the Jurassic Coast, enjoying a fun day at an adventure park, or relaxing by the beach, there’s something for every family. Start planning your summer adventures now and make the most of everything this beautiful county has to offer.