The Best Dorset Attractions & Activities

popular family attraction with animal petting and feeding, undercover play area, pony rides, goat racing and walking. Fun for all the family

attractions for all the family from the adventure playground, to go karts, with farmyard animals, a maze and character shows in the Alice Theatre

peaceful island with diverse wildlife, including the famous red squirrels and with spectacular views across the harbour

peaceful retreat of T E Lawrence of Arabia with much of the furniture and fittings made by him

rare and exotic plants from world-wide locations with a mixture of formal and informal gardens with world famous camellias and magnolias

unique colony of nesting Mute swans which were established in the 11th century by monks to provide food for banquets and now a cage free sanctuary for free flying swans

Tudor house and gardens, privately owned for 500 years, with connections to Thomas Hardy and formal Elizabethan gardens

fairytale fortress ruins are all that remain after the castle was destroyed by Parliamentarians in the 17th Century with stunning views of the coast

Thomas Harpy's rural childhood home where visitors are invited to make themselves at home or wander through the quintessential cottage garden

Thomas Hardy's atmospheric home until his death in 1928, several items of the original furniture remain, much designed by him

Blandford Town Museum in Dorset explores local history from the Georgian era to today. Exhibits cover the 1731 fire, local crafts and rural life, offering insight into the heritage of this charming market town.

Bournemouth Aviation Museum showcases military and civil aircraft spanning decades of aviation history. Visitors can explore cockpits, view aviation memorabilia and discover the stories behind the aircraft through interactive, hands-on exhibits.

Bridport Museum in Dorset showcases the town’s rich history, from rope and net making to fossils and fine art. Set in a historic building, it offers engaging exhibits and a welcoming glimpse into local heritage.

Durdle Door, on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, is a natural limestone arch shaped by the sea. Backed by white cliffs and shingle beaches, it’s ideal for scenic walks, photography, and coastal views. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s truly iconic.

once an important and wealthy monastery and part of the Benedictine order who were renowned for their tradition of hospitality

Beaminster Museum in Dorset highlights the town’s history through archaeology, geology, farming and domestic life. With changing exhibitions and local artefacts, it offers an engaging insight into the heritage of this West Dorset community.