Family-friendly things to do at Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle is the perfect place to enjoy a fun-filled family day out. Explore the castle ruins and join in with a jam-packed programme of events.
Spring games at Corfe Castle
Get involved in our spring themed games as you explore the castle ruins, test your throwing abilities with a traditional game of welly wanging, race your friends and family in an egg and spoon race, feed the model rabbits, try your hand at building the tallest tower, plus much much more!
Family-friendly things to do at Corfe Castle
Climb up through the Castle ruins to discover one thousand years of Corfe Castle's history as a royal palace, fortress and family home.
Spot the ‘murder holes’, count the arrow loops and feel history come to life as you explore the ruins. Once at the top of the mound, you can enjoy panoramic views of Purbeck and if you time it right, you can see the heritage steam train winding through the countryside.
Watch birds soar overhead and spot the wildlife that has now set up home here – from bees and butterflies to lizards and grazing cattle.
Don’t forget to look out for the ravens as you go. An old legend claims that if the ravens ever leave Corfe Castle, something terrible will happen. It's said that they disappeared for a time shortly before the castle was captured during the English Civil War, but since then they've been nesting here quite happily for hundreds of years. Their nest is high up in the stonework – you might see them come and go.
Planning your family visit
- There are baby changing facilities in Castle View Welcome Centre and next to the Ticket Office.
- Buggies are welcome across the site but please note the paths are uneven and there are multiple step areas. We recommend you using the buggy park in the Outer Gatehouse and bringing a baby carrier.
- High chairs are available in Castle View Welcome Centre and the Tea-room.
The Tea-room offers a children’s menu for food and drinks, and can provide gluten or dairy free alternatives on request. - There are outdoor picnic areas by Castle View Welcome Centre and at Old Mill picnic area.
- From the car park to the castle entrance it is about a 15 minute walk on a step free path.
Eating and shopping at Corfe Castle
Situated in an 18th century former cottage, the Tea-room at Corfe Castle serves a delicious menu of hot and cold food, drinks, cakes and bakes. Afterwards, stop off at the Shop to discover beautiful collections of homewares, gifts and locally made ranges to take home with you. The second-hand book shop located in Castle View is also filled with literary treasures.
Things to see and do at Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle offers plenty to see and do, including walks around the ruins, a story trail and wildlife spotting in the surrounding hills. Find out more.