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Family-friendly things to do in Branscombe

Family enjoying a walk in the fields at Branscombe
A family enjoying a walk in Branscombe Valley | © ©National Trust Images/Sophie Bolesworth

Explore the woods, Old Bakery Orchard and the picturesque countryside around Branscombe. With a winding path to the beach, a working water mill and forge, you’ll make great memories together in Branscombe.

Planning your family days out

If you’re visiting Branscombe for a family day out, here’s some handy information at a glance to help you plan your visit.

Things to see and do

Whether it's exploring the countryside, discovering how the power of water drives the great millstones to grind grain into flour, or a visit to the beach throughout the seasons, there’s fun rain or shine.

mum with her young children talking to a volunteer guide inside manor mill
Family visit to Manor Mill | © ©National Trust Images/Eric Macdonald

Visit Manor Mill

Feel the power of water as it drives the great millstones, grinding grain into flour just as it did 150 years ago. Dress up as a miller and try your hand at grinding grain with a traditional quern. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for the mischievous (but not real!) rats scurrying about the mill. The Mill is open every Wednesday and Sunday from 1-4pm.

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Coming up this summer

Garden games and poetry in the orchard

19 July - 8 September

Step into the Old Bakery Orchard and let the games begin! Whether you're a fierce competitor or just in it for the laughs, there's something for everyone among the trees. Challenge your friends to a round of wildlife-themed noughts and crosses, test your steady hand with a towering game of giant Jenga, or see who can score big in a lively match of quoits or dominoes. It's all about fresh air, fun, and a little friendly rivalry. Activities are free.

Take a moment among the trees to discover haiku poetry written by local primary school children and displayed on boards throughout the orchard. It's an opportunity not only to enjoy a beautiful place, but also to glimpse how nature stirs creativity in even the youngest poet.

Heritage Open Day at Manor Mill.

Friday 19 September

As part of Heritage Open Days, Manor Mill will be open on Friday 19 September, 1-4 pm, in addition to its regular Sunday and Wednesday afternoon open sessions. Booking is not required. Admission is free.
Step back in time to experience the evocative atmosphere of a Victorian watermill. Take in the sounds and vibrations that a miller 150 years ago would have known as part of their day at work.

Branscombe's forge fire surrounded by tools

Discover Branscombe

Find out when to visit Branscombe, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

You may also be interested in

Branscombe historic walk 

Discover the history of Branscombe village on this short circular walk, taking in a watermill and orchards, with links to a little-known Welsh saint and Queen Victoria's wedding, and an optional detour to the beach.

Activities
Walking
DistanceMiles: 1 (km: 1.6)
The small orchard at Branscombe next to the Old Bakery tea-room

Things to do in Branscombe 

Branscombe is part of the Jurassic Coast, but Branscombe has more than just the beach to explore. Discover the 18th-century forge and Manor Mill, restored and in full working order.

Blacksmith sends sparks flying at the anvil inside at Branscombe, Devon

Accessibility at Branscombe 

Branscombe village is tucked away in a valley that runs down to a beach on the famous Jurassic Coast. By car, the village is accessed along a narrow network of lanes. There are toilets, visitor information and a café in the village near the main car parking areas. There is a toilet with level access. Visitors can follow a 1km relatively level, accessible walking/wheeling route to the beach from the National Trust car park.

Gravel pathways leading through a grassy orchard with a thatched yellow building