Discover more in Dorset
Home to everything from an island, ancient coasts and hidden gems to a castle and a house inspired by an Italian palace.
Family-friendly places in Dorset
There's all sorts of things to do in Dorset with the family, including discovering places to explore in gardens, parks, the countryside and on the beach.
Places to visit with the family
Find all the best places to make a memorable day out for all the family.
Family fun at Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle is the perfect place to enjoy a fun-filled family day out. There is always something new to explore and join in with a jam-packed programme of events.
Family days out at Kingston Lacy
Auutum is a great time to explore Kingston Lacy. From natural play areas to family crafts or taking your bike for a ride through the woodland trail. A visit here is a great day out.
Family-friendly things to do at Studland Bay
With miles of sand dunes, beaches and sea, Studland Bay is the perfect place for a family adventure at any time of year. Find out more and plan your visit.
Family adventures on Brownsea Island
Famous for red squirrels, wildlife and scouting. A family adventure on Brownsea Island starts from the moment you catch the ferry. There are lots of activities and a wild play area and a café.
October half term in Dorset
This October half term, enjoy family-friendly adventures at National Trust places near you, including wildlife trails, creative crafts, spooky stories, and outdoor quests.
Stranger Folk at Kingston Lacy
Trouble is brewing at Kingston Lacy and the strange folk have arrived. Gather your team for an exciting digital adventure for 7-12 year olds and imaginative adults and help send them back through the cracks between our world and theirs.
Corfe Castle
This half-term join us for a fun-filled family experience featuring daring teddy zip wire rides, spooky ghost detective quests, and gory tales from the castle’s grisly past. Snap a photo with our pumpkin display, explore the ruins to uncover ghostly secrets, and enjoy a guided tour ending with breathtaking views from the new Kings’ View platform.
Brownsea Island
Take part in a mystical woodland quest where nature and folklore intertwine. Discover magical tales of the oak, birch, and yew. Perfect for young adventurers and families, with storytelling, nature exploration, and fun activities.
Studland Bay
Uncover the secrets of the night on Studland’s Wicked Wildlife Trail - an interactive journey through beach, dunes, and woodland where nocturnal creatures leave clues for brave explorers to find.
Max Gate
On Sunday 26 October follow your nose to the Victorian Kitchen where costumed volunteers cook up authentic 19th-century recipes - complete with tasty samples. Then settle in for storytelling sessions that bring Hardy’s The Hand of Ethelberta to life, offering a vivid glimpse into the world of one of Dorset’s literary greats.
Hardy's Cottage
The apples in Hardy’s orchard will be ripe and ready for harvesting. Come and meet the gardeners on Thursday 30 October and see them pressing the apples to make delicious apple juice.
Christmas in and around Dorset
Christmas in and around Dorset
Discover sparkling trails, magical walks, and timeless Christmas traditions at Dorset’s houses and gardens. With Santa visits and seasonal cheer for all ages, you can plan a perfect day out to celebrate the season.
Family-friendly coastline and beaches in Dorset
Discover walks along the coastline or build a sandcastle on the beach.
Golden Cap
Visiting Golden Cap is always a big adventure. Discover treasure on the Stonebarrow Smugglers' Trail, take on a big challenge and climb Golden Cap, or try out geocaching on the wider estate.
Burton Bradstock
From bracing coastal walks to views of the Jurassic Coast, a visit to Hive Beach has a number of highlights to look out for.
Ringstead Bay
Unspoilt beach, farmland and cliffs on the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site
Studland Bay
Four miles of beautiful beaches line the sheltered waters of Studland Bay. The area is ideal for family beach trips and coastal walks.
'50 things to do before you're 11¾' come rain or shine
The weather can be unpredictable so we've pulled together ideas to help keep the family busy - whatever the weather
Top ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities to do when it’s raining
We've compiled a selection of items from the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ list that are perfect for rainy days, so grab your waterproofs and get involved.
Top ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities in autumn
Autumn opens up a world of new adventures. Discover the best activities for children from our list of ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’, including tips on winning at conkers and building dens.
