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Two children play with toy swords in front of Corfe Castle in Dorset
Children dressing up and playing at Corfe Castle in Dorset | © National Trust Images/John Millar

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 playing in Corfe Castle

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.

Four children sitting in a giant deckchair, which has the National Trust oakleaf logo on it and is positioned in long grass, with a stone mansion house behind. It is summer

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.

Children walk their dog through the nature reserve at Studland, Dorset

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.

Family playing with autumn in woodlands

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.

A woman and a man with a baby carrier looking out over the Jurassic Coast from Golden Cap in Dorset, on a bright summer's day

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.

Couple walk beside the sea at Hive Beach, Dorset in spring

Ringstead Bay 

Unspoilt beach, farmland and cliffs on the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site

near Weymouth, Dorset

The shingle beach with the sun rising behind the cliffs in the background at Ringstead Bay, Dorset

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.

Aerial view of Middle Beach

'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.

Two children in coats and wellies walk along the path with umbrellas up towards East Riddlesden Hall, Yorkshire

Top ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities in summer 

Plan an adventure this summer with our activity guides for children. Try everything from floating in a boat, to rock-pooling, identifying animal poo and fossil hunting.

Children enjoy a swing at Osterley Park and House, London
An early morning view across Corfe Castle, Dorset in winter

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.

Explore Dorset

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