Find details of Tourist Attractions - Dorset, England.
Including Theme Parks, Water Parks and popular places to visit.
Discover Rockley in Poole with essential information on watersports, activity centres, children’s holiday camps, RYA sailing courses, equipment hire and booking. Rockley operates from Rockley Point and Poole Park, offering activities including dinghy sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, canoeing and multi-activity sessions. Established in 1976, the family-run company caters for children, adults, schools and families, with everything from one-hour taster sessions and pedalos to structured sailing courses and residential watersports programmes.
Plan a visit to Branksome Chine Beach in Poole with essential information on parking, facilities, accessibility, lifeguards, dog restrictions and places to eat. This popular Blue Flag beach offers golden sand, a promenade, accessible beach facilities and seasonal RNLI lifeguards, with Rockwater Branksome providing beachfront food and drink overlooking the sea. Discover everything you need to know before visiting Branksome Chine, whether you are planning a family beach day, coastal walk or morning beside the water.
Discover some of the best dog-friendly places in Dorset, from coastal hotels and welcoming pubs to scenic walks, beaches and memorable days out. This practical guide includes dog-friendly stays near Studland and Weymouth, routes such as the Rodwell Trail, places to eat with your pet and attractions including Corfe Castle and Swanage Railway, helping us plan an enjoyable Dorset break without leaving the dog behind.
Plan a visit to Hamworthy Park in Poole with essential information on parking, facilities, accessibility, the children’s paddling pool, play area, beach and dog-friendly areas. Set beside Poole Harbour, the park offers large open lawns, harbour views, a seasonal paddling pool, fitness equipment, refreshments and access to watersports. With a year-round dog-friendly beach and family facilities, Hamworthy Park is a useful free destination for relaxed outdoor days in Poole.
Compton Acres are one of the UK’s finest privately owned historic gardens located in Canford Cliffs in Poole,Dorset. Compton Acres is made up of five distinctly beautiful gardens, from the Italian to the Wooded Valley, Rock & Water, Heather and Japanese Gardens. The gardens are open all year round with many rare, colourful and interesting plant species on show through all seasons. Providing a truly special and unique experience, you can also visit their bright and airy Cafe & Tearooms, dedicated Plant Centre and adjoining Gift Shop.
Experience Camp Bestival Dorset 2027, at Lulworth Castle. One of the UK's leading family festivals, Camp Bestival combines headline live music, family entertainment, comedy, wellness, camping and children's activities in a spectacular Dorset setting. Find event dates, ticket information, camping options and everything you need to plan your visit to this award-winning Dorset festival.
Every Sunday, Bournemouth town centre comes alive with independent traders, artisan stalls, street food, handmade gifts and family attractions, creating one of the town's most vibrant weekly community events.
Poole Market brings independent traders to the pedestrianised section of Poole High Street every Thursday, Friday and Saturday throughout the year. Visitors can browse stalls selling everything from fruit and vegetables, flowers and plants to clothing, books, children’s toys and takeaway food, all alongside the High Street’s existing shops and cafés. Free to visit and running from 9am until 3pm, the market is an easy way to support local traders while exploring Poole town centre.
Discover Sculpture by the Lakes, one of Dorset's most unique attractions where contemporary sculpture, beautiful gardens and tranquil lakes combine to create an unforgettable day out. Wander through an accredited botanic garden, explore inspiring outdoor artworks, browse The Makers Yard and relax in peaceful surroundings. Perfect for art lovers, photographers, gardeners and anyone looking to escape into nature in the heart of the Dorset countryside.
Discover why The Blue Pool Nature Reserve is one of Dorset's most magical attractions. Hidden within the beautiful Isle of Purbeck near Wareham, this unique nature reserve is famous for its remarkable colour-changing lake, peaceful woodland walks, the UK's longest rope bridge and charming Art Deco Tearooms. Perfect for families, photographers, dog walkers and nature lovers, The Blue Pool offers one of the most relaxing and unforgettable days out in Dorset.
Discover why Corfe Castle is one of Dorset's most iconic attractions. Explore the dramatic thousand-year-old castle ruins, enjoy breathtaking views across the Purbeck Hills and uncover fascinating stories of kings, battles and betrayal. With family-friendly trails, seasonal events, beautiful countryside walks and the charming village of Corfe Castle on its doorstep, this unforgettable National Trust destination is a must-visit for anyone exploring Dorset.
Discover Purbeck Park in Dorset, including parking, facilities, nearby attractions and why it's the ideal starting point for visiting Swanage and Corfe Castle.
Plan your visit to Tower Park in Poole with our guide to its attractions, cinema, restaurants, parking and visitor facilities. The entertainment complex is home to Splashdown Waterpark, Lemur Landings, Hollywood Bowl, Vue cinema, Buzz Bingo, PureGym and a wide choice of places to eat and drink. With free onsite parking and entertainment for children and adults, Tower Park is one of the most convenient places in Poole for an all-weather family day out or evening with friends.
Discover why Abbotsbury Swannery is one of Dorset's most extraordinary days out. Walk among the world's only managed colony of nesting mute swans, witness hundreds gathering for the daily swan feed, explore the beautiful willow swan maze and, in spring, experience the magic of fluffy cygnets hatching beside the tranquil Fleet Lagoon. It's a truly unforgettable wildlife experience that you won't find anywhere else.
Discover five of the best things to do in Dorset this summer, from exploring Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove to spotting red squirrels on Brownsea Island. Travel through Purbeck on the Swanage Railway, enjoy peaceful art and gardens at Sculpture by the Lakes, or watch fireworks illuminate the Dorset coast. Whether we are planning family days out, romantic escapes or unforgettable coastal adventures, these summer experiences showcase some of the very best places to visit in Dorset.
Experience Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival Week 2026 from 31 July to 8 August, one of Dorset's biggest free summer events. Enjoy nine days of family entertainment, spectacular fireworks, the Torchlight Procession, beach games, live music, quirky competitions, Candles Down the River and the colourful Grand Carnival Procession. Find event dates, visitor information and everything you need to plan your visit to this much-loved Jurassic Coast tradition.
Discover why Upton Country Park deserves a place on your Dorset bucket list. Set on the edge of Poole Harbour, this beautiful 160-acre country park combines historic gardens, peaceful woodland walks, open parkland and the elegant Upton House to create one of Dorset's most rewarding free days out. Whether you're visiting with family, enjoying a scenic dog walk or simply looking to unwind in nature, Upton Country Park offers something special in every season.
Discover Compton Acres in Poole, one of Dorset’s most beautiful ornamental gardens near Bournemouth. Explore themed gardens including Italian, Japanese and woodland valley landscapes, perfect for peaceful walks, photography and family days out. A must-visit attraction for anyone searching for things to do in Poole or gardens in Dorset.
Discover Poole Harbour Watersports with essential information on lessons, equipment hire, opening times, shop facilities and the Shore Road watersports school. Based in Lilliput, the independent specialist stocks paddleboards, windsurfing and wing-foiling equipment, wetsuits, kayaks, surf gear and watersports accessories. Its seasonal school operates beside Poole Harbour, offering lessons and hire subject to weather and tides. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced watersports enthusiast, Poole Harbour Watersports provides equipment, tuition and local advice.
Plan your visit to Lemur Landings in Poole with essential information on opening times, admission, parking, accessibility, food and drink and play facilities. Located at Tower Park, this large indoor soft-play and children’s entertainment centre features two play frames, climbing activities, a role-play village and dedicated spaces for babies and younger children. Advance online booking is required for every visit, with free parking available at Tower Park and an onsite family café.
Escape to Brownsea Island, one of Dorset's most extraordinary National Trust destinations, where ancient woodland, peaceful heathland and spectacular views across Poole Harbour create an unforgettable day out. Famous for its rare red squirrels, abundant birdlife and rich Scouting history, the island offers beautiful walking trails, family-friendly adventures and a true sense of tranquillity. Discover why Brownsea Island deserves a place on every Dorset bucket list.
Discover Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, one of the most beautiful gardens in Dorset. Explore exotic plants, stunning landscapes and a unique day out near Weymouth and the Jurassic Coast.
Celebrate the Poole Harbour Festival 2027 from 30 July to 1 August at Baiter Park. One of Dorset's biggest family-friendly music festivals, the weekend features over 60 live acts alongside family entertainment, camping, street food, craft stalls and funfair attractions. Find event dates, tickets, venue information and everything you need to plan your visit.
Discover Kingston Lacy in Dorset, a stunning National Trust estate near Wimborne featuring a grand historic mansion, beautiful formal gardens and over 8,500 acres of parkland. Explore elegant interiors, ancient artefacts, woodland walks and seasonal gardens on one of the best days out in Dorset near Bournemouth and Poole.
Discover seven brilliant things to do in Dorset this September, from food festivals and country shows to coastal walks, live music and arts events.
Discover the best Dorset events in 2026 with our month-by-month calendar featuring music festivals, food festivals, country shows, carnivals, literary events, sporting events and family-friendly days out across the county. From Bournemouth and Poole to Weymouth, Swanage, Bridport and beyond, explore what's on throughout the year and find inspiration for your next Dorset adventure. Bookmark this page as we'll keep it updated with the latest 2026 event announcements and new events as they're confirmed.
Plan a visit to The Dolphin Poole with essential information on shops, restaurants, opening times, parking, accessibility and events. Located on Kingland Road in central Poole, the indoor shopping centre is home to more than 90 occupiers, including high-street brands, independent retailers, food outlets and community spaces. Visitors can also explore KINGLAND, the Street Market and GATHER, while nearby bus and rail connections and large multi-storey car parks make The Dolphin easy to reach from across Poole and Dorset.
Bournemouth Pier has been named among Britain’s best, celebrating its unique mix of seaside heritage, adventure and entertainment while highlighting its continued importance to Bournemouth’s thriving visitor economy.
Discover Poole Old Lifeboat Museum on Poole Quay, a free RNLI museum exploring the town’s lifesaving history from 1865 to the present day. Housed inside Poole’s former lifeboat station, the museum features the historic Thomas Kirk Wright lifeboat, displays about past and present RNLI crews and an onsite RNLI shop. Find current opening times, admission information, contact details, parking and everything you need to know before visiting this historic Poole attraction.
Discover Poole Museum & Scaplen's Court, one of Dorset's most fascinating cultural attractions, where centuries of local history come to life in beautifully restored historic buildings. Explore engaging exhibitions, medieval architecture, the tranquil walled garden and the remarkable maritime story of Poole, all just moments from Poole Quay and Europe's largest natural harbour. Perfect for families, history lovers and anyone looking to uncover one of Dorset's best hidden gems.
Discover the best music festivals in Dorset, from family favourites and boutique indie weekends to waterfront concerts and lively reggae celebrations. Whether you're planning a summer staycation or looking for unforgettable live music events, our guide highlights the Dorset festivals worth adding to your calendar, including Camp Bestival, End of the Road, Poole Harbour Festival, Bournemouth Reggae Weekender, Christchurch Music Festival and more. Find your next festival adventure right here.
Discover why The Tank Museum is one of Dorset's most unforgettable family attractions. Home to the world's finest collection of almost 300 historic tanks, interactive exhibitions, live vehicle demonstrations, family activities and inspiring wartime stories, it's a fascinating day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you're passionate about history or simply looking for one of the best things to do near Wareham, The Tank Museum offers an experience you'll remember long after your visit.
Discover our experience at Ember Haus, Litton Lakes' lakeside sauna retreat, where wood-fired heat, cold water immersion and beautiful Dorset countryside create a truly memorable wellness experience.
Discover five of the most beautiful villages in Dorset, from the thatched cottages of Milton Abbas and historic streets of Abbotsbury to Corfe Castle, Cerne Abbas and peaceful Worth Matravers. Whether you are planning a Dorset day trip, searching for pretty villages to explore or looking for somewhere different to visit this weekend, these picturesque Dorset villages combine history, countryside, character and some of the county's most memorable scenery.
Discover Dorset Coastal Cruises from Weymouth and experience the breathtaking Jurassic Coast from the sea. Departing from Weymouth Harbour, enjoy scenic boat trips, sunset cruises and family-friendly coastal adventures with stunning views, onboard refreshments and unforgettable memories along one of England's most spectacular coastlines.
Plan a visit to Splashdown Poole with essential information on tickets, opening times, parking, facilities, height restrictions and family admission rules. Located at Tower Park, Splashdown Waterpark features 13 indoor and seasonal outdoor flume rides alongside splash areas for younger children. Tickets must be booked online in advance, and free parking is available at Tower Park, making Splashdown a convenient choice for families looking for fun indoor activities and things to do in Poole.
Discover the Swanage Railway in Dorset. Learn about routes, stations, history, tickets and why it's one of the best family days out in Swanage.
Discover why Nothe Fort is one of Weymouth's most underrated attractions. Explore atmospheric underground tunnels, a secret Cold War nuclear bunker, interactive exhibitions and spectacular 360-degree views across Weymouth Harbour, Portland Harbour and the Jurassic Coast. With family-friendly activities, seasonal events, beautiful surrounding gardens and over 150 years of history, Nothe Fort offers one of the most unique and memorable days out in Dorset.
Discover why Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre is one of Dorset's most unforgettable family attractions. Home to more than 250 rescued monkeys and apes across 65 acres of beautiful woodland, Monkey World combines incredible wildlife encounters with inspiring conservation and rescue work. Enjoy keeper talks, adventure play areas, family-friendly facilities and the chance to learn the remarkable stories behind every primate, making it one of the best days out near Wareham and the Jurassic Coast.
Dorset's attractions have everything you need for fun-filled family days out. From waterparks and wildlife sanctuaries, to museums and climbing centres, there's something for everyone in Dorset.
Discover why Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park is one of the best family attractions in Dorset. Located near Weymouth Beach and Lodmoor Country Park, explore sharks, seals, rescued sea turtles, Europe's only Fairy Penguins, interactive exhibits and exciting seasonal events. Perfect for families, couples and marine life lovers looking for one of the top things to do in Weymouth.
Discover Greenslade Pleasure Boats in Poole with essential information on cruises, ferry routes, prices, departure points and booking. This family-run Poole Quay company has operated boat trips since 1970, with current sailings including Poole Harbour and Sandbanks cruises, Brownsea Island ferries, Wareham River trips and wildlife cruises with Birds of Poole Harbour. Whether you want a short sightseeing cruise or a longer day on the water, Greenslade offers several ways to explore Poole Harbour and Dorset’s coastline.
Abbotsbury Swannery, located near the village of Abbotsbury in Dorset, England, is the world’s only managed colony of nesting mute swans. Spread over 25 acres along the Fleet Lagoon, sheltered by Chesil Beach, it hosts around 600 free-flying swans.
Plan your visit to Sandbanks Beach in Poole with essential information on parking, facilities, accessibility, lifeguards, dog restrictions and things to do. This popular Blue Flag beach on the Sandbanks peninsula is ideal for families, swimmers and visitors looking for one of the best beaches in Poole. Discover everything you need to know before visiting Sandbanks Beach, including nearby amenities, seasonal facilities and practical tips for a day by the coast.
Discover some of the top campsites on the Jurassic Coast, including coastal camping near Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, Weymouth, Chesil Beach, Bridport and Golden Cap. Whether you are looking for a family holiday park, traditional tent camping, sea views or easy access to the South West Coast Path, these campsites offer brilliant bases for exploring Dorset's UNESCO World Heritage coastline and some of its most famous beaches and landmarks.
Discover everything you need to know about visiting Hengistbury Head, including walking routes, beaches, wildlife, parking, the land train and nearby attractions in Christchurch, Dorset.
Enjoy Swanage Carnival 2026, taking place from 25 July to 1 August on Dorset's stunning Jurassic Coast. One of the county's most popular free summer events, the carnival features over 100 family-friendly activities, including the famous carnival procession, spectacular fireworks, air displays, live music, beach events and sporting competitions. Find event dates, visitor information and everything you need to plan your visit to this much-loved Dorset tradition.
Discover why Poole Harbour is one of Dorset's most iconic destinations and an essential stop on any visit to the Jurassic Coast. From peaceful waterfront walks and breathtaking harbour views to boat trips, watersports and incredible wildlife, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're exploring Poole Quay, setting sail across Europe's largest natural harbour or simply soaking up the coastal atmosphere, Poole Harbour offers an unforgettable day out for families, couples and nature lovers alike.
Discover Tree of Strings Festival in Abbotsbury, where world-class musicians, emerging talent and a passion for music education come together for a unique weekend of live performances, creativity and community in the heart of Dorset.
Discover Dorset Cruises in Poole with essential information on boat trips, prices, private charters, food and drink and departures from Poole Quay. Cruises take place aboard the historic Dorset Queen, a restored vintage motor yacht offering themed experiences including fish and chips, afternoon tea, gin and jazz, Wareham trips and special events. With onboard bars and views across Poole Harbour, Dorset Cruises combines sightseeing with food, drink and entertainment for a more experience-led day on the water.
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