Moors Valley Country Park & Forest: Visitor Guide

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Summary

Discover why Moors Valley Country Park & Forest is one of the best family attractions in Dorset. Explore over 1,000 acres of beautiful woodland, enjoy scenic walking and cycling trails, tackle the famous Play Trail, ride the miniature steam railway, take on Go Ape adventures and experience seasonal events throughout the year. Whether you're planning an active family day out or a relaxing escape into nature, Moors Valley offers unforgettable outdoor adventures for visitors of all ages.

Location
Information
Address

Moors Valley Country Park, Horton Road, Ashley Heath, Dorset, BH24 2ET

Opening hours
Open Daily
8:00-19:00
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Moors Valley Country Park & Forest | Dorset Family Attractions | Dorset Lifestyle

Set on the Dorset-Hampshire border near Ringwood, Moors Valley Country Park & Forest is one of the South's most popular outdoor attractions. Spanning over 1,000 acres of woodland, lakes and heathland, it offers everything from peaceful walks and cycling routes to adventure playgrounds, Go Ape, a steam railway and family activities throughout the year. Whether you're visiting for a few hours or an entire day, there's something for all ages to enjoy.

Moors Valley Country Park & Forest: Visitor Guide

Highlights

Some of the most popular attractions include:

  • The famous Play Trail and adventure playgrounds
  • Moors Valley Railway miniature steam train
  • Go Ape treetop adventures
  • Miles of walking and cycling trails
  • Gruffalo and Friends sculptures
  • Tree Top Trail and Music Trail
  • Adventure Valley, including mini golf and children's activities
  • Lakes, picnic areas and beautiful woodland scenery
  • Seasonal events and family trails

Family-Friendly Day Out

Moors Valley is one of the best family attractions in Dorset.

Children can spend hours exploring the Play Trail, climbing impressive wooden structures, discovering woodland sculptures and riding the miniature railway. During school holidays, additional trails, ranger activities and seasonal events provide even more reasons to visit.

With so many different activities in one location, it's an attraction that families return to throughout the year.

Moors Valley Country Park & Forest: Visitor Guide

Walking, Cycling & Outdoor Adventures

Whether you're looking for a gentle woodland stroll or a more active day out, Moors Valley has plenty to offer.

Well-maintained walking routes wind through peaceful woodland and around scenic lakes, while a network of cycling trails caters for both casual riders and experienced cyclists. Bikes can also be hired on site, making it easy to explore more of the forest.

For visitors seeking a bigger adventure, Go Ape offers high ropes, zip lines and forest challenges high among the trees.

Dog Friendly?

Yes. Moors Valley is a fantastic destination for dog walkers.

Dogs are welcome throughout much of the park, with miles of woodland paths to explore together. Owners are asked to keep dogs under control, use leads where requested and clean up after their pets to help protect wildlife and ensure everyone enjoys their visit.

Moors Valley Country Park & Forest: Visitor Guide

Facilities

Visitors will find a wide range of facilities throughout the park, including:

  • Visitor Centre
  • The Barn Café
  • Picnic areas
  • Public toilets
  • Baby changing facilities
  • Gift shop
  • Cycle hire
  • Mobility scooter hire (advance booking recommended)
  • Accessible routes across much of the park

Admission and Parking

Entry to Moors Valley Country Park & Forest is free.

Parking charges apply, with pay-on-exit parking available on site. Charges help support the maintenance of the park, trails and visitor facilities.

Some attractions, including Go Ape, the miniature railway and cycle hire, have separate admission charges.

Moors Valley Country Park & Forest: Visitor Guide

Accessibility

Moors Valley aims to be accessible for as many visitors as possible.

Facilities include accessible parking, step-free routes across many areas of the park, accessible toilets, a Changing Places facility and mobility scooter hire. While many paths are suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, some woodland trails include natural surfaces and uneven ground.

Events Throughout the Year

There's always something happening at Moors Valley.

Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy seasonal family trails, holiday activities, guided walks, ranger experiences and special events, alongside regular outdoor adventures that make every visit feel a little different.

Moors Valley Country Park & Forest: Visitor Guide

Nearby Attractions

Why not combine your visit with some other fantastic attractions nearby?

  • Avon Heath Country Park
  • New Forest National Park
  • Go Ape Moors Valley
  • Ringwood
  • Bournemouth
  • Kingston Lacy
  • Liberty's Owl, Raptor & Reptile Centre

Why Visit Moors Valley?

Whether you're planning a family adventure, a relaxing woodland walk or an active day outdoors, Moors Valley offers something for every age.

Its combination of beautiful natural surroundings, outstanding family facilities and year-round activities makes it much more than a country park. From riding the miniature railway and tackling woodland adventures to enjoying peaceful forest walks and lakeside picnics, it's one of those places that's just as enjoyable on your fifth visit as it is on your first.

Moors Valley Country Park & Forest: Visitor Guide

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