Top Things to do in Dorset!

Top Things to do in Dorset!

17 July 2023

Top things to do in Dorset this Summer!

Here is a snapshot of some of the great things to do taken from Resort Dorset.

1. Hop on the Swanage Railway, sit back and let your senses take you back in time!

2. Take a break from the beach and visit one of Dorset’s delightful gardens, Sherborne Castle, Mapperton Estate, Athelhampton and Abbotsbury Gardens have some of the most beautiful grounds. Take a leisurely stroll and build up the appetite for tea and cake! 

3. For thrill seekers, how about zooming along Bournemouth Pier on the Rock Reef Zip Wire - see the beach from way up high!

4. Visit the marvellous Sandworld at Weymouth and be amazed by the incredible sculptures: try making your own creations, great for big and little kids!

5. Why not visit one of Dorset’s top attractions: whether you are a fan of tanks, military historyfarm animals, swans, castles, trains, monkeys or sea creatures, you’ll find something for all the family!

6. The delightful model village at Wimborne is a lovely attraction, perfect for little ones and admired by the adults too, a firm family favourite!

Top things to do in Dorset

7. Make a splash at the brilliant Splashdown, with its  fantastic flumes and slides. Be sure to book in advance as it’s a popular choice with locals and tourists alike!

8. Check out the Dorset Museum, which hosts over 250 million years of history and this summer is home to the Natural History Museum's world-famous Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. Wildlife and nature photographs that will stop you in your tracks!

9. Climb the 153 steps to the top of the iconic Portland Bill Lighthouse enjoy the panormic scenery, whether its stormy or sunny it promises a spectaular view! The recently refurbished visitor centre offers more information on the history of the lighthouse and much more. This unique attraction is well worthy of your visit. 

10. Get on the Water - a trip to the coast wouldn’t be the same without a boat trip. Rib rides from West Bay with Lyme Bay Rib Charter and tall ship sailing from Portland Marina on the TS Moonfleet or sit back on the WW11 Navy Boats with Coastline Cruises and enjoy a Jurassic Coast Cruise.

Boat Trips Dorset

11. A long but memorable day out could be a day trip to the Channel Island of Guernsey. Hop on the Condor hi-speed ferry from Poole  and enjoy a fantastic adventure!

12. The New Forest, sitting just on the border of Dorset, is exceptional, with fantastic attractions and glorious trails. Get out on foot or bike and explore the forest, you might find one day isn’t enough!

13. Events galore, Dorset is home to some wonderful events, from Camp Bestival, The Dorset Seafood Festival, Dorset County Show, Bridport Hat Festival and much more!

For more information, take your time to read through the Resort Dorset magazine, you’ll find money-off coupons, places to eat or stay, events and much more!

 

More Ideas & Inspiration

Easter Events in Dorset
9 Mar 2026
Easter Events in Dorset
Dorset’s Egg-stravaganza of Easter Activities! The Easter holidays are upon us! Whether you’re visiting Dorset for a holiday or live here and want to explore more of your...
Things to Do in Dorset in March
3 Mar 2026
Things to Do in Dorset in March
5 Perfect Early Spring Ideas March in Dorset is when the county begins to wake from winter. Coastal paths are quieter, countryside views stretch for miles, and there’s still just...
Mother's Day in Dorset
1 Mar 2026
Mother's Day in Dorset
Meals and Memories The kitchen. It’s the heart of the home where meals and memories are made. It’s where the kettle resides, ready to make those much-needed cups of tea...
Spring Breaks in Dorset
28 Jan 2026
Spring Breaks in Dorset
Stay in Dorset this Spring It’s that time of year when winter feels like it’s overstayed its welcome. Grey skies, muddy shoes, cabin fever setting in. Everything feels a...
Portland Bill Lighthouse Tour
27 Jan 2026
Portland Bill Lighthouse Tour
Climb Portland Bill Lighthouse Portland Bill - Scoop of Dorset As a local Weymouth girl, I’ve always admired Portland Bill Lighthouse. Our Resort offices were once within striking...
Things to do on a rainy day in Dorset
24 Jan 2026
Things to do on a rainy day in Dorset
Dorset is blessed with countless scenic locations to explore in the summer months, from Durdle Door to Portland Bill there are plenty of beauty spots and outdoor activities to enjoy. But...
More Ideas...
More Dorset Events
Sign up for Resort Dorset offers, events and news by email
Your data will only be used to send relevant information relating to Resort Dorset magazine and digital platforms. We will not share your data with any third parties, and you can of course unsubscribe at any time. Please see our full privacy policy here.