Resort Dorset on FacebookResort Dorset on TwitterResort Dorset on Instagram

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!

 

Please share or leave a comment

More Recent Features

21 Jul 2025
Crabbing in Dorset Catch a Crab Crabbing is brilliant traditional family fun; you can spend hours sat on a harbour wall, ice cream in one hand, crabbing net in the other. Where are the best places to catch those crabs? Try Kimmeridge Bay, Mudeford Quay, West Bay Harbour, Poole Quay and Weymouth Harbour all excellent crabbing spots. What will you need to catch them? Use a crabbing net (not a line) plus some bait — they love bacon or smelly fish — and sink the net straight down the ... Read more...
14 Jul 2025
The Best Summer Fireworks Displays in Dorset: Where to Watch in 2025 Top Firework Displays in Dorset 2025 1. Bournemouth Fireworks – Friday Night Spectaculars Location: Bournemouth Beach / Pier Dates: Every Friday night from 25th July until the end of August Why Go: Watch spectacular fireworks light up the sky over Bournemouth beach. These displays are set off near Bournemouth Pier and are part of the town’s vibrant summer festivities. Bournemouth Fireworks are free to attend and perfect for families, couples, and ... Read more...
26 Jun 2025
Discover Camp Bestival Dorset 2025 Spend a Day at Dorset’s Biggest Family Music Festival – Camp Bestival! Whether you're here on holiday or a local resident, if you love great music and fun days out, Camp Bestival promises an experience to remember! Many have heard of Camp Bestival, but did you know it's now in its 17th year? Founded in 2008 by husband and wife duo Josie and Rob Da Bank (photo below), the pair brought their years of experience in the party scene to create a legendary family ... Read more...

More articles available in the features section.

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.