Dorset's Ultimate Summer Holiday!

18 Family-Friendly Dorset Attractions for 2025

From sandy beaches to historical hideouts, animal encounters to adrenaline-fuelled adventures, Dorset is packed with places to make this summer unforgettable. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents in tow, there’s something for everyone on this list.

Dorset Museum & Art Gallery

Here are 18 top Dorset attractions that deserve a place on your summer must-visit list! 

1. Dorset Museum & Art Gallery – Where History Begins

Located in Dorchester, the Dorset Museum & Art Gallery brings millions of years of natural history to life. From Jurassic Coast fossils to Roman mosaics and literary treasures, it’s an inspiring stop for curious minds.

2. The Tank Museum – Big Machines, Big Fun

In Bovington, The Tank Museum boasts over 300 military vehicles. Dive into battle history, experience thrilling live-action displays, and explore interactive exhibits designed for all ages. New for this year is the 'Ukraine - Armoured Warfare in the Modern World', a sensitive and informative exhibition, with personal stories from refugees who have settled in Dorset along with examples of vehicles currently in service. 

3. Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park – Great for years 0-8!

In Poole, Farmer Palmer’s delights young children with animal encounters, tractor rides, splash zones, foam parties, Disney singers and indoor soft play. It’s fun, hands-on, and perfectly sized for little legs.

 4. Sandworld – Sculpture Meets Sandcastle

In Weymouth, Sandworld turns sand into art. Explore giant sculptures, join a family workshop, and let the kids loose in the play zone for some creative sandy fun.

5. Splashdown Poole – Slip, Slide, Soak

Beat the heat at Splashdown, Dorset’s iconic water park. Zoom down thrilling flumes and get your adrenaline-pumping. There’s something here for every water-lover, big or small.

6. RockReef & PierZip – Adrenaline on the Coast

Adventure awaits at RockReef on Bournemouth Pier. Conquer climbing walls, high ropes, and indoor caving, then soar over the sea on the epic PierZip, one of the UK’s only pier-to-beach zip wires!

7. Symondsbury Estate – Hills, Shops, and Tranquility

Nestled near Bridport, Symondsbury Estate offers countryside charm with artisan shops, a lovely café, and peaceful trails. Climb Colmers Hill for views that stretch across the Jurassic Coast, and don’t miss the ancient sunken lanes for a thrilling walk.

8. Monkey World – Rescue Centre

In Wareham, Monkey World is home to over 250 rescued primates. Support global conservation efforts while meeting chimps, orangutans, and other endangered species.

9. Abbotsbury Swannery – A Feathered Fantasy

The only managed colony of nesting mute swans in the world, Abbotsbury Swannery offers beauty, cygnet spotting, and daily hand-feeding experiences. The Brambly Trail is popular with little ones (and those of us who remember the story books from our own childhood), the swan Maze and go karts help the kids burn off some energy!

10. SEA LIFE Weymouth – Dive Into the Deep

Meet rays, sharks, sea turtles, and penguins at SEA LIFE Weymouth. With over 2,000 creatures, interactive zones, and a splash pad for hot days, it’s a watery wonderland for the whole family.

11. Liberty’s Raptor & Reptile Centre – Wild and Wonderful

Near Ringwood, Liberty’s is home to birds of prey and reptiles galore. Watch breathtaking flying displays.

12. Portland Bill Lighthouse – Icon of the Jurassic Coast

Climb the Portland Bill Lighthouse for panoramic views of rugged cliffs and rolling seas. Learn about maritime history in the visitor centre and enjoy breathtaking scenery!

13. Swanage Railway – Ride Back in Time

All aboard the Swanage Railway for a steam-powered journey through the Isle of Purbeck. Enjoy a classic train ride between Swanage and Norden, complete with countryside views and vintage charm.

14. Castletown D-Day Centre – Living WWII History

In Portland, the Castletown D-Day Centre offers an immersive look into the D-Day landings, with a recreation of a wartime dockyard. Climb aboard military vehicles, see the full-size replica Spitfire and a German D-Day bunker. Be welcomed by a friendly and knowledgeable team in authentic US military uniforms, bringing history to life.  

15. Lulworth Castle - Fairy Tale Towers & Woodland Walks

Built in the 17th century, this stunning castle offers panoramic rooftop views, lush grounds, and family trails. Don’t miss the tearoom or the nearby Lulworth Estate walks.

16. Nothe Fort – Explore Tunnels & Ramparts

Weymouth’s historic coastal defence is packed with military history, secret passages, and clifftop views. Family-friendly trails, regular special events, the mouse hunt, and the spooky ghost tunnel makes it a hit with all ages.

17. Wimborne Model Town – Miniature Magic

Step back into 1950s England in this beautifully detailed model town. Kids love the tiny houses and working model railway, while adults enjoy the blast of nostalgia.

18. Sticks & Bones - Weymouth's Gaming Venue

Fun and games at Sticks & Bones. Choose from board games, classic arcades and console gaming, along with a brand-new pirate-themed escape room (opening soon), enjoy the beer garden, food, drinks and cocktails, it’s quirky, cool, and unforgettable.

Plan Your Dorset Summer Getaway

With castles and coves, tanks and trains, swans and sand, Dorset is a dream destination for summer adventurers. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, you’ll find memory-making moments at every turn.

So pack your picnic, charge your camera, and let Dorset dazzle you this summer. 

Looking for other ideas? Check out the Great Dorset Garden Trail!