From alpaca walks to sea kayaking, dolphin spotting to steam trains — Dorset has adventures for every age and interest. Each listing includes costs, parking, and age suitability.
Wool
Home to over 250 rescued primates from around the world, including chimpanzees, orang-utans, gibbons, and woolly monkeys. The largest collection of rescued chimpanzees outside Africa. Hugely popular with families and featured in the TV series 'Monkey Business'.
💡 Arrive early — feeding times are the highlight. The chimp feeding at 3pm is not to be missed.
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Organford, Poole
An award-winning family farm park with tractor rides, animal feeding, a play barn, go-karts, and seasonal activities. One of Dorset's most popular family days out for younger children.
💡 Book online to save money. The play barn is great for rainy days.
Langton Matravers
A family farm near Swanage with animal feeding, tractor rides, an indoor soft play area, and outdoor play zones. The indoor facilities make it a great rainy-day option on the Purbeck peninsula.
💡 The indoor soft play is perfect for wet days. Combine with a visit to Swanage.
Weymouth
A large aquarium on Weymouth seafront with sharks, rays, seahorses, turtles, and a spectacular ocean tunnel. One of the best wet-weather attractions in Dorset. Excellent for families.
💡 Book online in advance for significant savings. Allow 2–3 hours.
Bournemouth
An aquarium on Bournemouth seafront with over 150 species including sharks, rays, piranhas, and a walk-through underwater tunnel. A great rainy-day option in the heart of Bournemouth.
💡 Book online for discounts. Combine with a walk along the seafront.
Blandford Forum
Meet and fly birds of prey at this family-run centre near Blandford Forum. Flying displays, handling experiences, and meet-the-birds sessions. A unique and memorable experience for all ages.
💡 Book a flying experience in advance. The hawks and owls are particularly impressive.
Portland
Walk with alpacas along the dramatic cliffs of Portland. A unique and joyful experience suitable for all ages. The alpacas are friendly and the coastal scenery is spectacular.
💡 Book well in advance — very popular. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a camera.
Lyme Regis
Boat trips from Lyme Regis harbour to spot dolphins, seals, and seabirds along the Jurassic Coast. Various operators offer trips from 1–3 hours. Dolphin sightings are common in summer.
💡 Morning trips often have calmer seas. Book in advance in summer.
Abbotsbury
Guided boat trips on the Fleet Lagoon behind Chesil Beach, exploring the unique ecosystem of this sheltered tidal lagoon. See swans, wading birds, and rare wildlife from the water.
💡 Book in advance. The lagoon is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Swanage
A heritage steam railway running between Swanage and Norden (near Corfe Castle). Travel through the beautiful Purbeck countryside on a lovingly restored steam train. Connects with the Purbeck bus network at Norden.
💡 The Norden end connects to the Purbeck bus for Corfe Castle. Special event trains run throughout the year.
Weymouth
Guided sea kayaking tours along the Jurassic Coast from Weymouth. Explore sea caves, arches, and hidden coves inaccessible by foot. Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers.
💡 Book in advance. All equipment provided. Morning sessions have the calmest conditions.
Ringwood (near Dorset border)
A treetop adventure course in the beautiful Moors Valley Country Park, with zip wires, rope bridges, and Tarzan swings through the forest canopy. Excellent for families and thrill-seekers.
💡 Book online in advance. Arrive 30 minutes early for the safety briefing.