Family Attractions in DorsetDorset holiday cottages are perfectly-positioned for family holidays, with the county’s choice of pretty beach resorts, peaceful countryside and bustling towns to discover, Dorset family attractions are as varied as the county itself. Travel through time with historic sites, or through the world’s seas at one of the two leading aquariums...but the adventure starts here. |
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Bournemouth AquariumBournemouth is THE place for family fun, so the Bournemouth Aquarium has long been top of the Dorset family attractions list! The spectacular oceanarium enables visitors both young and old to roam the seven seas, coming face to face with some of the weird and wonderful creatures that inhabit them. The underwater adventure of the Bournemouth Aquarium includes the waters of Africa, the Amazon, the Mediterranean, the Great Barrier Reef and much more. The Bournemouth Aquarium is open every day except for Christmas day, and hosts unique events during school holidays too.
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Corfe Castle, Isle of Purbeck
Corfe Castle stands proudly amidst the Purbeck hills, and this windswept ruin has made an enchanting sight since medieval times. This is the perfect family attraction in Dorset for those who love a day filled with history, legend and views you’ll never forget! The National Trust-owned castle was demolished in 1646, but in its heyday this fortress was a stunning royal residence. Far from taking away from the castle, its ruined state makes it one of the most intriguing attractions in Dorset, as its wall lay where they fell, and secret hideaways pepper the site. Go on, let your imagination run away with you!
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The Dinosaur Museum, DorchesterNow here’s an attraction in Dorset we bet you weren’t expecting! The Dinosaur Museum is an award-winning experience in Dorchester, and it’s just seven miles from the world-famous Jurassic Coast. Dorchester marks the start of the Dorset World Heritage Jurassic Coast, and has been a favourite attraction for more than 25 years. Visitors are greeted by a life size replica of a fearsome dinosaur, and the skeletons and models throughout fascinate children in particular. Also, look out for seasonal events at the museum before you go.
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Weymouth Sea Life CentreWith so many miles of fascinating coastline, Dorset will have you in the mood for exploring marine life in no time. Weymouth Sea Life Centre is one of the leading family attractions in Dorset, and you’ll find indoor and outdoor displays, more than a thousand sea creatures, four rides for children and much more. Highlights include the underwater walkway, the new Shark Breeding Centre and the interactive rock pool – where visitors can hold a crab and touch a starfish! There are feeding demonstrations throughout the day, mini golf and a cafe for when it all gets too much...and the best part is it’s an all-weather attraction. |
Town Mill Watermill, Lyme RegisLyme Regis harbours some hidden gems, not least the Town Mill Watermill – a unique Dorset attraction in a stunning setting. Town Mill Watermill is a working watermill deep in the heart of Lyme Regis, and the nostalgic feel of the complex only adds to its charm. An original cobbled courtyard sits in the midst of the restored buildings of the working flour mill, and with a history dating back to 1340 there’s plenty to see. Aside from the mill itself, visitors will discover a range of shops and sights, all in keeping with the theme of days gone by. Art galleries, a pottery, a tea room and a cheesemonger surround the restored mill.
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For more info and area guides on Dorset holidays, have a look at the links below:
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