You will be spoiled for choice for family days out in Dorset. There are so many things to do in Dorset with kids that are at least half a day out if not a whole day out.
These attractions in Dorset are just some of the popular places to visit in Dorset that provide value for money and a great day out at the same time.
Monkey World Ape And Rescue Centre
Address: Longthorns, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 6HH
Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre is one of the great places to visit in Dorset for a whole day out. The ape and rescue centre has been open since 1987 as a rescue centre for primates from across the world.
You can easily spend a whole day out at Monkey World as there is plenty to see and do, from over 200 primates who live at the park to the huge Great Ape play and picnic area at the back of the park. There are also keeper talks throughout the day to learn about the primates and see them being fed.
Read our full review of Monkey World
Monkey World opens all year around between 10am – 5pm (6pm in the Summer), has a large free car park on site. Take a picnic or enjoy refreshments from one of the kiosks and cafes on site.
The park is also very close to the Jurassic Coast if you’re looking to explore the area further, or staying for longer.
Bournemouth Oceanarium
Address: Pier Approach, West Beach, Bournemouth, BH2 5AA
Bournemouth Oceanarium opened in 1998. Located right next to Bournemouth Pier, this is in a popular location for a day out with the family in Bournemouth.
You can expect to see creatures such as the famous clownfish, water dragons, penguins, Iguanas, jellyfish, turtles, eels, otters and plenty more creatures.
Buy discounted tickets for Oceanarium Bournemouth
The Oceanarium is open daily from 10am throughout the year except Christmas Day. Closing times depend on the season but vary between 4-6pm with the last entry an hour before close.
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Farmer Palmers
Address: Wareham Road, Organford, Poole, BH16 6EU
Farmer Palmers Farm Park has many animals and attractions including pedal tractors, animal feeding times, splash zone, inside and outside bouncy castles, cow milking, indoor and outdoor animal pens and so much more.
The park is aimed at children up to 8 years old, but there is plenty to see and do that adults get as much enjoyment from the farm park as the children do. Picnics are permitted at Farmer Palmers, but there are plenty of options for refreshments on site as well.
Weymouth Sealife Centre
Address: Lodmoor Country Park, Weymouth DT4 7SX
There are over 2,000 creatures at Weymouth Sealife Centre, which is nestled right in the heart of one of Dorset’s country parks.
The park spans 14 acres across both indoor and outdoor areas where you can enjoy different exhibits, or relaxing whilst the kids enjoy the splash zone (seasonal). Weymouth Sealife Centre has three different areas to enjoy food and refreshments if you don’t wish to take your own picnic.
There is plenty to do at Weymouth Sealife Centre for all the family, and once you have enjoyed all of the sea creatures, mammals and reptiles there is also a great place to play mini golf just outside as well.
Read a full review of visiting Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park
Moors Valley Country Park
Address: Horton Rd, Ashley Heath, Ringwood BH24 2ET
Moors Valley Country park is on the Dorset and Hampshire border. Facilities at Moors Valley include a tree top trail, Go Ape, Segways, large play area, plenty of open space, steam train and plenty of open space to explore.
There is a large car park chargeable per hour or a whole day. Parking definitely works out cheaper if you’re staying all day.
Taking your own picnic is a great idea for enjoying your lunch along the forest trails. Alternatively there is a restaurant offering snacks and meals as well as ice cream stands and takeaway snack options dotted around the main areas of the park.
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The Tank Museum
Address: Linsay Rd, Bovington, Wareham BH20 6JG
The Tank Museum in Dorset is an indoor attraction making it perfect for any time of the year. Home to different exhibitions, live tank displays (seasonal), plenty of family fun for children and tank enthusiasts alike. Even if you’re not a tank enthusiast, reviews state you will still enjoy your visit.
Every ticket you purchase for the tank museum comes with a free annual pass, making this a great value day ticket for an attraction in Dorset.
