Visiting Moors Valley Country Park

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Moors Valley Country Park is located on the Dorset / Hampshire border. It’s a popular place to visit in Dorset all year round with plenty of things to see and do.

The park is just a few miles away from Bournemouth, near Ringwood and Verwood. Access to the large car park is via Horton Road, BH24 2ET.

Parking charges apply at Moors Valley, depending on the time of year and day you visit. If you’re visiting regularly through the year, a season ticket works out to be better value for money.

Related post – Country parks to visit in Dorset

Things To Do At Moors Valley Country Park

Play Parks

There are two play parks and a large play trail to tire even the most active of children out. The play equipment can get busy during peak times. However there is  a large open green space with plenty of picnic tables nearby, perfect for spotting the quieter times.

I recommend taking advantage of the play trail as it’s quieter and provides plenty of open space. The whole trail is a mile in length with plenty of wooden play structures dotted about along the route. 

The play trail is pushchair friendly and you will also spot benches and picnic tables along the route, perfect for stopping to refuel.

Can you spot the Gruffalo? Moors Valley has a permanent life size Gruffalo structure by the forest picnic area (to the left past the visitor centre facing Go Ape).

Steam Railway

A popular activity with visitors to Moors Valley is a trip on the steam railway. With two stations, and multiple trains operating, it’s a lovely way to see some of the park while enjoying a sit down!

Cycle Hire

If exploring the forest trails is your idea of heaven and you don’t want to take your own bikes, you can hire them at the park. 

There are a variety of different sized bikes and trailers for hire, and you won’t run out of paths in the forest to explore. The paths are all waymarked to help you find your way.

If you are looking for a long cycle adventure, access to the Castleman Trailway is connected to the park.

Go Ape

If climbing high into the trees is on your list, you’ll be pleased to find a Go Ape course at Moors Valley. There are three tree top courses, as well as a new nets adventure. An adventure playground in the trees!

Do you want to stay on the ground? Why not go on a Segway adventure through the forest. 

Dogs At Moors Valley Country Park

Moors Valley is a very dog friendly place to visit in Dorset. In the main areas of the park, near the visitor centre they must be kept on leads. However there is plenty of space to allow dogs to run off lead as well.

You will find dog water stations near the visitor centre, and waste bins (for dog waste only) through the park. New in 2021, there was a self service dog wash station. Very convenient for those dogs who like to explore and get a bit muddy.

Refreshments At Moors Valley Country Park

You are welcome to take your own picnic to the park, however if you’re wishing to purchase food and drink, there are plenty of options available.

The main Seasons restaurant is located next to the visitor centre. There is also a kiosk nearby for hot drinks and snacks. Ice cream kiosks are in the main green open space near the lake, and also next to Go Ape.

You will also find a small refreshment kiosk near the train station at Kingsmere.

Things To Know Before Your Visit

• There are no bins at Moors Valley Country Park. The restaurant and kiosks will take any rubbish from food purchased from them, but anything else needs to be taken home with you.
• BBQ’s and fire pits are not permitted.
• The park can get very busy during peak times, so it’s a good idea to check the Facebook page for the latest car park advice before you travel.
• Toilets are located at either Kingsmere train station or next to the visitor centre. Baby change is also available.