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Looking for a family-friendly holiday destination? Dorset is the perfect place to go! Known for its stunning coastline and charming villages, Dorset has something for everyone. And the best part? You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a fun-filled family holiday. We’ve compiled a list of the best free or cheap places to visit in Dorset that are perfect for families. Get insider tips from locals and discover some hidden gems that you won’t want to miss.
Table of Contents
- Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove
- Swanage Beach
- Bournemouth Gardens
- Poole Harbour
- Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park
- Weymouth Harbour
- Hardy’s Cottage
- Portland Bill Lighthouse
Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove
Take a walk along the scenic Jurassic Coast and explore the unique rock formations of Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. These iconic natural landmarks are a must-visit for families in Dorset. Durdle Door is a stunning limestone arch that sits on a pebble beach, while Lulworth Cove is a picturesque horseshoe-shaped bay. Kids will love exploring the rock pools, paddling in the water, and discovering the unique geology of the area. The surrounding cliffs and countryside also offer plenty of opportunities for walks and hikes with breathtaking views. Best of all, entry to both locations is completely free, making it an ideal budget-friendly activity for families.
Swanage Beach
Enjoy a day at the beach and paddle in the calm waters of Swanage Bay. This award-winning Blue Flag beach is a hit with families for its soft sand, clear waters, and family-friendly facilities. Kids can build sandcastles, play beach volleyball, and go for a swim, while parents can relax and take in the stunning scenery. The beach is also home to a variety of cafes, ice cream shops, and restaurants, perfect for grabbing a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. With free entry and plenty of parking nearby, it’s an easy and affordable day out for families in Dorset.
Bournemouth Gardens
Take a stroll through the picturesque gardens and enjoy the many activities on offer, such as mini golf and an art exhibition. Located in the heart of Bournemouth, these beautiful gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling town center. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the various themed gardens, including a Japanese garden, rock garden, and a Victorian garden. Kids will love the play areas, including a giant spider web climbing frame and a mini golf course. Entry to the gardens is free, but there may be a small fee for some of the attractions.
Poole Harbour
Visit the largest natural harbor in Europe and enjoy the views from the quayside or take a boat trip. As the largest natural harbor in Europe, Poole Harbour offers plenty of opportunities for families to explore the great outdoors. Kids can try their hand at crabbing, go for a paddleboard or kayak ride, or take a boat tour to see the local wildlife. The harbor is also home to several nature reserves, including the Brownsea Island Nature Reserve, where families can spot red squirrels and rare birds. While some activities may have a fee, many can be enjoyed for free, making it a great option for families on a budget.
Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park
A fun day out for young children to meet farm animals and enjoy a range of activities. This family-run farm park is a hit with kids for its hands-on animal experiences and fun activities. Kids can pet and feed the animals, take a tractor ride, ride on a mini quad bike, and explore the outdoor play areas. There’s also an indoor soft play area and a cafe serving homemade treats. With affordable entry fees and plenty of fun activities to keep kids entertained, Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park is a great choice for families visiting Dorset.
Weymouth Harbour
Visit the bustling harbor and enjoy the variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops on offer. Weymouth Harbour is a great place to visit for families who enjoy being near the water. With its stunning views of the sea and the boats, it offers a great atmosphere for a day out. There are plenty of opportunities for kids to explore the harbor and watch the boats come in and out. The area is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, perfect for grabbing a bite to eat or souvenirs to take home. The harbor also offers several water activities like boat tours, fishing trips, and water sports, making it a perfect day out for adventure-loving families.
Hardy’s Cottage
Hardy’s Cottage is a perfect destination for literary and history-loving families. The cottage, once the home of the famous English writer Thomas Hardy, offers visitors a chance to see how life was in the late 19th century. The cottage has been restored to its original condition and features traditional furnishings and décor. Families can take a guided tour of the cottage, walk through the gardens, and learn more about Hardy’s life and works. There are also several events held throughout the year, including educational workshops and storytelling sessions for kids.
Portland Bill Lighthouse
Portland Bill Lighthouse Farm Park is a must-visit destination for animal-loving families. The park offers a unique combination of a working farm, a lighthouse, and an adventure playground. Kids can pet and feed a variety of farm animals like goats, rabbits, chickens, and pigs. They can also learn about farm life and participate in educational activities like milking the cows. The park also features a small museum about the lighthouse and its history, and visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the coast. The adventure playground features swings, slides, and climbing frames, making it a perfect place for kids to let off steam.
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