Two children play with toy swords in front of Corfe Castle in Dorset — Children playing at Corfe Castle | © National Trust Images / John Millar

Family-friendly places in Dorset

There's all sorts of things to do in Dorset with the family, including discovering places to explore in gardens, parks, the countryside and on the beach.

Corfe Castle

Get lost in adventure at Corfe Castle this May half term. Join the Corporal of the Castle with interactive storytelling tours and take flight with our new family quest in collaboration with Nosy Crow.

A child running along a path through puddles

Kingston Lacy

This May half term, we're inviting little explorers and nature enthusiasts to take part in a range of exciting, hands-on activities designed to connect children with the natural world. Take part in hands-on nature walks featuring bug hunting, bird spotting, tree ID, and more.

Brownsea Island

In the wild, animals see poo as something valuable – it can be used, reused, recycled, and even played with. Have a go at our fun games like cow pat frisby, roll balls like a dung beetle, and try to identify the poopetrator. It’s an adventure that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Studland Bay

Do you fancy yourself an amateur detective? Do you love nature? Come and borrow one of our Nature Detective bags free of charge this half term. The bags contain, binoculars, magnifying glasses, bug pots and activity sheets to help you on your nature detecting journey.

Find all the best places to make a memorable day out for all the family.

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Family fun at Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle is the perfect place to enjoy a fun-filled family day out. There is always something new to explore and join in with a jam-packed programme of events.

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Family days out at Kingston Lacy

Auutum is a great time to explore Kingston Lacy. From natural play areas to family crafts or taking your bike for a ride through the woodland trail. A visit here is a great day out.

Children walk their dog through the nature reserve at Studland, Dorset

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Family-friendly things to do at Studland Bay

With miles of sand dunes, beaches and sea, Studland Bay is the perfect place for a family adventure at any time of year. Find out more and plan your visit.

A family walks through a wood with spring leaves on the trees

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Family adventures on Brownsea Island

Famous for red squirrels, wildlife and scouting - reopens spring 2025

The weather can be unpredictable so we've pulled together ideas to help keep the family busy - whatever the weather

Two children in coats and wellies walk along the path with umbrellas up towards East Riddlesden Hall, Yorkshire

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Top ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities to do when it’s raining

We've compiled a selection of items from the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ list that are perfect for rainy days, so grab your waterproofs and get involved.

Children playing at Brimham Rocks, North Yorkshire

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Top ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities to do in winter

Winter is the perfect time for many of the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities. Wrap up warm and go welly wandering, fossil hunting or stargazing.

Discover walks along the coastline or build a sandcastle on the beach.

A woman and a man with a baby carrier looking out over the Jurassic Coast from Golden Cap in Dorset, on a bright summer's day

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Golden Cap

Visiting Golden Cap is always a big adventure. Discover treasure on the Stonebarrow Smugglers' Trail, take on a big challenge and climb Golden Cap, or try out geocaching on the wider estate.