Landscapes that melt together rambling moors, rolling hills and postcard-shot beaches dotted with medieval market towns and cathedral spires. South West England shouts 'picturesque' from every corner. Hiking and biking trails criss-cross valleys and ridgeways, wind between stone-built villages and traverse towering gorges. Legends of mystical moorland beasts and stone circles lead you through endless Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Foodies should fast well in advance for a gourmet trip stuffed with cream teas, fruity cider and crumbly cheeses.
South West England
Make friends at Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre
Home to over 250 rescued and endangered primates, this sanctuary lets you get up close and personal with all kinds of monkeys, gorillas and apes.
Location: Wareham, Dorset
Have yourself a Famous Five adventure
Follow in the footsteps of Enid Blyton’s Famous Five with some castle capers and a seaside adventure by steam railway.
Location: Corfe Castle, Dorset
Visit the world’s best collection of tanks
Heroes big or small can find fun at The Tank Museum.
Location: Wareham, Dorset
Take to the slopes in Dorset
The Snowtrax alpine activity centre will transport you to the mountains for the day.
Location: Christchurch, Dorset
Enjoy high-wire and two-wheeled adventure in the Moors Valley
Enjoy adrenaline-fuelled activities for all the family in Moors Valley Country Park in the lovely Dorset countryside.
Location: Ashley Heath, Dorset
Explore an island of discovery
Explore Portland’s rugged landscape and breathtaking views and discover its history, heritage and natural assets.
Location: Portland, Dorset
A botanical treasure trove on the Jurassic Coast
Sniff your way around the award-winning Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, a coastal haven filled with rare and exotic plants from all over the world.
Location: Abbotsbury, Dorset
September events: Bournemouth Air Festival
The world's biggest airshow brings together the thrill of gravity-defying plane displays and an abundance of family entertainment on the ground - all for free!
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Dive into the deep blue sea at Oceanarium
Bournemouth's Oceanarium is a great indoor attraction that allows you to discover the secrets of the deep.
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
See Dorset from two wheels on a Jurassic Cycle Trail
The Jurassic Coast Cycle Trails are 3 family-friendly routes designed to help you take in the splendors of the Weymouth and Portland coastline.
Location: Weymouth, Dorset
Enjoy family fun and meals by the fire at Norburton Hall
Celebrate a special occasion, or just enjoy having the whole family round for dinner on this Dorset estate.
Location: Burton Bradstock, Dorset
Take the family pet along on a dog friendly break in Dorset
Thanks to Dorset’s dog friendly places, there’s no need to leave your favourite canine companion at home on a family holiday.
Location: Dorset
Travel back through the centuries on a coastal break in Dorset
Explore Dorset’s eclectic range of castles, country houses and forts and journey back in time on a steam train.
Location: Dorset
Take a family escape to the golden sands of Weymouth
Dig your toes in the sand, paddle in the waves and make memories with the kids at this spectacular seaside town.
Location: Weymouth, Dorset
All the fun of the fair with Dorset’s summer festivals
Dorset entertains the whole family all summer long hosting an array of amazing events and festivals that are unique, nostalgic or just plain fun!
Location: Dorset
October events: Be wowed by Abbotsbury's Illuminate
Discover an illuminated winter wonderland at one of Dorset’s finest annual events.
Location: Abbotsbury, Dorset