ATTRACTIONS IN DORSET
ABBOTSBURY SWANNERY
Abbotsbury
On the World Heritage Coast Dorset’s World Famous Sanctuary. See over 600 free flying friendly swans, baby swans hatching mid-May to June end. Mass feeding 12 noon and 4pm daily. The New Giant Swan Maze (opens May half term).Lunches served in the licensed coffee shop by the swinging nest children’s play area.OPEN:Daily 15 March - 2 November - daily 10am - 6pm. Last admission 5pm.
ATHELHAMPTON HOUSE
5 miles east of Dorchester off A35(T) at Puddletown Northbrook Junction. 01305 848363
Athelhampton House
Visit one of the finest manor houses in England dating from the 15th Century. Explore the glorious Grade 1 gardens, containing the world famous topiary
pyramids, fountains and the River Piddle. Enjoy lunch or a cream tea in the Restaurant. Children under 16 admission Free. OPEN: 18 Feb - 3 Nov - daily, 10.30 - 17.00 (except Fri & Sat)
Open Good Friday. Nov - Feb: Sun only 10.30am - Dusk.
THE BLUE POOL AND TEAHOUSE.
Signposted off the A351 south of Wareham. Furzebrook, Wareham, Dorset BH20 5AT. 01929 551408. href="http://www.bluepooltearooms.co.uk/">Blue Pool Tearooms
Enjoy the luxury of silence.The pool is famous for the ever changing kaleidoscopic of colours.Sandy paths climb to views of Purbeck Hills and steps down to the waters edge. Teahouse open daily offers delicious lunches and cream teas with freshly baked scones served all day.
Some facilities for disabled. Dogs on leads welcome.
OPEN: Grounds open 9.30 from March 1st - Nov 30th. Teahouse Shop & Museum 10am Mid March- October 31st. Closing times vary.
GO APE HIGHWIRE ADVENTUREGo Ape! Moors Valley, Moors Valley Country Park, Horton Road, Ashley Heath,Nr Ringwood. BH24 2ET. 0845 643 9236
http://www.goape.co.uk/
Want to feel 40 feet high? Take to the trees and experience an exhilarating adventure on a course of rope bridges, Tarzan swings and zip slides all high above the forest floor. Ideal for friends, families and corporate groups. Pre-booking essential.OPEN: Feb half term, daily 14 Mar - 31 Oct. Weekends only in Nov.
BOURNEMOUTH AVIATION MUSEUM
Bournmouth International Airport, Main Terminal Entrance follow road around) BH23 6SE. 01202 580858
http://www.aviation-museum.co.uk/
24 ex-military and civilian aircraft, some which still fly, are on view and eight cockpits are open to the public as well a large display of models and aircraft engines. See the worlds last flying Sea Vixen, the romantic 1934 Dragon Rapide, Hunters, Venom, Buccaneer, Meteor and BAC 111. Free Parking. OPEN: 10am - 4pm (Nov-Mar) and 10am - 5pm (Apr-Oct).
CORFE CASTLE MODEL VILLAGE & GARDENS
01929 481234
http://www.corfecastlemodelvillage.co.uk/
A fine miniature reconstruction of the Castle in 1646 before being destroyed by Cromwell. Set in a beautiful English garden. There are working stocks and pillories, an Enchanted Fairy Walk and Giant Games. Fun for all the family. Licenced Tearoom and a Gift Shop. Finalist Small Visitor Attraction - South West Tourism Excellence Awards 2007. OPEN: April to October 6 days a week 10am to 5pm. Closed Fridays. Nov to March weekends only, School holidays every day.
DORSET COUNTY MUSEUM High West Street, Dorchester DT1 1XA. 01305 262 735
http://www.dorsetcountymuseum.org/
Award-winning ‘Museum of Dorset’ including Jurassic Coast Geology Gallery, atmospheric Victorian Hall with Roman Mosaic floors and Thomas Hardy’s Study. Dorchester Gallery tells the 6,000 year history of Dorchester. With Dorset Writers, Archaeology (including Maiden Castle
presentation), Social and Natural History Galleries. Interactives, audiovisuals,free audioguides and Museum Trails for children.
OPEN: 10am - 5pm 7 days a week from July - Sept. Monday to Saturday Oct - Jun.
MONKEY BIZNESS. Poole, Unit 17, Tower Park, Poole, Dorset, tel: 08458 739645.Is an indoor children’s multi-activity centre incorporating three play frames for 0-2’s, 2-5,s and a 5-12’s all of which have been designed by Europe’s leading soft play manufacturer.
http://www.monkey-bizness.co.uk/
FARMER PALMER’S 4 miles from Poole in Organford near Poole. Clearly signposted from the A35 and A351. 01202 622022
http://www.farmerpalmers.co.uk/
The Countryside’s own National Award Winning Theme Park!! Perfect for the under 8’s. Award winning value for money, day out for children 8 yrs & under.
Including hands on animal events every half hour, outdoor play areas,indoor soft play, tractors, straw mountain, bouncy castles,a child friendly restaurant, great attention to detail.
A must visit attraction for a fun day whatever the weather! OPEN: Sat 9th Feb - Sat 15th March Daily 10am - 4pm. Sun 16th March -Sat 25th Oct Daily 10am - 5.30pm
Sun 26th Oct - Sun 28th Dec Fridays & weekends 10am-4pm (Not open Fri 26th Dec.)
TUTANKHAMUN EXHIBITION.High West Street, Dorchester. 01305 269 571.
http://www.tutankhamun-exhibition.co.uk/
The world’s greatest discovery of ancient treasure - Tutankhamun’s tomb, treasures and mummy are superbly recreated in this internationally Renowned exhibition - extensively featured on TV. Now in its 21st year in Dorchester. Not to be missed. OPEN: All year daily 9.30am – 5.30pm, (Nov - Mar 5pm).
DINOSAUR MUSEUM.
Icen Way, Dorchester. 01305 269 880
http://www.thedinosaurmuseum.com/
The award-winning Dinosaur Museum is a treat, especially for children. The museum combines life-sized dinosaur reconstructions with fossils, skeletons and interactive displays to create an exciting hands-on experience. It’s great fun for all ages. Open: All year daily 9.30am-5.30pm (Nov-Mar 10am- 4.30pm).
http://www.teddybearhouse.co.uk/
See the museum's all new displays in a unique and delightful setting.Enter the enchanting world of the teddy bear in this wonderful family museum. From the earliest teddies to today's TV favourites,they're all waiting to meet you at this unmissable family museum. Don't miss Edward Bear & his human-size family of teddy bears in Teddy Bear House. OPEN: daily all year round.
TEEACOTTA WARRIORS. Eastgate, Corner of High Street and Salisbury St. Dorchester. 01305 266040.
http://www.terracottawarriors.co.uk/
China's 8th Wonder of the Ancient World The only museum outside China dedicated to the amazing Terracotta Warriors the eighth wonder of the ancient world. Unique life size museum replicas from China, costumes, armour, multi media displays and more. OPEN: daily, please phone for winter hours.
FORDE ABBEY AND GARDENS. 4 miles south east of Chard, 7 miles west of Crewkerne. 01460 221 290.
http://www.fordeabbey.co.uk/
South West Tourism Small Attraction of the Year 2007/8 Gold Award Enjoy Forde Abbey’s beautiful 30 acre garden including the Centenary Fountain, the highest powered fountain in England, against the backdrop of the outstanding 850 year old home complete with the ornate Mortlake tapestries amongst other treasures.Delicious homemade lunches and cakes available with gift shop,plant centre and pottery exhibition.
OPEN: Gardens open every day 10am - 4.30pm (last admissionHouse 18th Mar- 31st Oct, Tue-Fri, Sun, BH Mon 12 noon - 4pm.
COMPTON ACRES.164 Canford Cliffs, Poole, Dorset. BH13 7ES. 01202 700 778.
http://www.comptonacres.co.uk/
Compton Acres is one of the finest privately owned gardens in the UK
with a unique series of stunning gardens, including Japanese, Italian and Rock and Water Gardens. There is also a tearoom, restaurant, cafe, girt shop, craft shop and model railway. Open 363
days of the year. OPEN: Daily Mar - Oct. Peak 9am to 6pm last entry 5pm. Nov to end of Feb 09 off peak 10am to 4pm , last entry 3pm.
THE KEEP MILITARY MUSEUM DORCHESTER Bridport Road, Dorchester at 'Top o' the Town'. 01305264066
http://www.keepmilitarymuseum.org/
A modern military museum at Top o' Town, Dorchester.
Computers and creative displays tell the stories of the courage, humour, tradition and sacrifice of those who served in the Regiments of Devon and Dorset for over 300 years. Car Park. Shop. Disabled Friendly. Splendid rooftop views of Dorchester. OPEN: April-Sept: Mon-Sat 9.30-1700hrs. Oct-March: Tues-Sat 9.30-1700hrs. Last admission 1600hrs. Closed for 2 weeks at Christmas and on Sundays.
KINGSTON MAURWARD GARDENS & ANIMAL PARK.
Kingston Maurward is signposted from the roundabout at the Eastern end of the Dorchester bypass. 01305 215003.
http://www.kmc.ac.uk/gardens/
Explore the formal Edwardian Garden with a stunning ornamental lake in front of the 18th Century Mansion House. The Animal Park has a collection of miniature Shetland ponies, donkeys, rabbits and Guinea pigs. Light refreshments are available, Play area, Shop and plant sales. Special events throughout the year. OPEN: Daily 2nd January to 22nd December 10am to 5.30pm.
LULWORTH CASTLE PARK.5 miles west of Wareham. Follow brown signs from A3520845 450 1054.
http://www.lulworth.com/
Walk in the footsteps of Kings and Queens!
...as you explore the 17th Century Castle and its fascinating history.
Discover the stunning landscapes, beautiful 18th Century Chapel and unrivalled views from the Castle Tower. Meet the residents of the animal farm and enjoy the woodland walks, adventure play area and pitch & putt. Licensed Stable Café and Courtyard Shop. Free parking and under 4’s free entry. Spectacular Summer Jousting Shows Wed 23rd July to Mon 25th August. OPEN: Sun - Fri. Last admission 1hr before closing. Summer 10.30 - 6.00. Winter 10.30 - 4.00. Closed Saturdays and 6-19 Jan, 24 & 25 Dec.
PORTLAND CASTLE.Portland, Dorset DT5 1AZ. 01305 820 539
http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/portland/
A ‘must’ visit whatever the weather. One of King Henry VIII’s finest fortifications. 450 years of history, from Tudor stronghold to World War II signals base and D-Day embarkation point. Our audio tour tells the castle’s long and chequered history. Lots to discover, explore the
contemporary ‘Govenors’ garden and relax in our tea-room. OPEN: Daily from 10am Mar 21 to Oct 31.
ADVENTURE WONDERLAND. Opposite Bournemouth Airport. 01202 483 444.
http://www.adventurewonderland.co.uk/
Whatever the Weather… This award winning park offers a full days fun whatever the weather combining the outside Wonderland with the indoor Aztec adventure, Wild Thing! Now with over 27 family rides and attractions, including
Snappy Croc, Ghostly Galleon, Wild Bill's Runaway Train, Montyzoomers Gold Trail and all inclusive Wonderland Shows. Birthday parties, Group visits, Season tickets. OPEN: Adventure Wonderland (including Wild Thing!) daily. 15 Mar - 7 Sept & then every weekend up to 19 Oct & half term week 25 Oct- 2 Nov. Wild Thing! only, on other dates.
SHERBORNE CASTLE. Sherborne, Dorset DT9 5NR. 01935 813 182.
http://www.sherbornecastle.com/
Sherborne Castle with its beautiful lakeside gardens and grounds. Come and visit the famous castle built by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594, stately home to the Digby family since 1617; rich interiors and splendid collections of art, furniture and porcelain. Explore 30-acres of beautiful Lakeside Gardens and grounds landscaped around Capability Brown's 50-acre lake. Great for picnics; dogs welcome. Historic Sherborne close by. OPEN: Castle, Gardens, Gift Shop & Tearoom 22 Mar - 30 Oct, Daily except Mon & Fri (open BH Mons). 11.00am to 4.30pm last admission (castle interior opens later at 2.00pm Saturdays).
STAPEHILL ABBEY CRAFTS & GARDENS 276 Wimborne Road West, Stapehill, Nr Wimborne, Dorset. BH21 2EB.01202 861686. Spend a memorable day at Stapehill.See magnificent award winning gardens, 19th century buildings with nuns chapel and cloister garden. Working crafts people and a 12,000 sq.ft. museum depicting life in bygone days. Licensed coffee shop, Gift shop, and plant sales. Free parking, plus lots more! OPEN: daily from 10am to 5pm Easter to end of September. Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm October to Easter. Closed Christmas Holidays to the end of January.
SWANNAGE RAILWAY.
Swanage Railway Co. Ltd, Station House, Swanage, Dorset BH19 1HB.01929 425 800.
http://www.swanagerailway.co.uk/
Travel on Dorset’s award winning steam railway and make the most of the Jurassic Coast.Make the most of the Jurassic Coast by taking a trip on the Swanage Railway the most convenient way to visit Corfe Castle and the seaside. Avoid the hassle of parking by travelling from Norden Park & Ride off the A351. OPEN: Most weekends throughout the year and DAILY from Easter to October.
WEYMOUTH SEA LIFE PARK & MARINE SANCTUARY.
Lodmoor Country Park, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 7SX. 01305 788 255. Bookings 01305 761 070.
http://www.sealifeeurope.com/
A unique mix of indoor and outdoor attractions, see many beautiful and fascinating creatures of the Sea. Prepare to come face to face with sharks, otters, seals, penguins, turtles and so much more. New for 2008: ADVENTURE ISLAND. A fantasy land of thrilling rides and a unique driftwood maze. Unravel more mysteries of the deep with each fresh turn towards your goal… the watchtower at the heart of the maze. OPEN: Every day except Christmas Day.
BENNETT’S WATER GARDENS Tel: 01305 785150
http://www.waterlily.co.uk/
Renowned for its replica ‘Monet’ japanese bridge and a national and international collection of water lilies. 8 acres of beautiful water gardens in natural surroundings with native trees, willows and wild flowers. Tropical House - Museum - Plant Centre - Licensed Lakeside Cafe Gift Shop - Parking. Group visits - Season tickets - Sorry no dogs.OPEN: Mid March to Mid October 10am 5pm (Except Mon & Sat) Open Bank Holidays.
HIGHCLIFFE CASTLE. Rothesay Drive, Highcliffe, Dorset. BH23 4LE Tel: 01425 278807
http://www.highcliffecastle.co.uk/
Grade 1 listed and built in the 1830’s for Lord Stuart De Rothsay, Highlife Castle is situated in beautiful cliff-top grounds, with access to the Christchurch
coastal path. A perfect venue for exhibitions, events & concerts, with extra rooms open from Feb 2008. (Featured on the Antiques Road Show).
Adults £2.50. Accompanied Children Under 16 Free. - Gift Shop - Tea Rooms - Guided Tours. Civil Ceremonies & Receptions. OPEN: 1st Feb - 23rd December. Daily 11am - 5pm
Grounds open all year from 7am.
