Things to Do in Dorchester
14 attractions and days out
Stately Homes and Gardens
Athelhampton House and Gardens
Step into centuries of history at this magnificent Tudor manor surrounded by award-winning formal gardens, where families can explore grand rooms, enchanting topiary, and scenic grounds together.
Zoos and Wildlife Parks
Badger Watch Dorset
Watch these nocturnal creatures emerge from their sett in their natural habitat at this unique Old Henley Farm experience, though note accessibility is limited and picnics aren't permitted.
Parks and Playgrounds
Borough Gardens
This Dorchester park offers families tennis courts, a children's playground and paddling pool alongside green spaces perfect for picnics, plus an on-site café and accessible facilities.
Treasure Hunts
Dorchester Mystery Treasure Trail
Solve puzzles and crack codes as a family while exploring Dorchester's heritage landmarks on this self-guided adventure trail starting from The Grove, perfect for teamwork enthusiasts.
Ice Skating and Rollerskating
Dorchester Skatepark
This modern concrete facility welcomes skateboarders, BMX riders, scooter users and inline skaters of all abilities. Bring a picnic to make a day of it at this popular Little Fairfield action sports venue.
Museums and Art Galleries
Dorset Museum & Art Gallery
Journey through Dorset's rich heritage with family-friendly galleries showcasing local treasures and creative works. Fully accessible with baby facilities, wheelchair hire available for just £1.
Museums and Art Galleries
Dorset Teddy Bear Museum
Explore a charming collection of vintage and contemporary teddy bears at this quirky Dorchester museum, where visitors can browse displays spanning decades and purchase their own cuddly souvenir.
Stately Homes and Gardens
Kingston Maurward Gardens & Animal Park
Meet adorable animals and wander through 35 acres of stunning lakeside grounds at this Dorchester estate, perfect for a family day out with picnic spots and an onsite restaurant.
Cinemas and Theatres
ODEON Dorchester
This three-screen cinema in the heart of Dorchester offers the latest blockbusters and classic films for all the family, with wheelchair access and snacks available throughout your visit.
Museums and Art Galleries
The Dinosaur Museum
Young fossil fans will be thrilled by this specialist attraction in Dorchester, where highlights include a full Megalosaurus skeleton among fascinating prehistoric displays.
Museums and Art Galleries
The Keep Military Museum
Discover centuries of military heritage at this fascinating museum on Barrack Road, featuring accessible facilities and onsite parking for a convenient family visit exploring local regiment history.
Museums and Art Galleries
The Tutankhamun Exhibition
Step back in time to ancient Egypt and discover the treasures and mysteries of the famous boy pharaoh at this accessible exhibition on High West Street.
Lakes
Warmwell Fisheries
Accessible fishing lakes at Parkdean Resorts offering family-friendly angling with full facilities including refreshments, welcoming pushchairs, wheelchairs and dogs for a relaxed day by the water.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Warmwell Snowsports Centre
Hit the slopes at this family-friendly indoor ski centre where beginners and experienced riders can practice year-round, complete with refreshments, accessible facilities and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
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