10 Free Days Out and Things to Do With Kids in Dorset (Updated 2025)
Ahoy there money-savvy adventurers.
If you're looking for a fun and free day out then check out these things to do with the kids in Dorset. Whether it's stepping back in time at Tyneham Village, or letting off steam at Chesil Beach, there's options here to suit all ages, whatever the weather.
I've tried to make sure that all the details on here are up to date, but please do double check on the websites I've linked to before you travel in case anything has changed. Especially important: double check parking costs to avoid any nasty surprises on a day out that was supposed to be cheap, and obviously, be careful if you're visiting places with kids, especially where the terrain is dangerous (ruins, cliffs, beaches, slippy paths etc).
Happy adventuring!
Lucy
This UNESCO world heritage sight is a geologist's dream. It's about a miles walk between the 2 so wear comfy shoes. Remember to hunt for fossils.
There's tons to explore in this 320 acre park including Durlston Castle, walking trails, meadows, exhibitions, interactive displays, a fossil room, a giant globe, and a play trail.
An ancient watermill, rescued from dereliction by volunteers it's now working again. Self guided tours are free, or you can pay for guided tours.
Visit the Fine Foundation Wild Chesil Centre, a family friendly visitor centre with exciting displays, and activities to help you get the most out of your visit to this iconic shingle beach on the Jurassic Coast.
A great family beach, sandy, and a designated bathing beach with a gentle slope into the sea. There's a seasonal lifeguard service (check the link for details).
The only Roman House in the UK to be seen in its entirety. The grounds are free to visit, while there's a fee for tours inside the house.
An ancient, naked man sculpted into the chalk hill. 180ft tall, it's thought to be a sign of fertility. Check out the pictures before you visit so you're prepared for the questions the kids are going to ask.
Dorset's 'lost' village, where time stopped after it was evacuated in 1943, and has remained deserted. It's owned by the MoD, so access is limited to specific times (check the website). There are buildings to wander around, and exhibitions to see.
Walk or cycle along a section of the old Somerset and Dorset Railway line. The whole trail is 14 miles, and has great links to other walks, and nature reserves, like Piddles Wood, and Blandford Forest.
Made up of 2 reserves, and a discovery centre, with lots of footpaths to explore, and see what nature you can spot. The Discovery Centre at Radipole has family activities including pond dipping.
Feeling a Little Frazzled?
Here's a few things I've made that'll hopefully make your life a little bit easier, a little bit more fulfilled, or simply a little bit more fun. Check out these bits along with loads of other parenting aids on the link below.
Make your little mermaid's party perfect with these personalised printables including invites, signs, bunting, crafts and games.
You know what the kids need? An epic activity pack! And it should be filled with easy activity ideas, and stickers, and personalised!
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