Things to do in and around Dorset

Discover unique antiques, vintage pieces, and artistic treasures in Bridport’s Art & Vintage Quarter—a delight for couples who love history and creativity.

Visitor Info: Shops include The Alleyways, Pebble Vintage & monthly Vintage Market.

Address: St Michael’s Trading Estate, Bridport, DT6 3RR (~6 min drive)

Contact: Vintage Market: 07468 579570

Step inside Britain’s only thatched brewery and uncover centuries-old ale-making traditions. End the tour with a guided tasting for a truly local experience.

Visitor Info: Guided tours Mon–Fri 11am & 2pm; tastings included.

Address: Old Brewery, West Bay Road, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4JA (~12 min drive)

Contact: 01308 427500 | tours@palmersbrewery.com

Uncover real fossils with expert wardens on the iconic Jurassic Coast. A fun and educational adventure for kids and adults alike.

Visitor Info: Guided 1.5-hour walks; meet at Red Lifebuoy outside Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre.

Distance: ~3 min drive

Our Guest Relations team offers two fossil hunting kits, thoughtfully designed for different age groups. Each kit includes a keepsake keyring, safety glasses, a magnifying glass, a hammer, and an informative booklet, providing everything young explorers need for their own fossil hunting adventure. The kits are available for £30 each, with options suitable for children aged 4-7 and 7+ years.

Step into history and marine life. Explore Mary Anning’s discoveries, then meet starfish, lobsters and more at the waterfront aquarium.

Museum: Bridge Street, Lyme Regis, DT7 3QA

Contact: 01297 443370 | museum@lymeregismuseum.co.uk

Aquarium: The Cobb, Lyme Regis, DT7 3JJ

Contact: 01297 444230 | info@lymeregismarineaquarium.co.uk

Distance: ~20 min drive

Climb this iconic conical hill for stunning countryside views. An easy and rewarding family hike with plenty of photo opportunities.

Distance: ~8 min drive

Enjoy picking sun-ripened berries on a peaceful farm. A wholesome seasonal treat loved by kids and adults alike.

Visitor Info: Seasonal PYO June–August, free parking.

Address: Thorncombe, Chard, TA20 4NA (~50 min drive)

Contact: 01460 30460 | www.fordeabbey.co.uk

Buckets, lines, and fun! A classic seaside activity where families can catch crabs along the harbour.

Address: West Bay Harbour, Bridport (~15 min drive)

Gentle trails with sweeping views and wildlife-rich paths. Perfect for young explorers and nature-loving families.

Address: Stonebarrow Hill, near Charmouth (~5 min drive)

Hop on heritage trams through the Axe Valley wetlands. Open-top rides and themed events make this a family favourite.

Visitor Info: 3-mile route, wildlife spotting, cafés onboard.

Address: Harbour Road, Seaton, Devon, EX12 2WD (~50 min drive)

Contact: 01297 20375 | www.tram.co.uk

A picturesque seaside town with golden beaches, boutique shops, fossil-rich shores, and the historic Cobb harbour wall. Something for every visitor.

Address: Lyme Regis, Dorset (~20 min drive)

Marvel at golden cliffs, stroll piers, and enjoy the lively harbour. Ideal for both relaxing walks and dramatic coastal views.

Distance: ~15 min drive

Immerse yourself in a bustling market full of artisan foods, crafts, flowers, and vintage treasures. Perfect for morning exploration.

Address: East/West Street & Bucky Doo Square, Bridport (~6 min drive)

Explore ancient hillforts and wooded trails. Peaceful, inspiring, and perfect for walkers, photographers, and history enthusiasts.

Distance: Lambert’s Castle (~25 min drive) | Coney’s Castle (~25 min drive)

Climb Dorset’s second-highest hill for sweeping coastal and countryside panoramas. A rewarding short walk.

Distance: ~30 min drive

Step into 2,000 years of history on guided underground tours. Cathedral-like caverns carved by Romans, Saxons, and Normans.

Address: Quarry Lane, Beer/Seaton, EX12 3AS (~50 min drive)

Contact: 01297 680282 | www.beerquarrycaves.co.uk

Experience Dorset from the waves! Choose between high-speed adventures or scenic coastal cruises. Family-friendly (age 5+).

Lyme RIB Rides: The Cobb, Lyme Regis, DT7 3JJ | 07790 400300 | hello@lymeribrides.com | www.lymeribrides.com Jurassic

Boat Trips: Lyme Regis Harbour, DT7 3JJ | 01297 642643

A tranquil, tree-lined path steeped in history and natural beauty. Perfect for gentle, mindful strolls.

Distance: ~12 min drive

Serene historic gardens, fountains, and parkland around one of England’s finest former monasteries. Ideal for garden lovers.

Distance: ~50 min drive