A day trip in Dorset is the perfect way to spend a summer’s day!

Bournemouth is somewhere we used to come often when I was little, so it was great to be able to explore the area again with Mum, but as an adult! See my full blog post about our weekend away here.

In three days, we really did only just scratch the surface of the adventure on offer down here on the South English Coastline. I loved exploring the Jurassic Coast, and I know you will too. I know my trip even inspired me to go back, so incase it had the same effect on you…

See 28 places you should visit in England here

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Here are 12 fun day trips to go on in Dorset, England…

1. Studland

Lying on the Dorset peninsula called the Isle of Purbeck (the name tricked you, right?!) this seaside village is bound to capture your heart and make you want to return. While you’re in the area, check out the Old Harry Rocks, three chalk formations in the sea.

See the best walks and hikes to go on in England here.

2. Brownsea Island

A National Trust site and home to scouting, red squirrels, and an abundance of wildlife, this island near Poole Harbour isn’t something to miss. Usually open from March – October, you can catch a boat to the island from Poole Quay or Sandbanks. Visit the outdoor centre for information about the wildlife you might spot during a self-guided walking trail. For more information, click here.

3. Lush Spa, Poole

Not like any spa I’ve ever been to! Organic and natural, with a lot of vegan products, this is the place to visit in Dorset for a relaxing day. Check out all their treatments here.

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4. Kayak along the Jurassic coast

One of the best things to do in Dorset is kayaking along the Jurassic coast. See this National Heritage site in its full glory, from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door and more. (for more information, click here).

If kayaking isn’t your thing, you could also go on a group trip, do a road trip independently, , or even do an ‘ale trail’! One of the best places to learn more about the Jurassic Coast, the UK’s first and only natural World Heritage site is the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre, so make sure to fit this into your day too!

5. Corfe Castle

A village well known for the historic castle, this is said to be one of the best places in Dorset to catch the sun coming up and going down. The castle itself (another National Trust site) is also full of history and worth exploring, and make sure you grab afternoon tea in the village. Click here for more information about the castle.

6. Go walking or hiking.

Dorset is an amazing place to get into nature, with mile upon mile of coastline and acres of countryside. Check out my beginner’s guide to hiking here.

See my 16 hikes in the UK that you cannot miss here.

7. Monkey World

Located in Wareham, this rescue and rehabilitation centre for monkeys, chimpanzees, orangutans and gibbons is well worth visiting. We loved the orangutans in particular! See their website for more information and to find out more about the work they do here.

8. The New Forest

Famous for the ponies and the area’s natural beauty, this is the perfect place in Dorset to hire bikes and cycle or walk around and take in the fresh air. Find out more about things to do in the forest here.

9. Lulworth Cove

One of the most famous areas on the Jurassic Coast, head down early to avoid the crowds and take in the beauty of the cove and of Durdle Door. Later, head to the neighbouring area of Kimmeridge (which tends to be less busy!) and give rock pooling a go!

10. Bournemouth

As one of the main beach towns in Dorset, Bournemouth can get busy, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying the fun! See my blog post about things to do in Bournemouth here.

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11. Lyme Regis

Said to be the “pearl of Dorset”, this beautiful seaside town has plenty on offer all year round. Check out what’s on here.

12. Christchurch

If you want the beautiful beaches in Dorset, but somewhere slightly less busy (although maybe not in the height of summer), go to Christchurch for the day. Enjoy the beaches (including Hengistbury Head) and visit Highcliffe Castle.