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38 Best Stops Between Cherbourg-en-Cotentin and Bournemouth
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Cherbourg-en-Cotentin to Bournemouth?
The direct drive from Cherbourg-en-Cotentin to Bournemouth is 85.8 mi (138 km), and should have a drive time of 4 hrs 26 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Cherbourg-en-Cotentin to Bournemouth, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with New Forest National Park Hampshire, Poole, Swanage, Brockenhurst, Lymington, Lyndhurst, Wimborne Minster, and Christchurch, as well as top places to visit like Baie d'Écalgrain and Port Racine, or the ever-popular Maison Jacques Prévert.
Visiting Cherbourg-en-Cotentin or Bournemouth? See our Cherbourg-en-Cotentin Trip Planner and our Bournemouth Trip Planner.
85.8 mi
Total Distance
4 hrs 26 mins
Drive Time
38 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top cities between Cherbourg-en-Cotentin and Bournemouth
The top cities between Cherbourg-en-Cotentin and Bournemouth are New Forest National Park Hampshire, Poole, Swanage, Lyndhurst, Wimborne Minster, and Christchurch. New Forest National Park Hampshire is the most popular city on the route. It's 5 hours from Cherbourg-en-Cotentin and less than an hour from Bournemouth.
1
Khánh N — Google reviewMatt W — Google reviewRobert A — Google reviewCP — Google reviewNicholas M — Google reviewClaire — Google reviewJo — Google review
New Forest National Park
Mentioned on
National park
Nature & Parks
Forests
New Forest National Park, located in Hampshire and Wiltshire in southwest England, became a national park in 2005. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, ancient trees, ponies, small towns and villages. The area offers tranquility amidst the urban sprawl of southern England. The park includes the former South Hampshire Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty within its borders.
I spent a truly lovely week here. There are so many amazing walks to do, wildlife to see & ponies, donkeys & cows roaming freely. It is a truly beautiful area of the country & I highly recommend a visit.
Sally M — Google review
This is truly a place you should visit at least once when in the UK. We had a short 3-day cycling trip here. Everything was wonderful — from the scenery to the people. Just a note: you should prepare an offline map before coming, as in some areas the signal is very weak and you can hardly use online maps.
The rebirth of Foxlease Park, nice to see it back up and running, volunteered here back in February? And it was just nice to see it with life and music...
Nice little room in the coach house, could do with an extra pillow, but nice time.
When the sun dips behind the trees and the light softens, the New Forest becomes pure magic. Walking along winding paths — sometimes straight through the woods — feels effortless with the fresh scent of nature all around.
25 km passed without me even noticing, just chilling, absorbing the atmosphere, and enjoying the calm. Perfect time of day to visit if you want peace, beauty, and that grounding forest energy.
⭐️ Highly recommend: come in the late afternoon, slow down, and let the forest do the rest #newforest
Went there with my father now 94, loved the cars, remined him of the old days, we used to have fords then.
Only comment is the coffer shops when busy seems to take forever. otherwise great place to visit.
The New Forest is a brilliant place for families, especially with kids. The free-roaming ponies, donkeys, and other animals make it feel magical, and places like the Wildlife Park add more chances to see deer, otters, and birds. There are plenty of easy walking trails too, such as at Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, and lots of open spaces that are perfect for picnics.
Camping is well set up with designated sites, ranging from rustic fields to family-friendly spots with toilets and showers. Wild camping isn’t allowed, but the official sites give you space for kids to play and a good base to explore. Shops are small village stores or farm shops rather than big supermarkets, and toilets are generally available at visitor centres, though sometimes basic.
The park doesn’t really have a big lake for swimming or boating, and indoor play options are limited, so it’s very much an outdoor destination. If you’re prepared for nature, fresh air, and a slightly rustic feel, the New Forest is a wonderful family escape where children can explore freely and see animals up close.
Beautiful place to go loads of open spaces for people to walk and cycle. Large areas for children play.
Beautiful river at brockenhurst where you can often see horses and foals, cattle and sometimes donkeys and pigs.
Gorgeous place, well worth a visit if you appreciate nature. The ponies are such a treat to see. It’s also great for beginner cyclists as it has the Old Railway route created by Cycling UK. I felt like I was in a renaissance oil painting at times because the sights were so beautiful. Make sure to get out early to admire the sights as it gets very busy in August.
13% as popular as New Forest National Park Hampshire
46 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to Bournemouth
2Khánh N — Google reviewMatt W — Google reviewRobert A — Google reviewCP — Google reviewNicholas M — Google reviewClaire — Google reviewJo — Google review
New Forest National Park
Mentioned on
National park
Nature & Parks
Forests
New Forest National Park, located in Hampshire and Wiltshire in southwest England, became a national park in 2005. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, ancient trees, ponies, small towns and villages. The area offers tranquility amidst the urban sprawl of southern England. The park includes the former South Hampshire Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty within its borders.
I spent a truly lovely week here. There are so many amazing walks to do, wildlife to see & ponies, donkeys & cows roaming freely. It is a truly beautiful area of the country & I highly recommend a visit.
Sally M — Google review
This is truly a place you should visit at least once when in the UK. We had a short 3-day cycling trip here. Everything was wonderful — from the scenery to the people. Just a note: you should prepare an offline map before coming, as in some areas the signal is very weak and you can hardly use online maps.
The rebirth of Foxlease Park, nice to see it back up and running, volunteered here back in February? And it was just nice to see it with life and music...
Nice little room in the coach house, could do with an extra pillow, but nice time.
When the sun dips behind the trees and the light softens, the New Forest becomes pure magic. Walking along winding paths — sometimes straight through the woods — feels effortless with the fresh scent of nature all around.
25 km passed without me even noticing, just chilling, absorbing the atmosphere, and enjoying the calm. Perfect time of day to visit if you want peace, beauty, and that grounding forest energy.
⭐️ Highly recommend: come in the late afternoon, slow down, and let the forest do the rest #newforest
Went there with my father now 94, loved the cars, remined him of the old days, we used to have fords then.
Only comment is the coffer shops when busy seems to take forever. otherwise great place to visit.
The New Forest is a brilliant place for families, especially with kids. The free-roaming ponies, donkeys, and other animals make it feel magical, and places like the Wildlife Park add more chances to see deer, otters, and birds. There are plenty of easy walking trails too, such as at Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, and lots of open spaces that are perfect for picnics.
Camping is well set up with designated sites, ranging from rustic fields to family-friendly spots with toilets and showers. Wild camping isn’t allowed, but the official sites give you space for kids to play and a good base to explore. Shops are small village stores or farm shops rather than big supermarkets, and toilets are generally available at visitor centres, though sometimes basic.
The park doesn’t really have a big lake for swimming or boating, and indoor play options are limited, so it’s very much an outdoor destination. If you’re prepared for nature, fresh air, and a slightly rustic feel, the New Forest is a wonderful family escape where children can explore freely and see animals up close.
Beautiful place to go loads of open spaces for people to walk and cycle. Large areas for children play.
Beautiful river at brockenhurst where you can often see horses and foals, cattle and sometimes donkeys and pigs.
Gorgeous place, well worth a visit if you appreciate nature. The ponies are such a treat to see. It’s also great for beginner cyclists as it has the Old Railway route created by Cycling UK. I felt like I was in a renaissance oil painting at times because the sights were so beautiful. Make sure to get out early to admire the sights as it gets very busy in August.
13% as popular as New Forest National Park Hampshire
46 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to Bournemouth
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
3
Lyndhurst
Lyndhurst, located in Hampshire, England, is a significant village and civil parish within the New Forest National Park. It's often referred to as the 'Capital of the New Forest' and is home to the New Forest District Council and Court of Verderers. With a rich history dating back to William the Conqueror's royal hunting forest designation in 1079, Lyndhurst attracts numerous tourists who come to explore its shops, cafes, and museums.
12% as popular as New Forest National Park Hampshire
36 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to Bournemouth
4Khánh N — Google reviewMatt W — Google reviewRobert A — Google reviewCP — Google reviewNicholas M — Google reviewClaire — Google reviewJo — Google review
New Forest National Park
Mentioned on
National park
Nature & Parks
Forests
New Forest National Park, located in Hampshire and Wiltshire in southwest England, became a national park in 2005. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, ancient trees, ponies, small towns and villages. The area offers tranquility amidst the urban sprawl of southern England. The park includes the former South Hampshire Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty within its borders.
I spent a truly lovely week here. There are so many amazing walks to do, wildlife to see & ponies, donkeys & cows roaming freely. It is a truly beautiful area of the country & I highly recommend a visit.
Sally M — Google review
This is truly a place you should visit at least once when in the UK. We had a short 3-day cycling trip here. Everything was wonderful — from the scenery to the people. Just a note: you should prepare an offline map before coming, as in some areas the signal is very weak and you can hardly use online maps.
The rebirth of Foxlease Park, nice to see it back up and running, volunteered here back in February? And it was just nice to see it with life and music...
Nice little room in the coach house, could do with an extra pillow, but nice time.
When the sun dips behind the trees and the light softens, the New Forest becomes pure magic. Walking along winding paths — sometimes straight through the woods — feels effortless with the fresh scent of nature all around.
25 km passed without me even noticing, just chilling, absorbing the atmosphere, and enjoying the calm. Perfect time of day to visit if you want peace, beauty, and that grounding forest energy.
⭐️ Highly recommend: come in the late afternoon, slow down, and let the forest do the rest #newforest
Went there with my father now 94, loved the cars, remined him of the old days, we used to have fords then.
Only comment is the coffer shops when busy seems to take forever. otherwise great place to visit.
The New Forest is a brilliant place for families, especially with kids. The free-roaming ponies, donkeys, and other animals make it feel magical, and places like the Wildlife Park add more chances to see deer, otters, and birds. There are plenty of easy walking trails too, such as at Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, and lots of open spaces that are perfect for picnics.
Camping is well set up with designated sites, ranging from rustic fields to family-friendly spots with toilets and showers. Wild camping isn’t allowed, but the official sites give you space for kids to play and a good base to explore. Shops are small village stores or farm shops rather than big supermarkets, and toilets are generally available at visitor centres, though sometimes basic.
The park doesn’t really have a big lake for swimming or boating, and indoor play options are limited, so it’s very much an outdoor destination. If you’re prepared for nature, fresh air, and a slightly rustic feel, the New Forest is a wonderful family escape where children can explore freely and see animals up close.
Beautiful place to go loads of open spaces for people to walk and cycle. Large areas for children play.
Beautiful river at brockenhurst where you can often see horses and foals, cattle and sometimes donkeys and pigs.
Gorgeous place, well worth a visit if you appreciate nature. The ponies are such a treat to see. It’s also great for beginner cyclists as it has the Old Railway route created by Cycling UK. I felt like I was in a renaissance oil painting at times because the sights were so beautiful. Make sure to get out early to admire the sights as it gets very busy in August.
13% as popular as New Forest National Park Hampshire
46 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to Bournemouth
5
Isle of Purbeck
Peninsula
The Isle of Purbeck is a stunning peninsula with a diverse landscape, featuring wildflower-filled coastal paths, dramatic cliffs, and charming old villages. It's a haven for geologists with its sandy heath, ball clay, chalk downland, and oil-bearing shale. The area's historical significance is evident in the use of its hard limestones as building materials. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches near Old Harry's Rocks and explore the fantastic rolling countryside and historical buildings.
37% as popular as New Forest National Park Hampshire
24 minutes off the main route, 90% of way to Bournemouth
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6
Wimborne Minster
Sacred & Religious Sites
Libraries
Wimborne Minster is a charming market town located in Dorset, South West England. It is home to the Church of England church of the same name and is situated at the meeting point of the River Stour and River Allen. The town offers a peaceful lifestyle and is part of the South East Dorset conurbation. In addition to its picturesque surroundings, Wimborne hosts an annual folk festival that spans four days during the summer.
16% as popular as New Forest National Park Hampshire
15 minutes off the main route, 91% of way to Bournemouth
7
Christchurch
Christchurch is a charming town and civil parish located on the south coast of Dorset, England. It has a population of around 31,372 people. The town is adjacent to Bournemouth in the west and bordered by the scenic New Forest in the east. Christchurch has a rich history intertwined with smuggling folklore, including tales of bandits using caves for illegal activities near Lymington.
29% as popular as New Forest National Park Hampshire
42 minutes off the main route, 94% of way to Bournemouth
8
Poole
Poole, a charming coastal town in southern England, is famous for its expansive natural harbor and beautiful sandy beaches. The Old Town area boasts elegant Georgian houses and the fascinating Poole Museum, spread across four historic buildings including the medieval Scaplen’s Court. Visitors can embark on boat trips from Poole Harbour to explore the scenic Brownsea Island, renowned for its lush woodlands, nature trails, and diverse wildlife like red squirrels.
76% as popular as New Forest National Park Hampshire
3 minutes off the main route, 94% of way to Bournemouth
Best stops along Cherbourg-en-Cotentin to Bournemouth drive
The top stops along the way from Cherbourg-en-Cotentin to Bournemouth (with short detours) are Bournemouth Pier Amusements, Paultons Park Home of Peppa Pig World, and The Needles Landmark Attraction. Other popular stops include National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, Oceanarium, and Swanage Railway.
1Felix J — Google reviewTitane ( — Google reviewMartine D — Google reviewM-A G — Google reviewVanessa B — Google reviewAntoine T — Google reviewFrederic B — Google review•
Maison Jacques Prévert
Temporarily Closed
Museum
Historical landmark
Specialty Museums
Very good
Sylvain B — Google review
Ok
Emotions
(Translated by Google) A very informative visit to the house to discover the life of the author of the many poems of our childhood
And what about the magnificent garden and its exotic plants.
Take a short tour of the cemetery to see the simple grave and the beautiful church.
A feast for the eyes.
(Original)
Une visite de la maison très instructive pour découvrir la vie de l’auteur des nombreux poèmes de notre enfance
Et que dire du magnifique jardin et de ses plantes exotiques.
Faire un petit tour au cimetière pour voir la simple tombe et la belle église.
Un régal pour les yeux.
A nice and quiet place. You have to park in front of the church and the cimitery. The garden is kept clean. I was impressed by these "Brazilian rhubarbs" plants (Gunnera manicata). Worth to visit. Unfortunately, not suitable for wheelchairs upstairs.
(Translated by Google) We took advantage of the Heritage Days to visit Jacques Prevert's house. A beautiful, well-maintained house. Lots of photos.
Lovely garden.
(Original)
Nous avons profité des journées du patrimoine pour visiter la maison de Jacques Prevert. Jolie maison bien entretenue. Beaucoup de photos.
Joli jardin.
(Translated by Google) Great place with a beautiful garden and a short half-hour film and a very comprehensive exhibition on the life of Jacques Prévert
(Original)
Super endroit avec un beau jardin et un petit film d'une demi-heure et une expo très complète sur la vie de Jacques Prévert
(Translated by Google) Jacques Prévert's last home, where he continued to create. A beautiful exhibition about his life, and you can actually visit the rooms of the house. A very interesting video about his busy life. A must-see.
(Original)
Dernière maison de Jacques Prévert où il a continué de créer. Belle exposition sur sa vie et on visite réellement les pièces de la maison. Vidéo très intéressante sur sa vie bien remplie. À voir absolument.
4.4
(524)
4.0
(77)
3 Hameau du Val, 50440 La Hague, France
2Loïc D — Google reviewM-A G — Google reviewCecile V — Google reviewFeliz F — Google reviewIsabelle A — Google reviewKai P — Google reviewHug 9 — Google review•
Baie d'Écalgrain
Mentioned on
Water
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
Baie d'Écalgrain is a stunning site visible from the coast road, offering a magnificent landscape of the Cotentin coast with its sand, pebbles, and abundant nature. It provides a wild and superb panorama for hiking, with beautiful spots to rest and take photos. The beach is uncrowded and must be respected and protected.
Top
H S — Google review
Beautiful beach , park up high to admire the view , then visit the beach for the other view . Nice rock formation on the beach and lots of beautiful little stones.
Walking along the coast is a must
Top
(Translated by Google) An absolutely fantastic beach, pure Normandy.
However, it's difficult to reach, especially with a motorhome. The only access is via a road that's less than three meters wide in places, with steep cliffs on the left and a precipice on the right.
(Original)
Absolut fantastischer Strand, Normandie pur.
Allerdings schwer zu erreichen, vor allem mit dem Wohnmobil. Die einzige Zufahrt führt über eine Straße die stellenweise keine drei Meter breit ist, links Steile Felsen, rechts ein Abgrund.
(Translated by Google) Superb beach near La Hague. Easy to access and where you can swim without worrying too much about the tide. Few people. Swimming is not supervised, but the weather is beautiful and the sea is at 20 degrees (August 2025).
(Original)
Superbe plage proche de La Hague. Facile d accès et où l on peut se baigner sans trop se préoccuper de la marée. Peu de monde. Baignade non surveillée mai temps magnifique et mer à 20 degrés (août 2025)
(Translated by Google) A beautiful bay and starting point for outstanding coastal hikes. Good infrastructure with parking and even a very good restroom.
(Original)
Schöne Bucht und Startpunkt herausragender Küstenwanderungen. Gute Infrastruktur durch Parkplätze und es gibt sogar eine sehr gute Toilette.
(Translated by Google) A magnificent natural setting with extraordinary walks along the GR. The endless beaches offer extraordinary panoramas. A must-see when visiting La Hague.
(Original)
Magnifique lieu naturel avec des balades sur le GR extraordinaires. Les plages a pertes de vues vous offrirons un panorama extraordinaires. A faire absolument lorsque vous venez en visite a la hague.
4.9
(138)
5.0
(69)
50440, France, USA
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
3
Port Racine
Nature & Parks
Marinas
Located on the northwestern edge of the Manche peninsula, Port Racine was built in the late 1800s atop a former Napoleonic pirate refuge. This picturesque port offers a glimpse into history and provides a charming setting for visitors to explore. With its intriguing past and stunning coastal views, Port Racine is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic experience in this beautiful region.
4.5
(137)
50440 La Hague, France
4
Goury Lighthouse
Lighthouse
Sights & Landmarks
4.5
(122)
France
5SPARKELS7797 — Google reviewLee A — Google reviewBernard K — Google reviewJames M — Google reviewPaul M — Google reviewIvan T — Google reviewYvonne G — Google review•
Isle of Wight Pearl
Mentioned on
Shopping
Cafe
The Isle of Wight Pearl is a tourist attraction on the Isle of Wight, Hampshire, England. It is home to the largest and most valuable collection of pearls in the world. The museum explains the history and culture of pearling, and features exhibits on every stage of pearl production from shells to jewellery. There is also a chocolate shop and cafe on site.
A lovely cafe. Amazing carrot cake! The views are spectacular even on a dull day. It's such a shame the cliff is eroding at the rate it is, as the building is not as far away from the edge as it used to be. The pearl jewellery is beautiful. Some lovely gifts to be discovered.
Tracy G — Google review
Isle of Wight Pearl is interesting to visit, especially to see the history and learn more about how pearls are cultivated – that part is really nice and worth a look. The displays are well presented and it’s a unique experience.
However, the atmosphere did feel a bit cold when we visited. Some of the staff came across as abrupt and a little stuck up, and it took quite a while to get help or be served, which did let the experience down.
Overall, it’s worth a visit if you’re interested in pearls and their history, but the customer service could definitely be warmer and more welcoming.
Lovely location lovely view lots staff lovely coffee shop BUT the maturing the jewellery when asked a question was rude saying she was concentrating and made no effort to talk to us. So she made a bad example in all the staff. We walked out
Having visited this place on many occasions, I decided to take my eldest daughter there. She really enjoyed it and it is a great experience to see all the various pearls and jewellery. Along with the history behind the Pearl's. They is also a great views along with a lovely cafe area. Selling fresh sandwiches, hot food, great selection of fresh cakes, cream teas etc. A great enjoyable experience.
Looks nice on the outside but inside is looking a bit dated. Could do with a repaint and tidy up in areas. Staff were attentive and pleasant though and chips from the café were chunky and tasty
Visited here on more than one occasion, the shop is great for a browse, if your looking for a different type of gift, all price ranges.
The cafe has great food and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.
Definitely worth a visit.
Staff are very experienced and knowledgeable the venue is perfectly placed on a cliff top for a pot of tea or latte with the sea breeze blowing gently on the green. Clean and tidy venue :)
My husband & I visited celebrating our Pearl Wedding Anniversary...30 years. We took a selfie in the entrance by the enormous clam and huge Pearl.
The cafe was a total hit...views stunning.
Good selection of food
The cream tea was delicious.
Sharon in the cafe gave above and beyond .A really lovely experience.
4.3
(2615)
4.0
(605)
Military Rd, Brighstone, Newport PO30 4DD, United Kingdom
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6Tim C — Google reviewJ L — Google reviewDan W — Google reviewPeter C — Google reviewJoanne F — Google reviewAnita M — Google reviewElizabeth H — Google review•
National Trust - Mottistone Gardens
Mentioned on
affordable
Garden
Nature & Parks
Mottistone Gardens, located in West Wight near Brighstone, is a captivating Mediterranean-style garden surrounding an Elizabethan manor house. This National Trust property offers a delightful experience with its colorful floral displays, fragrant herbaceous borders, and hidden pathways to explore. Visitors can enjoy the enchanting scenery throughout the seasons, from blankets of spring flowers to vibrant autumn foliage.
Fantastic gardens with beautiful flowers and the potential for a red squirrel sighting (provided no loud dogs are around). Truly a top tier national trust location
Christopher — Google review
Nice location for a family day out when it's warm. Not too big, took us around an hour or so, small cake and coffee stall. The seating is outdoors and there is some cover. Unfortunately we didn't get to see inside the house 😔 but the gardens were lovely and we saw all the squirrels.
This is a lovely garden and gateway to the Downs behind. We have been coming here for many many years. The gardens are adapting to climate change so look different to what they were a few years ago. Some areas look a little less cared for than of late but again perhaps understandable. The cafe too is a shadow of a few years ago, with now a more standard NT offering rather than stand out (no savoury ploughman’s with their own produce). The staff are all very friendly & helpful so top marks there.
A fabulous experience, one of the best National Trust properties I’ve visited.
The gardens are absolutely spectacular especially with one of the viewpoints overlooking the sea in the foreground.
A must visit when either driving or cycling on the island.
We love walking over the downs from Freshwater Bay to Mottistone. The gardens are always beautiful. Many flowers still in bloom in autumn.
Really pretty house and gardens, the book shop is in the house it's with lots of books, the gardens are impeccable, the little cafe was lovely with pleasant friendly service and delicious food
Had an enjoyable hour or two at peaceful Mottistone - borders being kept well and eye-catching seasonal pumpkins and squashes on display. Lovely dahlias and herbaceous plants with glimpses of the sea. Despite press reports about volunteer gardeners being sacked by the NT, those that remain were friendly and welcoming.
What a lovely place, small but perfectly formed. We loved our visit. Beautiful gardens and such friendly volunteers. Definitely worth a visit.
4.6
(1218)
4.5
(481)
Mottistone, Newport, PO30 4ED, United Kingdom
7Joan B — Google reviewWilliam M — Google reviewKevin J — Google reviewLiz M — Google reviewMeurig H — Google reviewLiz O — Google reviewRonni H — Google review•
The Water Mill, Calbourne
Mentioned on
Water mill
Museums
The Calbourne Water Mill is a tourist attraction with flour milling demonstrations and homemade food in a barn cafe. The War Museum is also present on the property. Julie, the curly long hair lady with fibromyalgia, enjoyed catching up with the lovely woman working in the cafe and checking how she was doing. The food is fabulous and there are lovely cakes available. The grounds are beautiful.
This watermill has been milling flour for a 1000 years, so while we were disappointed that it was not working, we understand parts and repair specialists are probably not available any more. We explored the three floors of wonderful exhibits and read with interest about their individual descriptions and history. The displays are truly amazing. We had also visited the small but interesting War Museum, checked out the many cakes and scones in the cafe - prices were a bit high for our liking. There was a small craft fair outside with some games for kids, live entertainment was being set up. We all had a truly enjoyable, delightful day here.
FLnurseER1 — Google review
Nice tea room in a lovely location with excellent homemade cakes. But the watermill is no longer working. No charge for seeing what's left of it and the war museum. Pity the watermill is not not working. I guess it has been left too long.
We arrived at 3-15pm.
Called in for coffee and cake after walk along the public footpaths from Newbridge.
Paused with our dog as a beautiful peacock walked up the drive, only to be followed by a white van who closed the gate.
Opening times are clearly not constant…
Wonderful countryside location and ample parking for all types of vehicles. You can explore the water mill as well as a small WW2 museum in the old mill yard. The grounds has a crazy golf and a good sized cafe serving home baked cakes, buns and light meals.
My husband and myself only visited the Mill for the day. It was so interesting and a very lovely setting. The cafe served us a great lunch. We live on the island but will definitely be back.
As a visitors attraction, there pretty-much nothing left to see except the NON-WORKING mill. Despite all of the signage and website claiming it as a working mill, it is very much not working.
The rest of the site is dilapidated and poorly maintained. And the museums have gone, but they left the signage up!. I get the impression the owners gave up caring a while back.
we stayed here in a cabin which was lovely, a very quiet location so driving was a must but we were prepared for this, the watermill cafe very good
Went for an afternoon tea ,coffee was lovely ,tea was good, unfortunately the scones were rock hard ,def not fresh on a thursday !! such a shame , as the location was wonderful .
4.1
(571)
3.0
(413)
Newport Rd, Calbourne, Newport PO30 4JN, United Kingdom
8Mark — Google reviewWendy — Google reviewCarrie — Google reviewSaad A — Google reviewSandra L — Google reviewBen D — Google reviewEmily H — Google review•
Tapnell Farm Park
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Farm
Tapnell Farm Park is a farm-themed amusement park located near Yarmouth in West Wight. It offers a variety of activities for visitors, including go-kart rides, sledge slides, and play areas. The park features a petting zoo with farm animals as well as exotic creatures like wallabies and meerkats. Additionally, there are indoor and outdoor attractions such as soft play areas and adventure activities like zip wires and trampolines.
We visited here when we were on holiday. It is a fantastic place to take your children. We have a 1 and 3 year old and they had the best time. The indoor soft play was fantastic and clean. As it was a hot day there was plenty of things to do while keeping out of the sun. Especially the shaded picnic area which was outside. My toddler loved the go karts and the inflatable obstacle course. Lots to do and see. Would totally recommend coming here!
Kat H — Google review
We had a brilliant family day out at Tapnell Farm on the Isle of Wight! As two adults and two children, we found there was so much to keep everyone happy. The kids loved meeting the animals, racing around the adventure play areas, and splashing about at the fantastic Aqua Park – definitely a highlight of the day! We also enjoyed a lovely meal at The Cow restaurant, which had delicious food and a really friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Everything was clean, well organised, and set in such a beautiful location. A perfect mix of fun, food, and fresh air – we can’t wait to come back!
A great day out for kids of all ages. we only spent the afternoon here and with only one 5 year old that was fine. But with more kids or older ones I think you could easily spend the whole day here.
Loved it here. So much to do for the kids. Football golf was a huge success with my footie crazy boys. The animal park was great, we especially loved feeding the wallabies.
Paid £68 for a family of 4 members, didn’t find the value for that money, we came under the impression that children are allowed to play with animals but it’s based on their show time and that too very limited.
We were expecting more animals in this price because the play area is not the thing we came here for, it’s an over rated place maybe it is good for the people that stay here because i think a zoo would be lower in cost and with more animals in it as well.
We went off peak One of my party was a wheelchair user, all the staff was super helpful, as we went in off peak season we didn't have to queue for anything, a very child friendly place, And that is so much to keep them entertained for hours we ate at the restaurant the cow. The food is amazing.
A fantastic place for a day out for a family with children of all ages, whatever the weather. With helpful friendly staff, reasonable prices to eat and drink or space to bring your own food but crucially plenty of space it is hard to fault as a children’s farm.
What a brilliant place. We started the day with the toddler group, Thursday 10am. Leonie was super friendly and let our girls play, sing, paint and make music. The farm itself is in excellent surroundings, the animals all look so well cared for. We enjoyed the sandpit, trampolines, play area, bouncy pillow and all the animals. My nearly 2 year old adored brushing the guinea pigs. Thanks for a super day! Highly recommend!
4.7
(2648)
4.6
(1024)
Tapnell Farm House, Newport Rd, Yarmouth PO41 0YJ, United Kingdom
9AB — Google reviewKerrie S — Google reviewSam V — Google reviewChris D — Google reviewHannah — Google reviewDavid B — Google reviewKaren A — Google review•
National Trust - The Needles Old Battery & New Battery
Mentioned on
affordable
Museum
The National Trust's Needles Old Battery, dating back to 1862, offers visitors a chance to explore recreated rooms, an underground tunnel, and original guns. Perched above the iconic Needles Rocks, it provides stunning views of the geological formation. The tea-room in an old look-out tower serves refreshments with dramatic vistas of the rocks and Dorset in the distance.
The Needles Old Battery feels like a lookout post at the edge of the world. The views are amazing, though it must have been quite a lonely place to live. The exhibition is great, with a mix of history and scenery. Don’t miss the underground observation room. The long, dark passage leading to it is a bit spooky but worth it. And be sure to walk up the slope to the rooftop. The sea view on the other side is just as stunning!
Issac — Google review
Love a National Trust, and if you are doing Tennyson Down it is definitely worth stopping by the Old Fort. I really liked how they have restored parts of the site and brought it to life. It is not very big so it does not take long to go around, but it is nice to wander through and the views of the Needles are amazing and were the real highlight. They also have a tea room, which to be honest was not that great, a bit of a shame given how lovely some other National Trust tea rooms are. It could have been something really charming like the one at the lighthouse in Dorset. The walk to the fort was another highlight and is so beautiful with lots of wildlife. A really stunning area.
an incredible couple of hours spent here. We got a return on the cable car, £10 per adult. Really good price. Had beautiful views of the ocean coming down, we then went straight onto the boat ride, again incredibly priced. 20 mins out to sea and a view of the needles, beautiful sights. We were lucky enough to have stunning weather. Cable car back up to the top after a lovely walk along the beach and then made our sand jars and played crazy golf. Hasn't changed since I came when I was little.
Beautiful autumn day for a hike and this didn't disappoint. Stunning views of the Needles. Well worth the trek. You can also drive but why would you if you can manage the coastal path then do. It's beautiful.
It took about 30 min with kids to wander along to here from the car park (tell them you’re an NT member for £2 off).
Did it on a hot and sunny day but lovely views on the way and from the battery. Interesting displays and the tunnel down is cool, if not pretty narrow!
Place to get a coffee and plenty of places to sit and eat a picnic.
Worth a visit especially if an NT member.
Great history about the Fort listed. I recommend a visit if you go. Not too expensive to get in but it is a national trust place so it's a must do if you have a membership.
Very windy when I went so be prepared when walking along the cliff top.
There is an enclosed walk way to a view advantage point inside the cliff, at some points this is narrow so I wouldn't recommend if you are claustrophobic
A bit of a walk from the 'Needles Attraction' but it's on a fairly level road. There's not much at the Old Battery but it's worth a look if you're a NT member. Probably not worth the entrance if not. If you pick a decent day, the views are spectacular though.
Very interesting area to visit, you can walk but I recommend taking the open top bus to get there - great views. There is a cafe and shop.
4.6
(1722)
4.4
(1333)
West High Down, Alum Bay, PO39 0JH, United Kingdom
10Mary C — Google reviewCharlotte C — Google reviewJamie C — Google reviewMonica R — Google reviewSPH — Google reviewRebecca M — Google reviewJohn H — Google review•
West Wight Alpacas & Llamas
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Farm
West Wight Alpacas & Llamas is a unique animal attraction on the Isle of Wight, home to around 60 alpacas, 13 llamas, and various other animals. Visitors can wander around the farm to meet the animals and also enjoy a walking experience with them. The farm features a cafe and shop for visitors to relax in after their visit.
Wonderful
Venue.
Well cared for animals.
Too many alpacas to count and lots of babies.
Llamas, donkeys, goats pigs and rabbits also in residence.
Great to feed them and see in beautiful countryside setting.
Lovely well stocked shop.
Friendly helpful lady in
The shop.
It was a shame the cafe was closed. Might be worth having cold drinks and water in the shop.
Recommend a visit.
Heather S — Google review
A lovely place to bring the kids for some fresh air and fun. Our children absolutely loved feeding the alpacas, goats and donkeys. There are many different animals to say Hi to. Dogs are not allowed in but there is a little cafe in car park where they do a great mocha and latte.
Our visit coincided with a new baby alpaca being born... amazing to be that close to nature at its best. Well worth a visit to this lovely place. Really friendly and helpful staff too. You can buy tubs of food as you go in to feed the animals.
Came here having been recommended by our AirBnB host. We had a lovely walk with Gilbert, Friday and Fidget the alpaca’s, led by our guide Laura. Laura was incredibly informative and interactive, answering all our questions with a smile! We also saw a 3 hour old alpaca baby which was a real treat! It’s clear this farm is looked after by a real tight-knit family and all the animals are well loved. Thank you so much for having us!
Had a lovely walk with the Alpacas. The lady who was the guide for this was really good, told us lot's of stuff and came up with great parings between the guests and their Alpacas.
There is also a number of other animals you can see (and feed if you like), a small shop and a small tea shop.
The parking can be a bit confusing as to the right you suddenly feel like you're parking in a private area. Could also do with an extra toilet.
Lovely experience! Totally worth your money! Thank you so much gummy bear for allowing us to walk you! Great service and really nice people!
What a great farm, my 5yr old daughter and all the adults absolutely loved it, the animals were all amazing and very cute, the way the alpacas 'speak' is just too sweet. An absolutely must visit if you're on the IoW
Happy well cared for animals, they are certainly eager for the food which can be purchased upon entry for £2. Great fun meeting the llamas, alpacas and goats.
I absolutely love it, great experience for all the family, especially if you do the walking with them. All the staff were knowledgeable about everything and enthusiastic as well.
Highly recommended.
4.7
(832)
4.5
(637)
Wellow Alpaca Stud, Main Rd, Yarmouth PO41 0SZ, United Kingdom
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11Mohammad K — Google reviewArthur R — Google reviewJanet S — Google reviewKaren A — Google reviewSaron T — Google reviewBleubirdy99 — Google reviewRithuTheExplorer V — Google review•
The Needles Landmark Attraction
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Nature & Parks
The Needles Landmark Attraction in Alum Bay is a family-friendly destination with a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. From the unique chairlift offering stunning views of the iconic Needles Rocks and Trinity Lighthouse to sand filling shops, adventure golf, boat trips, and a traditional carousel, there's something for everyone. Visitors can also explore artisan offerings at the Alum Bay Glass Studio and Isle of Wight Sweet Manufactory.
The Needles Landmark Attraction is an amazing place to visit with stunning views and plenty to enjoy for all ages. The cable car ride down to the beach is absolutely breathtaking, offering panoramic views of the cliffs, sea, and the iconic Needles rocks. The attractions and shops are fun and family-friendly, and the area is well organized with great facilities. The mix of natural beauty and adventure makes it a perfect day out. A must-see experience when visiting the Isle of Wight — unforgettable and worth every moment!
Harsha J — Google review
The Needles Landmark Attraction is absolutely worth visiting – a true highlight of the Isle of Wight! The views are breathtaking, and the chairlift ride is an unforgettable experience, offering stunning sights of the cliffs, sea, and the famous Needles. It’s something everyone should try at least once.
There are a couple of small areas that could be improved. The food section could offer a bit more variety and quality, and clearer signage for the beach path (especially placed above the queue area) would make things easier for visitors. That said, the chairlifts themselves were excellent – smooth, safe, and such a unique way to take in the scenery.
Overall, a fantastic attraction that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting the Isle of Wight. Don’t miss it!
Lovely place to visit on the Ilse of Wight. It was a very windy day on our visit to the Needles. We took a trip on the cable car that takes you down to the foreshore,what an experience it was as your lowered over the cliff edge. There is plenty of things to do to keep the kids occupied and the area is disabled friendly. There is a lovely coffee shop selling tea and coffee,soft drinks and cakes ect. A couple of gift shop also. Toilets on site are clean. Large car park. £6.00 per vehicle, £4.00 if a member of the National trust. Also there is a beautiful glass shop.
We went in a bank holiday. Narrow roads leading to the site along with many coaches and cars. We paid £6 for the car park and disabled were allowed to park at the bottom on the field but it was still a mobility navigation issue getting down to the main road. It was very busy. We walked through there gates and had an ice cream with flake. There were many tables with seating but these were mainly full with people eating the various foods (curry was in the air) and picnics. As we walked through the site along- the chair lifts were on the right and the queue to get in was vast. We stood on the platform at the end overlooking the needles . We don’t use the telescope but the pictures bought it closer. For us it was hot and crowded and we stayed about 1.5hrs. Makes the parking expensive . Didn’t know about the boat trip.
Lots of fun for the whole family. Recommend a ride on the chair lift to Alum Bay where you will find the beautiful coloured sands. There are steps down to the beach. You can also get a boat to The Needles to see them from the sea. There are cafes, shops, crazy golf and rides to go on.
This view is simply unforgettable and so relaxing! The vast blue sky, the sea, and the dramatic green cliffs make for pure natural beauty. The best part was the unexpected rainbow over the water—it was truly amazing! Highly recommend a visit here for the stunning views.
You have to visit The Needles when you come to Isle of Wight!
We loved our The Needles visit! We paid £10 each for return tickets for the chairlift option to get down to the small Needles beach! Totally worth it saves us from climbing up and down the steep staircase!
And then when we got to the bottom of the beach, we paid another extra £9 each for a 20mins boat ride which is also another must do, the boat guide was excellent and very knowledgeable on the whole of the needles landmark!
Amazing views and a fun place to visit. The chairlift ride is the highlight, giving you fantastic views of the Needles and the bay. Easy to get around, plenty of parking, and great for photos.
4.3
(14952)
3.6
(4889)
Alum Bay New Rd, Alum Bay, Totland Bay PO39 0JD, United Kingdom
12A G — Google reviewRichard S — Google reviewWilliam R — Google reviewPhil B — Google reviewTara M — Google reviewAlan R — Google reviewJon B — Google review
Swanage Railway
Mentioned on
Transit stop
Transportation
Swanage Railway is a heritage railway featuring both diesel and steam locomotives, offering various experiences such as dining trains and driving experiences. The journey through the stunning Purbeck scenery allows visitors to explore Dorset's incredible sights from the comfort of vintage carriages. The railway hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including prosecco and cream tea rides, murder mysteries, and breathtaking sunset shuttles.
A beautiful traditional station with old steam and diesel engine train takes you back into time. We parked round the corner in Swanage car park costing £8 for the whole day parking and has a toilet on site and lots of parking space. We booked 2 x family tickets for up to 5 people per family for £45 each. Lots of space on train and lovely staff at the station and the station even had the old traditional feel and look about it. Once boarded on train the train visits 4 stations along the route. We got off at Corfe Castle and took a walk and lunch seeing the historic castle ruins and village. To visit the castle you have to purchase tickets but we opted to see the ruins from the path route and hill top views. The village has lots of shops to eat, drink and buy souvenirs. Was really great to hear the history and story from a volunteer who has been working on the train line for over 30 years. He was very funny and had a great sense of humour not just telling us about the train history but about the castle history also. Its a must visit, transports you back into time and worth the money. Thank you to everyone who is keeping this history alive!!
Anam H — Google review
A heritage railway mostly run by enthusiastic volunteers.
From the beautiful Victorian seaside town of Swanage stopping at numerous stops that includes Corfe Castle.
For me was the one attraction in the area I wanted to visit on our holiday and it didn't disappoint. A long time since I went on a steam/heritage railway but this was by far one of the best I've been to. The stations and carriages were all in noticeably great condition, with the stations decorated in the 'golden age of steam' fashion - they look great.
It's gets busy, we got the 1040hrs train out of Norden and we were lucky to get a seat so get there early - there is a luggage carriage for wheelchairs/buggies
Tickets can be bought online, on the platform or with the ticket inspector, kids under 5 go free (!) and adults were a very reasonable £18 open return. Journey to Swanage took about 20 mins and was very picturesque with a great view of Corfe Castle. The numerous return journies allows for ample time exploring Swanage. There are various museums at the different stations to explore and a shop at Swanage station. Staff were very helpful and a pleasure to see being so enthusiastic about working there - certainly added to the experience.
Fantastic piece of heritage well preserved by the excellent staff members, everything is kept to clean and tidy and it was a pleasure to be a passenger on. Every time we visit this area we will support this piece of English heritage.
Could be a lovely visit, if you are not disabled, avoid if you are, no parking facilities for disabled, car park 3/4 of a mile from the station. Absolutely disgusted, The trains might be 19th century, we are n now in the 21st.
Never again
Absolutely wonderful return trip to Swanage from Corfe Castle. Our little dog hadn’t travelled on any train before and they made a fuss of him which he loved.
Scenery is stunning and we thoroughly enjoyed it!
The staff have to be commended because they were so friendly and obviously enjoyed their work. I think many are volunteers? If so that’s amazing!
Brilliant day out kids loved it prices very reasonable
Lovely afternoon out, specially good if the weather isn’t beach worthy.
The staff are always friendly, the trains are clean and a joy to watch, and ride in.
I have taken to riding to Corfe, having a pub lunch and riding back again (not having to park in Corfe is always a plus).
UPDATE: If you're here at Christmas, go on the light spectacular trip. Great evening, whether with or without kids.
And finally, nothing to do with this train, but made me smile...... Did you know reading between the lines can be dangerous, specially if you’re at a train station.
13Laura F — Google reviewJamie H — Google reviewPaul T — Google reviewDP — Google reviewLaurie M — Google reviewKerry-anne P — Google reviewEmPower — Google review•
Kimmeridge Bay
Mentioned on
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
Kimmeridge Bay is a hidden gem located on the Jurassic Coast within the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve. It offers a variety of activities such as rock pooling, fossil hunting, snorkeling, and surfing. The area is known for its stunning beauty and is perfect for families looking for an authentic coastal experience. Visitors can explore rock pools, delve into mysterious marine life, and even engage in board sports like surfing and paddleboarding.
Tucked away but what a fab spot! Really nice view and great snorkeling. £6 to park but that's not bad. A few food places but can't remember seeing any toilets. Definitely worth a visit
Paul H — Google review
It costs 6 pounds but I do like this beach. Certain areas are on flat terraces and are shallow which are great for swimming and paddling. Fossils are embedded into the terraces. You can pick up fallen rocks along the beach looking for fossils. The permanent outdoor cafe serves amazing chips. The Sea Life center is charming and welcoming. There is ice cream and clean toilets.
A gorgeous cove and beach area which still attracts a lot of people but is much calmer than Bournemouth and Poole. It costs £6 to park for the day which is great considering the costs of other car parks. There are places to get food and drink as well as toilets nearby.
The scenery is stunning with lots of wildlife, fossil hunting possibility and rock pools to explore. The rock formations in the area are fascinating and just up the road is The Etches Collection Museum to add to that fossil hunting mindset!
Excellent rock-pooling (check the tides) and fossil hunting (beware of crumbling cliffs). A good base for coastal walks. The Dorset Wildlife Trust exhibition is a must, especially with young ones. Food and coffee available although we didn't avail ourselves. Get there early for the best parking spots along the cliff top
Beautiful nature, fresh sea air. Pebbly beach. The layers in the rock face were fascinating to me and you can see a lot of pieces of stone with imprints of fossils. Easy enough walk down but may be steep for some. Not too busy. A nice place to stop on a coastal walk.
Toll road to a car park. Best to see when the ride is out. Lots of fossil's and flat skimming stones to play with. Plenty of people swim here, but not me.
Love Kimmeridge, have been coming here for years. Pleased to see more toilets have been installed, was surprised to see food vans there now. I suppose it's good if you like that sort of thing, typically selling overpriced food and drinks. Will always love visiting this place.
What an absolutely amazing place for swimming and even more so for snorkeling.
£6 all day parking, 2 car parks to choose from.
We headed to the biggest car park and bagged a space on the front row overlooking the bay but that was quite early (8.30am)
In this car park there are nice toilets (don't open until midday for some reason) and a drink/snack truck and a food truck.
About 20 downward steps to the beach which is all large pebbles and rocks when you get down there.
Very little shade after mid morning so beware of that.
Walk along to the right and the rock formations that you walk across are awesome, spot the odd ammonite too.
A brilliant spit of rock part way down is great for swimming and snorkeling off at low tide.
Drive (or walk) to the other car park that takes you to the Sea Life centre and another beach area to swim off with a slip way to launch paddlebaords/knacks from.
Again great snorkeling with some good drops down to the sea bed.
The centre is really good, the staff knowledgeable and very happy to answer questions. Interesting selection of living ranks that constantly change inhabitants!
Be aware the toilets on the way down to the centre are not that nice!! Not as well wkpt on busy days at all.
4.6
(2752)
4.5
(222)
The Toll Hut, Kimmeridge Approach Road, Kimmeridge, Wareham BH20 5PF, United Kingdom
14Alex L — Google reviewJamie H — Google reviewMrs M — Google reviewMichał P — Google reviewMark M — Google reviewNol V — Google reviewMelanie R — Google review•
The Etches Collection Museum of Jurassic Marine Life
Mentioned on
Museum
Charity
The Etches Collection Museum of Jurassic Marine Life in Kimmeridge, Dorset, houses an impressive collection of Late Jurassic age fossils found by Dr. Steve Etches MBE in Kimmeridge Bay. The museum is well laid out and clearly labeled, providing an excellent experience for visitors. It offers engaging activities for children and the opportunity to use a microscope. Visitors can also chat with Dr. Steve Etches about his collection, making it a brilliant day out for the whole family.
Small but unique collection of prehistoric marine fossils. Friendly staff on hand to answer questions.
Free parking on site.
Most of the exhibition is upstairs but there is a lift available for disabled access.
Tickets valid for 12 months.
Excellent restaurant/cafe located opposite.
Colin B — Google review
An absolutely brilliant museum. The Etches Collection showcases an incredible range of Jurassic marine fossils, all collected over 40+ years by local fossil hunter Steve Etches. The displays are beautifully presented, with interactive elements and fascinating insights into prehistoric life.
As a history teacher with a strong interest in natural history, I found it genuinely inspiring—especially with the new Natural History GCSE on the horizon. A huge thanks to my friend Ben, one of Steve’s colleagues, for the insightful tour and stories behind the collection.
A must-visit if you're in Dorset—perfect for families, fossil fans, and anyone curious about our prehistoric past!
A small but incredible collection of prehistoric marine fossils collected over decades by Steve Etches and with other fossils donated by other fossil hunters.
The displays are well presented with interesting information without going in to too much detail so you have to stand and read for ages. There are activities for kids to get them interacting and engaged in the fossils too.
All of the staff are very friendly and on hand to answer and questions you may have about the exhibits.
If you’re a fan of Sir David Attenborough and have watched ‘Attenborough and the Giant Sea Monster’, then you’ll want to visit here as the pliosaur skull is ok display as it was found locally. I’d known about The Etches Collection for a while and live in the area, but never visited, watching the Attenborough show spurred my husband and I on… you won’t regret making a little trip out of it.
There is free parking, a lovely pub/restaurant across the road and you’re round the corner from Kimmeridge Bay so you can do your own fossil hunting after!
The ticket is valid for 12 months so you can come back as many times as you like… don’t forget to do Gift Aid if you’re a UK Tax Payer - every little helps keep places like this going!
Took our grandchildren to see the collection. Good layout, the children loved the animations up near the ceiling, and the explanatory labels were excellent. Highly recommend watching the BBC documentary on the discovery of the plesiosaur head prior to going.
Take a picnic; the pub restaurant across the road is ridiculously expensive and there is literally nothing else there.
A very inspiring place. Discover its secrets yourself! The ticket is valid 12 months. Parking is free.
Absolutely loved this little museum! Amazing collection and very informative. 11/10 would go again
Fantastic place definitely going back. Loved the animation on the ceiling. Things to do for kids as well
Lovely staff. Very helpful and full of information. Also the shop has some good collectibles for all pockets. Was great to see the etches collection of fossils and the famous skull.
On a pratical note, easy free parking but is not the easiest place to get too. Clean loos always a bonus when you've travelled. There's a pricy pub across the road, but no cafe at etches itself.
4.7
(702)
4.5
(227)
Kimmeridge, Wareham, BH20 5PE, United Kingdom
15
Tyneham
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Tyneham is a deserted village located in the south of Dorset, England, near Lulworth on the Isle of Purbeck. It was evacuated during World War II and has remained uninhabited since then. The area was repurposed for military training and continues to be used by the Armoured Fighting Vehicles Gunnery School. Despite being abandoned, Tyneham's proximity to the sea makes it an intriguing stop for visitors exploring the nearby Jurassic Coast.
4.6
(625)
Wareham, BH20 5NY, UK
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Flower's Barrow
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Outdoor Activities
Hiking Trails
Flower's Barrow is an ancient Iron Age hillfort located above Worbarrow Bay in Dorset, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the Jurassic Coast. The site stands at an impressive height of 160 meters and provides stunning vistas from the Isle of Portland to Poole Harbour. While access may be limited on certain days, visitors can enjoy a challenging yet rewarding climb along the coast path to Lulworth Cove for additional scenic delights.
Awesome views. Steep but good hike.
Mustafa M — Google review
Great spot with stunning views. Info boards broken which is a shame as it's an interesting place. Inside firing range so check for access (Search MOD lulworth ranges)
Such a stunning location to walk, it’s an easy walk with very little gradient from the whiteway hill car park. The views of Worbarrow bay is just beautiful. So so worth it!
It’s worth the aching legs to get here for the view alone. This is the remaining half of a hill fort of the Iron Age Durotriges tribe. The other half now being in the sea. There is some information and interesting artefacts from here in the information centre at Lulworth if your walk is taking you that way.
Beautiful walk today from tyneham village to flowers barrow then round to tyneham. Lovely little coffee wagon from the salt pig in Tyneham village carpark.
Lovely walk to get to flowers barrow. You'll know you're there due to the information ℹ sign. Amazing views across Tyneham and the Purbecks from this ancient hill fort.
Interesting place. Very very steep descent down on coastal path to Tyneham Bay
Steep climb from Warbarrow Beach but beautiful views. A must do!
4.8
(63)
4.5
(133)
East Lulworth, Wareham, BH20 5PF, United Kingdom
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Bournemouth Pier
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Piers & Boardwalks
Bournemouth Pier, originally built in 1856 as a small jetty, has evolved into a Victorian pier featuring an amusement arcade, a variety theatre, and a cafe. Spanning over 1000ft long, it has been rebuilt multiple times due to storms and wartime precautions. Positioned at the heart of Bournemouth's beach, the pier serves as a starting point for seaside walks and offers various shops and attractions along its length.
Bournemouth Beach: The Perfect Spot for Family and Friends
Bournemouth Beach is an exceptional destination for those looking to enjoy quality time with family and friends. With its seven miles of golden sand and consistently high rankings among the UK's top beaches (even voted #1 in the UK by TripAdvisor in 2024), it offers ample space for relaxation and play.
The beach is well-equipped with amenities to ensure a comfortable visit, including cafes, restaurants, kiosks, and readily available toilets with baby changing facilities. Lifeguard patrols are active from early April to late September, providing peace of mind. For added convenience, beach huts, deckchairs, sunbeds, windbreaks, and parasols are available for hire.
Beyond the sun and sand, Bournemouth Beach and its surrounding area offer a wealth of activities. The iconic Bournemouth Pier is a hub of entertainment, featuring:
* RockReef: An indoor activity attraction with climbing walls, high ropes, and the world's first pier-to-shore zip wire, offering a thrilling experience for all ages.
* Amusement Arcades: Classic seaside fun for all the family.
* Key West Bar & Grill: A popular spot for food and drink.
For those looking to explore further, the Bournemouth Land Train runs along the promenade, making it easy to travel between different sections of the beach, including to Boscombe Pier. The nearby Lower Gardens also offer a beautiful green oasis with mini-golf and tropical greenhouses.
Whether you're building sandcastles, taking a refreshing dip in the "warmest sea temperatures in the UK," or trying out watersports like paddleboarding or surfing, Bournemouth Beach provides a fantastic backdrop for memorable moments with loved ones. It's a place where relaxation meets excitement, ensuring a great time for everyone.
Parth K — Google review
The pier itself is alright. Although, other than the zip line, restaurant and doughnut stand, there is nothing of interest for adults. A couple rides for the kids but is a bit pricey.
The amusement arcade at the start of the pier are very busy due to them being the only decent one in the area.
Great view from it though
A beautiful sandy beach and pier with the feeling of the Mediterranean to it. Plenty of eating places and things to do. Excellent for evening walks and just for relaxing. I would highly recommend to visit during summer with the good weather and longer days. Ideal for families and for those who want to chill!
The view was absolutely stunning — the sea, the fresh breeze, and the peaceful atmosphere made it such a relaxing experience. There’s something magical about being near the water. We really enjoyed our time there and would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the area. A perfect spot for a calm walk or just to take in the beauty of the coast!
Beautiful spot with stunning sea views and a relaxing atmosphere. Great place for a walk, photos, or just enjoying the ocean breeze. There are fun activities nearby, plus cafés and ice cream stalls. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone visiting Bournemouth!
The beach is beautifully maintained and provides a perfect balance between relaxation and activity. Families appreciate the safe swimming waters, lifeguard-patrolled zones, and gentle waves that make it ideal for children. Those seeking adventure can enjoy water sport such as surfing, while the picturesque pier adds a touch of classic seaside charm with arcades, cafés, and entertainment.
Too expensive, only.
Three kids rides at the £3 for 1 token it's only about three , to four little rides rides and a duck pik up is a skydive cable?Go is from Endo pair back to beach.Edge but not open the big will is great sea life aquarium centre what's fantastic sandy beaches restaurant on pier bloody expensive
Great day out here, love the soft sand, clear waters, most people ruin it by leaving their trash behind, don't be that guy. Many reasonable places to stay and eat, cheaper and more options in town centre for some things, for accommodation a bit away from the sea front is cheaper. Didn't get on the observation wheel so can't comment. The weekend was way too busy and there were too many crowds but it could be because there were cheer leading competitions in the area, you can avoid them by moving further along the coastline or doing a week day visit. For those keen walkers you can walk from the coach/ train station to the sea front too.
4.4
(14245)
3.6
(2328)
Pier Approach, Bournemouth, BH2 5AA, United Kingdom
18Steven — Google reviewLeah — Google reviewVanja B — Google reviewNickrapo — Google reviewJohn T — Google reviewStephen S — Google reviewESTHER — Google review•
Bournemouth Pier Amusements
Mentioned on
Video arcade
Outdoor Activities
The Bournemouth Pier Amusements video arcade features classic arcade games, as well as various food stalls. It is situated on the waterfront and was extremely busy when we visited on Sunday 24th April. The atmosphere was festive, with Christmas lights strung overhead. We were very happy to find that there are now less plastic and paper bags used for change, as this is a major environmental issue being addressed by Covid and Transference.
Traditional arcade with loads of 2p machines and grabbers. Don't think I've ever been to the pier without popping in for a quick go on something. Staff are lovely and there's always people on hand to help with issues. Games for all ages. Popular and busy all year round. Good value. Clean.
Ingrid S — Google review
Great pay out on a diverse range of fun machines. After getting what I wanted, I tried to get rid of my remaining 2p coins, only to come out with 2 more prizes!
I like coming here with my partner to play pinball, however the machines are set-up completely incorrectly! Currently, there are 3 positioned in the corner all at an angle. There’s only room for one person to play a machine at a time, otherwise you’re bumping shoulders.
I also wish they’d kept some of their older cabs from days gone. Getting rid of Sega Rally was a huge mistake!
I liked it here, deffo not that cheap, most games has really short rounds and to continue playing after you die you need to add more coins, but it is like any other arcade hall. I thought they had a good selection of games racing Sims and shooters. Even some cooler simulations, claw machines and other classics etc... make sure to bring cash as the card machine there charges you £1.99 to take out cash. But if you have any notes they trade them for coins for free. Most machines take contactless with a few exceptions.
Fantastic place to take the kids, we spent a lot of time playing all the machines and enjoying the whole pier area, I needed help while in the amusements with directions and places to go so I asked a worker within the amusements called Kevin, he was brilliant! He was very kind and helpful and helped me with all my questions regarding the area. He even told me of local eateries and places to take the kids within the Bournemouth area. I totally recommend visiting this area of Bournemouth
Team member Danny showed some of the most heart warming acts of kindness I have ever seen. You made Mums visit to the arcade today in Bournmouth extra special awarding her a toy dragon!
Thank you so much, you don't know how lovely your gesture was.
Give this man a pay rise! We'll done Danny!
Absolutely rammed, 2p machines didn't have a lot of prizes in when we got there so maybe they don't refill them quickly enough.
The pier itself was closing by 6pm which is weird for the middle of the summer holidays.
I loveeee this arcade!! It’s great! Everything is really cheap- most of the games are £1 and there’s a mixture of coins and contactless so there’s something for everyone. Great variety of games as well! When I’m back in Bournemouth I’m going straight there 👾🕹️!!
4.1
(1276)
4.5
(9046)
W Undercliff Promenade, Bournemouth, BH2 5AA, United Kingdom
19Luke O — Google reviewPARKER M — Google reviewMinkee C — Google reviewStacey D — Google reviewElle F — Google reviewRobin C — Google reviewMark W — Google review•
Oceanarium
Mentioned on
Aquarium
Outdoor Activities
The Oceanarium, situated on Bournemouth Pier, is a captivating aquarium that provides an educational and entertaining experience for visitors. It offers a variety of activities such as feeding sessions with reef sharks, stingrays, turtles, otters, and penguins. The aquarium showcases diverse marine species including Nemo's friends - the clownfish, sharks, crocodiles, reptiles, and seahorses.
Great place! I really liked it! Everything is clean and there are great conditions for the pets! The fish are so beautiful! Turtles, sharks and rays... children can see everything very closely! The penguins are so curious and you can watch them for hours. Thanks for the wonderful and positive moments to all the staff. I will definitely bring my daughter and grandchildren here. I recommend it to everyone!💖
Jelena В — Google review
Great oceanarium to see a large variety of sea creatures including sharks penguins and a giant turtle! There is a small kids area halfway round for a little break and a couple of cafes with small areas to eat. It is a bit of an odd layout and there can be a bit of a wait for the lift to get to the buggy park. Having the tunnel to see the sharks being fed is great fun. It took us about 1.5 hours to go round and listen to one of the talks.
I went to the oceanarium for their shark feeding experience and it was so much fun! The guide, Lucas, was very nice and explained the whole process very well. After the experience I walked around the rest of the oceanarium and the place as a whole is very interesting with a lot of animals I haven't seen at other aquariums or ocenariums. Over all a fantastic place to visit!
A visit to Bournemouth Aquarium proved you can spend time while making the most of the town, making it an excellent choice for families particularly those with young children. The compact yet thoughtfully designed space offers an engaging mix of marine life and educational content, ideal for a half-day excursion regardless of the weather.Accessibility is a standout feature: a dedicated pram park, full wheelchair compatibility, and clear stair routes ensure smooth navigation for all visitors. The staff are courteous, well-informed, and deliver informative feeding talks throughout the day, adding real value to the experience. A Blue Light discount is also available, which is a welcome gesture. Minor areas for improvement include inconsistent hand sanitiser availability and a need for slightly better overall cleanliness. The on-site café offers convenient refreshments but has limited seating and premium pricing. The small indoor play area caters well to toddlers but feels restrictive for children aged 7 and above.Crowds build quickly, and some viewing areas can feel cramped during peak times. Visiting early or on a weekday will provide a more relaxed and immersive experience.Verdict: A well-executed, family-friendly attraction with strong educational value and thoughtful accessibility. Minor operational tweaks would elevate it further such as more interactions and more sea life. Highly recommended especially for little ones.
I just wanted to take the time and probably ramble a little on how amazing Chris was with my son when we came for the penguin experience. It was my son’s 10th birthday present, so had a lot of high expectations.
A little back story my son Nicholas fell in love with penguins at Bournemouth oceanarium and had a small penguin teddy since he was a baby. And his love has just grown over the years. When I saw that you had this experience I knew it would an amazing present for him.
I want sure what to expect but still what expectation I did have were far exceeded!! Chris was amazing, friendly, kind and patient. His knowledge was mind blowing and we learnt so much. You can honestly see and feel the love and care Chris has for all the animals you have.
This is a great day out! Loads to learn and see and the team are amazing!
We went for the Penguin Keeper Experience and it was incredible and so worth the money!! Chris was friendly and he was amazing at showing us around, teaching us things and giving us the best experience possible, thank you. We got a private tour of the aquarium, got to feed the fish and otters and most importantly got a lot of time with the penguins. It was such a fun date morning and I would highly recommend ! 🐧
Loved every minute here.
At first apprehensive about comming as ut looks small but dont let that deceive you.
It's got loads to see and do here with many educational boards and things to do. Loved the penguins and the shark tunnel. The jellies were cool to see to and the cute kids play area too.
Located on thr beach iys a lovely little side quest of your at the beach or just passing through. Staff were helpfull and kind.
I really liked this place!
When it was suggested that we visit I was sceptical as I am in my 50's and thought this would just be for the kids. In the end I spent over 3 hours here- looking at the penguins , sharks, fish and other creatures that were there. They all seem to be will looked after, and I thought it was really worth the entrance fee.
4.2
(6869)
3.9
(3279)
Pier Approach, Bournemouth, BH2 5AA, United Kingdom
20Paul U — Google reviewRx F — Google reviewMatt R — Google reviewRobin B — Google reviewGeorge F — Google reviewThe F — Google reviewMaqeba — Google review•
Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Mentioned on
Art gallery
Museums
The Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum is a captivating historic house located in Bournemouth, England. Built by Merton Russell-Cotes as a birthday gift for his wife Annie in 1901, this extravagant Art Nouveau-style villa overlooks the sea and showcases the couple's love for art, travel, world cultures, and natural history. The museum features an impressive collection of British art, along with oriental souvenirs gathered from around the globe by the Russell-Cotes family.
What a unique place! This beautiful building was lovingly created by Merton Russell Coates and his wife Annie. It has now been donated to Bournemouth as a museum. There are many beautiful paintings and sculptures, but the building itself is worth a visit. And what a beautiful garden and terrace! I decided to find out more about these people. This is an amazing story of a couple who traveled the world collecting all the treasures. I am absolutely delighted! I recommend everyone to visit this place and touch the history of this house and its history!
Jelena В — Google review
Art gallery and museum in a well thought out Victorian setting, and thoughtful inclusiveness.
Such a beautiful architectural building and gardens blending old and contemporary, located on the seafront pedestrian walkway half way up the hill east of the Promenade, with large public car park a minutes walk away.
Wonderful modern cafe and charming sea views.
All the staff were very friendly, welcoming and helpful.
Well worth a visit, allow a couple of hours.
Entry charge to the galleries, but the cafe and shop are free to enter.
A real find! Not only does this gallery have an incredible main collection, it often has well curated special exhibitions - at the moment there is one on May Morris, which is well worth catching. The building itself is absolutely stunning, and a big reason to visit.
All of the architecture is so interesting you'll spend half your time staring at the walls, ceiling and incredible views.
The gallery has a number of paintings by Edwin Long, which are beautiful. I couldn't help but buy a number of prints.
And the tea room makes a lovely sandwich too!
This was my second visit and I'll be back again, no doubt.
An absolute highlight of my tour of Bournemouth and the surrounding areas, I just happened to go on a day when entry was free, however, I would definitely have happily paid full price, I did in fact make a donation. Once you get to the main museum part of the building, you will find a collection like no other. It is part art gallery, part museum rolled into one building that is as stunning on the outside as it is on the inside. My one tip would be, don't forget to look up at the ceilings in every room (they're nearly as wonderful as the collection)
We easily spent 2+ hours between the cafe and visiting the many rooms. It's amazing how much these people collected and what was considered acceptable in those days to be displayed to visitors. Those who appreciate the arts and crafts of the Victorian period will appreciate what's to be found here. Lifts are available to get you to most places in the building.
The jewel in Bournemouth's art and architecture crown. Fascinating Victorian collection in the home gifted to the town by Sir Merton and Lady Russell-Cotes. As well as the museum of the house there is extensive art galleries for the collection of paintings and sculptures and a exhibition gallery with regularly changing exhibits and displays. The cafe area, gift shop and family history introduction video's and displays, as well as the gardens are all free of charge. Just ask at reception.
You'll spend hours and still discover some artifact you missed from last time.
A five star rating is not enough for this museum and art galleries. Definitely more than a 'rainy day' alternative, the views of the beach, sea and purbeck hills are spectacular.
A truly delightful and almost hypnotic museum and art gallery, definitely a must-visit in Bournemouth. The Russell Cotes Art Gallery, with its extensive history, holds the unique distinction, not only of its blend of classic and contemporary art forms and styles, but how they seamlessly blend the two together in a fantastically visceral way. The staff are also very helpful and kind too. Definitely a place to get lost in if youre in the area!
if you love arts and history, this museum carried so much stories in objects and beautiful architecture. i would suggest to take the tour that usually happens in designated hour, the guide was really insightful and clearly a wonderful storyteller.
4.7
(2282)
4.6
(2291)
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum East, W Cliff Promenade, Bournemouth BH1 3AA, United Kingdom
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21Kirsty J — Google reviewClaire — Google reviewPB — Google reviewCarmen S — Google reviewDavid H — Google reviewMumtominibeasts — Google reviewRoy T — Google review•
Bournemouth International Centre
Mentioned on
Live music venue
Conference center
Conference & Convention Centers
Nestled along the stunning south coast, the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) stands out as a premier venue for both conferences and entertainment. With an impressive capacity of up to 10,000 guests, it features four versatile halls that cater to a diverse range of events including concerts, comedy shows, exhibitions, and even sports activities. The BIC is not just about large-scale gatherings; it also plays host to the annual Bournemouth Arts by the Sea Festival each October.
With a multi-storey car park next door, you're ok for somewhere to park, but I would suggest you pay for your parking before you leave the event to get out quicker. We only took about 20 minutes but I have heard stories about taking an hour to get out. The venue itself is very nice, modern and well-managed. I have seen many bands play there, and always had a good experience. Staff are helpful. Easy to get in and out of.
Kazandra1 — Google review
First time in a long time going to the BIC, went to watch Tom Grennan. No issue with the queue, staff were all friendly and polite, dealt amazingly with a couple of medical emergencies in the crowd. Wasn't ridiculously hot or packed. Great night, will be back!
Have visited twice over the last few months. First time was to see Adam Ant. This visit wasn’t great. I queued for ages for merch. There was no organisation from the sellers and they just stuck to the middle. In the end I gave up. Second visit was to see five. The merch sellers were much more organised , so I’m guessing this is down to the artists more than the venue? Other than that bar staff work hard and are helpful. Prices are what are to be expected for a venue place. Plenty of toilets too which were handy. I think the experience here depends on who you are seeing but can’t fault any other staff or cleanliness of the place.
I have been going to the bic for years now and seen lots of bands here. Recently scissor sisters and chase and status. It's a third the size of most big arena venues meaning even in the furthest seats or standing places you'll get a better view than the O2 or Birmingham. Atmosphere is always great, bar staff could be quicker but it's busy so to be expected.
Great night watching Australian Pink Floyd. Love the BIC. It was our second time there. Seating was great. Staff helpful.
Great Venue. Within walking distance of many nearby hotels and near the Pier. Saw John Bishop here. Funny Down to earth Man. My wife and I don't usually buy food or drink at concert venues as we find its usually expensive. At the end of the event we saw there was a big queue to pay for parking, a big queue to get into the carpark next door and a bigger wait to get out of the car park. As an alternative have a look for Beacon Road Car Park. A short walk away and we noticed it was almost empty as we walked back to our hotel.
Graduation 🎓 day for Bournemouth uni and it was great, venue had plenty of parking 🅿️ next door so convenient but a little pricey but the cost of convenient parking.
The inside was great, clean had bars and the staff and security were on form!
Don’t be surprised by the pleasant building and friendly service of this local venue, but we were also impressed by the quality of the concert, especially how clean the bass guitar sound was. We had pre-booked parking, and experienced no queue in or out, even though the reg recognition didn’t work. Only wish is a cup holder for our wine. Brilliant night out without travelling far. Highly recommended.
4.4
(5851)
4.1
(1330)
International Centre, Exeter Rd, Bournemouth, BH2 5BH, United Kingdom
22Bill J — Google reviewJacqueline — Google reviewCraig P — Google reviewFelix S — Google reviewFred S — Google reviewMike L — Google reviewRoderick C — Google review•
Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens
Mentioned on
Park
Nature & Parks
Gardens
Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens is a beautifully maintained Victorian-designed green space just a few minutes' walk from the shoreline. It features gorgeous floral displays, an aviary, mini-golf course, and a large rock garden. The park also hosts regular live music performances at the bandstand and seasonal events such as open-air art exhibitions in summer and Christmas Tree Wonderland in winter. Visitors can enjoy picnics amidst plenty of green space.
Beautiful park. Has lower and high parks. This takes you yo Bournemouth Beach, the pier, cafes, and amusements.
Has ice cream stores and coffee shops.
Has crazy golf coarse. Loving stream along the park walk.
Really nice family day out.
Hug D — Google review
A town that has, sadly, lost its place as a gem for holidays. Run down hotels, overflowing bins, overrun with deliveroo Just Eats etc. delivery bikes. An edgy atmosphere down by the pier... not a policeman in sight. Avoid
Always love walking around the gardens. If you fancy a longer walk you can walk through the gardens all the way to Westbourne centre.
Food: We ordered Cod and chips. The portions were large and everything tasted good. We were hungry after a day of travelling and walking around so as usual I forgot to take before photos.
The beers were welcome as well.
Service: The service was excellent with all of the staff friendly and pleasant to deal with. Our server explained the menu and the what ‘scraps’ were.
Bournemouth Lower Gardens is a delightful spot for both locals and visitors. The gardens are well-maintained and offer a peaceful escape with their lush greenery and scenic pathways. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the fresh air, or having a picnic.
The gardens are equipped with various facilities, including ice cream kiosks and seating areas, making it convenient to relax and enjoy the surroundings. There’s also a mini-golf course and an aviary, adding to the charm and providing entertainment for all ages. 
The atmosphere is calm and inviting, with plenty of spots to sit and unwind. Whether you’re looking to read a book, people-watch, or simply enjoy nature, the Lower Gardens offers a serene environment.
Overall, Bournemouth Lower Gardens is a must-visit for anyone in the area. It’s a beautiful and tranquil place that adds to the charm of Bournemouth
Lovely & lively gardens well worth visiting. Lots of kiosks selling snacks & ice cream.. Well maintained.
Beautiful, interesting. Plus, one end is the lovely but busy beach, the other end that great value for money institution, Wetherspoons.
Visited here while staying in Bournemouth,
Lots of greenery and open spaces with lots of benches and places to rest, and a peaceful relaxing area, a small river runs through it, there is a crazy golf style putting area here, and some kiosks one small one sells ice-cream and some snacks etc, there's another larger one that sells food and hot and cold drinks with seating and tables outside it, there's up steps or by the slope an aviary with lots of different birds in, when this new aviary was built years ago now, they inadvertently made it with double layers of mesh that caused people to not be able to see the birds very well if at all, this has now been changed and adults and children alike can enjoy seeing them again,
Take a visit when you're in Bournemouth, it's definitely worth it,
4.6
(5389)
4.6
(2108)
Westover Road, Bournemouth, BH2 5AH, United Kingdom
23Matt W — Google reviewBradato K — Google reviewTom A — Google reviewAlicia W — Google reviewConor H — Google reviewJeffrey S — Google reviewJulie H — Google review•
National Motor Museum, Beaulieu
Mentioned on
National museum
Nature & Parks
The National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, originally founded by Edward Montagu in 1952, boasts a remarkable collection of over 250 vehicles. From early motor cars to record-breaking machines like the Bluebird, the museum showcases a diverse range of automobiles. Visitors can also explore the World of Top Gear with their admission ticket, which includes access to Abbey and Palace House. Additionally, there are plenty of nearby attractions for day trips such as The New Forest Wildlife Park and Paultons Park.
A great museum full of exhibits from all eras. So much to see and do. The monorail is amazing,offering great views of the gardens and museum.
The abbey ruins is a beautiful place too and the information available about the monks and their life is great to read.
We were fortunate to visit during Halloween season so we're treated to ghost stories presented by a member of the Montague family,he was a great story teller and really captured the spooky atmosphere. It was the highlight of our visit,both children and adults sat,eyes wide open,listening to his spooky tales.
A must visit museum if you're in the New Forest,loads to see and will easily fill a day.
Thanks to all at Beaulieu for a great visit.
Antony S — Google review
Always enjoy coming here, attended for the Formula 1 75 exhibition, but also had a look at all the cars on display.
Enjoyed the monorail ride a look round the house and gardens, sad there was no classic cars out and about...
Food was good and tasty 😋
Staff were chatty and knowledgeable and helpful.
Overall a lovely day despite the weather
I took my 6 year old daughter for her first visit (but far from mine) and she absolutely loved it! The weather held good despite the late October timing.
She loved seeing Mr Bean's car and the Disney display but her highlight (and mine, to be fair) was riding on Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The driver was a blast and it was so cool to learn about the cars that were used in the film, and wave at everyone as we explored the grounds.
Beaulieu is one of my favourite places to visit when I'm in the UK and I think I can now say it is the same for my daughter.
Very highly recommended for anyone of any age.
Visiting this week in half term , my son wanted to see a Porsche 917 so I emailed before booking to confirm the car would
Be on display , very pleasant personal reply with confirmation. Don’t be put off with the price for the tickets . You will spend the whole day here so does represent great value for money . My children really enjoyed the “ we had one of those “ section as they could sit in the cars and experience the cars we grew up with .
Only points to mention , we had coffee and cake in the afternoon , rather pricey & the cakes were dry and not great . Also a lot of tables left uncleared and in places food on the floor under tables .
fantastic visit! we were meeting family in the new forest for the weekend and beaulieu was close by so we thought we would pop by and check it out! we have been before but i was a child. the cars exhibit was on and it was really cool! if you are a pixar fan in the uk id reccomend coming whilst this exhibit is on. i am a massive f1 fan so seeing the cars was very cool! a personal highlight was the 2021 williams! additionally we were able to ride in the chitty chitty bang bang car wich was incredible. the driver was so knowledgable and we felt so safe in the car with him. my mum is a huge fan of the film so it was such a core memory for her. thank you beualieu! i will be back
Fairly priced considering you are able to reuse the tickets and use them to access events held here in the future.
The cafe on site offers good food and drinks selection
It is worth exploring the other features such as the play grounds, other museums, and the house which is all included in the ticket.
There are plenty of cars to view including an F1 section, classic cars, and modern cars. There are displays featuring garages and buses also.
Plenty to do and to keep the kids entertained
Worth a visit and any number of re-visits - Visited on Saturday, 28/06/25. 3rd visit here and the first for about 11 years. Lovely weather, which always helps, and there was a Morgan owners meeting taking place, so there was more to see than normal. Parking is near the entrance, but uncovered. Bought the tickets online in advance, so you get a discount, and it's straightforward to get in. Once inside, the initial options are a Monorail and restaurant/toilet facilities. Very pricey for anything in the restaurant (£5 for 2 cans of soda), so suggest you bring your own. The monorail is an excellent way to get an overview of the site before exploring on foot, and the ride is included in the entry price and can be ridden more than once. The old Top Gear exhibition has been replaced in part by a new section of example cars from the 60's, 70's, 80's and 90's that you can get in and reminisce about (though these cars are in a bit of a state tbh). Beyond that, we visited the main museum, which hadn't changed much in the past 10 years, but had exhibits moved around. The F1 section was very good with more recent examples of cars, and whilst we visited, an excellent F1 Simulator which you can go in (you have to pre-book) for £15 for 15 mins. It's worth it, so suggest you book a slot as soon as you arrive. On this visit, we didn't have the time to explore the house and grounds, but there are some lovely walks to be had. The staff are all excellent and approachable, and friendly, and though I have been 3 times now, I would have no qualms about making future visits as there is generally a change each year.
I thought it was a bit pricey to get in but we did spend most of the day there.
We took the dog as we were visiting on our way home from holiday accommodation. The dog wasn't allowed on the bus, Monorail, main museum or house. Which meant I did a lot of waiting around with her.
The cafe is expensive. £5 for a sandwich so would advise bringing your own. Tea for 3 , four sandwich outers and an apple juice, £38.
The children loved the play area but we didn't take them to the house as we kind of ran out of time and wasn't sure how interested they'd be.
They also enjoyed seeing Harry Potter's car and the, 'I had one of those' exhibition where you can get in the cars!
The staff we came across were friendly and helpful.
Whole area is clean and well tended.
4.7
(12018)
4.5
(7788)
John Montagu Building, Beaulieu, Brockenhurst SO42 7ZN, United Kingdom
24Kyrsty A — Google reviewChidi O — Google reviewJames P — Google reviewNatalie M — Google reviewAmber B — Google reviewAlmeida4eva — Google reviewIzane W — Google review•
Adventure Wonderland
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Amusement center
Water & Amusement Parks
Theme Parks
Adventure Wonderland is a beloved theme park near Bournemouth Airport, catering to children under 11. The park features over 30 rides and attractions, including the Flying Elephants, Curvy Caterpillars Ride, and Mr Rabbits Big Bouncy Burrows. Families can also enjoy an indoor soft play center and entertainment at the Happydrome Theatre.
16/8/23. It is our first time in Adventure Wonderland and our children loves it! My 6 years old daughter went to all the rides and she had so much fun! Especially the horse riding! Then my 1 year old boy enjoyed the Theatre were they were dancing and singing with Alice, Queen of hearts, and the rabbit. It was a nice place for the whole family and not too crowded. The staff were friendly, and helpful whenever you asked them. The toilets were clean, foods has reasonable price and lots of free parking. I highly recommended 👌 👍 and keep up the good work Adventure Wonderland! 👏 👏👏
Irene B — Google review
Really lovely park for younger children. It's focus is on under 10s with a couple of bigger rides including the pirate ship and the baby coaster the Run Away Train.
My 4 year old loves it as she can go on most rides alone, it even has a baby log flume that's not too high and only goes round one.
There I'd lots of things to do here, Rides, large play park and a hedge maze. Almost everything is included in the price including the Crazy Golf and character meet and greets.
There is a large indoor soft play and theatre shows across the day including a interactive dance with the stars show, so plenty to do it if the weather turns.
The lovely team from Pony Palace also run pony rides in the animal area at £4 each which both my children enjoyed it.
From an accessibility point of view, the walkways around the park are all wheelchair accessible but the rides aren't set up with accessibility in mind so you'd need to be able to walk a few steps to access most rides. From a sensory viewpoint, avoid the soft play as it is very noisy and has air cannons going off too. The park doesn't have an official queue assist scheme because most of the time the queues are 10/15 mins or less. However, on bust days they will accept access cards and the ride exit but this is at the discretion of the ride operators and not widely known about within the staff.
The best selling point is the staff, they all seem to love being there, happy and entertaining and will go out of their way to help.
Great park for under 10s with things to keep older siblings occupied.
Adventure Wonderland is a charming spot with a delightful indoor experience, perfect for families, especially during the winter season when outdoor attractions are closed. The indoor activities are not only captivating but also a lot of fun for the kids. The highlight was definitely the special touch of Santa giving presents, adding a magical festive vibe.
A super fun day out.
So it may not be as polished as larger theme parks but the heart and character of this place really shines through.
We have been twice now and both my daughters absolutely loved the day and where able to go from ride to ride with no waiting, meet the actor staff (Alice, Mad Hatter and Queen of Hearts) and have soft play.
The actors are so great with the kids and my daughter followed Alice around asking loads of questions.
The rest of the staff are so polite and always willing to help. Would definitely recommend for a family day out.
We had a wonderful afternoon at Adventure Wonderland. The rides were really fun and my 3 year old had an awesome time as well as us adults. The petting zoo and horse/pony rides was really great value for money and the staff were really friendly and patient. We grabbed some lunch which was nice, and what you'd expect. The maze was really fun and we had a good time navigating our way out. My toddler really enjoyed the ride on tractors (make sure you have plenty of change with you!) some of the park is a little outdated but overall, was incredibly impressed with the activities on offer. Would highly recommend
I came here with mt MIL and my 3 year old son as a treat to see Chase from Paw Patrol. That part of the event was really brief but made my little dude really happy 😊
The amusement park itself was great fun! My son is quite little so he couldn't get on some of the rides yet but he was still able to enjoy at least 2 or 3 of the actual rides. In the end, the actors from the 25 minute long Alice in Wonderland play production joined the children on the rides, which was really sweet!
The maze took us about 20 ish minutes to complete and was really cool (will look fsr better in summer when it's lush and green though!!).
The sand pit was nice (but we didn't manage to find any golden Nuggets, we wondered if they hadn't been returned after exchanged in the gift store 😅 maybe it was just us though haha).
The indoor soft play area was huuuuge and had lots of different climbing and swinging apparatus that kept my little monkey entertained for ages.
For roughly £20 a ticket I'd say we absolutely got our moneys worth that day!! We have a lovely time and will definitely return again one day 🥰
We had a great day out! The kids could easily spend the entire day here - after the rides and the hedge maze we had a picnic. A few more rides and then on to the large indoor soft play area (witg cafe). Adventure Wonderland is great for smaller kids as all rides are available to them - unlike some larger theme parks that may only have a few suitable rides.
Great day. Staff are very helpful, friendly and stay in character. The kids always enjoy themselves. Plenty to do, with the rides, pony rides, bouncy castle, soft play, park and maze. Foods not too great for the cost, but other than that it's great. Good fun, clean and pretty local for us.
4.1
(1712)
3.5
(1020)
Merritown Ln, Hurn, Christchurch BH23 6BA, United Kingdom
25Khánh N — Google reviewMatt W — Google reviewRobert A — Google reviewCP — Google reviewNicholas M — Google reviewClaire — Google reviewJo — Google review
New Forest National Park
Mentioned on
National park
Nature & Parks
Forests
New Forest National Park, located in Hampshire and Wiltshire in southwest England, became a national park in 2005. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, ancient trees, ponies, small towns and villages. The area offers tranquility amidst the urban sprawl of southern England. The park includes the former South Hampshire Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty within its borders.
I spent a truly lovely week here. There are so many amazing walks to do, wildlife to see & ponies, donkeys & cows roaming freely. It is a truly beautiful area of the country & I highly recommend a visit.
Sally M — Google review
This is truly a place you should visit at least once when in the UK. We had a short 3-day cycling trip here. Everything was wonderful — from the scenery to the people. Just a note: you should prepare an offline map before coming, as in some areas the signal is very weak and you can hardly use online maps.
The rebirth of Foxlease Park, nice to see it back up and running, volunteered here back in February? And it was just nice to see it with life and music...
Nice little room in the coach house, could do with an extra pillow, but nice time.
When the sun dips behind the trees and the light softens, the New Forest becomes pure magic. Walking along winding paths — sometimes straight through the woods — feels effortless with the fresh scent of nature all around.
25 km passed without me even noticing, just chilling, absorbing the atmosphere, and enjoying the calm. Perfect time of day to visit if you want peace, beauty, and that grounding forest energy.
⭐️ Highly recommend: come in the late afternoon, slow down, and let the forest do the rest #newforest
Went there with my father now 94, loved the cars, remined him of the old days, we used to have fords then.
Only comment is the coffer shops when busy seems to take forever. otherwise great place to visit.
The New Forest is a brilliant place for families, especially with kids. The free-roaming ponies, donkeys, and other animals make it feel magical, and places like the Wildlife Park add more chances to see deer, otters, and birds. There are plenty of easy walking trails too, such as at Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, and lots of open spaces that are perfect for picnics.
Camping is well set up with designated sites, ranging from rustic fields to family-friendly spots with toilets and showers. Wild camping isn’t allowed, but the official sites give you space for kids to play and a good base to explore. Shops are small village stores or farm shops rather than big supermarkets, and toilets are generally available at visitor centres, though sometimes basic.
The park doesn’t really have a big lake for swimming or boating, and indoor play options are limited, so it’s very much an outdoor destination. If you’re prepared for nature, fresh air, and a slightly rustic feel, the New Forest is a wonderful family escape where children can explore freely and see animals up close.
Beautiful place to go loads of open spaces for people to walk and cycle. Large areas for children play.
Beautiful river at brockenhurst where you can often see horses and foals, cattle and sometimes donkeys and pigs.
Gorgeous place, well worth a visit if you appreciate nature. The ponies are such a treat to see. It’s also great for beginner cyclists as it has the Old Railway route created by Cycling UK. I felt like I was in a renaissance oil painting at times because the sights were so beautiful. Make sure to get out early to admire the sights as it gets very busy in August.
13% as popular as New Forest National Park Hampshire
46 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to Bournemouth
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26VIC — Google reviewMartin — Google reviewCherrie P — Google reviewShaun W — Google reviewJo K — Google reviewChloe O — Google reviewColin L — Google review•
New Forest Wildlife Park
Mentioned on
Wildlife and safari park
Outdoor Activities
Nestled in ancient woodland, New Forest Wildlife Park is a haven for diverse wildlife and endangered species. Visitors can engage in keeper experiences and explore the Nature Trail that winds through the wooded grounds, offering glimpses of otters, wolves, lynx, wallabies, and owls. The park also houses a variety of animals ranging from the massive Eurasian Bison to the tiny Harvest Mouse.
Visited today with my otter-obsessed teenage daughters (13 & 15) for a keeper experience with the Giant Otters and the Asian Short Clawed Otters.
We had the best day! Ali (our keeper) was so friendly and knowledge. Since it was a quiet day (lots of rain previously), she arrived with fish for the otters, but also food for the ferrets, polecats and deer (this ended up being a favourite as we got to hand feed and stroke the most beautiful fallow deer!)
The park is fantastic. The enclosures really feel like part of the surroundings, and none of the animals seemed stressed (unlike in some zoos!). They do a lot of rehabilitation work, and support rescue organisations with rehoming etc.
Honestly, I wish we’d come sooner! If you have kids that love animals, definitely visit. They have fantastic play areas as well as it being pretty accessible, and unlike some places is family-owned, so every visit matters.
We will definitely return - probably for another keeper experience as we’ve been spoiled now. Thank you to the team there (including the really lovely lady at the entrance!) - you’re a credit to the park 🫶
Lorna M — Google review
Visited New Forest Wildlife Park and had a great time exploring the grounds. Loved seeing beautiful animals like lynx and wolves up close in natural-looking enclosures. The park is peaceful, well maintained, and set in a lovely forest environment. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable.
Perfect spot for families or anyone who enjoys wildlife and nature walks. Highly recommend for a relaxing and interesting day out!
We booked a Keepers Experience for 2 of us for 2 hours. Ben was out keeper and it was his first time. He did extremely well. Very knowledgeable and friendly. We got to feed so many varieties of animals. It was very interesting. Highly recommend.
We had a lovely day. My chukcren especially enjoyed listening to the keeper talks and watching the animals being fed. Would have been 5 stars but there were a few animals which are not there currently which I was unaware of. May have missed this info on their website. Also was quite a cold day so would have been good to have been able to order hot drinks half way round.
An amazing wildlife park with beautiful well cared for animals and excellent knowledgeable friendly keepers.
We visit most weeks as annual member holders and throughly enjoy it just as much every time- and always see something different! The keeper talks are always informative and interesting and learn something new.
Their conversation work is amazing and it’s brilliant to see all the animals thriving. If I had to choose a favourite animal it would be the elusive Eurasian otter Chestnut but closely followed by the noisy Giant otter family- but love all of the animals.
I will continue to visit as frequently and renew when the year is up- I’m very excited to see what they have planned next. Keep up the great work.
A lovely few hours spent here today. My granddaughter loved seeing so many well cared for animals up close. The young man doing the deer talk was really good and he interacted with the children. We could like to come back and do a keeper experience as this looked really good.
My granddaughter drew sketches and wrote notes on the animals and she is only 6! A great day out.
A brilliant morning out. We bought our tickets in advance on the website so it was quick to get in. It was brilliant to see all of the otters and to see them being fed at 11 was a highlight as a keen otter lover. Place was quite easy to walk around and explore with no real steep inclines. Got to get close to the deer and were even able to pet one! It was disappointing to not see the wallabies not sure where they were hiding. There’s lots of things and places to keep kids entertained and overall a really good value experience.
Well maintained Wildlife Park with lots to see and do on site.
Currently they have a Japanese Sika deer, some Fallow deer, a large number of otters, Scottish wild cats, Lynx, Wolverine, European Bison, Wild Boar, Wallabies
Soon they will have wolves.
Red deer currently in quarantine so on show shortly.
Worth every penny of the admission fee. Very educational too.
4.5
(4058)
4.2
(1569)
Deerleap Ln, Southampton, SO40 4UH, United Kingdom
27James — Google reviewAlice B — Google reviewJustina L — Google reviewEH21 — Google reviewR W — Google reviewAnfisa E — Google reviewJames B — Google review•
Longdown Activity Farm
Mentioned on
Nature & Parks
Farm
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Longdown Activity Farm is a family-friendly destination featuring farm animals, a trampoline barn, soft play area, produce shop and tearoom. Visitors can participate in daily activities such as feeding kid goats, calves and ducks, meeting pigs, and cuddling with baby rabbits, chicks and piglets at the baby animal encounter. The farm also offers tractor and trailer rides for an enjoyable afternoon.
What a great place! Very friendly staff, lots to do! We fed baby goats, calves, held chicks, it was fantastic! If you love feeding animals then this is the place for you! We also went on a tractor ride and me and my kids couldn’t stop laughing on it! It was a bumpy ride but one of the best tractor rides we have been on! If you then want your kids to let off some steam there is a huge play area with trampolines and a zip line! There is also a larger (cycle) go cart area as well as a smaller mini tractor area so it’s not just for little kids. There were donkeys ducks horses and the sweetest little piglets ever - so pleased we went as this is a gem!
Tabetha H — Google review
Loved it! Took my 7 year old daughter today and a fantastic place to visit. All the staff are friendly and the animals well kept and cared for. Feeding the animals is a great experience for the children. The play area is great to relax and watch the kids have fun with seating for picnics. The tractor trailer tour is fun and free! Plenty of emphasis on hygiene and the toilets were very clean when I visited.
Overall, I'd say a great place to visit for families with children of primary school age. You can easily go for the whole day but to be honest if not it's perfect for say 3 to 4 hours for a half day. Admission price is very reasonable and I feel excellent value for money. In summary, if you're in the area it's definitely worth a visit and my daughter can't wait to return.
Amazing!
We went with our 22 month old a couple of days ago. It was brilliant. Activities every half hour or so. You can spend hours here easily. It's well laid out, and tailored for the kids. There's quiet zones for the kids and a huge park and ride on toys, and go karts! There's also a gift shop with indoor play, and a cafe, and a farm shop. Very reasonably priced given what's included.
Fully recommend if you have children, and even if you don't we would still go!
Had a brilliant day out today with family, the youngest being 18 months old. Not too many animals but a fair bit of interaction with them which was nice. Lots of seating for picnics and resting, a nice big play area and trampolines, (not for over 90's tho) and the tractor ride was a "hang on for dear life" experience which we all thoroughly enjoyed, including the baby, lol. Am definitely coming back here again
Really brilliant day spent here with my almost 2 year old son. We went on the tractor ride, met lots of characters and fed lots of animals. The ducks all seemed a bit cramped but all of the other animals seemed to have lovely, clean and spacious areas. It was very sweet to be able to bottle feed the kids (baby goats 🐐) and ducks. It was a smaller site than I originally thought so managed to go around lots of times. Most of the staff were absolutely lovely, friendly and helpful.
What a great day out! With our lad who is just coming up to two years old, we had hours of fun. We went on a sunny Tuesday morning and turned out to be not busy at all. There was something different around every corner which included feeding goats, petting area, tractor rides and lots more, all included in the price. With friendly staff I Would highly recommend if you are thinking of going
We had such a fantastic day at Longdown Activity Farm with my 3-year-old son! He loved bottle-feeding the baby goats and calves, feeding the ducks, and exploring all the activities — from the brilliant sandpit and ride-on tractors to trampolines, play areas and even a tractor ride. There’s so much to do that kids never get bored! The animals all look well cared for and happy, not sad at all, which made the experience even more enjoyable. The staff are friendly, everything is clean and well-organised, and I really appreciated the many hand-washing stations with soap and sanitiser throughout the farm. A perfect family day out — we can’t wait to come back!
Superb day out. We go here every year. Lovely staff, plenty to do, hands on petting and fun for hours..well priced, not too busy amd an amazing farm shop to grab some treats. Perfect for toddlers up to big kids like us lot. Thanks guys. Always fun and a great mix with the park, tractor ride, petting, and not too much walking too. A gem of a place. See you next year 😊
4.6
(2653)
4.3
(785)
Deerleap Ln, Ashurst, Southampton SO40 7EH, United Kingdom
28Allan — Google reviewAdam M — Google reviewAndrea M — Google reviewColin W — Google reviewLinds — Google reviewR C — Google reviewRosemary J — Google review•
Furzey Gardens
Mentioned on
Garden
Nature & Parks
Nestled near Minstead, Hampshire, Furzey Gardens is a 10-acre woodland garden established in 1922. It boasts year-round displays with stunning spring and summer blooms, as well as enchanting Fairy Doors hidden throughout for young visitors to discover. This social enterprise supports individuals with learning disabilities across the region, making every visit impactful. The tranquil atmosphere offers winding paths, vibrant autumn hues, and thatched tea rooms for a relaxing escape from everyday life.
A lovely garden to spend a few hours walking around. We visited on a sunny day and our 3 year old daughter had fun looking for the fairy houses. A bonus was the Jurassic event, which had dinosaur related artwork around the grounds to also find.
You can easily spend a few hours here, and there is also a nice cafe / gift shop that serves hot drinks, cakes and cream tea. Plenty of onsite parking too.
Niraj S — Google review
The gardens are located down a fairly narrow lane. There is a reasonable car parking, but which could easily become overwhelmed at busy times so plan your visit accordingly. Entrance is by a “suggested donation” of £10 per adult. The gardens are OK with a number of wooded walks to enjoy. Currently, there is a “dinosaur” theme going on, probably in anticipation of the forthcoming school summer holiday. There is a nice cafe for refreshments. These are not the prettiest of gardens, but have some pleasant walks and great for children to explore and run around.
With a 16th century cottage and wonderful food and drink at the coffee shop what more can you ask, but you are also transported to a gorgeously laid garden with hidden fairy secrets throughout. There is also a walk through the wild meadow garden over a small stream. We visited in October and the Autumn colours were visible throughout. During the summer months this will be a must see.
What a magical place this is... Ideal if you've got children who love fairy tales or just want to visit a magical place. A nice walkable path adorns the surrounding flowers and pond with plenty of picture opportunities for adults. A play area for children and a nicely filled café for a rest at the end. Highly recommend a visit.
A lovely area that is easy to walk around in a morning or afternoon.
We enjoy going there on our own and with our grandchildren. It has a good children's play area that is spread out and very natural. They also put on displays during the year that add interest. The annual pass is well worth getting.
I wish I didn't have to leave this place! Luckily, there's a house inside the grounds that you can rent out of you're like me and want to stay there for a while. Maybe one day, I'll take up that amazing offer!
The staff are amazing, you can tell they're all very happy where they work and are proud to say they work there!
Even the people who volunteer are happy!
I just love that they employ people with disabilities there too, I have worked with people who have disabilities and find them to be the most wonderful people, but where I worked with them, it was in a centre, not like a proper job place, so I love this place even more because they really do give people who have disabilities a proper purpose and let them into the working world instead of them being in an activity centre where they can do stuff that kids do, here they get to make jams and chutneys, gardening and all sorts of real life work, instead of being in the same mundane four walls.
Well done to furze gardens 👏 you have nailed it!
They also get to interact with the public, all ages, which is another brilliant experience for them.
Definitely done right!
The grounds are extremely well looked after, very clean all round and no weeds - that I know of but then I don't know my gardening haha if there were weeds, they were pretty ones lol!
It's literally like being in wonderland!
Lovely themes too, to keep the children entertained! And they also get to learn lots too!
I cannot recommend his place enough!
If heaven is a place on earth, it's here!
This is a lovely place to visit with children to appreciate nature or take a peaceful stroll, and they also serve delicious cakes, including a renowned Dorset Apple cake, with the added benefit of supporting a good cause. It's also a lovely setting for a wedding venue.
Loved this garden. It had something for all ages and interesting paths to explore with beautiful plants. The lily pond was just beautiful. Children have ample play areas and a dinosaur hunt. The café has a good choice of food and drinks and all the staff have smiles! The gardens give great opportunities to those with learning difficulties and the plants you can purchase as you leave have all been caringly potted up by the trainee gardeners. I'd highly recommend a visit!
4.7
(1502)
4.5
(578)
School Ln, Minstead, Lyndhurst SO43 7GL, United Kingdom
29Andrew R — Google reviewBrigitta B — Google reviewMartin W — Google reviewSunny — Google reviewJayne H — Google reviewMark P — Google reviewMark T — Google review•
Kingston Lacy
Mentioned on
affordable
Historical landmark
Visitor Centers
Kingston Lacy is a magnificent Italian-style country manor located in the rural Dorset countryside. This stately home boasts a notable art collection, including works by renowned artists such as Rubens, Titian, and Van Dyck. Visitors can marvel at the rich decor throughout the house, with highlights like the Egyptian Room's hieroglyphics and the opulent Spanish Room adorned with gold and gilt. The estate also features a Japanese garden and an elegant marble staircase.
I don't buy guidebooks very often, but here I did. A stunning place indeed. Every single part of the estate is a head spinner. The Japanese tea garden is a marvel. The park is a great place to get away from it all. Lot's of activities for children as well. Get there early to get the best views.
Michał P — Google review
Spectacular property packed with paintings including a self-portrait of Rembrant, and huge grounds and gardens, including an exquisite Japanese tea garden. Each room of the mansion had a volunteer filled with knowledge about the place, too.
Leaves you wondering what the family's ransacked Corfe Castle was like back in the 1600s.
Oh yes: Pigs. Be sure to enjoy the grunting of the free range pigs next to the car park!
A truly fantastic place, full of wonders both inside and out. The interior features centuries-old furnishings in stunning condition—absolutely magical. The grounds are vast and beautifully maintained. You can spend hours walking or relaxing in the park. There is plenty of parking, and the on-site café welcomes everyone with a great selection."
Famous historic National Trust place, with large family house and very large gardens. The house had lots of history with very knowledgeable staff/volunteers - talk to them as they have lots of great information. The place is all about the Bankes family, which has a colourful past. The place is also part of a 16,000 acres (!) estate that includes Corfe Castle - a "must visit" to complete the family history of the Bankes early ancestors. Leave time to visit the Japanese garden - we were there in early (warm) November and the colours were stunning.
Fabulous!
House and grounds are amazing. Staff so knowledgeable about the house, items within it as well as the art work. Grounds very well maintained and I love the different sections, bamboo, Acers , and the Japanese garden and as well as the kitchen gardens across the road.
Cafe staff very pleasant and helpful. Had a lovely fruit scone cream tea, very tasty, and we sat outside in the sun to enjoy it. A very pleasant break before we continued to explore more of the grounds.
Beautiful house and extensive gardens. Staff are helpful and knowledgeable. We were able to visit the attic rooms which apparently are not open all the time which was a bonus. There is quite a bit of work going on in the grounds at the moment so we were informed that not all the usual toilets were open. None of this affected our visit though.
Magnificent historic mansion. Set in extensive grounds and formal gardens. Renoun for notable artwork, the interiors are special too, with Spanish leather wall coverings and simulated tented upper bedrooms for gentlemen guests.
The room guides are a delight to talk to, so knowledgeable and personable. They made my visit.
Though it is a shame that the rooms have to be so dark, it was hard to appreciate the artworks. The room guides have torches and will illuminated notable paintings when asked. So do talk to them.
Don't miss the Japanese gardens, which we felt were the star garden of the formal gardens.
Lovely grounds and house with good facilities, although there are currently building works going on that add some minor inconvenience. Entrance is a little pricey but worth it if one gets entry to the house, which is not guaranteed. The Stables café is excellent and very good value for money, and there is a well stocked shop with local produce.
4.6
(6895)
4.4
(2089)
Wimborne, BH21 4EA, United Kingdom
30Vijithbat — Google reviewSamantha I — Google reviewNirav D — Google reviewFayez A — Google reviewPetru A — Google reviewGrant W — Google reviewClaire W — Google review
Paultons Park Home of Peppa Pig World
Mentioned on
Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
Amusement park
Paultons Park, home of Peppa Pig World, is a popular family theme park located in Ower near Romsey, England. The park offers over 50 attractions and rides including three roller coasters, two water rides, a vertical-drop ride, and a splash park. Visitors can also enjoy animal feeding and explore beautiful gardens. Additionally, the New Forest Golf Club nearby provides an opportunity for golf enthusiasts to experience a picturesque 18-hole course within the natural forest surroundings.
Coming from Canada this was a big part of our trip for our child and the park didn't let down. Cleanliness seemed as a top priority and all the staff experiences were pleasant.
Food was decent and priced as you would think an amusement park would.
Bathrooms and smoking areas available across the park.
The Peppa Pig portion is where we spent most of our day and it was well kept and looked up to date.
Al. M — Google review
You need more than a day to explore everything here!! That was our only complain. It is a great place to spend time with kids. No water related rides/pools for adults which we found disappointing as we came prepared for one (without checking in detail online). That's why the 4 star. There's a splash area for kids and that's it for anything water related as far as I can tell. Would give it 5 star purely for everything kids related. There's lots to explore here. I read on one the reviews to get a packed lunch and I'm glad I read it and we did bring something to eat during the day which did save us some ££!!. We went on a weekday during the school holidays and it wasn't that crowded. Parking is hassle free and they guide you to an empty spot. We went to Peppa Pig World first and managed to get on few of the rides without queuing for long. We found this to be better than Legoland based on our overall experience. Would be going back to explore the unexplored sections/rides hopefully soon!!
Paultons Park is a beautiful, well kept and very themed in the seperate of areas in the park. There is so so many family rides what everyone can enjoy. The ride access pass was so easy to use. The food in the Route 83 diner was really nice. Amazing price value in the shop & food outlets. The toilets was very clean. If the rides are getting to much you have got the gorgeous well kept gardens and animals to walk round. Paultons deserved the best theme park of the year as I had no faults with anything. 🤍
Great theme park, not only for younger kids but also for big boys along with adults. Went in Halloween and it was all Pumpkins everywhere. Nicely decorated, enough rides. Visited for 2 days with short break, but if either young or old kids only or if managed properly, all rides and parks can be covered in a day.
Ample free parking, easy check in, well done with the halloween theme, waits on some rides are reasonable. Their phone app is super useful showing locations and waiting times. Staff is friendly, rides are all safe, place and toilets are clean. On stage shows were entertaining. Great place for a family day.
Our family had an exceptional experience. There are numerous activities available, ensuring that every individual will discover something to their liking. We are certainly planning a return visit, as the weather was not ideal during our last stay..
Great range of rides, clean facilities, queues were manageable with max time of 20 mins. Peppa pig world seemed to be the busiest area, as expected. Booked through the stay option and went for the Marriott Portsmouth which was also great. Well managed across the two companies.
Although you may think the tickets are expensive I felt it was good value for my money. The park is well kept, not overcrowded and well-staffed. The food was good quality restaurant sized portions. We had a fabulous day & my grand daughter of 4yrs made lots of friends. Our favourite spots were the playgrounds, soft play & the seal ride.
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