The summer holidays are here and its the perfect time to go to Dorset and enjoy a cottage holiday. There are some fantastic things you can do with the family to enjoy memorable days out, with options for rain and sun depending on the always-unpredictable British weather. Our round-up of activities has something for everyone - so which one of these Dorset family adventures will you try first?
Dorset Family Adventures
Whether youre an active family, an adventurous family or you enjoy more laid-back activities, Dorset is a fantastic destination for any time of year, but particularly during the school holidays. At this time of year there's even more great attractions and events going on to keep the whole family entertained. Here's our pick of some of the best on offer: Hunting for fossils in Charmouth Did you know that Dorsets Jurassic Coast was the first (and remains the only) natural World Heritage Site in England? By exploring the coast in Charmouth, youll have the best chance of picking up a fossil or two, an excellent adventure for children and parents to make some historical discoveries and learn about them too! Where to stay:Albury Houseis located in Charmouth and is just half a mile away from the Heritage Coast Centre. This makes it the ideal base to enjoy group strolls down to the coast. It sleeps 10 so it is great for large families or family friend get together for a fun weekend or week in Dorset. Visit the Gardens of Mapperton Known for being one of the most beautiful stately homes in the UK, this gorgeous Elizabethan house makes an excellent day out. See the gardens and meet some of the wildlife that roams the grounds. The film buffs amongst you may also recognise the manor as being the setting for some English classics includingEmma, Far From The Madding CrowdandRestoration. There are picnic areas and cafes and its an affordable place to visit if youre sightseeing on a budget (5 for adults, 2.50 for children). There are lots to see that all the family will enjoy. Where to stay: Stay atMyrtle Cottagenear Bridport, which is a charming country cottage for 6 that is perfect for families. Closely located to Mapperton, youre just a short walk away from the lovely West Bay beach. Explore Maiden Castle Were spoilt for castles in England and Maiden Castle is a striking Iron Age fort that is the size of 50 football pitches! Whilst you may not get to explore it all, you can still enjoy a good walk around and discover its fascinating history. The castle dates back to the 1st century BC, and who knows what dark secrets you may find lurking around the castle! Where to stay:Jasmine Cottagein Osmington is a great location to visit Maiden Castle and other great spots in Dorset. It has enough space for 8 so its a great family property which is ideal for both weekend and longer stays. Fall in love with Monkey World Monkey World is an ape rescue centre which aims to stop the smuggling of apes across the world. The centre rehabilitate apes and helps them integrate with others to form natural living groups. There is lots to see and do for children as well as learn more about our closest cousins. By visiting Monkey World youre supporting the apes and helping to stop their mistreatment. Where to stay:Apple Cottageis a good location for enjoying many of Dorsets greatest attractions. A half-hour drive from Monkey World, this lovely cottage sleeps 6 and has an excellent outdoor area which is ideal for entertaining in the summer. Let Loose at Abbotsbury Childrens Farm It can be difficult to entertain younger children, but Abbotsbury Childrens Farm offers a lot to amuse them for fun Dorset family adventures. Children can learn about the different farm animals and get the chance to feed them too, as well as meet some of the smaller animals that call the farm their home. For a fun-filled family activity, this one is sure to leave everyone with a smile on their face. Where to stay: Why not stay at The Old Mill Cottage in Swanage which is a stylish stone cottage for up to 8. Its a great location for exploring different coastal areas and will offer a nice drive to Abbotsbury that will give you the chance to see the stunning Dorset coast. Go back in time with the Tutankhamun Exhibition As one of the most famous Egyptian exhibitions outside of Egypt, the Tutankhamun Exhibition in Dorchester is a wonderful exhibit that is perfect for rainy days in Dorset. It offers a re-creation of the famous mask, and gives a detailed insight into Ancient Egypt and the life of the young king. The exhibition draws people from all over the world and is an excellent place to visit as a family during your stay. Where to stay:Stay atThe Old Chapelnear Wimborne and enjoy its luxury features. Its a great property for spending quality time as a family and the dogs are welcome too! Cool off at Splashdown Waterpark When its too hot outside, the only place to go is to the water! Splashdown is a thrilling, exciting waterpark that has something for everyone both kids and adults will love it. Theres water slides, fast-paced action slides, slides suitable for small children and a number of swimming pools to enjoy too. As one of the best-known waterparks in the UK, its a great place to visit during the summer that offers something for everyone to enjoy. Where to stay:Plum Cottageis the perfect cottage for small families that will make a good place to return to after exploring the sights of Dorset. It has comfy beds, a cosy living area and everything you need to make it your home from home. Finding things to do during the holidays can be tough, but Dorset is a dream destination and provides plenty of different options for Dorset family adventures. With so much to do it can be difficult to fit it all in, so make sure you plan your trip carefully so that you dont miss out on any of these fun Dorset family adventures that we've listed above. For more ideas on things to do in Dorset during the summer holidays, visitour blog. You can also view our full collection oflarge Dorset holiday cottageswhich are perfect for family holidays.