Days out in Dorset that work for both an 11 year old and a 2 year old...?

[Workawayxx]

I will be camping near Bridport later in August and DP has to go to work for 4 days in the middle. I'd like to take DS(11) and DD(2) out somewhere but not sure where! Things like Go Ape, theme parks etc don't really work as I have DD to look after so can't go on things with DS. We will do some things for DS when DP is around to tag team with DD so he won't miss out too much. DS is really good with DD and does enjoy doing things with her so I think it'll be OK, it'd just be nice to have a day or two out planned to break up the time. Any suggestions?

Some of these things you may have already done as a family, but you can go to the beach/amusements (relatively small)/ice cream/crabbing in West Bay or you can go further on to Weymouth or Lyme Regis. Weymouth and Lyme Regis probably have more (and Weymouth also slightly more sheltered for swimming/splashing in the sea). Again may be a bit of a drive, but you can go to Abbotsbury. You can get a pass to take you into all the attractions - swannery, gardens, children's farm. It's probably a lot to do in one day, but you can probably do it over several days or just get entrance to one. The barn in the children's farm is good for rainy days - though may be less age appropriate for your older one, if she's a bit over soft play. Sea Life Centre in Weymouth is good too, though can be busy during school holidays.

Seatown Beach for fossil hunting - bring a carrier for 2 year old so you can walk further down the beach. There was recently a big land slip there, so might be interesting. There's ice cream and a little fossil museum/shop.

There are lots of places to go rock pooling - we go to Branscombe, which is in Devon, but have a look around and see what might be closer. I really love Ringstead Bay, but it's on the other side of Weymouth so might be too far for you.

You could also consider driving or getting the train in to Exeter. There's no end of stuff to do there. The museum is free and very good if weather is bad. Mostly though around West Bay, it's beach and walks if weather is not rainy.

Monkey World is about 45 minutes drive away.

Thanks so much both. I like the sound of Abbotsbury and having a pass to do lots of different things over several days. DS loves rock pooling and fossils too so those are great and not too expensive. DD loves monkeys so Monkeyworld also sounds great. It'll be sods law now that DS will meet friends at the campsite and not want to leave 😂 but it's great to have options.

If it's pouring with rain, the Dorset County Museum in Dorchester it's about right for those ages.

The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth

Tank museum?
Etches Collection?

Moors Valley
Tank Museum
Poole Park
Kingston Maurward.

Sealife Centre in Weymouth.

Moors Valley Country Park is about an hours drive so might be too far. There is a treetops net thing that takes kids of all ages.

Monkey World is fun, we've been there with a 5yo and 12yo (plus granny!)

Thank you all! Loving the look of the nets at Moors Valley. I'll see if DS fancies that. And appreciate the indoor activity ideas too in case of rain.

https://www.dorset-heavy-horse-centre.co.uk/ has worked for us with a big range of kids ages.

moor valley also is great for all ages

Just got back from moors valley so deffo recommend! Adventure trail - railway - park something for everyone!

We go near to Bridport several times a year with a 12, 11 and 7 year old. The Swannery in Abbotsbury is lovely, as is the Tropical gardens (the cafe at the gardens is worth a visit, don't rate the swannery one!). Sealife centre in weymouth is worth a visit. There is a crazy golf, sandy beach and small arcade in Lyme Regis with lots of ice cream places and bakeries. Several museums in Dorchester, and a lovely cinema, and several chain restaraunts. Some nice bookstores in Bridport itself, and a lovely toy shop! Some nice beaches like Hive and Chesil, but they are stoney!

Weymouth sea life centre is good. My 9 and 12 year old loved it but I think a toddler would too

Top tip for Monkey World, whizz right through the park to the adventure playground at the very back and start there, working your way back towards the entrance. You should find it quieter this way!