10 Places to Visit on Family Holidays in West Dorset

It can be something of a challenge to find activities that keep the kids entertained on holiday. There’s no need to worry – there are many exciting things to do for family holidays in West Dorset, all located just a short distance from our Charmouth Holiday Park. We're close to the East Devon border so there's no end of attractions to explore. With this guide to ten places to visit near Newlands, there'll be something for all the family to get the best out of your stay on the Jurassic Coast!

Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre

 

Visiting the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre is simply a must. Check out some amazing fossil collections inside the centre and head out to discover your own fossils on the beach. The guided fossil hunting walks are a great family day out on the Jurassic Coast. Be sure you pay a visit to the centre, it's free to enter!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Axe Valley Wildlife Park

 

Axe Valley Wildlife Park is a small and friendly zoo located in the beautiful Axe Valley in East Devon. The park has a wonderful child-friendly atmosphere making it an excellent day out for families.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Dinosaurland Fossil Museum

 

The Dinosaurland Fossil Museum is a perfect experience for all the family to learn more about fossils and dinosaurs. It's the home of a superb collection of the local Jurassic marine fossils, complete with detailed explanations of their origins.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium

 

Get to know more about sea creatures and the Jurassic Coast at Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium. A traditional family run attraction offering visitors a fun and interactive insight into the marine life inhabiting the local waters.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Seaton Wetlands Nature Reserve

 

Just inside the East Devon border, but not far from our holiday park in West Dorset, Seaton Wetlands is a really wild day out for all ages. This countryside haven is free to visit all year round with an abundance of interesting wildlife.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Lyme Bay Rib Charter

 

Lyme Bay Rib Charter sets off from the quayside in West Bay from Easter until the end of October. Make a splash with award winning trips including the 'West Bay Blast' or enjoy take in the views with an half an hour or hour long coastal cruises.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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West Bay Canoes

 

If the weather's looking great why not spend some time afloot on a new adventure with West Bay Canoes. Experiences and coaching are available to book a session in the capable hands of the team of qualified instructors.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The Tunnel Tree Tops

 

Located near Charmouth, the Tunnel Tree Tops adventure course is not far from our holiday park at Newlands. Providing a great opportunity to release some energy with an active experience. Archery sessions are also offered at the woodland site – an opportunity to learn a new skill!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

 

Under half an hour along the coastline from Newlands you'll find Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens. One of Britain's best-known & best-loved gardens. A Dorset botanical treasure offering charming walled garden walks & spectacular woodland valley views.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Lister Gardens Mini Golf

 

The 18 hole mini golf course in Lister Gardens provides a fun and accessible challenge ideal for a light-hearted competition with players of all ages. Have a game while admiring the fabulous view of the sea at Lyme Regis.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Newlands Holiday Park is located within walking distance of Charmouth Beach. With a range of en suite apartments and lodges to hire as well as spacious touring, camping and pods, it is the perfect place for family holidays in West Dorset. There's plenty to keep the kids entertained onsite at our holiday park with play areas and children's activities. If you're looking to explore everything the Jurassic Coast has to offer, you'll be spoilt for choice with wonderful days out in the area.