Things to Do

Paultons Park

The famous theme park is located about 20 minutes drive from Oakdene Forest Park.  Paultons park has something for everyone with thrill rides for the grown ups and older kids and the famous Pepper Pig world for the youngsters and young at heart.  Opening times, prices and online booking links can be found on the website by clicking on the link above.

Moors Valley Park

Moors Valley Park is right on your doorstep , only 10 minutes drive away . Filled with a wealth of activities including a Gruffalo trail, Go Ape , Hawk walks , fishing and also a golf course. For more information click on the link above. 

Farmer Palmers

Great for kids aged 0-8 , Farmer Palmers offers great farm based fun 

• Tractor Rides

• Pig Racing

• Goat and deer feeding experiences

Monkey World

The world famous Monkey World ape sanctuary is a short drive away . As seen on TV , the sanctuary houses apes that have been rescued and are now living their best lives. Come along and see the chimpanzees , Orangutans and more and learn about the history of the residents and the conservation work that the park is engaged in every day.

Adventure Wonderland

Adventure wonderland has been voted Dorset's top attraction. Located opposite Bournemouth airport there is fun for all the family with rides , battle boats , golf , themed shows and more. 

and if aircraft are also your thing , the Bournemouth aviation museum is located right next door.

Hengistbury Head

Hengistbury head is a great place to walk or cycle. located near to Christchurch , you can walk for miles taking in views across the coast and walk down to Avon beach. You  can park right next door really cheaply and it is possible on occasion to see seals resting on the beach.

Mudeford  Quay

Also situated near Christchurch is Mudeford Quay. This is a great place to walk to the beach or to go crab fishing. There is a lovely pub here that serves great food as well as a cafe and a fresh seafood stall.  Walking from Mudeford to Avon beach you can get fresh fish and chips to eat by the sea.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a quaint town not far from Bournemouth. Here you will find some quaint shops, a lovely estuary walk, some ruins to look around and also a witch's ducking stool which is always a good holiday photo opportunity. You can even hire out a day boat for a family trip down the estuary.

Lulworth  Cove and Durdle Door

A little further afield into Dorset is Lulworth cove and Durdle Door. Lulworth is a quaint seaside village with a visitor centre with lots of information on the geological origins of the area as well as some lovely fossil examples.  The views of the jurassic coast from Lulworth and Durdle are sublime and well worth seeing in person.

Swanage

Swanage is a lovely seaside town in dorset and about an hour's drive from the park, or less if you take the ferry in Sandbanks.  With a small fun fair, quaint shops, a lovely sea front and even a Punch and Judy show. Walking along the seafont will take you up onto the Jurassic coastal walk.

Corfe Castle

Tyneham  Village

Stonehenge

Salisbury Cathedral

Winchester Cathedral

Kingston Lacy

A dazzling superstar of a house with italian inspiration ans filled with treasures. The garden and wider estate are perfect for exploring on sunny days

Hardy's Cottage

Few authors have such strong associations with culteral heritage of their local area as Thomas Hardy. The cottage where Hardy was born in 1840 was built of Cobb and thatch by his great grandfather and has been little altered since the family left. Open for pre-booking and guided tours.