Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
Family Summer Holiday activities in Dorset 2026
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Dorset is one of the UK’s top family holiday destinations, offering a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. From golden beaches and scenic coastal walks to family-friendly attractions and exciting outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Summer 2026. Our ultimate guide to family activities in Dorset will help you make the most of your summer break and holiday - there’s something for every age, interest, and energy level—ensuring fun-filled days and magical memories for the whole family.
See below for a selection of fantastic ways for kids and their adults to spend their time this summer, some of which are free.
Unleash your young artist’s creativity with AUB Academy at Arts University Bournemouth
AUB Academy is the perfect place for your child to learn and develop creative skills, grow in confidence, create and be inspired.
Whether joining Saturday Art School during term time or taking part in Creative Arts Summer School throughout the summer holidays, youngsters aged 7–17 can explore a wide range of creative disciplines in a fun, supportive and inspiring environment. Guided by experienced tutors, students will experiment with new techniques, make new friends and discover their unique creative voice whilst learning in AUB’s specialist creative studios.
Find out more at www.aub.ac.uk/academy
This summer at Sherborne Castle and Gardens
Hidden among the trees of Sherborne Castle and Gardens, the fairy door trail feels like stepping into a storybook. Tiny doors nestled in roots, walls, and tree trunks invite curious visitors to imagine secret lives within. Each door is uniquely decorated, sparking wonder in children and adults alike. The trail winds gently through the peaceful gardens, with birdsongs and rustling leaves adding to the magic. It encourages slow exploration, playful discovery, and moments of quiet enchantment, making it a charming highlight of any visit to the gardens. Perfect for families, it blends nature, creativity, and imagination beautifully together.
Prizes will be available from the Visitor Entrance at the end of the trail. Fancy dress is very much welcomed.
Find out more at www.sherbornecastle.com
Message from BEAT
“BEAT is a welcoming, inclusive dance school where children can build confidence, make friends and have fun while learning new skills. We offer both Street Dance and Flips N Tricks classes, giving dancers the chance to develop creativity, strength and coordination in a positive, encouraging environment. Our classes support everyone, from complete beginners to those ready to perform. We believe dance is not just about movement, but about growing in self-belief, teamwork and resilience. With experienced teachers and a strong sense of community, BEAT provides a safe space where every child can express themselves, enjoy being active and reach their full potential.”
“Join our Tribe & find your vibe”
Find out more at www.beatcompany.com
Treasure! Lost and Found reveals the stories of objects once treasured, buried for centuries, then rediscovered – celebrating our fascination with uncovering the past.
Significant loans from some of Britain’s most prestigious museums will appear alongside pieces from Dorset Museum & Art Gallery’s own collection – several of which will be exhibited publicly for the very first time. Together, these objects illuminate the region’s deep history and the lives of those who once inhabited it.
The exhibition explores how these valued possessions – from ceremonial tools and ornaments to everyday items imbued with meaning – came to be lost and how they were ultimately brought to light again. Visitors will also learn about the modern processes that protect such finds: from archaeological recovery to the laws that govern their ownership and the technologies that continue to reveal new insights.
To help visitors engage more deeply with these finds, the exhibition features immersive digital experiences created by students from Arts University Bournemouth. These interactive installations allow visitors of all ages to understand the people behind the finds and engage with their stories in immediate and accessible ways.
Find out more at www.dorsetmuseum.org
Exclusive offer from Stagecoach Ringwood, Wimborne and Bournemouth
Stagecoach Ringwood, Wimborne and Bournemouth are delighted to announce the Autumn term registers are now open along with the return of our two-week FREE trial and FREE t-shirt offer! Just quote the Primary Times upon signing up.
It has been a year full of performances, starting with their Charity Gala Evening at the Bournemouth Pavilion and ending with some wonderful moments at the Wimborne Folk Festival and West Moors Farm Fest! Every child has performed for their families, no matter what their age or ability. At Stagecoach, they believe in making special memories that children will treasure forever. They build a sense of self-esteem that stays with them for life, empowering them to be whoever they want to be!
Stagecoach Performing Arts offers weekly classes in Singing, Dancing and Drama to students aged 4-18 years. With an expert team of teachers, we are committed to nurturing every child inspiring creative courage for life.
Join us next term as they begin rehearsals for their upcoming stage shows and prepare for their Christmas community performances!
For more information on their classes, please see their websites www.stagecoach.co.uk/ringwood and www.stagecoach.co.uk/bournemouth or contact Emily at ringwood@stagecoach.co.uk.
Their two-week FREE trial offers are in the following locations:
St Ives Primary School, Sandy Lane, BH24 2LE
The Allendale Centre, Wimborne, BH21 1AS
The Winton YCMA, Winton, BH9 2QD
Message from Talbot Heath
“Discover the difference at our Working Open Mornings, thoughtfully designed for families considering an exceptional education for girls aged 3–11 and 11–16. These engaging events provide a genuine glimpse into daily life, allowing you to experience the school in action on a typical school day. (Sixth Form entry is explored at a dedicated evening event.)
You’ll be toured by our pupils, whose confidence and enthusiasm shine as they share their experiences, guide you around our facilities, and answer your questions. It’s a wonderful way to gain an authentic sense of our vibrant and nurturing environment.
You’ll also have the opportunity to meet our dedicated staff and hear directly from Ross Cameron, our new Head, and Jo Brown, Head of Junior School, as they share their vision for your daughter’s education and future.
Join us to experience a school where girls are inspired to flourish, achieve, and belong.”
Find out more at www.talbotheath.org
Make a splash with Water Babies specialised swimming lessons, across Devon, Somerset and Dorset.
Designed for babies, toddlers and children, their fun classes help little ones build confidence in the water while learning vital life-saving skills through to swimming strokes.
With expert teachers, warm pools and magical moments to treasure, Water Babies is the perfect way to support your child’s development.
From first kicks to independent swimming, every lesson is packed with smiles and splashes — giving parents and carers, precious bonding time too.
Dive in and discover the joy of swimming with us! Call 01392 790100 or email pushtheduck@waterbabies.co.uk
RockReef Bournemouth
RockReef has firmly established itself as one of Bournemouth’s most exciting family attractions, bringing energy, adventure and all-weather fun to the heart of the seafront. Perfectly positioned on Bournemouth Pier, it offers a unique mix of indoor and outdoor activities that continue to attract visitors of all ages, from local families to holidaymakers looking for something memorable to do by the coast.
What makes RockReef stand out is its ability to combine physical challenge with genuine fun. Whether it’s scaling the colourful Clip ‘n Climb walls, tackling the indoor cave experience, navigating the high ropes course!
It’s energetic, memorable and distinctly Bournemouth, a contemporary seaside attraction that proves the British coast can still surprise and delight.
Find out more at www.RockReef.co.uk
Make this summer one to remember with a day out on Swanage Railway.
Travel through the beautiful Purbeck countryside by heritage steam or diesel train, stopping off to explore charming stations, sandy beaches, historic Corfe Castle and scenic walking routes along the way. Whether you're planning a family adventure, a relaxed day by the coast or simply looking to enjoy Dorset at its best, Swanage Railway offers a unique experience for all ages. Climb aboard, take in the views and create lasting memories together this summer. Book your tickets today.
Find out more at www.swanagerailway.co.uk
This summer, there’s even more reason to visit Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park.
Your family can enjoy cooling off in their water play or at their popular foam parties (Wed and Fridays) and sing along with fantastic live children’s singers (Thursdays). There is the magic of Happy’s Circus shows in the big top at the end of August! Plus, thanks to the Government’s Summer Savings Scheme, they are passing on the qualifying VAT savings directly to you with lower admission prices until 1.9.26. Add in friendly animals, tractor rides, indoor and outdoor play, and Dorset’s biggest smiles, their team have all the ingredients for an unforgettable family day out with us.
Find out more at www.farmerpalmers.co.uk
FREE – follow the Upton Country Park Fantasy Trail
Step into a magical Fantasy Trail adventure! See fungi fairies in their mushroom village, spot dryads in ancient trees, and look out for Duncan the friendly dragon guarding the forest. Explore the swamp, find the Wizard’s potion ingredients, whisper your worries at the Worry Tree and peek at the Fairy Village. Perfect for young explorers, it’s a world of wonder and imagination.
Enjoy extra fun with bouncy castles, face painting, arts and crafts, and more! (charges apply).
Visit uptoncountrypark.com or email uptoncountrypark@bcpcouncil.gov.uk for details.
Active summers made easy. Serving up sports all summer long.
Make this a summer of sport with BH Live Active. Packed with fun ways to move, play and try new activities, it’s the perfect way to keep kids active across Bournemouth and Poole.
From swimming, soft play and football to yoga, junior gym and ball games, there’s something for every age and energy level. Plus, with exciting attractions like Rumble Run, AirJumpX, Crusher and Wet & Wacky pool sessions, kids can build confidence, burn energy and have fun all summer long in their safe, welcoming centres.
Find out more at www.bhliveactive.org.uk
Purbeck Film Festival 2026
This summer, Purbeck Film is taking cinema outdoors into ancient castles, secret gardens and moonlit poolsides. You can board a heritage train on the Swanage Railway and arrive at the foot of Corfe Castle for Paddington 2 and Wicked: For Good. Or you can sit by the pool at Studland's Knoll House Hotel as the Jaws theme drifts across the water or find The Magic Faraway Tree in an actual secret garden. Or maybe watch Labyrinth beside the lake at The Blue Pool as the light fades. This is cinema the way it was meant to feel with extraordinary settings, starlit skies, a steam train that arrives like something out of a fairy tale - and children so lost in the magic they feel part of the film.
Go to purbeckfilm.com to book your patch of grass now!
Summer fun at Lighthouse - where family adventures come alive.
The Tiger Who Came to Tea arrives in Poole 28 – 30 July! Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful show; packed with magic, sing-along songs and clumsy chaos.
Then, imagination meets the natural world in Lighthouse’s Creative Summer Camp (10 – 14 August) perfect for ages 7 – 12.
Enjoy great value cinema all summer long, until autumn brings fresh discoveries with In the Night Garden Live (5 – 6 September), Lighthouse Youth Theatre (from 12 September), Betty and the Yeti (22 – 30 October), and Horrible Histories (5 – 8 November).
Visit www.lighthousepoole.co.uk or call 01202 280000 to find out more.
Dorset’s award-winning family day out!
At Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre, every visit supports vital rescue, rehabilitation and conservation work for endangered primates worldwide.
As seen on TV’s Monkey Life, Monkey World is home to more than 240 rescued and endangered monkeys and apes. Discover playful gibbons, cheeky lemurs and the largest group of chimpanzees outside Africa. Meet orang-utans at Europe’s orangutan crèche, where orphaned youngsters receive expert care.
Free keeper talks, cafés and the South’s largest Great Ape Play Area, it’s a memorable day out for all ages.
A full day of feel-good fun with purpose.
Visit www.monkeyworld.org for more info
Looking for the ultimate summer adventure for your children?
Operating from the safe, shallow waters of Mudeford Quay, Christchurch, ShoreSports is Dorset’s premier watersports school.
Once again their popular holiday Kids Clubs and Multi-Activity Weeks give children aged 6–16 the chance to try sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding under the wing of expert, qualified instructors.
With a 5-star Google reputation, parents consistently praise their friendly team for keeping kids happy, confident, and safe. They provide all equipment and wetsuits for free, and hold an AALA license to give you complete peace of mind. Book your family’s perfect summer day out today!
Find out more at www.shoresports.co.uk
A new trail has opened at the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, you can follow ‘Lancaster The Explorer’ on a journey to discover plants from across the world.
The new activity trail highlights and educates children and families on the world of plants, with interesting facts, stamp points and even an explorer’s hut! The ‘Lancaster The Explorer’ character is based on Roy Lancaster, one of British horticultures most loved figures. With decades of plant hunting, gardening, and broadcasting, Roy is the perfect inspiration for a new generation of mini explorers.
Save £’s with a dual attraction passport ticket and visit the Abbotsbury Swannery and Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens this summer.
Find out more at www.abbotsburygardens.co.uk
Kaiser Chiefs to Headline Poole Harbour Festival’s Spectacular 10th Anniversary Celebration
Poole Harbour Festival is turning 10! Join them from 31 July–2 August 2026 for a spectacular family-friendly weekend by the sea. Enjoy an incredible line-up featuring headliners Kaiser Chiefs, The Fratellis, Groove Armada, Scouting for Girlsand Heather Small, plus dozens more acts across six stages. With live entertainment, circus workshops, performers, funfair rides and activities for all ages, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Family day tickets start from just £78 (2 adults + 2 children) the perfect summer holiday day out!
Find out more at www.pooleharbourfestival.com
Celebrating Family Fun on the Jurassic Coast with Headliners Scouting for Girls and Feeder
Jurassic Fields Festival is back with a fantastic line-up for 2026! Set against the stunning Jurassic Coast near West Bay, this family-friendly weekend features headliners Scouting for Girls and Feeder, plus performances from Goldie Lookin Chain, Space, The South and many more. With onsite camping, children's entertainment, roaming dinosaurs, funfair rides and a brilliant festival atmosphere, it's the perfect summer family getaway. Family day tickets start from £97 (2 adults + 2 children).
Find out more at JurassicFieldsFestival.com
The Ultimate Outdoor Party & Holiday Club Experience!
Adventure Pirate
Looking for something truly different for your child’s birthday or school holidays? At Adventure Pirate, they create unforgettable outdoor experiences packed with action, imagination, and fresh air.
Their birthday parties are anything but ordinary. Children can dive into Nerf battles, become explorers in survival parties, cast spells in Witches & Wizards, or take on exciting activities like mountain biking, archery, axe throwing, and shooting. Every party is designed to be high-energy, hands-on, and completely memorable.
During the school holidays, their holiday clubs take things even further. Alongside all their party favourites, children can enjoy team-building games, tree climbing, bushcraft, and survival skills, building confidence, friendships, and a real sense of adventure along the way.
Their experienced team delivers safe, engaging sessions that let kids challenge themselves, get muddy, and most importantly have fun.
Swap screens for adventure. Give them a day they’ll never forget.
Find out more at www.adventurepirate.co.uk
Purbeck Valley Folk Festival: 20th to 23rd August
Set beneath the dramatic ruins of Corfe Castle on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, Purbeck Valley Folk Festival is one of the UK’s most family-friendly summer festivals.
Alongside an outstanding line-up of folk, roots, world, Americana and acoustic music, families can enjoy a huge programme of activities throughout the weekend, with all children’s activities included in the ticket price. Children can tackle the climbing wall, try their hand at archery, enjoy street theatre, crafts, storytelling and workshops, while younger visitors will love the dedicated toddlers’ games and activities. With the Swanage Steam Railway running alongside the family camping field, a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of space to explore, Purbeck offers a magical summer adventure for all ages.
Find out more at www.purbeckvalleyfolkfestival.co.uk
Dorset editorial (image name: Children relaxing on a giant deckchair at Kingston Lacy, Dorset ©National Trust Images, Steve Haywood):
The National Trust's Summer of Play returns
Across Dorset, National Trust places are bursting with family fun as Summer of Play returns for the school holidays - and this year it’s supported by Pokémon. Are you ready for a mega adventure? Follow the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trail at Kingston Lacy near Wimborne, search for Pokémon and complete mega challenges. The Summer of Play arena is full of games and activities including bubble play, craft sessions, dance workshops, seed planting, and the all-new Pokémon zone. Get stuck into challenges, flex your skills and collect Mega Evolution stickers. Play like a medieval builder at Corfe Castle near Wareham with an archery zone, beanbag slingshots, and balance beams fit for a medieval obstacle course. For something a little different, set sail to Brownsea Island in Poole Harbour for adventure trails, a natural playground and Squirrel Olympics. Try botanical printing, storytelling and discover the amazing world of bugs.
Play on repeat at Stourhead, near Mere in the Play Meadow and Pokémon zone. Scramble up the straw castle, try the archery range or get stuck into Pokémon trading.
Summer of Play runs throughout the summer holidays and is included with normal admission (free entry for National Trust members and all under 5s). Visit the website for activity dates and opening times.
Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/family-friendly
Wimborne Model Town
Discover Wimborne’s Little Treasure since 1952. Walk around the Town in 1/10 scale and view the Model of the Model in 1/100 scale. Take a quiz to guide you through over 100 miniature shops, homes and businesses, in beautiful gardens. Enjoy the sensory gardens and make music on our outdoor Musical Instruments.
Meet the Wareham Bears, drive a train in the Model Railway and wonder at the Beryl Dade Dolls’ House Collection. Play a round of Crazy Golf and after relax in the tearoom which offers drinks, delicious cakes and lunches.
Visit www.wimborne-modeltown.com for details of their monthly events, opening times and prices. Your entry ticket is valid for 12 months!!
Enjoy summer at Buddens Activity Centre with Rockley, and two fantastic offers.
Use code: PRIMARYTIMES
30% OFF KIDS SUMMER ADVENTURE CAMPS: An unforgettable 5-day all-inclusive residential adventure week, where kids stay in their bell tents and enjoy a packed schedule of outdoor fun. With all meals and activities included, it’s a perfect choice for parents with children looking for non-stop adventure. Activities such as high ropes, climbing, archery, kayaking and paddleboparding are all led by their experienced and enthusiastic instructors. Also included, a day at the Dorset Adventure Park. They accept childcare vouchers.
20% OFF ALL-INCLUSIVE FAMILY CAMPING: This is all about making camping easy, enjoyable and hassle-free, in a truly spectacular setting. They’ve got it covered – comfortable accommodation and beds, all food, and some great activities are all included. You just turn up!
Find out more at www.rockley.org
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New innovative tamper-resistant pencil sharpener
Safe2Sharp is a locally designed product which has been created in response to growing safeguard concerns around traditional sharpeners, which often contain exposed or removable blades. In certain situations, these can present unnecessary risks within vulnerable settings which Safe2Sharp removes.
Their design features a fully enclosed, non-removable blade system which significantly reduces the potential for misuse while still allowing students to maintain independence in everyday classroom activities.
The product aims to protect and uplift vulnerable individuals by incorporating this essential and cost-effective safeguarding tool into your organisation or your child’s pencil case.
Find out more at www.safe2sharp.com
Zoofest is coming to Marwell Zoo this summer!
Get ready for a summer of music, colour and unforgettable family fun as Zoofest arrives at Marwell Zoo from 23 July to 31 August.
Alongside discovering hundreds of incredible animals across 140 acres of beautiful parkland, families can enjoy a packed programme of festival-inspired activities included with zoo admission.
Dance the day away at DJ Froggie's Silent Disco, where little ones can learn fun routines to animal-themed songs, or help a giant interactive elephant discover its best dance moves in the Elephant Rave. There'll also be colourful crafts, giant lawn games, glitter tattoos, vibrant photo opportunities and festival decorations throughout the zoo to keep young explorers entertained.
Take a break in the chill-out zone, enjoy festival treats and don't forget to explore everything else Marwell has to offer, from fascinating animal talks and feeds to adventure play areas, VR experiences and the exciting new Mini Beast Safari jeep ride.
Whether you're planning a full family day out or looking for something different to do during the summer holidays, Zoofest is the perfect way to make lasting memories together while supporting Marwell's conservation work.
Book online now at marwell.org.uk/zoofest and get ready for the wildest summer day out!
Message from Wild Spirit Kids Club
"Wild Spirit Kids Club was created to give children something they rarely receive in today’s fast‑paced world: space to breathe, play and simply be themselves. In our small, nurturing groups, children step away from screens and competition and return to what childhood is meant to feel like - creative, connected and joyfully free. Through art, nature, yoga and imaginative adventures, we help children reset from the pressures of school and sport, building confidence, resilience and calm along the way. Wild Spirit Kids is more than childcare; it’s a gentle, holistic sanctuary for growing spirits."
Find out more at www.wildspiritskids.co.uk
‘Discover confidence, creativity and fun at Aerial Arts Dorset!
Based in our purpose-built studio in Wimborne, we offer exciting aerial classes for children aged 5-16, combining aerial hoop, aerial hammock, strength training and flexibility in a safe, supportive environment. Our experienced, fully qualified instructors help children develop confidence, coordination, resilience and lifelong friendships while learning incredible aerial skills. Whether your child dreams of performing or simply wants to try something new, our classes provide a unique way to stay active and express creativity. We also offer parties, performances and classes for adults. Come and discover the joy of flying with us!’
Find out more at www.dorsetcreativedance.co.uk
Chip and Willow's Wild Adventures at Mapperton
This summer, join Chip and Willow the Beavers on a wild adventure through Mapperton's award-winning gardens. For just £5 your child gets a nature passport and free entry on every return visit, all summer long.
There are six activities to complete: hunt for mini beasts, build a bug hotel, become a tree detective, make nature art at the café, go butterfly spotting and grow a plant. Collect all six stamps and earn a certificate signed by the Earl and Countess of Sandwich.
A whole summer of outdoor fun in one of Dorset's most beautiful estates.
Find out more at mapperton.com