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School Holidays in Dorset | Half Term in Dorset

Keep your little ones entertained this Summer School Holidays in Dorset with a variety of fun and affordable kid-friendly events and activities in Dorset!

It might seem easier keeping the kids at home, with the TV on, but that would be a waste of their fantastic school holidays. There's lots of things to do with the kids in Dorset (especially now that the sun is coming out more often), with plenty of activities to choose from, which our School Holidays in Dorset guide shows! 

School Holidays in Dorset brings lots of exciting activities, perfect for all ages. Whether it's a trip to one of Dorset's many beaches, an adventure to the historic Brownsea Island or a chance to explore the stunning harbourside, there's something to keep all the family entertained. From outdoor activities, to indoor attractions and cultural events, there's plenty of things to do in Dorset for your school holidays.

Venture out further on your school holiday adventures with MoreBus! With single tickets available at £3, this is the perfect cost-effective family travel! And take advantage of their routes, spanning Lulworth Cove, to Studland, to Bournemouth, to Christchurch.

And, if you're looking to book in the perfect Staycation getaway with your family, consider reaching out to Expectations Travel! They will help you every step of the way; From doing extensive research and booking accommodation and travel, to planning and organising full itineraries with care and precision and more!

Keeping track of school term dates can be challenging with everything else on your plate. To help you stay organised and know when to start preparing for the next school holiday and half term, here are this year’s term dates...

Here's our round-up of Dorset's best events, activities and more this Summer school holidays...

This guide is based on our own family experiences exploring Dorset during half-term, ensuring every recommendation is tried, tested, and kid-approved.

FAQs

What are the best things to do in Dorset during half term?

Dorset offers a wide range of half term activities for families, including visits to coastal towns, historic sites, family-friendly attractions, and countryside walks. Popular options include Monkey World, the Jurassic Coast, and local museums.

Are there any free half term activities in Dorset?

Yes, there are plenty of free things to do in Dorset during half term, such as exploring Durdle Door, walking the South West Coast Path, visiting local parks, and attending community events or free-entry exhibitions.

What’s on in Dorset for kids during half term?

From themed events at adventure parks to creative workshops at local galleries, Dorset has many half term events tailored for children. Check our listings for updated family-friendly activities.

Where can we stay in Dorset during the school holidays?

Dorset has a variety of family-friendly accommodations including holiday parks, B&Bs, seaside hotels, and self-catering cottages. Booking early is recommended during half term - check out our guide here.

Is Dorset a good place for a half term holiday with teenagers?

Teenagers can enjoy activities like paddleboarding, fossil hunting, escape rooms, and visiting cool towns like Weymouth or Bournemouth for shopping and food. Check out our top things to do for teenagers here.

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