Last week, our family embarked on our first trip to Dorset to kick the Summer holidays off with a bang, unsure of what to expect but eager for an adventure.
From stunning beaches to delightful local attractions, our week away turned out to be a memorable escape filled with laughter, exploration, and delicious food.
Exploring Weymouth: A Family Paradise
Weymouth quickly became a favourite with its diverse activities and picturesque settings. We loved strolling by the Harbour, admiring the impressive yachts, and exploring the charming boutiques in the town center. The beach, with its soft, golden sand, was a highlight. The shallow sea made it perfect for the kids to play and discover crabs without us worrying too much about their safety.
A Day at Sandbanks Beach
Another standout was our day at Sandbanks Beach. The soft sand and clear waters were ideal for beach games and a refreshing dip in the sea. It was a hot day, but the beach’s beauty and the fun we had made it perfect.
Comfortable Stay at Moreton Camping and Caravanning Club Site
We stayed at the Moreton Camping and Caravanning Club Site, which had recently undergone a major refurbishment. The new bathrooms and amenities, complete with underfloor heating, were excellent. Located just 8 miles from Weymouth, it was a perfect base for exploring Weymouth, Dorchester, and Poole.
Family Fun at Monkey World and Cineworld
One of the highlights for the kids was visiting Monkey World. Having watched them on TV, seeing the monkeys up close was thrilling. We used the boys Blue Peter badges to get free entry for them too so that was a bonus saving. The visit to Cineworld in Weymouth to watch Despicable Me 4 was another fun family outing, filled with laughter and excitement.
Delicious Dining at The Old Harbour Fish & Chips
For dining, we relied on online recommendations and found The Old Harbour Fish & Chips in Weymouth. Despite initial skepticism about the dining area, the food turned out to be fantastic. The kids loved the chips, Ollie enjoyed his large battered sausage, and Lillie was thrilled with her favourite fish cake. Mum and I ordered the ‘mini fish and chips,’ which were surprisingly generous portions. We were all impressed and would highly recommend this place.
Historic Visit to Portland Castle
Our visit to Portland Castle was a journey back in time. Built in the 1540s by Henry VIII to protect against French and Spanish invasion, the castle offers a fascinating glimpse into England’s military history. The kids were captivated by the cannons and the interactive displays, while Mum and I enjoyed the stunning views over Portland Harbour even if it was a little bit wet on the day of our visit. The well-preserved rooms and the informative audio guide made it an educational and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
Dorset’s roads are driver-friendly and easy to navigate, a pleasant surprise compared to the narrow lanes of Devon. Our campsite’s proximity to Moreton train station offered a convenient travel option, though we mostly drove to the beaches. Parking in Weymouth can be pricey, but using the JustPark app allowed us to extend our tickets as needed. Free parking after 6 pm is a bonus, especially if you plan to stay for the evening to enjoy the fair or dine out.
Initially, we planned to visit Durdle Door but decided to save it for our next trip due to the high parking fees and the closure of Lulworth Castle for Camp Bestival preparations. The parking fee covers Lulworth Cove, Lulworth Castle, and Durdle Door, so it’s worth it if you plan to explore all three.
Conclusion: A Trip to Remember
Our week in Dorset was fantastic, and we were sad to see it end. We discovered a new family favourite destination with so much more to explore on future visits. From beautiful beaches to engaging attractions and delicious food, Dorset has something for everyone. We can’t wait to return next year!