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Dorset Gem

Guest Rating
Rating
4.7
out of 5
Devon » Axen Lodge Symondsbury Estate Symondsbury, Bridport, DT6 6HL
Sleeps up to 8
Pets 1
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 4

Escape to the enchanting Dorset Gem, a former shooting lodge nestled in the serene Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This detached rural retreat is perfect for large families or groups of friends, accommodating up to 8 guests in luxurious comfort.

You'll be captivated by the spacious garden and far-reaching views of the rolling countryside. The lodge boasts four well-appointed bedrooms, including a separate log cabin for added privacy, and three bathrooms ensuring convenience for all guests.

Indulge in the private hot tub, a highlight for many, providing a relaxing soak under the stars.

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At HolidayCottages.co.uk
 

About Dorset Gem

Escape to the enchanting Dorset Gem, a former shooting lodge nestled in the serene Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This detached rural retreat is perfect for large families or groups of friends, accommodating up to 8 guests in luxurious comfort.

You'll be captivated by the spacious garden and far-reaching views of the rolling countryside.

The lodge boasts four well-appointed bedrooms, including a separate log cabin for added privacy, and three bathrooms ensuring convenience for all guests.

Indulge in the private hot tub, a highlight for many, providing a relaxing soak under the stars. The property is a haven for relaxation and outdoor activities, with walking and cycling trails right from your doorstep.

Experience the best of both worlds with the spectacular Jurassic Coast just three miles away, promising adventures and fossil discoveries.

The cosy wood burner, sumptuous sofas, and a variety of modern amenities add to the charm of this delightful getaway.

Check Prices & Availability
At HolidayCottages.co.uk

Need To Know

Cottages Near Dorset Gem

0 Miles
Sleeps 16
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 8
A wonderful abode for a family reunion or time away with friends, make yourselves at home just 2 miles from the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Sleeping 17 guests across 8 bedrooms, this opulent home has plenty to keep guests of all ages entertained. Swim, bubble or soak the night away in the indoor pool, the hot tub or the sauna before enjoying an al fresco aperitif and a peaceful night’s sleep. Bring three of your beloved dogs along and have a ball with all the family. Exuding style and sophistication, this grand home has all you need for lazy days at home or to welcome you back from adventures in the great outdoors. First things first, pop the kettle on and brew a warming mug of tea to enjoy in the bright lounge, where sumptuous sofas invite you to relax in front of the Smart TV and wood burner. Watch your favourite programme or gather fellow guests and head to the cinema room for a film night filled with treats. After cooking up a storm or rustling up side dishes for a BBQ in the contemporary kitchen, plate up in style at the table or head outside for an al fresco banquet. Step up to the gorgeous, pergola-covered seating area to tuck in before bubbling the night away in the hot tub. A pair of dishwashers are a welcome sight and mean you can enjoy one more tipple before bed rather than washing up. Eight bedrooms reside over the ground, first and second floor (take care of restricted headspace and pillars in the attic room) and offer beautiful spaces in which to drift off and dream. There is ample off-road parking. A holiday in Dorset wouldn’t be complete without a day on the beach. Closest to home, Eype (2 miles) welcomes dogs all year round and sits beneath the Golden Cap, with a plethora of walks to break up your sandy day. For a night off from the kitchen, the local village of Symondsbury is home to a friendly pub, or pick up delicious goodies in Bridport (1.5 miles).
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0 Miles
Sleeps 8
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 4
With views across undulating hills and just 4 miles from the dog-friendly beach at Eype, this home from home is a spectacular holiday destination. Sleeping nine guests across four bedrooms, bring three dogs along too and enjoy having a ball with family and friends. Spend rainy days in the hot tub and getting competitive in the games room or return home from adventures and snuggle up by the wood burner. Wander through the picket gate and make your way inside to settle in. Find yourselves in the heart of the home, the open-plan kitchen/dining room, and put the kettle on for a welcoming brew. Light, bright and full of country-style charm, your designated chef will enjoy spending time cooking up a storm here and you can all tuck in and raise a toast at the dining table which comfortably seats all guests. Summer feasts call for sizzling BBQs savoured alfresco, step down and spend time together outside on the terrace where you’re treated to brilliant views and can hop in the hot tub afterwards. Finish your night with a game of table tennis in the games room, or head into the cosy lounge and warm up in front of the wood burner. The sofas perfectly sit around the coffee table so you can pile it high with treats and switch on the TV/DVD for a family film night. Make your way upstairs to rest your head in one of four spacious, sumptuous bedrooms. There is ample off-road parking. After a gentle start to the day wandering the walks from the doorstep, head into bustling Bridport (1.5 miles) to pick up some picnic goodies or to suss out the local eateries. For a family-friendly beach day, Eype (4 miles) welcomes dogs all year round or travel 3.5 miles to the sands at West Bay, where canines are allowed at East Cliff all year round. Tuck into a tasty portion of fish and chips whilst watching the boats bobbing in the harbour, before spending your afternoon fossil hunting.
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0 Miles
Sleeps 8
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 4
With a reputation for food, arts, events and culture, the bustling hub of Bridport is less than 1.5 miles from your door. Visit the market town to pick up produce, enjoy a night off from the kitchen, or for a family day out, whilst making the most of your secluded, peaceful location back at home. Sleeping seven guests over four bedrooms, this pretty abode welcomes two of your dogs too so you can enjoy beach days together and games of fetch in the large garden Follow the sloping path across the lawn before making your way inside. After days in the great outdoors, you’re bound to return from a sandy or muddy adventure at least once. The handy utility room is perfectly positioned for leaving coats, boots and leads so you can get cosy quickly, and pick up where you left off tomorrow. Warm up by the roaring wood burner which is housed by a charming inglenook fireplace and sits grandly in the welcoming lounge. Great for games tournaments, film nights and unwinding with a book, this comfortable, sociable space invites you to spend quality time together. When it’s time to prepare feasts, find all you need in the open-plan kitchen/diner. Cook up a storm and plate up either inside or out, before dipping in the hot tub with a tipple, or bouncing off some late-night energy on the trampoline. Climb the winding stairs to rest your head in one of four first-floor bedrooms before rising and shining, freshening up in the bathroom and taking a mug of coffee outside to the garden (staged over different levels). There is off-road parking for four cars. Pack up a picnic and travel 3.5 miles south to the vibrant seaside resort of West Bay, where a pair of beaches make for the perfect family day (dogs are welcomed year-round by the port). If you don’t fancy a picnic, enjoy a sit-down meal or order a portion of tasty fish and chips to whet your appetite. A 19-mile journey will take you to the iconic Cerne Abbas Giant, a 55m chalk figure well worth the trip.
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1 Miles
Sleeps 6
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 3
Surrounded by Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and less than 5 miles from the spectacular Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, this charming thatched cottage is perfect for adventurers. Sleeping six across three bedrooms, this bolthole is 3 miles from the heart of Bridport, so you can enjoy your peaceful location whilst knowing you are close to local amenities. Welcoming two of your dogs, the outside space is great for games of fetch and a bubble in the hot tub. Walk the gravel path which leads you through the large garden and make your way inside. Perfect for when you get caught in the rain, leave outer layers and leads in the utility room which is handily located off the entrance hall. Post-explore, head into the open-plan kitchen/diner to pop the kettle on. Brimming with country style and charm, enjoy warming up with a brew and cooking up a storm in this space, where you can also dine together with friends and family and raise a toast to time spent together. For a film night or to warm up by the wood burner, head into the sitting room which welcomes you to relax in front of the TV, or make your way to the games barn for a competitive night of table tennis. Emerge victoriously and celebrate with a soak and a drink in the hot tub, the perfect al fresco end to your day. After a good night’s sleep in one of three lovely bedrooms, two of which boast en-suites, wander the garden and its blossoming flowerbeds with a coffee. There is off-road parking for four cars. Pack your bags, grab the dog a bone, and head out to explore. The iconic beaches at West Bay are a fantastic place to set up camp for the day, amongst the sand and sea, and you can tuck into a tasty portion of fish and chips for lunch. Dogs must be kept on the leads in the port area when visiting throughout summer months. For an inland adventure, the National Trust’s Pilsdon Pen is 4.5 miles from your door and is steeped in history with panoramic views.
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1 Miles
Sleeps 14
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 5
This superbly spacious dwelling rests on the outskirts of Bridport in Dorset. Ideal for large family gatherings. Pet-friendly. Hot tub. Quirky layout. WiFi. Bridport centre 0.8 miles; Weymouth 18.4 miles.
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2 Miles
Sleeps 10
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 4
Jurassic View House in Bridport, Dorset, is a luxurious retreat that sleeps ten guests across four en-suite bedrooms. Ideal for multi-generational breaks, it features an open-plan kitchen/diner, a games room, and a hot tub. Located near Bridport's shops and eateries, it's also close to West Bay harbour and beach, just 1.5 miles away.
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3 Miles
Sleeps 8
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 4
This traditional stone cottage forms the perfect base for large families or groups of friends seeking to explore Dorset. Situated in the small village of Uploders, approximately 100 metres from a traditional country pub, the location of this property is idyllic for those looking for a quiet rural retreat. Sleeping eight guests across four bedrooms, the house boasts plenty of space for everyone to gather together as well as a garden with a private hot tub for indulgent evenings spent stargazing. Make yourself at home in this wonderful cosy cottage which boasts a homely atmosphere with soft, comfortable furniture and spacious rooms. The open-plan lounge/kitchen/dining area has plenty of space for the entire family and combines contemporary and traditional features, creating a relaxed and welcome feel. When the temperature drops you can fire up the wood burner and curl up on the sofa to watch a movie on the Smart TV. The lounge area is split into two, providing a separate space for family members to relax. The modest kitchen has everything you need to rustle up a special meal, with a large dining table and chairs providing space for everyone to dine together. The four bedrooms are spacious and have views across the garden or village. French doors from the lounge area lead out onto a patio and tiered garden. Open a bottle of bubbly and celebrate your time together in style in the private hot tub or dine alfresco at the top of the garden which features stunning views across the local countryside. Please note, the different levels of the garden are accessed by flights of steps which may not be suitable for young children.
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3 Miles
Sleeps 11
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 5
A pleasantly converted farmhouse situated 3 miles from Charmouth in Dorset. Countryside views. Hot tub. En-suite. Near Jurassic Coast. Games barn.
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3 Miles
Sleeps 6
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 3
Pomme Blushe House, a stunningly-presented stone cottage located outside of the charming town of Bridport, Dorset. Pet-friendly. Garden with hot tub. Lyme Regis 13 miles; West Bay 3.8 miles.
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7 Miles
Sleeps 4
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 2
With wonderful views over the West Dorset countryside, this spacious rural retreat is ideal for families of keen walkers or cyclists. Sleeping four, this period property is a home from home with its generous rooms, cosy soft furnishings, sunny conservatory and large family kitchen. Spend your days exploring the surrounding countryside, historic towns and villages or stunning Jurassic Coast before returning to this picturesque property for a BBQ in the enclosed garden or a relaxing soak in the Lay-Z-Spa hot tub. Attached to the owner’s property yet with its own private entrance, this is a homely and welcoming retreat. Cook and dine in the good-sized traditional kitchen, before retiring to the spacious lounge for the evening. With inviting sofas, tasteful artwork and a warming wood burner-effect electric fire, this is a pleasant space in which to relax and unwind after a busy day on foot. Meanwhile, a sunny conservatory is a wonderfully peaceful room for reading or enjoying a cup of coffee in the mornings. Upstairs, the two bedrooms have been tastefully finished in calming pastels with spectacular elevated rural views. Step outside from the conservatory into the lovely, enclosed garden with its patio area, garden furniture and hot tub. Sitting in the rural hamlet of West Compton, this property is surrounded by unspoilt countryside - perfect for walkers, cyclists and nature lovers alike. Visit the historic town of Dorchester to stock up on supplies or enjoy a delicious meal out, or pop into the county museum to gen up on local history. Meanwhile, the Jurassic Coast is just 6 miles away, with a 95-mile stretch of vast beaches, fascinating rock structures, fossil-rich bays and pretty towns and villages just waiting to be discovered.
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Helpful Info To Get More From Your Stay

What do guests love about this accommodation?

Guests adored the peaceful location and stunning views of Dorset Gem. The comfortable beds, cosy sofas, and well-equipped facilities made their stay delightful. The hot tub was a favourite feature, along with the freshly baked bread provided in the kitchen. The spacious garden and trampoline were a hit with families, and the proximity to local walks and the village pub added to the charm of their holiday experience.

Getting there

To get to Dorset Gem, if driving, take the M3 and then the A303 towards Honiton. From there, follow the A35 to Bridport. The nearest train station is Crewkerne, accessible from London Waterloo.

Nearby Essentials

During your stay, you'll have convenient access to a selection of nearby amenities, including some of the area's tastiest takeout options. Click any of the postcodes for a map along with handy driving instructions and the fastest route from your accommodation.
Service Distance (miles) Postcode
Pharmacy 1.5 milesDT6 3TP
Train station 13.7 milesDT9 4HN
Pub 1.5 milesDT6 6HF
Dog walk 0.5 milesDT6 6HD
Supermarket 1.6 milesDT6 3TP
Indian takeaway (Rajpoot) 1.5 milesDT6 3TP
Chinese takeaway (Golden House) 1.5 milesDT6 3TP
Italian takeaway (Amore) 1.5 milesDT6 3TP

For families with Kids

With a large, secure garden featuring a trampoline, Dorset Gem is a family-friendly destination. Nearby Eype beach and local village walks provide ample outdoor activities for children to enjoy.

Is Dorset Gem A good location for couples?

The secluded setting and private hot tub make it an idyllic retreat for couples. Nearby, romantic walks along the Jurassic Coast or dining in the charming village pub offer perfect days out.

Dining and Cafes

Closest to the property is The Bull Hotel (1.5 miles, 01308 422878), offering a delightful dining experience. For a cosy café atmosphere, try The Green Yard Café (1.5 miles, 01308 459466).

Within walking distance of your cottage

A short walk away you'll find picturesque village pubs, local shops, and scenic walks, including the nearby Eype beach on the Jurassic Coast.

Quickfire FAQs

Does this cottage have a hot tub?

Yes, the accommodation features a private hot tub, offering guests the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy the picturesque views of the Dorset countryside.

Is this accommodation pet-friendly?

Indeed, the property welcomes up to two dogs, allowing pet owners to enjoy their holiday with their furry friends. A charge applies for each dog per full or part week.

How many people can this accommodation sleep?

The property comfortably sleeps 8 people, making it an ideal choice for large families or groups of friends looking for a spacious getaway.

What type of accommodation is this?

This accommodation is a detached, rural property, formerly a shooting lodge, offering a charming and luxurious escape in the Dorset countryside.

Are there any walking or cycling trails nearby?

Yes, guests can enjoy a variety of walking and cycling trails directly from the doorstep, perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the area.

How close is the nearest beach?

The nearest beach, part of the spectacular Jurassic Coast, is just three miles away from the property, easily accessible for a day of exploration and fossil hunting.

Dorset Gem Reviews

Peter
Many thanks to the lovely people at the estate for making our stay so enjoyable. The Apple Day event was wonderful. Our granddaughters loved the old fashioned country games.
Simon
A fantastic week away. The house was perfect. Beautifully equipped with all that we needed and very comfortable. The welcome basket was lovely and all essentials were provided (washing up liquid etc). The outside space was perfect for BBQs and relaxing in the sunshine and was incredibly peaceful
Joanna
The location was fantastic, we loved the views. The garden was secure enough to contain our energetic dog (collie cross) and there was plenty of room to throw a ball for him. We enjoyed the hot tub. Those who stayed in the garden room found it very comfortable. We were able to walk the dog directly from the property. We loved the welcome package, aRead morell delicious local produce. The beds were all comfortable and it was wonderfully peaceful and quiet being the only property up the lane. Hide
Susan
Beautiful views from this family friendly cottage. We enjoyed beautiful walks to the Symondsbury estate cafe for brunches. It worked well for us as a group of eight.
Gemma
We had a lovely stay here and it is very well equipped and peaceful. A short country walk to the restaurant and estate shop, with a pub down the road too. A good location for Weymouth, Lyme Regis and coastal walks. A brilliant secure garden for the dogs too. The only negatives it isnt a high end luxury property, its functional, clean in areas it shRead moreould be and tidy. Its also limited in the house bedrooms for hanging clothes and its chalet style so it would be a squeeze upstairs if 6 adults. Hide
Fiona
The place was wonderful. Hot tub fabulous. Enjoyed the space, the wood burners , the large cooker and table .. fabulous views, the Symonsbury Estate was a bonus treat. Great for Lyme Regis, Charmouth, walks from the house to Colmers Hill and the Holloway from the Estate Farm Shop. We appreciated the fresh bread , milk etc on arrival.
Diane
Lovely cottage with fantastic views and extremely well kitted out kitchen. Lovely additional sleeping cabin in the garden great for grown ups!
Sandra
If you want somewhere with beautiful views, enjoy comfy beds and sofas, and want somewhere to stay that is really well equipped. this is the place for you. Just be careful if you don't own a 4x4 in the winter, as some of the roads can be precarious in bad weather getting to the lodge from the village. Having said that, we our stay!
Patricia
A warm ,well equipped house ,set in a beautiful location.
Viv
Peaceful location, stunning views!
Lea
We loved every second of our stay. It had everything we needed and the location is absolutely beautiful with plenty of walks to discover. The hot tub in the garden was a lovely addition as was the freshly baked bread in the kitchen. We had a wonderful holiday!
Hugh
We had a great week at Dorset Gem, despite rather mixed weather. The cottage is very well appointed, warm and comfortable. It was a perfect location for a group ranging from grandparents to a two year old and a baby. We all enjoyed being able to walk down to the village to visit the estate cafe, shops and farm animals. We found everyone we dealt wi th on the estate friendly and helpful. We all appreciated the hot tub in the garden and the toddler loved the trampoline. We would definitely return.
Jane
Dorset Gem is a dream come true for us. Grandparents with our daughters and families ranging from 2years - 5months in age. Plenty of room both inside and out. The annex was perfect for my husband and myself so we could sleep without any interruption. Beautiful decor, beautifully appointed. Hot tub very welcome for tired parents and huge safe garden with trampoline for the toddlers. And, to add the cherry to the cake of joy, Colmer Hill as a view even from every room! We loved it thanks.
Amanda
Wow, what a beautiful house to sat yin. It gave us everything we were looking for and more. Beautiful accommodation and location. Would love to come again.
Jacqueline
We thoroughly enjoyed our week in Dorset Gem, the house was beautifully decorated with amazing views from every window. Days were spent fossil hunting and walking ,ending with a relaxing soak in the hot tub. The amenities on site were very welcome and we left with some early Christmas presents! Thank you so much.
Jeannie
Idyllic setting in Dorset countryside. Luxurious bedding and dressing gowns. Decor a little tired and a few maintenance issues but the lovely garden and setting made up for it. I would return to this beautiful Estate.
Andrew
A lovely quiet place to stay with three generations of our family and 2 dogs! The outside accommodation was a big bonus. The hot tub and trampoline were fabulous and well used by us. Garden was secure and large. Beds were very comfortable and bedrooms were a good size. Very well equipped home generally. Excellent pressure in the showers and plenty of hot water at all times. A VERY enjoyable holiday and we will look forward to a return visit.
Roy
With these exceptions previously noted, the cottage certainly met our exceptions. Superb location, very relaxing and well equipped.
Michelle
Our family of 7 adults plus two dogs had a wonderful holiday in this cottage and cabin. The view of Colmers Hill & surrounding area is one I never got tired of as I sat on the veranda eating breakfast. The welcome bread & jam (plus milk) was much appreciated. Well equipped kitchen, comfy beds, dressing gowns for the hot tub.-decor had a feel of a b outique hotel. Great pub in the village. Would definitely book this property again.
Kay
Wonderful family holiday. Beautiful house which was spotlessly clean, really well equipped and extremely comfortable for all. Garden is lovely, grandchildren loved the space to play and the trampoline went down a storm. Hot tub was great for all and well used throughout our stay. House has amazing views of the countryside, great walks around for ev ery level of fitness. There's even a large kennel for the dog. Thoroughly recommend Dorset Gem and staff were helpful and friendly.
Andrew
Very comfortable property. Lovely view and very quiet
Georgia
Lovely, comfortable house, beautiful views and location .Large garden and outside seating area. Dog walks are great, straight from the house. Hot tub is lovely and warm and kept very clean. Cabin is great if you need appreciate a separate space. Beaches are nearby, lovely coastline. Bridport has everything you need, large supermarket. Village has a pub within walking distance. Highly recommended.
James
Fabulous cottage/lodge. Breathtaking views Great walks Very clean. Beds and bedding were so comfortable Fantastic well equipped kitchen Super welcome hamper. Thank you.
Alan
Wonderful location and extremely peaceful.
Annette
Loved the cottage and its location. Xmas tree was a lovely touch. Great for walking. Enjoyed the quietness of the place and the views from the lodge and cabin.
Katie
Fantastic holiday! We did a Friday to Friday stay here and didnt want to leave. The views are beautiful, home is cosy with plenty of space for everyone. Hot tub was lovely, it was checked several times discreetly by maintenance. Cottage is down a very private road with very little noise nearby. Would highly recommend and hope to be back soon.
Jane
We had a fab time and would recommend this cottage. It's specious and the beds were very cosy. The views are amazing and the hot tub was very welcoming. Everything you need is there and any questions answered straight away . Would go again tomorrow :) Thank you
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Attractions Near Dorset Gem

While there'll be plenty to keep you entertained an Dorset Gem itself, if you plan to get out and about and see some of what Devon has to offer, here are some of the nearby attractions you can enjoy during your stay. Please note that some of these activities and days out are paid and it's always a good idea to book in advance to secure your place where applicable.

Found a special day out near your cottage? Please let us know and we'll add it so that other visitors can enjoy it too!
Dorset Teddy Bear Museum - DT1 1JU
about 15 Miles
This family orientated museum is dedicated to Teddy Bears both old and new Edward Bear and his family of people sized bears are one of the main attractions.  You can buy teddy bear gifts from the quaint shop including top notch brands.  The Steiff Teddy Bear and Merrythought bears are very popular.  Open 7 days a week all year round (except 25th and 26th December) this is a perfect all weather place to visit.
Kingston Maurward Gardens and Animal Park - DT2 8PY
about 16 Miles
Kingston Maurward Gardens and Animal Park is a magical place to visit with grand gardens and plenty of animals to meet.  From goats and ponies to alpacas and pot bellied pigs this attraction is excellent value for money.  You can feel free to explore the grounds too which are especially lovely on sunny days.  You will see majestic floral displays, stone terraces, a temple and even a lake.
Bicton Park and Gardens - EX9 7BJ
about 23 Miles
This year round attraction has been described as Devon's most magnificent historic gardens.  Located in the Otter Valley area of East Devon you can enjoy a fun day out in a picturesque setting. Highlights include historic Palm house, containing some of the world’s most endangered species and Bicton Woodland Railway - which takes you on a 25 minute journey through the lovely grounds.  For children there is a miniature village with mini golf, nature trail and indoor play area.
Monkey World - BH20 6HH
about 25 Miles
Monkey World is not only a local attraction but the work they carry out is amazing.  Rescuing and rehabilitating monkeys and assisting governments around the world to stop the smuggling of primates are just some of the purposes of the centre. You get to see the primates themselves many of which have become famous from appearing on the TV show Monkey World - a documentary about this place. Open year round we think this is one of best attractions in Dorset and you even get the chance to adopt a monkey if you choose.
Crealy Great Adventure Park - EX5 1DR
about 27 Miles
This popular adventure park is full of thrills and excitement as well as having loads for younger children to take part in as well. The best theme park rides include the Tidal Wave log flume and Maximus the rollercoaster.  Other fantastic rides include the the New Vortex Watercoaster ride and the Queen Bess pirate ship.  Indoor fun is plentiful too with the Adventure Zone, the Magical Kingdom and Dina's Lost World.