The top cities between Looe and Bournemouth are Torquay, Weymouth, Plymouth, Poole, Exmoor National Park, Dartmoor National Park, Exeter, Glastonbury, Paignton, and Lyme Regis. Torquay is the most popular city on the route. It's 1 hour from Looe and 2 hours from Bournemouth.
Plymouth is a city located in southwest England with a rich maritime history. Its Barbican district features narrow, cobbled streets and several marinas, including the Plymouth Fisheries fish market. The National Marine Aquarium can be found in Sutton Harbour and showcases various species of sharks and rays. The Mayflower Steps mark the site where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for the New World in 1620.
81% as popular as Torquay
7 minutes off the main route, 18% of way to Bournemouth
The National Park of Dartmoor is a large area full of rugged landscape waiting to be explored. There are a number of villages throughout the park, as well as Dartmoor Prison and Castle Drogo. The national park also holds events and activities throughout the year for visitors of all ages.
Saw some waterfalls, some wild ponies, some brilliant scenery and a goat. The Dartmoor is a fabulous place. Will see more on this latest trip to Devon. Plenty to do and see for all ages. Do yourself a favour and visit here if you're in the area.
Mark Minehan — Google review
A beautiful place with great walks and fabulous views. Lots of Dartmoor ponies roam around, along with sheep. Please drive cautiously as the sheep do wander into the road. Fantastic sunsets, and if you're lucky, you may even see a simultaneous moon rise as we did during early August.
Liz Glen — Google review
Impossible not to like the exuberant beauty of Dartmoor park, very well signposted trails will take you to places where you can observe spectacular views in the midst of wildlife.
Wild ponies can be easily seen freely grazing which will give an even more special charm during your walk.
Rafael Angelucci — Google review
Love Dartmoor, great walks and the ability to get miles away from any civilisation is great! Challenging terrain, don’t go unprepared if you’re going to head deep into the moor! Weather can be horrendous and change quickly.
River crossings are not uncommon!
peter78 — Google review
So glad to have this just down the road from me! So many great walks to be had across the moors, and a lot of history to be learned. I love finding the old ruins and stone circles, seeing the ponies, and taking photos. Sunny weather is ideal but it's much better when the fog rolls in!
BecomeTheAtlas — Google review
Amazing amazing amazing. This is a must to go to visit. Such an idyllic place to go. Very dog friendly and kid friendly a massive expanse to go investigate. So much to do and experience I honestly can't say enough great things about it. The pubs, parks, walks, views all spectacular!!
Chris Allum — Google review
Love it here. Peaceful and a lovely place to walk. We saw sheep with their young, ponies, birds of prey, and heard cuckoo's calling as well as many wild flowers. Unfortunately, there were people allowing their dogs to run wild despite signs stating they should be on leads. There were lots of sheep with young lambs. These places are for all of us to enjoy. Your enjoyment shouldn't encroach on others or the creatures that live there
J B — Google review
Love it on Dartmoor, no better place to relax and just breathe fresh air. The wildlife and animals make it such a peaceful place
OMGJaydenTV — Google review
A beautiful, natural and historic area with great views, walks, wild animals and landmarks. It can get windy and cold up here, but the fresh air is lovely
Nathan Dore — Google review
This place is HUGE. Got the trains there to spend a few hours there in the beautiful, mesmerising, tranquil countryside. It's stunning scenery stretches for miles. Loved every minute. Thank goodness for Google maps and a very kind passerby to put me in the right direction. After seeing the 9 stone circle advertised on Google Maps had to go on an adventure to see it.
Maple Acer — Google review
Fantastic, hauntingly beautiful area with ancient rock outcroppings. You could see into the faded horizon. The children climbed the subtle grade and jumped on rocks. Wonder and wander and freedom to your own thoughts.
Deborah Waddington — Google review
Dartmoor is an incredibly beautiful location, and it is fat more diverse than many people realise. The main town, Prince Town, and the prison are well worth a visit, but better still, pull on a pair of boots and head out for the solitude of the tors spread across the Moor.
The weather can, and often does, change very rapidly on the Moor. Make sure you are well equipped for bad weather. Also, make sure you have plenty of water and snacks when out on hikes.
DMJ AM — Google review
Very scenic and interesting location, also good for children and dogs. Many Dartmoor ponies, sheep and Highland cattle can be seen. However, the weather has it´s own plans and you should always take a jacket or rain gear with you.
Sarina Cl A — Google review
Wow stunning even in the rain!! The ponies running wild made our visit.
Janet Marshall — Google review
This was the most peaceful I have found myself for a good time. With always being in a city you can forget that just some silence, fresh air and a good walk can do.
I don't know when but I'm defo gonna bring myself here again.
Also bring snacks and be prepared to have a big bladder because theres a lack on amenities around here.
Joshua Wilkinson-Gavin — Google review
Your experience and enjoyment of dartmoor really depends on the weather. On a good sunny day everything is clear, you can have enjoyable and easy walks. On the other hand, torrent rain and wind can really make it miserable. Be prepared for both conditions as weather here can change within a blink of an eye.
Anthony Chan — Google review
Love this place so much.
Please please don't just go to haytor!
There are much better places on either side.
And please get out of sight of your car even if just for a little stroll.
Cannot recommend more!
Jonathan Hill — Google review
We recently had a fantastic stay at ' the chapel ' at Lettaford. A landmark trust property, right on the edge of Dartmoor. A really peaceful and quite small hamlet, consisting of four previously working farms. Loads of history and lovely walks, as short or as long as you want. No mobile signal and no WiFi, just a small stream bubbling away next to the chapel.
andrew shaw — Google review
Love being here. The peace, the wildlife and the scenery. I just wish drivers would be a little more considerate of the roaming animals.
Barbara (Grace) — Google review
Love the moors, we go there every week. Toilets at haytor, dartmeet and Princetown.beautiful views, walks and wildlife. Pictures taken at burrator resovoir
frances bushell — Google review
70% as popular as Torquay
19 minutes off the main route, 27% of way to Bournemouth
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Paignton is a charming seaside town located on the picturesque coast of Tor Bay in Devon, England. It is part of the borough of Torbay, along with Torquay and Brixham, and is renowned as a popular holiday destination known as the English Riviera. With its origins dating back to Celtic times and a mention in historical records from 1086, Paignton boasts a rich heritage.
45% as popular as Torquay
14 minutes off the main route, 33% of way to Bournemouth
Torquay, a charming seaside resort town in Devon, southwest England, is renowned for its picturesque beaches like Babbacombe and Oddicombe. Its stunning coastline has earned it the moniker of the English Riviera. The town center boasts Torquay Harbour, offering a delightful mix of shops, cafes, and a marina. Visitors can explore Torre Abbey, an ancient monastery with art galleries and beautiful gardens featuring plants from Agatha Christie's novels.
Most popular city on this route
16 minutes off the main route, 35% of way to Bournemouth
Exeter is an ancient city located in the southwest of England, sitting on the River Exe. It has a rich history dating back to Roman times and boasts a Gothic cathedral as well as the Exeter City Walls that surround its center. The city also has significant landmarks including Exeter Castle, which overlooks Northernhay and Rougemont Gardens.
66% as popular as Torquay
8 minutes off the main route, 40% of way to Bournemouth
I'll never travel to Bournemouth without this trip planner again
The 219 square mile Exmoor National Park is Devon's largest and most diverse national park. It offers unique scenery, including dramatic moorland, woodlands and rolling agricultural land. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, badgers, foxes and wildcats. There are many well-marked trails for walkers and mountain bikers as well as some great spots to spot whales or dolphins off the coast.
I am very fortunate to live on the edge of this beautiful national park. A ten minute drive and I am up on the top of this wonderful moor. Highly recommend a visit to this very special place taking in the moor and the coast. Lots of historical places to visit and the scenery is spectacular 💖
Karen Power — Google review
Easy walk path around, climbing up to the top isn’t too hard as well. The view is great. Plus the parking is free. There could be smell of the mountain goats, but not much.
Pawarisa S. — Google review
This is not a park where there’s an entry as such more of a massive area of land . Call Elmore national park. There are few good places to visit near by and enjoy sight seeing including the town. Photos I attached are all about 5miles away from the actual point on google maps
Rahman Amin — Google review
Brilliant Exmoor with its variety of beautiful villages,and towns. from its hills, countryside and beautiful moorland that drops down to the sea. well worth spending time to look around. and of course its lovely Exmoor pony's. A great place to visit or have a holiday there
Derek Hall — Google review
Today, we visited Simonsbath. We parked at the ashcombe car park. There you find a beautiful garden, or actually a garden which was not finished. The owner started it about two hundred years ago, but ran out of money to finish it. Bring your own chair or a rug to sit on it and enjoy the area! After a while we walked to the ruine of a farmer’s cottage at wheal Eliza. What an easy walk with beautiful views on the exmoor country. It reminded us to our trips to Austria, but this area is much easier to enter! Just go yourself and you’ll experience it yourself.
Ed Stekelenburg — Google review
Fabulous place, walks here are challenging, mainly as they go along high cliffs. Wouldn’t recommend for children but great for ramblers!
paul Storey — Google review
Amazing park, scenic A39 circular drive, lots to do with beaches, walking trails, Rocky Mountain, castle etc.. makes up for a nice holiday destination. Needs about minimum of 3 nights stay to cover the key spots. Lovely part of the Somerset county.
Rishab Jain — Google review
It's just a stunning place to be, whether walking (with or without a dog) with friends, family, or on your own. Cycling, 🚲 or having a picnic, or just enjoying the wildlife that you come across. Exmoor is a beautiful place to be.
Kim Jones — Google review
The valley of the rocks is an unusual landscape. There is a cricket pitch in the valley bottom sitting in a natural amphitheatre, stunning location. Be a great venue for cricket or other entertainment IF you could get 10,000 or so fans into the place. Fabulous walk along the cliffs to Lynmouth. The path down at the end is steep and even steeper going up. The venicular railway is an easier option!!!
Peter Brown — Google review
Stunning part of the country. Plenty to do, an things too see. Great views and wildlife everywhere. Just amazing.
Oli Stringer — Google review
Honestly the most beautiful place!! My 12 year old son can not walk for longer than 15 mins before needing his wheelchair. The fact that we were able to drive around and stop to see so many amazing sights was out of this world. A family trip we will treasure 💖
Samantha Jones — Google review
Exmoor is a beautiful, rugged and peaceful National Park in south west England. Walks can be easy strolls or challenging hikes climbing and descending several hundred feet, several times in a few miles.
Within the park are a number of small villages. The notable towns are Minehead, at the eastern edge of the park, Porlock about halfway across the northern side and Lynton & Lynmouth towards the western side. Some of the smaller villages are very picturesque. Driving can be a little challenging in some of the tiny country roads, go slow and watch out for animals (and have good maps or a satnav).
On the open moor you'll see the famous Exmoor Ponies - don't approach them, they can be very unpredictable. You'll also see sheep, highland cattle, deer, various birds of prey and numerous small mammals. In the streams and rivers you'll see trout and other fish and may even catch a glimpse of dolphins in the Bristol Channel.
Food wise there are some excellent pubs selling superb food sourced locally - along with some great local beers. It's a time to wean yourself off the Carling and Guiness and try an Exmoor Ale, Otter Valley IPA, or whatever they have on tap. There are numerous quaint tea rooms selling the ubiquitous cream teas and you'll find many restaurants and cafes in the towns.
To answer questions - there's no entry ticket, no fence around it (lots of fences within it, but it's farmed land), there are swing parks in some of the villages and towns.
There is no direct rail link to Exmoor, the closest place is Taunton and get a cab to Bishop's Lydeard where you can get the West Somerset Railway to Minehead. I don't know of any car hire firms in Minehead, but there are some in Taunton.
Disabled access? Well anyone can get here, but some areas and premises would be challenging or impossible for disabled persons - some of the buildings are centuries old.
Things to do? Hiking is very popular here - the South West Coast Path starts (or ends) in Minehead. You can buy any number of books with excellent routes or circular walks from car parks, etc. Mountain biking is popular, plenty of fishing (coarse or sea), rock climbing and so on - most outdoor pursuits are catered for.
Accommodation ranges from static caravans to yurts and shepherd's huts, to manor houses to AirBnB. Plenty of campsites and places to park a campervan.
Dogs - welcome almost everywhere, but keep them on a lead where livestock are. Even the most well behaved dog can lose control confronted with sheep and lambs. Be very, very cautious of cows with calves, they can be extremely protective - ideally find another route.
All in all it's a beautiful place to visit. But always be prepared for the great British weather and have appropriate waterproofs. If you're planning a walk, a reasonably good pair of boots will be a godsend.
Stu C. — Google review
Brings back happy family memories visiting this part of the world. The views are fantastic, and spotting deer 🦌 was our ultimate triumph.
Steve Miller — Google review
Lovely scenery, and trails that follow a river with waterfalls. Nice picnic area and a refreshment shop. Trails lead to Lynmouth down by the coast and a unique cliff railway that leads to Lynton
Timothy Muskett — Google review
Having hiked the moor 40 years ago and revisiting again this week, I cannot speak more highly of the dramatic location. The wild and untamed heights, the steep valleys, fords, sheep, ponies. Rain, clouds and moody sunshine inspire poetry.
Jeffery Wells — Google review
The park has an exceptional atmosphere. I walked along the path by the river to reach Lynmouth. As you walk you have the opportunity to turn off the road to peek into the villages closer to the park. I had a cheese scone in the Watersmeet house and it was amazing. One of the places to be!
Rossella Leanza — Google review
36% as popular as Torquay
35 minutes off the main route, 45% of way to Bournemouth
Located in the south-west of England, Glastonbury is a town renowned for its historical significance and rich mythology. The area contains a number of ancient and medieval sites, including the tower-topped hill known as Glastonbury Tor that overlooks the Somerset Levels. This location is closely connected to Arthurian legend with stories suggesting it was once King Arthur's final resting place.
29% as popular as Torquay
26 minutes off the main route, 57% of way to Bournemouth
Located on the Heritage or Jurassic Coast in west Dorset, England, Lyme Regis is a charming town known as the "Pearl of Dorset". Situated by the English Channel at the border with Devon, this town boasts beautiful cliffs and beaches with notable fossils. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk through the main street after parking their car on top of the hill before entering the city centre.
19% as popular as Torquay
5 minutes off the main route, 59% of way to Bournemouth
Weymouth is a coastal town situated in the southern region of Dorset, England. Its beachfront features an array of vibrant beach huts and elegant Georgian houses. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the revolving Jurassic Skyline tower or explore the historic Victorian Nothe Fort. The area also encompasses Chesil Beach which forms part of the fossil-rich Jurassic Coast and provides opportunities for bird watching on nearby Portland Island.
100% as popular as Torquay
12 minutes off the main route, 75% of way to Bournemouth
Poole, a charming coastal town in southern England, is famous for its expansive natural harbor and beautiful sandy beaches. The Old Town area boasts elegant Georgian houses and the fascinating Poole Museum, spread across four historic buildings including the medieval Scaplen’s Court. Visitors can embark on boat trips from Poole Harbour to explore the scenic Brownsea Island, renowned for its lush woodlands, nature trails, and diverse wildlife like red squirrels.
65% as popular as Torquay
3 minutes off the main route, 92% of way to Bournemouth
Best stops along Looe to Bournemouth drive
The top stops along the way from Looe to Bournemouth (with short detours) are Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre, Paignton Zoo Environmental Park, and The Donkey Sanctuary. Other popular stops include Swanage Railway, Weymouth Beach, and Exeter Cathedral.
Quince Honey Farm is a working honey farm that offers honey factory tours, an exhibition on honey bees, nature trails and play areas for children.
Very informative tour with lovely guides. Learned so much about bees!
Cafe offers a wide selection of delicious food, many dishes incorporating honey.
Excited to come back in a few years to see how the gardens have developed.
Megan Currie — Google review
Bees are amazing. Fact.
No bees, no life on earth.
This place is great. We went because I think bees are pretty dope little critters but this place has so much more to it.
Enter through the gift shop and there’s a cafe in front of you. We had lunch there. The service was really pleasant and the food was delicious.
We bought out tickets for the gardens which are really special and designed specifically for bees.
We took the tour which was really well paced and they offer insights into all aspects of the bee life and the products they create. You get to roll a beeswax candle and keep it, learn about the flowers that are bee friendly for you garden in the tour (my wife took lots of notes), plant and keep some seeds, hold some giant bugs, and look inside a couple of hives.
Fascinating day with more than we expected. Really relaxed with passionate staff. Thoroughly recommend.
robert robertson — Google review
Lovely family full day out! Come rain or shine is what is says and it certainly delivers! It rained on and off all day and there were lots of fun activities in the sheltered areas to keep both children (5yr old and 2 yr old) nice and busy! Will definitely be coming back on a nice hot day as think the garden will come into it's own and the children would love the outdoor play area too. Thank you for a wonderful day full of memories
Lucy Ladd — Google review
Such a fantastic place and so informative the staff are all kind and willing to help. The candle making was a really fun activity to do. You got a tasting of the honey and you got a full talk from a bee keeper and all about the bees. The cafe was really nice as well and huge portions.
cooking with yanny — Google review
Had a visit in a wet and cold April afternoon. Kids loved the soft play and grown ups loved the food in the award winning restaurant. Interesting well planned tour around the gardens and factory made it a good value day out. Stayed for 5 hours!
Penny Benjamin — Google review
Lovely few hours spent here. You can take your dog and enjoy a well equipped gift shop pertaining to bee household good quality items. Drinks honeys, chutneys, lemon curds and marmalade all made from the bees 🐝 lots to choose from. Lovely staff .really lovely large comfortable cafe and outside area. You can pay to have a tour around the grounds taste honey and watch candles being made. Worth a visit.
Dawn Scammell — Google review
If you went to the old building, go again, a lot has changed and for the better!
What a brilliant place. Absolutely fascinating tour with a lovely keeper who was not only knowledgeable but super friendly and approachable.
We loved making a candle and bee friendly plant pot.
Families will have a great time and there is a huge indoor soft play and outside play area.
The shop and restaurant is free and does some lovely gifts and we had a great lunch.
Phil Clark — Google review
Absolutely loved our visit. Staff really knew their stuff and their passion for bees was contagious. Cafe food was very tasty and worth a visit just for lunch. Bought our own body weight in honey and other goodies in the shop.....Will definitely revisit 🥰
Sarah Clare-Down — Google review
Really lovely place to visit. Lovely lady doing excellent talks about the bees. Looking forward to coming back in the summer
Stephen Burton — Google review
Fantastic place to visit, highly recommended! This place is completely voluntary and self supported, in other words, the don't have govt funding, so rely heavily on public support. They are doing research into bees and have a high knowledge base. They keep their own bees and produce their own honey. There is a cafe here which serves breakfast up until 12 with plenty of seating indoors and outdoors.
They have a shop here where you can buy all sorts of bee related products too. You can buy a tour of their facilities, which if you do, make sure to put 3 hours of your time aside. This is a brilliant tour and highly informative, all for a very reasonable price. They also have their own honey extraction and bottling factory. There is a playground for energetic children
Desiree Mahase — Google review
We couldn't bee-lieve it when we arrived. Minutes off the A361, Quince Honey Farm is a wonderful, easy to get to family day out. The staff are welcoming and friendly. As soon as we were in, only £10 per person, so for a family attraction makes it an amazing experience on a budget, we were told all that the day had in store. We got there just in time for the bee keeper talk, all about the structure and inner workings of the hive, which was fun and informative. Shortly after the same bee keeper talked us through the process of the honey factory, with a cheeky tasting at the end! For an extra £2 per person the bee keeper gave us another talk of the many uses for bees wax showing us how to roll our own bees wax candles to take home. All the talks were fun and interactive and our bee keeper was brilliant. We stopped for a bite to eat in the nectar cafe, so sadly missed the plant potting talk. After all the activities we ventured into the indoor play area so the more energetic and younger ones could blow off some energy, with a small cafe offering an assortment of hot and cold food and drinks. With a quick trip to the outdoor play area for another round of playing we headed to the beautiful gift shop to get our hands on more of that delicious golden goodness to take home.
Quince Honey Farm we will be back for another jar or two!
Weekend Wildness — Google review
We came off season and it was very quiet, which meant we were the only family on most of the activities, Our own personal tour!
The women who did the activities was fantastic, she was very engaging and so good at interacting with our toddler.
The food in the cafe was great! Really recommend.
The soft play was good, quite large in terms of height so easy so parents to clamber around.
The biggest hit of the day for my toddler was the set of tractors/diggers and spades.
Sophi — Google review
Fantastic day out with a toddler in tow, the indoor Play Hive was a real hit!!
Found it really interesting learning about the bees and seeing them in action.
Food in the restaurant was excellent and tried the famous Quince Honey Farm Honeycombe Cream Tea!! STUNNING!!
Staff were pleasant and polite throughout!! Talks given were of a high standard and you see the passion was there!!
Fiona Turner — Google review
A beautiful place with lots to do and look at, great for kids as well with indoor and outdoor play areas. The cafe food was amazing and the chef came out to check a few things with us due to allergies - extremely efficient and friendly chef! The shop is full of beautiful things to buy. The educator today was full of enthusiasm, he made the talks interesting and also funny, you also have the opportunity to roll your own candle and you get to take home your own planted seed to attract the bees. Quince Honey Farm is now in my top ten of places to visit, we had such a wonderful time and couldn’t believe how long we spent there, almost a full day.
Lindsay West — Google review
Fun day out even on a wet day.
Staying locally we knew the weather in north Devon was going to be dull so, we looked to see what was nearby for a young family.
Cafe is very spacious and offers a great variety of food, I had their own version of a cream tea with honey instead of jam. It was delicious.
We seemed to miss all the talks and workshop but they did seem to be running frequently.
If we are ever in the area again we will definitely go back.
Daniel Pattingale — Google review
Absolutely delicious Christmas Eve Brunch, great atmosphere and friendly staff, would certainly recommend also the shop was looking lovely bought three jars of honey from there. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all 🧑🎄🌲
Carol Higgins — Google review
What an amazing day! Staff were super knowledgeable and passionate. We spent 4hrs going to all the talks, shop, cafe, candle making. Could easily have done a whole day to make the most of the soft play, outdoor play area and meadow trail. Highly recommend!
Holly — Google review
4.5
(1935)
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4.0
(887)
Aller Cross, South Molton, EX36 3RD, United Kingdom
Accessible, dog-friendly beach backed by a sea wall with seasonal lifeguards & a café.
Despite the stones, the beach is very nice and fun to play on and the view is lovely. Also the mackerel fishing is very good and likely to catch a few and the seal is a regular!
Luca Hemsley — Google review
Came here Boxing Day, and it was lovely! Never realised how big the beach was!!
Jessica Fowler — Google review
An amazing stretch of beach to visit regardless of the weather. Great for dog walks, photography enthusiasts or visitors wanting to see the stretch of beach.
Darren Bond — Google review
Massive pebbled beach ,clear sea . Pub and shops at far end of beach
Tim Edkins — Google review
A pleasant stretch of beach with a narrow reserve behind.
The beach is stony, which won't suit everyone, and can be reasonably steep. It's worth noting I've never seen any seaweed there.
Sarah Thomson — Google review
Nice place for a bit of fishing, parking right along beachfront. Quiet area so bring snacks if staying for a while.
Mendoza “Mendoza” — Google review
Slapton sands is an out standing place of tranquility and beauty,the beach is well kept by all who visit ,with deep shingle sands and clear clean waters to the left of the toilet is the nudist section and to the right miles of beach for families, with paid parking facilities and a coffee cart.
John Cummings-Lee-Hynes — Google review
Fantastic mile long beach practically deserted. Car park, and part time coffee/burger trailer. Masses of space between low and high tide, beach is fine pebbles for the most and sand in places. Find your piece of heaven.
James M — Google review
Stunning pebble and stone beach with crystal clear waters and great views. Lots of history along the beach and even had a close encounter with a seal!
Sian Williams — Google review
One of the best beaches in Devon. If you want pub and Cafe etc go to the Torrcross end of beach but if u want space and peace n quiet move further up the beach
Chris Shaw — Google review
Beautiful Beach probably one of the best beaches I have visited and get naked on it's like being abroad! I've returned many times and will continue too I Love this place people are wonderful also 🙂
Mattie — Google review
Great place for fishing never very busy plenty of room and very nice and clean.
Stephen Anthony O'Donnell — Google review
4.7
(120)
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4.5
(496)
United Kingdom
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Paignton Zoo is a large zoological park in Devon, England. It has a wide range of animals, including many endangered or critically-endangered species. The zoo also features a variety of exhibits and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Booked tickets online so straight forward process on entry. Easy to follow map. Plenty of animals to see. Lots of work also being done around the zoo. Park area for children and plenty of picnic benches. Missed seeing the train that use to go around the large pond. It was just nice to be able to visit on such a nice day after so long.
Sharon Miles — Google review
My wife uses a mobility scooter, on this occasion we hadn't charged it sufficiently and it powered down. Luckily we were just inside the zoo. I spoke with a chap at reception who supplied us with a wheelchair and stored ours securely during our visit. Extremely helpful and pleasant, I think his name was Jamie.
Just for information, the zoo is particularly hilly and has several inclines, only the most robust of mobility scooter would cope with the terrain.
We enjoyed our day, ate in the restaurant and once again the chap that served us was very pleasant and helpful. The food was good too.
Clive Humphries — Google review
This trip was my first visit since Duchess the elephant passed away in 2019. Before that I used to visit almost weekly and take a stroll around the zoo.
4 years after my annual membership comes to an end, I visit again, however, this time I was more disappointed than happy.
A lot of sections were closed off for renovation -which is great for the animals - but i think the list of animals that we couldn't see would outweigh the list of animals that we could see.
We stopped in the restaurant for some lunch. Possibly a little over priced but it did taste good.
Overall I think Paignton Zoo is an expensive day out. If you plan on making a family trip, I'd recommend bringing your own picnic to save on costs and booking tickets in advance.
Positives: the car park is extremely big and free.
Walking around the zoo is great excersize.
The renovations shouldn't take too long to finish and the animals will have nicer enclosures :)
I wish Paignton Zoo all the best.
A Jenkins — Google review
Great zoo. Been to Paignton many times but this was a first visit to the zoo. Great offer of kids go free with paying adult meant we paid £40 for a family of five. We spent three hours there but could easily have done more. Be prepared for lots of walking and some steep slopes. Several enclosures were going through renovation but there were still plenty of animals to see. Would definitely visit again.
John Newman — Google review
It was a nice day out however we were slightly disappointed by the lack of animals. A few of the enclosures were empty with no sign of why, whilst others were empty with signs stating that work was being done. This was fine.
The fact that the park is so big and hard to navigate made the day slightly more frustrating. The guide (map) was £3.50 on the way in which is a clear money making scheme and there were no maps on the way around to see where we were or where we were going. We ended up walking up dead ends, away from all the animals and this was extremely frustrating as someone who is 8 months pregnant trying to make the most of the school holidays with her children. We missed a number of animals simply because we couldn't find our way to them. Yes we could have bought a guide, but £3.50 for something you throw away when you get home, on top of the price of food and tickets, was unreasonable to me. Other zoos I have attended provide these free on the way in and provide maps whilst navigating the area.
Ice cream was overpriced, but to be expected for an attraction area such as this.
Gift shop is located on the way in and way out, another clear money making scheme however the items in the gift shop are nice and have a good range.
There is a lot of walking included in the visit and a very small amount of it is flat, this is something people should be aware of if walking or in mobility scooters as the land is sometimes uneven.
I'm very unsure if I'll be attending this zoo again as I have found others that are more beneficial and animal focused.
Jasmine Miles — Google review
We visited during easter. The zoo has plenty of parking. Unfortunately it was a rainy day when we visited, however the staff had set up arts and crafts in sheltered places to occupy the children while everyone got out of the rain.
When we visited we converted to an annual pass, so although it is dear, if you were local you would get your money's worth back.
We were fortunate enough to see most of the animals so it was a successful visit in spite of the weather.
I think it's a lovely zoo with a layout which means you are not on top of each other with other visitors.
We went to the canteen when it was pouring at some point and though not gourmet, the portions are generous and reasonably priced.
What we didn't do well was plan our trip aligned to some of the feeding times and talks. I would advise finding out about these in advance as they are worth it.
Would definitely say it's a good day out for the family. I only wish you better weather.
Would not hesitate to return given the chance in the next 12 months.
Melinda Barthel (NotJustAMum) — Google review
We have a family pass so we can go as many times in 12 months which is amazing. The facilities for kids are great such as the soft play area that is broken down into areas for age groups. The animal enclosures are well maintained and it is clear they invest in the animals and the site as a whole.
Josh Walford — Google review
Surprisingly spacious zoo with so much to do and so nicely laid out!
The zoo itself was super clean too and we went on a busy weekend.
Make sure you bring your walking boots though as it is super hilly but well worth the trek!
Sian Atkins — Google review
What an amazing zoo, we had such a wonderful day! Really lovely enclosures and seemingly happy animals! Friendly staff, good choice at the Island restaurant and very nice gift shop. We visited on a Tuesday in winter so it was very quiet with no queues and no problems seeing all of the animals!
Shelley F — Google review
Really nice place it does have slopes. Friendly staff who are always happy to talk about the animals. Food is quite expensive and there are a lot a seagulls just ready to pounce. All in all a great day out for the family.
John Butler — Google review
It was such an amazing experience we had in here! I visited this place with my kids and spent the whole day here. Animals are well kept, and the stuff was helpful, kind, and knowledgeable. This zoo is definitely worth a visit 🥰
Krisztina Dozsai (Kyra.) — Google review
Lovely day out. But can't help but feel the zoo is lacking somewhat, lots of empty enclosures, and things being moved. Kids went free which is good, can't say I'd be overly impressed if all paid full price.
Staff were lovely, friendly and welcoming.
Will probably wait for news of new animals before returning.
Simon hill — Google review
Great Zoo! My disabled wife, teenage son , teenage daughter and I visited the zoo on 23rd October and discovered Paignton Zoo really cares about their animals and their customers.
We booked tickets online as requested and arrived at 12.30pm there was plenty of free parking but be advised the Zoo is on the side of a steep valley which if you have a self propelled wheelchair, like us, is going to be challenge.
When booking online and providing you supply proof, one carer can be submitted free of charge, which I thought very generous.
We entered the Zoo and discovered really helpful staff who offered us the opportunity to rent an off-road electric scooter for just £20 for the duration of our visit. We also had to pay a £20 deposit which would be refunded when we returned the scooter undamaged. We were in two minds whether to take this offer but this turned out to be a great investment as the hills were steep and the paths were long.
They also provided us with a map marking out the routes and attractions available via scooter or buggies. There was a real focus on making disabled customers and families with buggies/prams welcome in all areas of the zoo.
Toilets and refreshment stalls were dotted around the zoo keeping kids happy and the animals and attractions were accessible for all to see. Even though maintenance was taking place all animals were accessible, bar the giraffes. Apparently, they had a wild time the night previous and just couldn't face dealing with the public with hangovers.. we've all been there!
The zoo wasn't over crowded, there was no waiting in-line for anything even though it was quite busy. Food was lovely and we all had a really good time. We would definitely recommend a visit and don't forget to leave a donation as they get no financial support from the Government.
Mark Brace — Google review
Lovely open space to walk around and explore the animals. Indoor viewing areas help when the weather is not so dry. Great cafe with a good choice of food at reasonable prices. You can also bring your own food and picnic on the benches whilst watching the animals
Carole Mead — Google review
Lovely place with lots to see. Many animals stayed inside due to the cold which was a shame. Lots of walking which was great. A fabulous day out for little ones too with a couple if decent play parks. No hot food for customers from the cafe though, only hot pizzas for the workmen! Disappointing as they had run out of pasties which was the only thing available and nothing vegetarian either.
Annette Laurie — Google review
Lovely zoo with many interesting animals. Some good improvements being made to some enclosures with animal welfare being focused on. Good access for those needing, good to book a scooter beforehand, with good instruction on areas to avoid. Lunch options cater for most tastes with a number of cafes scattered around and the main restaurant well placed.
Brendan Wheeler — Google review
Took our (nearly) 3 year old here for the day and she had the time of her life. The zoo itself is more like a sprawling lush subtropical garden paradise with animal enclosures dotted throughout. The animals were all well cared for and healthy looking. The restaurant was nice too, offering a cool break from the heat outside. Make sure to take plenty of water in the warmer months! Highly recommended.
Lance Hambly — Google review
It has over 2,000 animals, however no elephants.
The giraffes are my all time favorite, wish we could get up close and personal with them.
Very clean, lovely walks on steady paths, great for disabled persons and also offer electric scooters for those that can't quite walk all the way around.
The crocodiles have been taken out of the zoo due to power shortage from the weather, but great zoo all in all.
Take a pack lunch or a picnic so you are saving on money.
kristy Smith — Google review
This is my first time to Paignton Zoo. It seems that a lot of the animals weren't there, or hiding lol. The zebra and giraffe areas looked like a building site but it does say that they're improving it at this time. I still have 5 stars because it's all about looking for the animals.
Stan Kempton — Google review
Getting to the Zoo was no problem at all after arriving at the booked time slot. It was fascinating to see the different types of animals in their almost natural enclosures. The information boards were packed with key facts and information to provide insight to what the animals eat and what are like out in the wild. We spent the whole day here which was good considering how much you are paying to gain entry. Would advise bringing a picnic but beware of the seagulls. All round good day out for two.
C R — Google review
Visited numerous times as a member. Great if you want to do something for a few hours or spend a whole day. Staff are always friendly and helpful and zoo keepers are very knowledgeable. Worth getting the membership if your are local.
Nina Goodwin — Google review
Very quiet on a Friday morning into early afternoon visit. With just young families and the odd members walking around it felt like we had the place to ourselves. All the animals were visible and we saw all the new arrivals since our last visit. We also had lunch in the restaurant which was quick and convenient.
Pete Lymn — Google review
A lovely zoo to visit on a nice day, there were four of us who went, myself and better half and two small ones (both under 3), parking was easy to find and get into with a short walk to the entrance where you’re able to view flamingos before entering, staff are warm and welcoming and seem genuinely helpful. There are a good deal of animals to see across different species along with different habitats such as an insect room and reptile house. There are opportunities to have an experience with talks and feeding sessions throughout the day for you to attend with times prominently displayed as you enter. The on site cafe and restaurant is a little expensive but not drastically pricey and the same goes for the gift shop on site as well, we came away with, I think 4, small souvenirs which totalled just above £20. The only drawbacks I experienced were some of the doors were a bit of a challenge to navigate with a double pushchair and some of the enclosures were quite far apart from each other so sensible footwear and clothing is a must. But overall a genuinely fun and engaging day out with the family
gareth puzey — Google review
Pretty good zoo, staff are really welcoming lots of parking, restaurant is fine and well priced. Spent 4 hours in the zoo so it was great value.
Jeremy Burand — Google review
Quite hilly to walk around and to/from the car park, son was excited to realise this is where the CBBC The Zoo is filmed after recognising different areas.
Pleasant day out, a few empty enclosures but signs explaining moves around but some just closed (Black Rhino) with no explanation. Some areas were a bit tatty needing a bit of tidying up, but given the poor weather recently this is understandable as not ideal conditions to be doing these sorts of repairs.
Would perhaps be worth considering a little shuttle up to the car park as it was a long walk at the end of the day!
Dave Drinks — Google review
Pity a lot of the animals were inside their huts as we only got to see about half of the animals. Some of the snack type facilities weren’t open & it was a case of going back to the restaurant for food. Thought the prices in the restaurant were very reasonable. Paths around the zoo were good but be warned that it’s not all on a level ground.
ian parker — Google review
We had a lovely time, despite being a chilly winter day, mid-February. It did mean most of the animals were staying tucked up inside in the warm. But we could view them in their quarters, apart from the Giraffes.
My 3 year old granddaughter loved it.
They are doing renovations for some of the enclosures and public park areas, which I'm sure will be fabulous by the summer.
They have some great birds and lots of cheeky apes.
I would say the Baboons need to be next on the list for a regeneration.
Fabulous, reasonably priced coffee.
Caution ⚠️(parents with little ones) The shop with delightful toys is on full view when you enter! Haha
Car parking is free.
Cindy White — Google review
A great day out! Lots to see, ample parking, friendly staff. The only bad mark was that some exhibits at the time of vist (I.e. Kangaroos) were empty and this wasn't informed, but plenty else to see
Christopher Warner — Google review
Fantastic Zoo with fantastic enclosures. We went midweek and the zoo was quiet enough to enjoy at a pace we liked. Having the mobility scooters for hire was absolutely fantastic, it meant I could ensure the experience with my children without worrying about the repercussions later. The food was lovely and had great portion sizes. Overall a fantastic day with very helpful and attentive staff.
The 450-acre country estate of Cockington offers natural beauty and tranquility in the heart of Devon countryside. The park features a thriving craft centre with over 20 studios, lovable village of Cockington with charming thatched cottages and a manor house, all in an enchanting setting.
Loved it here, lovely gardens to walk around with plenty of open spaces for the dogs to charge about. Loved the craft centre with its lovely shops, a great little find! There is a cafe on site serving hot n cold drinks, snacks and sarnies, which were very good! Then there is the lovely village full of thatched cottages, beautiful! Well worth a trip here!
Claire Cronin (All Things Dark & Dirty) — Google review
The village of Cockington is a real time machine, stepping back in time to days gone by! It is a quaint part of south Devon which is well worth a wander around. The highlight is the Country Park which is accessible via a number of reasonable car parks. The park is packed full of beautiful trees and plants, water features and hidden paths. It’s a haven for dog walkers with lots to explore for kids too.. would thoroughly recommend.
Beth Polak — Google review
Genuinely surprise!
Lovely area, ground are well kept, parking is a fair price, shame when we visited lots of things were closed but still enjoyable to walk around!
Just be warned on entry there is a narrow road, signs saying not to park but seems a lot of people just ignore the signs and park up in the lane
Darren Stead — Google review
What a pretty place! Lovely cream tea shop craft and gift centre and beautiful thatched buildings with amazing gardens...the hotel/pub beautiful with superb gardens
Karen , — Google review
Amazing park! I love this cozy side of Torbay, this fabulous park next to the cottages is just the definition of a fantastic day! I am fond of the lakes there and people are so friendly. I love the stories on the benches by the way, they are so touching!
Wala Awad — Google review
It's free 😁 . Very tidy. There is a free toilet by the kitchen gallery.
Rose garden was amazing,the smell was so strong and sweet. Watching glass blowing was fun.
Scenery was tranquil and beautiful. Thatched cottages everywhere. Food was very expensive imho But looked nice.
Bought rum n raisin ice-cream ,very large scoop in normal cone, £2.25 good value😁
graeme ?Gray? hellier — Google review
Brilliant day out,the walks round the grounds and lakes,the craft centre with blacksmiths and glassblowing amongst other crafts,plenty of Ben he's to sit and enjoy the fabulous views,cafes with wide variety of home made produce,quaint thatched roof buildings,not to be missed.
Harry Hodge — Google review
Great place to spend a day strolling through Cockington Village. A really well preserved Country Park with a blacksmith's, thatched cottages, a church, large manor house, shops and tea rooms. It feels like stepping back in time. There are expansive grounds, tarmacked paths and cross-country walks. All very accessible. When I was young there used to be shire-horses which pulled carriages you could ride. These seem to have gone now but still a really chilled place to visit.
Zack Highfield — Google review
A great day out with kids and dogs. Lots to explore and plenty of space for burning off energy. Spent about 4 hours here in total, including a drink in the pub.
Only problem we had was the card machine in car park wasn't working and we didn't have enough change, luckily a very kind lady gave us some.
Gemma Prangnell — Google review
Excellent place for walking (especially of you have a dog)! Nice coffee shop in the main house. Lovely walks through the park. Excellent craft shops on site as well - highly recommended.
Rich C — Google review
Great time here, great place for bringing dogs too, nice artisan stores, also blacksmith and glassblowing. Pretty rose garden and cafe
Lisa Boulton — Google review
We love popping in to Cockington but was disappointed that our favourite Afternoon Tea venue has closed and now for sale sign of the times, over the road is a new Café opened with substandard Scones, dirty water for the Puggies, nit been cleaned for ages. They gave treats at least. The parking is OK with a friendly traffic warden as he takes a photo of your car for later when you are enjoying yourself so much he gives you a ticket, no phone app sadly you have to use a credit card or real money. A lovely place to visit and a few Craft shops and a pub etc
Stephen M Goldsmith — Google review
Explore the woodland walks if you go here. Too many people miss these areas. Review update following covid and staffing shortage the rather nice clocks cafe is now fully open with real cups again
Outside The Box — Google review
Brilliant place to visit and the staff are so friendly. The cafe is lovely and the ice cream portion very generous, will definitely return when back in the area.
Mollie Maynard — Google review
Excellent old countryside village in England. Beautiful old cottages. Some classy gift shops. Green landscapes. Walking trails. Ample parking. Nice pub near parking.
Sunil Gokarn — Google review
There are beautiful houses.
In the park there is a beautiful church that you can go inside.
There is a lot of different walking paths and one of them takes you to the beach.
There is a beautiful garden there is a shop that you can buy hand made things that are made by the blacksmiths there.
Parking is at the place as well.
Sylwia Hukowska — Google review
Very pretty village especially during spring/summer when the flowers bloom.
Nice café there too that does yummy chocolate scones
Also Drum Inn pub is good. There is a small playground for children. Beautiful lakes. Great for dogs to run around 🙂
Filipa Fernandes — Google review
A great place to spend time and in good weather the day ,with a stunning location with lots of marked out walks ,also a craft market with live demonstrations and glass blowing etc. Also places to eat children's play areas and pick nick areas .👍👍
Dave Parnham — Google review
Cockington park is a beautiful place to visit with quaint 16th century thatched cottages, a visitors centre, craft shops, gift shops, gardens, children's play area, pub, tea rooms & a country house with sculptures & art inside & out. It's ideal for walking or picnicking & dogs are welcome. 🙂👍
Just make sure you have change for the carpark because the card machine doesn't work.
Babbacombe Model Village is a model village with 4 acres of miniature buildings, vehicles and people. It has a castle and a fiery dragon.
Good day out, spread over 4 acres. Is a bit hilly but can be accessed by wheelchair if your feeling fit. Fascinating to see whether your adult or child. Restaurant area and gift shop. Not far from bygone years which is also worth a visit at the same time and within walking distance.
Loraine ?Unic71? Lear — Google review
What a place! We visited in the summer of 2032 and spent a most enjoyable few hours touring the village. So much to see and masses of detail in every scene. We loved it, and had great fun spotting all the details. The crazy golf was free and was great fun too. Highly recommended if you want to be surprised and amazed at the skill of the model makers.
Wendy Brown — Google review
What a wonderful place. It's so well thought out, and the humour is great. Added bonus of free crazy golf. The grounds are well maintained. Love the new indoor mythic section as well. Highly recommend to anyone visiting the area, you will not be disappointed! They update the models regularly as well.
R D — Google review
Great place for all the family. Kids love this place. So much to see and explore. The continuous work by the gardeners makes this place really special and magical. The café is a little limited but has a good selection of drinks. The car park outside is a pay and display Council car park and always loads of spaces.
Phil E — Google review
Possibly the biggest Model Village I have ever visited (ironically!) - very steep hills at the start and end though!
Clever little details like a lot of Model Villages, challenging mini golf included in the price which was good along with a few other displays in addition to the main village.
Fairly limited choice of food in the cafe, but all staff we interacted with were pleasant and welcoming.
Quite expensive parking though, but that is the local council, not the Model Village that sets that - they should lobby for lower charges to increase footfall.
Nice place to visit for a couple of hours! (the kids enjoyed getting the dragon to breath fire too!)
Dave Drinks — Google review
Went in a family group of eight, spent the afternoon there, the crazy golf was fun (which is included in the entrance fee). Everywhere seems clean and well kept and if you take your time you'll see more than you first notice. The cream tea in a box was tasty. Really enjoyed our time here, I recommend a visit.
Kathy H — Google review
I love a model village and I’ve been coming here for over 40 years. I still think this is the best in the country and it’s updated and changed so there is always something to see. First time I’ve been since they added crazy golf which was great fun.
Well worth a visit.
Jo Frazer- Wise — Google review
Truly is detail ! It is worth a visit never mind the kids it’s for everyone! Who enjoys more me or my son ! My wife loved it ! Well sign posted to spend time looking at the models to take pictures! Something for everyone & comical to laugh at ! Toilets fantastic! Cafe area fantastic well priced ! A beautiful sit down area out side to enjoy your food ! This model village is like a massive garden hidden gem ! They say at night it looks beautiful! Try it for your self & be a kid again !
Massimino Malacrino — Google review
How I want to give this a 5 star! But I cannot just for price reasons. £17.95 on the door per person...its an amazing model village, the first one I've been to since I was a child. But it was nearly £20 or £40 for two people, mentally it felt too much. I would of preferred it closer to £15 than £20. Anyway, the village was incredible, loads of unique things to spot, celebrity models to find and plenty of photo opportunities. You'll enjoy it, and it's just about worth it's money! (Or buy tickets in advance like we should of and save those extra couple of £££s.
Jake Phillips — Google review
It was such an amazing experience. From my point of view, besides the fun of looking at the buildings and the people, it's a great place to contemplate our lives from above. It's so well done. I recommend this location to everyone. It's great fun for children and adults alike.
Roxana Arsenie — Google review
Not visited here since I was young and walking in just brought back so many memories. The layout of the village is great, taking you down a hill. The place is very picturesque. We visited for one of the Summer Night Illuminations and it was great to see it all lit up. Had to use our phone torches towards the end to read the signs and properly view the exhibits. Maybe be worth having torches available for those who may not have a phone?
GSX Jen — Google review
Recommend booking online for a discount.
We were an hour early and the gentleman still allowed us with no issues.
Beautiful scenery even in bad weather.
Models are clearly well crafted with a brilliant sense of humour in mind for adults while children can marvel at the creations.
There are indoor models and of course outdoor ones. (Indoor has heating)
Nice that they have mini golf to break up the routine.
Overall, an amazing experience!
Don — Google review
Such an interesting model village, definitely one of the best I've visited.
Amazing detail in the models, some interactions and a "find where wally" for the children.
Has got accessible paths but very hilly and probably difficult to push wheelchairs about.
Thought it was quite expensive, but thoroughly enjoyed it.
Andrea McLean — Google review
I was very impressed with this model village, the detailing in the people was very good. Everything is well thought through. There’s arrows on the floor so you don’t miss anything. Very clean toilets. 4 acre plot with models all over. There’s crazy golf on site with a cafe and a gift shop. Overall a 5 star experience with reasonable pricing.
Dylan White — Google review
A brilliant day out which took us about 2-3 hours. Loved all of the displays and was great to see it's regularly updated with even small touches such as the recent FA Cup Final and King's coronation. You even get a game of mini golf!
Make sure you book in advance online for 10% off entry.
Mark Houlton — Google review
A lovely place with just a few issues. If disabled like myself the village is very steep in places so make sure you wear comfortable shoes and take someone with you and try to go on a dry day. Needs some extra rails in places otherwise an amazing place very family friendly and the staff was very helpful.
Jennifer Rowe — Google review
An enjoyable couple of hours looking around. There were nice plants to make it look pleasant. We played crazy golf for free, which was very unexpected. They had a cafe , that you could eat in or out. A little bit steep in places. We had a very pleasant day there.
Jan Langford — Google review
Simply amazing place.
Cost family of 4 £63 to enter, but don't let that put you off.
They clearly invest well back into the attraction which is beautifully clean throughout with ample clean toilets, a lovely cafe, good, fun crazy golf (included in admission fee), and of course a stunning and extensive model Village collection. Everything from old to future scenes with flowing water, trains, and literally hundreds of querky features and funny installations. Keep your eyes out for Where's Wally and friends, plus a fun Easter egg hunt (free with admission), which gives children a bracelet upon completion.
There is so much to see. You really mustn't rush, or you'll miss the detail.
Would highly recommend and definitely visit again when in the area.
Finally, the gardening is excellent throughout, and I love the use of alpines, confiers, and dwarf Acer trees throughout.
Order tickets day before to save around £1.50 per ticket. They don't take payment until you arrive.
:-)
Darren M (DMC) — Google review
We visited during the Easter break. We missed booking the tickets online so just turned up at the door as suggested on the website. I think during peak times this probably wouldn't work so plan ahead.
It was about £70 for a family of 4. We got a discount I think applied to larger groups.
We didn't struggle with parking but again it might be different during the summer.
The website recommends 2.5 hours which I say is about right. We played the mini golf before continuing with our tour so it could be less or more depending on whether you play and how long you take.
The children most enjoyed the interactive aspects including the fire breathing dragon but I enjoyed everything. The miniature train was a hit. They changed from freight train to passenger train in the duration of our visit so the excitement went up again 😂
Don't miss the indoor bits and do take a leisurely stroll.
The mythical kingdom is a matter of taste, we had divided opinions as you do with kids.
It's an attraction I would highly recommend even with its price tag.
The kids had fun finding the Easter eggs hidden in various displays.
If we lived closer it would be lovely to visit on some of their special events and themes
Melinda Barthel (NotJustAMum) — Google review
Very well presented. Could have saved a couple of quid if pre booked. Great history behind it. Spent about 2 hours here. Had a game of crazy golf too.
Stayed for coffee in the cafe.
Julie K — Google review
Wonderful little place....with council parking right in front of the venue....the miniatures are absolutely wonderful and kids loved it..... easily takes 1/2 day to stroll around the entire place
Bhanu Sriram — Google review
Lovely day out. Great for with the dogs and the staff were lovely ( even though my dog was a bit yappy 🤣) a lot of fun and so cute to take photos of the dogs next to the miniature scenes. If you go with a dog I'd go with a friend or someone else so that you can still look at the inside displays. I'd say it would be wonderful for all ages but if someone has mobility issues or is in a wheel chair they may struggle to get up the slope. Also as a future assistance dog handler it was wonderful to see signs saying no dogs except assistance dogs 🐕🦺 Vs the normal no dogs except guide dogs (for the indoor display areas where dogs can't go) I really appreciate it. If I come on holiday in the area again I will definitely be coming back. Thank you ☺️
Lucy Williams — Google review
Perfect for a sunny afternoon, our visit lasted around 2 hours. It’s a wee bit cheaper per ticket to book online in advance rather than just turn up. There’s a mini golf course of 9 holes and superb models on display. You can round it all off with a decent cup of coffee in the coffee shop too.
John Kentisbeer — Google review
Wow! So much to see here. The amount of detail in the houses and the sets is unbelievable.
You can spend a few hours walking around seeing everything, and your children will love it.
There's a burning house and a fire breathing dragon and so much more to see.
A great cafe ( the panini's are lovely) and handy toilets halfway round. There's also crazy golf if you fancy a game..
We went Halloween week and I think there were some items added for the occasion
Kevin Garland — Google review
This is one of the best model villages I've been to. The size and scale of some of the models and displays are wonderful and very skillfully done with a lot of humour included in the displays. Definitely a place not to miss.
Alan Amesbury — Google review
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Hampton Ave, Babbacombe, Torquay TQ1 3LA, United Kingdom
The caverns and trails of Kents Cavern are a popular tourist attraction for those interested in prehistory, with exhibits dating back 45,000 years. The caverns have a constant temperature of 14 degrees Celsius, making them ideal for winter use by prehistoric humans. Tours explore the chambers and tunnels, and visitors can also attend Shakespeare plays or meet Santa Claus in an underground setting.
Amazing experience! The formations in the cavern are beautiful, everything is very well maintained. Ticket prices are reasonable and the tour is about an hour. Our guide Alan was just fantastic - knowledgeable, engaging and funny! He made our experience even better with his jokes. It's a great experience for both kids and adults.
Rosi Petkova — Google review
Such a fun experience. Never had a tour in a cave and felt so engaged by our guide (David). Enjoyed every second, a lovely cafe where we had coffee before and after our tour, laughing staff enjoying themselves. Had such a lovely atmosphere.
Once in the cave, our tour guide “David” was brilliant, nice to be shown something by someone who is passionate and interacts so well with the group he is with. The operators really do have a gem with this tour guide, never had such a fun experience.
I have not put many pictures of the caves in as you need to visit to get the full effect of how great they are and the story they have.
tom bliss — Google review
Lovely little visit. We caught the bus from Paignton which was a nightmare, but actually at Kents Cavern was great. We arrived early so we were able to move our pre-booked tour from 12.30 to 11am. We had a time for a coffee (which was delish) and Simon our tour guide was great he involved the kids in the tour asked them questions and was more than happy to answer questions at the end. He gave a warning about low head room and wet under foot. I have slight mobility issues so if you're the same please, please wear proper footwear, flip-flops and water DON'T mix. The woodland trail is steep but that's mainly the steps but it's great for the kids.
Lou ?Mrs Xxx? Beary — Google review
Amazing piece of history. Our guide Amy was very knowledgeable and funny and made the experience something to remember. I'd recommend to anyone in the area to visit here. Such an interesting place! The onsite cafe is lovely too and reasonably priced. All of the staff are very welcoming as well.
R D — Google review
Excellent experience given by James, the very knowledgeable and entertaining guide. Came here at Christmas for the Father Christmas experience which the children loved with all the elves entertaining them and a free gift from Santa.
This visit was about insights into the caves and the animals and people who lived here. Children as young as 6 up to pensioners all were captivated, including the special effects and the complete blackout experience.
Prices are reasonable considering the top quality attraction and if you're an annual member (currently £20) then you get 10% off shop and cafe prices and free entrance for a year plus free parking. Cafe has good cakes, coffees and teas and not expensive.
David Wood — Google review
These Prehistoric caves are, without doubt, the most remarkable site I have ever visited and today's experience way, way, way exceeded even my highest expectations. Millions of years of geology, hundreds of thousands of years of history and the chance to explore one of the World's most important stone age sites. Superlatives, there are none which adequately do justice to what I saw and heard on this morning's guided tour. Our guide, Ellie, absolutely smashed the delivery of it out of the park - easily the best tour I have been a part of. Facts, anecdotes, stories, humour, all evident in a wonderfully confident presentation to a highly receptive and appreciative group. The sensory interaction and way that cave history was brought to life was exceptional. This was exquisitely done and I would strongly suggest a visit to the caves whenever in this neck of the woods. Utterly outstanding.
Stanners RJ — Google review
An interesting place to visit with your kids especially when is raining or is too hot outside. The temperature in the cavern is around 11 degrees all year around. You'll learn a lot of interesting facts from the tour guide.
There is a small cafe and toilets are available also.
Vladimir Homola — Google review
Great experience here!! Guided cave tour which was hilarious, but also incredibly interesting!! Well worth the money and time. Also a little woodland walk to do. The caves are fairly accessible with hand rails most of the way through where there's slopes.
elliott buckley — Google review
This was my first time ever in a cave. It's worth it. Try it. The tour guide was very good. Kept us engaged the whole tour. The tour is about an hour. But you don't notice it. The cave itself is very nice. The temperature in the cave is a little chilly. About 10-14° it's quite amazing down there. You have a little safety briefing. And then some walks to various chambers. I can fully recommend this. There's a Cafe, gifts shop and on site parking. A kids recreation area too.
Zane___ K — Google review
This was absolutely brilliant, both for grown ups and kids. We had a 6 year old and 11 year old with us. The guide was fantastic, the place was really well presented, there was zero waiting time for our slot. Really high quality tour, thoroughly recommend.
Simon Green — Google review
We were lucky enough to arrive at opening time and nobody else did - so we had the absolute pleasure of a tour for 2 with our own tour guide; James.
What an amazing experience this is. James was extremely knowledgeable about the history of the caves and the geology of the area (I'm sure the other guides are too!) And he presented this information in an engaging and amusing way, always happy to answer our many questions and discuss things.
The caves themselves are a must see if you're in the area - and are worth travelling to if you're not. So much history - and the ages of the caves, the dwellers, the bones that have been discovered and the rock formations are simply mind boggling.
Cannot recommend this place highly enough for a really interesting couple of hours out - and if James happens to be your tour guide, you've hit the jackpot.
Darren — Google review
Can't believe I've never heard of this let alone visited it! Really good tour, reasonably priced (especially if you coincidentally find yourself going in local's month!) with a nice cafe serving a limited range of really good food, again, at reasonable prices. The gift shop continues the reasonably priced theme so you don't come away with a massive bill. The tour is about an hour and, assuming all the guides are as good as James, both informative and amusing. Still photography is allowed and there is ample time to do that, rather than constantly being hurried along. It's the perfect wet weather activity but I strongly advise booking online (slightly cheaper) and in advance.
Adrian Walter — Google review
The tour takes 1 hour. Our guide Dave made this time very pleasant. The information he gave us was very interesting including why these caves in Devon are called Kents. Ever thought about it? Than ask Dave the tour guide.
LeSa — Google review
We visited the caves during our holiday and our tour guide Abbie was brilliant! Very engaging and a great story teller. Abbie made the tour lots of fun and we really enjoyed the caves and it's history.
Laura Beswick — Google review
Brilliant evening here for the cinema experience. Was a very interesting evening. Staff were friendly and helpful. Cafe was brilliant. The only negative was the chairs, you felt a little like you was sliding down during the film. But wasn't enough to put me off. Fantastic experience !
Simon hill — Google review
We really enjoyed our visit. James our guide was brilliant, he explained everything clearly and entertaining.
Dawn Dukes — Google review
If you like caved this is a must. You are given a tour hosted by David and he was very good full of information. Lovely cafe on site with good prices. We stayed 2-5 hours well worth the money.
Carl Osborne — Google review
Decided to visit here last minute at the end of our holiday and it ended up being the best part of the whole week. Our tour guide David deserves a raise, he was fantastic, brilliant with all the kids, especially my daughter who was a bit nervous in the dark, really knowledgeable about what he talking about, hilarious, and clearly really passionate about what he does. The tour was really interesting and all the extra bits outside of the caves were great too, lots of interesting information and interactive parts for the kids like gem digging.
becky wilton — Google review
Great experience and a well organised and informative tour. Staff were very friendly and the cafe and main building were immaculately clean. Not the first cave tour we've had but one of the best, parking is £3 for 4 hours at the time of our visit, November, as well as a cafe there is a woodland walk for children and a picnic area. Certainly a good place to visit for a few hours.
Alan Amesbury — Google review
Have to say, it was surprisingly educational and a comedic experience.
Ended up late due to traffic but the receptionist gave us the option to continue on missing 10 mins of the tour or wait for the next one, so we chose the latter.
There is a lot of history which is comically expressed, allowing you to keep interest.
Lucas was a great tour guide and kept the group engaged for 45 minutes.
Have to recommend it to anyone in the area.
Parking cost £3 which for 45 mins might seem expensive to some.
Plenty of spaces available though.
Don — Google review
That was really a wonderful tour. I am really surprised of the information which was introduced to us. Simon the guide of the tour was really creative and professional he really made the tour very interesting.
Fatima — Google review
Amazing experience , guided 1 hour tour ….🤩👏👏👏👏
They also sell a really nice pizza at the restaurant. 👌
Deiauk — Google review
This is a fantastic family attraction and well worth a visit! There is a display of artifacts to explore before or after you go into the caves. The caves themselves are very interesting with millions of years of history. There are the classic stalactites and stalagmites. There is an excellent cafe and shop. But above all else. The staff were truly exceptionally excellent! Very educational, patient and engaging with both parents and children.
Lee Edwards — Google review
The visit to Kents Caverns was truly delightful, providing a wholesome experience reminiscent of stepping back in time to the era of cave-dwelling and pre-electricity days. Our tour guide, James, was not only informative but also made the historic details of the cave come alive with his engaging and enjoyable explanations. Additionally, the amenities such as the cafe and souvenir shop made the ticket price entirely worthwhile.
Boopathi K — Google review
It’s hard to imagine there is much to see and do in a cave, but the guide was very knowledgeable, explain a lot about the history of the cave, how it was made, a loads more. I’m not going to lie I was a bit sceptical, but it was rather good.
We didn’t do the out side bit, wrong time of year and the weather was horrid.
Adam Doyle — Google review
Great cave, would highly recommend. Staff were friendly. Can get busy so book tickets in advance.
Benjamin Murtagh (Benjamin Murtagh) — Google review
Venice is a romantic cafe/restaurant with a beautiful waterfront garden and monthly salsa nights. The extensive menu offers Italian classics, Portuguese, Spanish, French and Greek dishes which are perfect for sharing. The food is delicious and reasonably priced making it great for a casual evening out.
We stopped at Venezia for a fried breakfast and pint while walking the dog along the quay and river. The waitress’s were friendly and quick to serve us. The breakfast took less than 10 minutes to brought to our table. Apx £22 for 2 large breakfast and two pints of kopparberg cider. We will most probably stop in again one day
Dave Edwardson — Google review
went to celebrate my birthday a few days ago. The view was good if you sat by the window. we booked a table for us as a family of 4, it was too small and we moved to another table (two tables together). Waited for half an hour after we ordered our food, guess it was busy that day. Waiting for half an hour was not fun but the food was good. My kids loved the 16-inch pizza. However, my steak was so so (I will give it 2 stars) but the chips were good, i will give it 4 stars.
A gentle reminder, if you ask the staff to take pictures for you, make sure you check the pictures after they were taken. Mine were all blurry, oh my birthday dinner pictures.... ( My fault after all)
tingting hui — Google review
Visited the quay today for my birthday. Wanted to go to Rock Fish but there was no availability (last minute choice to eat lunch out as we had dinner plans tonight).
We fancied a drink and a light lunch, we saw Bar Venezia and saw they did a seafood salad so decided on this. I ordered the seafood salad and my husband ordered the ceaser salad. We ordered chips to share.
The wait was approx: 45 minutes, not an issue at all for us as we were in no rush and it was a lovely warm day. We ordered a rose wine and a beer. The rose arrived in a plastic beaker and tasted cheap and sweet. I drank it seeing it was £5 and just looked forward to my salad. I thought the wait was going to be really worth it and some amazing salad was going to be brought out. How wrong was I.
45 minutes later - presented before me was a bowl of salad leaves, seafood mixed in and a huge amount of sickly seafood sauce, which tasted like it was straight out of a bottle. I picked through it before biting in to a piece of calamari and having to chew through it. I tired a mussel - tasteless and wet. I tried a crayfish tail - chewy and so tough it was not edible.
Then as I ate a bit more of the salad leaves, I saw water. I tipped the bowl and there was a good 100 ml of water sat underneath the salad. I was done!
We politely called one of the staff over and explained. I was offered something else about 3 times but I declined. I'd totally lost my appetite. I was offered a refund, which I accepted. I just picked at the chips, which were quite nice.
We cannot fault the attentiveness of the waiting staff, they were on it and efficient, albeit the waiting time (of which we would have been absolutely fine with if we were served good food). They honoured a refund, were apologetic, friendly and polite - so 5 stars for that. However, 1 star for the quality of the food.
If Gordon Ramsay was there he'd say...."My gran could do better and she's dead!".
I'd never go here again , but it was an experience!
Emma — Google review
Had a fabulous desert here several evenings ago. The food is always very good. On my visit there were very few people in the restaurant and therefore the atmosphere was rather subdued.
Gareth Jones — Google review
Chilled place with good selection of food and drinks, shisha is nice, but can get a bit chilly when sitting outside.
Indy Ro — Google review
Food was so good and decent priced to. Really enjoyed it x
Kerry Conachie — Google review
After a long week at the office, I came here to unwind with friends and my significant other. My companion offered to get me a drink before I arrived, but she wasn't able to. When I walked in, a curly-haired beauty greeted me and started serving us right away.
Felix Ernst — Google review
✨️We stopped by for lunch here on the first sunny day of the year. Was gaurlt busy but we managed to grab a table outside 😀 service was a wee bit slow, our drinks nearly came at the same time as our food. We ordered a spicey chicken burger 🍔 and a halloumi slouvaki wrap with chips. The food was delicious and piping hot. However, quite pricey, we felt for what it was, but then what isn't pricey nowadays 🤷♀️ Staff were really friendly and did do their best on a busy sunny day !We had takeaway ice cream afterwards 🍦which was amazing! Definitely recommend the white chocolate chip flavour 😋
StarLight Blue2 — Google review
Great service, lovely food, fast service.
The only thing let it down was the coffee, the cappuccinos milk was burnt and made it tasteless..
The food was so tasty tho, and the service with food was fast...
Reasonable price for the location with great views over the canal.
Missed out on tiramisu as it was all gone! Saved my waistline a couple of inches! 😁
Will definitely be back...
Murray Golder — Google review
Star of the show were the chunky chips. Nice and fluffy with beautiful crispy outside.
Ribs weren't a standout but very tasty nonetheless and really nice chicken tenders.
The waitress was top draw, very polite and welcoming.
Although she was just glad of customers on a quiet Monday evening!
Decent amount of choice on the menu so we'll worth a visit.
Zack Pearce — Google review
Not the best lunch I’ve ever had. The service was not great was left a long time and had to go back to the bar to ask for service again. Even when the place was not that busy. Also it’s very pricey for what you get. Food is no better quality than a weather spoons. Won’t be returning.
Jason Content — Google review
No idea why this place has a 3.8* rating. The food was fantastic, especially the seafood linguine which was several levels better than that I had in the actual Venice. Service a little slow to begin with but they had just taken an order for a table of a dozen people so understandable. We'll definitely be back next time we're in Exeter.
dunstan westbury — Google review
Very relaxed enjoyable evening. Food was great & service was excellent. Gluten Free well catered for.
Andrew Rowles — Google review
Lovely place.
Stopped en route home from Cornwall to south Wales for some lunch.
Had amazing eggs royal. Nom nom.
robin benton — Google review
Really friendly and welcoming staff, dealt with dietary requirements without drama and the food was delicious. Lots of gluten free options. Will be going again next time I visit Exeter.
Steve Hobbs — Google review
3.9
(655)
•
4.5
(1623)
8 Piazza Terracina, Haven Rd, Exeter EX2 8GY, United Kingdom
This beautiful cathedral is over 900 years old and famous for its vaulted ceiling and astronomical clock. It has tours where you can see the best views of the city from the roof. The library contains many historical documents which is a must see for anyone visiting Exeter or staying in a cottage nearby.
Beautiful not crowded by donation only and a beautiful sunny warm spring day. Worth the visit and then walk around the cathedral close and admire the elizabethan and Tudor buildings. Or sit on the grass or the steps good choices of restaurants in and around. Last time here was 1974.
David Phipps — Google review
The Christmas Market was really busy, so we went into the cathedral to warm up and it was my first time inside, what a spectacular building it is, seeing the architecture that was all around represents the fantastic achievements in those times. It's an absolutely stunning building. Well worth the visit. Will be returning to have a more in-depth look.
Shane Green — Google review
Absolutely magnificent! Incorporating a mixture of architectural styles, the earliest being Romanesque, followed by Norman, Gothic & English Gothic. The cathedral has the longest, unbroken ceiling vaulting known as "Tierceron", in the world. When visiting, I recommend tagging onto a guided tour, the guides are extremely knowledgeable & will point out & explain many architectural features that could easily be overlooked if just making ones own way around. The guides will also give accounts of key people in history that have made their mark in this lovely building, both masons & bishops etc. When visiting the vibrant city of Exeter, I thoroughly recommend a visit to this beautiful building.
Jim Stringer — Google review
Visited Exeter Cathedral first thing on a Saturday morning. The cathedral was almost empty and got to walk around on my own. Was haunting in its beauty and made for some really awe-inspiring moments. Although not the biggest cathedral, it is beautiful and really inspiring in its proportions. The carvings and images are really beautiful and delightful in their intensity. A lovely place to visit, you can sit and have a moment or a picnic on the cathedral green and it is a very short walk to get to the shops and into town. Accessibility is very good. The staff were all very kind and polite and even moved out of the way so that I could take some photographs. Spent over an hour in there and thoroughly enjoyed it. So peaceful and pleasant way to spend a Saturday morning.
James Valente — Google review
Exeter Cathedral stands as a magnificent testament to centuries of history and architectural splendor. Its towering spires and intricate facade captivate visitors from afar, drawing them closer to explore its grandeur. As a tourist, viewing the cathedral from outside unveils a breathtaking sight, showcasing its impressive Gothic design and intricate stone carvings. Whether admiring its facade bathed in sunlight or illuminated against the evening sky, the cathedral's exterior exudes a sense of awe and wonder, making it a must-see attraction in Exeter.
Master J — Google review
A historic building on a grand scale. The transformation into a great attraction for the public drives from all ages folks and children to come and admire the beauty of this worship place. The great moon globe exhibit in the centre is the main attraction.
Mas Hassan — Google review
The cathedral is beautiful. One can simply become awestruck in the architectural design of the whole building. The interior is also very elegant. We came here for evensong a couple of times and they were very well carried out services. It is worth it to visit this cathedral.
Adrian Evers — Google review
There were lots of building works going on when we visited with lots of closed off areas. Thoe areas accessible were used for storage. Feel we should not have been charged the £7.50 and should have only asked for a donation or at least informed us. Lovely Cathedral.
Gail Thomas — Google review
For those who love architecture and history, a great place to visit, entry by donation, so please donate to up keep the places of history. Toilets are everywhere, good parking available. Renovations is going on inside and outside.
Alfred Fernandes — Google review
As everywhere, the National Trust is responsible for the maintenance and care and, as everywhere, this has also been successful here. A beautiful and well-kept cathedral. Is currently under renovation, but you could see a lot. The outdoor area is also well-kept and invites you to stay here.
Sarina Cl A — Google review
This was the best architectural work I have ever seen in my entire life. The dates are amazing! The welcome and tours conducted by the staff was very enriching. At least I had a bit of the church history in England. I am sure I will go back again. This is a very rich heritage.
Nyakambah Nyatigoh — Google review
600 years old cathedral in Exeter, South-West England.
It is known as the Church of Saint Peter and its architecture is really impressive.
Ofter there are street artists' performances in the area so the place never gets quiet.
People use to chill in the nearby park and also at the coffee shops located opposite the street.
Immanuel D — Google review
You don't have to be religious to appreciate the magnificence of this amazing cathedral. The facade is covered with beautiful carvings and stone masonry. Fabulous architecture that it is, it gives little clue as to the truly spectacular interior. The sheer size is overwhelming and the fan-vaulted ceiling is amazing. Currently, the cathedral is hosting a gala exhibition, the centerpiece being a huge revolving replica of planet earth, suspended from the ceiling. If you're in the West Country, this is a visit that you won't regret making.
Martin Toogood — Google review
A beautiful cathedral.
BUT I think it's wrong to charge people for visiting a church. Many cathedrals ask for a donation - a much better idea. It was expensive too - especially if you are on benefits or an oap.
Lesley Tweddle — Google review
Beautiful cathedral. Not as large as some of the other cathedrals. Currently undergoing renovation therefore some parts are closed to the public. Entrance Adult £7.50.
Harjinder Kaur — Google review
An absolute gem of a cathedral which has a very holistic and calming feeling inside. Excellent architecture which is awe inspiring when you consider the work and effort that went into it. It was great to be able to light a candle and spend quiet time in prayer and reflection. My visit was especially special as my great great grandfather's brother had the honour of having his funeral service held here in 1905.
Antony Davies — Google review
A really fascinating and free visit.
This is a massive cathedral with some truly ancient parts and sights to see and read about. For anyone into history, religious or not, this is a very interesting visit.
It is a beautiful site and worth the time to walk around.
paul watson — Google review
At the moment during January, entry is free but of course they appreciate voluntary donations which you can do by card or cash. They do offer free guided tours or you can have an audio guide but that waffles on a bit. We were lucky to meet one of the guides with free time and he was interesting. The original part was built in Norman times (1114) and the rest was added 1270-1328.
There are numerous memorials with a high proportion of Devon soldiers. Numerous historic items can be found with the original mechanics of the large clock above the gift shop on view. The organ pipes are enormous being over 10mtrs tall. Well worth a visit. For only the next couple of days there is a light show on in the evenings.
michael kent — Google review
This building is a piece of Art work. The large scales of the building and small intricate designs made in a time with no tool like we have are incredible. Exeter is so lucky to have this fabulous building. They have a great little gift shop and you do have to pay to get in but it’s soo worth it.
Joe Brennan — Google review
What a magnificent and magical cathedral and while visiting we had the pleasure to listen to the heavenly voices of a choir group and the cathedral organ practicing in preparation for Easter Sunday.
Definitely add this wonderful place to your itinerary if you are visiting the city of Exeter.
Zak Taemur — Google review
An ancient and beautiful cathedral in the heart of the historic city of Exeter. It's not as large as some of the cathedrals I have visited, but I found it every bit as impressive, from the great Norman towers and well-preserved medieval statues on the exterior of the building to the magnificent rib vaulted ceiling in the nave. There's an admission fee of £7.50 for an adult, £6 for concessions and students - very reasonable I thought, compared to some other cathedrals - and accompanied children go free. The man who issued my ticket was very helpful and informative, and I also bought a beautiful guidebook for £6. There are cathedral tours lasting an hour (included in admission), but I wandered around on my own. There was so much to see and admire. I was particularly impressed with the splendid Lady Chapel and the ornate tombs of the medieval bishops. There's an astronomical clock above the shop (which has a great selection of gifts and books). Could not visit the quire because it is undergoing extensive renovations. There's a café outside the cathedral, and when I visited there was also a very good craft market taking place. All in all an enjoyable and inspiring visit. Will be back to see the quire when it's finished!
Valerie Hinchliffe — Google review
Love the Christmas Market, staple of the year.
The park is always very peaceful and there's rarely ever noisy teenagers like in other parks around Exeter. Even if you're eating on your own, the pigeons will keep you company and they're very cute. They will not take your food.
The exhibitions and events that happen inside the cathedral are amazing too and I love learning about it's history. I also love that it has a quiet area for people to pray in peace.
Kara — Google review
Loved visiting the cathedral...its under going some work at the moment in the centre of it but it doesn't stop u from enjoying this lovely place of worship.
billie goldsmith — Google review
The heart of Exeter with stunning views and nice area to sit down and enjoy the view. Lots of shops, restaurants, pubs, cafes around and nice green area surrounding the cathedral.
Knightshayes Court is a Victorian mansion located in Bolham, one mile east of Tiverton. This impressive country house was designed by the highly eccentric architect William Burges for John Heathcoat Mallory, an MP from Tiverton, in 1869. The building features an array of stone curlicues, ornate mantles and carved figurines reflective of Burges' obsession with the Middle Ages, as well as lavish Victorian decoration.
Crealy Theme Park & Resort, located in Devon and one of the best theme parks in the south west, features 60 thrilling rides, live shows, and attractions including 75,000 ft of adventure play areas and indoor play zones. The animals here are some of the most adorable you'll ever meet including Meerkat Manor and Tortoise Town which are great places to take kids who love animals.
Loads of fun rides, shows and all year long events. We went to the ice skating show which was I must say a lot more than what I had anticipated. They had world class figure skaters and acrobats, fictional characters that interacted with children and great costumes and music. My toddler all other children absolutely loved it. Crealy theme park is a place we visit at least once every year. Great place for children and adults to spend a whole day together. Food and drinks on premises.
Wares File — Google review
Booked online & visited during the October half term. 2 adults, 3 children & a baby. £100 for the tickets in total. Car parking free.
The kids enjoyed the spook fest, they're 11, 9, 7 & 1 years old.
Had the opportunity of taking a free pumpkin - we didn't as we were on holiday so wouldn't have the space in the car to take it home etc.
Queue to get in moved quickly and orderly.
First ride my husband and older two tried to get on impacted on the morning some what. The on & off rain meant they kept stopping operations. Then ran it empty. After an hour of waiting. They closed it completely.
My daughter who's younger enjoyed the indoor rides during this time.
There is both indoor & outdoor play areas. The kids loved them.
Food prices aren't as extreme as you'd expect. We got 10 freshly cooked donuts I think for £7.
The gift shop was rather reasonable too.
I took my 1 year old for a walk around the lake whilst the other went one some of the ride. We found some ponies to look at and there were other animals in another section.
Overall & considering I personally don't like rides.. it was a great day for the family.
They enjoyed themselves. We spent longer there than expected. I do wish the park had been open until 6pm.
If you're a hard-core theme park lover this is rather mellow.
Definitely caters for the under 13s. If we were in the area again I'd certainly book to visit again.
Laura — Google review
Kid love this place been here loads and even become annual pass members just after covid. The shows have been good and the staff are great. We all like the new sooty land my kids are a little old for it but nice to see some new things starting to pop up. Looking forward to see what else will be happening here.
Some rides could do with a new paint job but all in all an enjoyable place for the family.
Chris R — Google review
Took the grandchildren, 9 &6 , just for the day, we knew the weather was going to be a bit mixed but also that there is plenty indoors to do if it did rain. They had a great time, even really enjoyed the sooty show, despite never having heard of sooty. Only complaint is there should be more water stations around the park to fill up your own bottle, as there is only one which is near the entrance so if you are over the other side of the park it is a long way to get to. But great value for money especially when the 2 for 1 offer is on. All the staff very friendly and helpful.
raymond Mildiner — Google review
We have just left after spending the day here, my kids are a bit older so I wasn't sure there would be enough for them here, but they loved it, the whole site was clean and tidy, the staff were so lovely, every single one went out of their way to make sure we had a great day, very helpful and friendly. Unlike other themes parks it wasn't overwhelmingly loud and the prices for food and drink were quite reasonable. We will be taking advantage of the free return. We managed to fill a whole day no problem. I would definitely recommend a visit.
Sarah Parry — Google review
Great resort, loads to do! Indoor, outdoor! Fantastic rides for all ages. Lots of food stalls dotted about. ( some were closed but I'm assuming in peak time they're all open).
Was let down by 2 staff members who were incredibly rude. 1 on a ride, that shut the gate on my daughter even though there was space for her on a carriage ( then asked if we wanted to go on then let us). After the ride I said thank you, they just blatantly stared back and ignored me. Really seemed like they didn't want to be there.The 2nd staff member was in a food hall, we asked if they sold hot dogs they said no but the picnic basket does, we said we had just been there and didn't see any. And we got a WELL THEY DO SELL THEM and an eye roll ( we wasn't questioning if they did or didn't, we just stated we didn't see any) . Apart from that great resort. LOADS TO DO.
The other staff were fantastic and very helpful. Don't measure children till they're at the gate about to get on. 1 ride my daughter was the right height and next she wasn't 🤷♀️
lauren denton — Google review
We took our two year old to the Santa meet and greet at the weekend. What a great experience! More than I expected. All of the Staff were really welcoming and very festive. Great price and really got us all into the Christmas festivities. First time meeting Santa and the elves. They all did such a great job.
We have an annual pass and he really enjoys it here. We would do it again.
Ellie Stevens — Google review
Good size theme park for the young ones, easy to find and no issues parking, entering or leaving.
Excellent in door play areas animals are well looked after, rides are fun and generally the cues are not too long. Lacks a bit in terms of food options, especially if you have children with any common allergies, and the service to get drinks etc quite poor at times.
Amazing themed occasions’ really do a great Halloween and Christmas. 👍
adam harriman — Google review
The last few years we have visited crealy many times. As a family of 5, it's a really great, affordable day out. I have four kids aged 5 - 13 and they are all very entertained for the whole day. The food and drinks are reasonably priced too which is a bonus if we forget the picnic. We've been with a friend and her four kids a couple of times too and it's great to know we can let the older kids go off whilst we stay with the little ones and knowing they're all perfectly safe.
Marissa King — Google review
Very good park walks all over Woodlands adventure park. We arrived at 10.30 and when 4 o clock came we still hadn't don't all of the park. The wrestling show was great entertainment and went on for half an hour. Great value for money. On site food is reasonably priced for a theme park to be honest. Don't expect it to be heap but middle of the road pricing and you don't need a separate mortgage to eat there. We went with a 15 year old a 13 year old and a 10 year old and they all thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
AL P — Google review
Staff here are welcoming and fun and add to the atmosphere. Everyone works hard to ensure all visitors have the best day. There is so much to do and see and it really is amazing for all ages, there so plenty for a toddler or a teen to do. With indoor and outdoor attractions it is good for a day out whatever the weather. Just a short drive from the M5 on outskirts of Exeter it is easy to get to and has a huge amount of parking. They have worked hard to make it accessible for all users too, mobility and sensory needs can be catered for and supported.
Amy Phillips — Google review
We spent the weekend in the safari glamping tents, it was a great experience. Evening entertainment in the clubhouse was just amazing, fun for all the family. Vince, Magic Mike/Ash and Kimberly were incredible with the kids and the adults too, just hilarious. We spent 2 full days in the theme park and was so much to do. My 9 year old and 3 year old loved everything and had an amazing time. Food prices were cheaper than I imagined also. Would 100% recommend and 100% be going back!
Sophie Harwood — Google review
great for young families, THE most helpful staff
this is a great little gem of a destination. my kids are 4 and 5 and they were able to participate in every thing offered.
the staff were exceptional at every interaction and clearly had guest experience at the forethought of their minds.
for those with disabilities, the queue assist scheme experience was exceptional - although, we only had to use it twice in the day as the queue times were a few minutes at best so just used the normal lines.
unfortunately, we had to attend first aid immediately on arrival (over excited child + running = head bump) and they were swift, professional and thorough in their assistance.
chelsea porter — Google review
Only visited the theme park,
Took a 4,9 and 17y.o.
Ample parking.
Plenty to do for all ages.
Will be returning.
Free wristbands but you have to queue for them which was the longest queue lasting 15 minutes!
Overall great family day out using kids pass, so our tickets cost 67.50 with a free 7 days day return.
Stella Richardson — Google review
Lovely place! We visited for the day so have no comment regarding accommodation. My 6 year old daughter absolutely loved it! You definitely need a whole day to get comfortably around the whole park allowing time for queues. The only downside I found was, food and gift shop items were over priced. However, we did get a free return ticket for use within a week which is great 😊
Sarah C — Google review
Absolutely amazing stay! We've just got back from the 4 days tots break and had a brilliant time despite the rain. The hot tub lodge was clean, spacious and really modern. Hot tub was a great addition that was maintained and checked twice a day by the hot tub guys. The clubhouse was brilliant especially the staff. Jenny & Ian were very friendly and welcoming, also on hand for anything you needed. Victoria and Toni did an amazing job keeping the kids entertained. Even when there wasn't any planned actives running they made sure the kids wouldn't get bored. Was always something to do and we enjoyed going to the clubhouse when it rained as we knew the kids could run around and have fun. Kids ate for £1 which was a bonus! The team in the clubhouse couldn't do enough and really made our stay.
Theme park is a 2 minute drive, we would have walked if it wasn't raining. Lots of rides and two massive soft play areas. Rides and attractions indoors in case you need to hide from the rain. Again everyone was so friendly at the theme park. Would highly recommend and will definitely be back! Thank you so much to everyone who made our stay amazing.
Taylor Osborne — Google review
The kids really enjoyed the day. Rides are perfect for young children. Very clean, staff very good, food and beverages reasonable.
It's completely cashless apart from a few things the the drying machine so worth taking a few pound coins!!
Neil “Neile 75” — Google review
Really great little theme park experience. We went during the Halloween themed October half term event and there were lots of extra experiences to enjoy which were included in the entry fee.
Rides are most suited to up to around age 10 in my opinion (this is obviously subjective). I was there with an 11 year old and we had a great time but on the whole I think younger kids would get more from the experience.
I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND, BRINGING YOUR OWN FOOD.
I'm fairly used to theme parks charging creatively for food but after paying £6.50 for a single round of bread wrapped around a bit of cheese with too much butter, a tiny bit of brownie, a banana and a fruit shoot I do feel this was justifiable.
Simon Mohr — Google review
Travelled for the Christmas at Crealy.
First ride a guy called Rob was the most lovely gentleman. Wished us all a merry Christmas and was completely the same with everyone. He alone made me want to write a review. Have to say the staff throughout the park were happy, friendly, upbeat and a huge credit to the site.
We had a great day and have been 2 years running. Very few queues, loads for kids to do & Santa experience was lovely. Well done all.
Was a shame the forest Interactive walk wasn't on this year as it was super last Christmas 🎄
Ben Hopson — Google review
A great , cheap day out with the kids. What struck us the most was the friendliness of the staff. Every one of them had a smile on their face, which is no mean feat with hundreds of kids flying around. Bob was a favourite of our children. Thanks for making our afternoon so pleasant, Crealy staff, you all deserve a medal.
Elsie Harp — Google review
We have platinum annual membership for Crealy and overall it's a really good place to visit with small and older children.
Most of the staff are really friendly and smiley, but some could smile a bit more and just work on their customer service skills a little bit more.
Staff also need to all be informed about the perks of the platinum card and scanning it for discounts, as I was told by one that yes I could have the discount applied on my purchase and then somewhere else in the park another staff member told me one discount had already been applied and so there was no additional discount with my annual pass, but that was incorrect.
In general it's a very clean, well looked after park and we enjoy our visits.
Tip- buy the coffee cups and slushie drinks bottles and then refills are MUCH cheaper!
Ellen Fernando — Google review
Love crealy, great fun day out for all the family. Being an annual pass holder means we can go as many times as we like. The huge indoor soft play is amazing and even great fun for adults. Would give 5 stars but the soft play is currently running in sessions so there are big queues which aren't helpful when you have 2 small kids plus could do with another big indoor seating area for lunchtimes in wet weather.
Charlotte Hollings — Google review
Great day out for kids. Our little one was a little too small for a lot of rides, recommended 92cm+. But we still managed a couple of rides and had lots of fun on all the different indoor and outdoor play areas, as well as the different animal sections. Great value for money. We had southern fried chicken meal with chips and it was so tasty.
CoralAmanda — Google review
Although the weather wasn't brilliant. In between the break of rain and sun getting through we all had a great time. The staff there was brilliant and very professional to explain the rules of every ride 👏. Plenty of parking. Good food. But I can imagine how busy it's going to get in the summer time. You will have to be patient on waiting your turn for any of the rides. Have fun 👍.
David Phelps — Google review
Well what can I say crealy is fantastic! Prices to get in are extremely reasonable and they do offer where sometimes your return visit is free (within a time frame) so the price is even more reasonable! Once inside plenty of places to sit down for picnics etc. plenty of places for shade and inside areas if it’s too hot for you or is raining. staff are ever so Friendly and they genuinely seem happy. Rides are great for little thrill seekers and no so little thrill seekers. we loved it that much we are looking into annual passes. Enjoy a day at a great price!
Anna Shaw — Google review
Communication and information not excellent prior to arrival or even at check-in so best to contact them with any questions in advance. We came less prepared than we ought to so took us a day to get to grips with it. Not so much a resort, as a large campsite near the theme park. Enjoyed our stay though and had a lovely lodge with a hot tub and the theme park was good for youngsters.
Jamie Wogin — Google review
Just back from a long weekend (Fri-Mon), staying in one of the Devon Hideaway cabins. Such lovely, clean, accommodation with great comfy beds - a real home from home. My children aged 13 and 6, had the best time at the park, and on the resort. They loved the evening entertainment and I have based the 5 stars on how much of a good time they had. All the staff were helpful and engaging and the entertainment crew were brilliant. We rebooked for next year but for a week, as we were so sad to be leaving so soon. I highly recommend - good old fashioned fun. Thanks again to all at Crealy - With a special shout out to Vince... My kids thought you were ace!
K Clark — Google review
Visited with my daughter for the day - really enjoyed it! We also took advantage of the free return visit within a week summer holidays offer and returned the following day - this was excellent value!
Plenty of choice of things to do and keep children occupied. The site is cashless but cash is required for the arcades.
On our second visit the weather was really wet but still managed to do plenty and there are lots of facilities indoors too!
Staff were very friendly and helpful throughout the park.
Lisa Bennett — Google review
Visited Crealy Park with my niece on a Saturday in August (during school holidays) - we had a fantastic time! All of the rides were brilliant and we didn’t wait longer than 15 minutes in any of the queues. Lots of open space, so even though it’s busy, it doesn’t feel crowded. We managed to do all the rides we wanted to in one day and had SO much fun. Will definitely be back and would absolutely recommend to others! Food isn’t great so bring your own :)
Jenni Allen — Google review
We had a fantastic time during the Halloween events. We didn't stay overnight but went to Crealy for the day.
The trolls trail, haunted hotel and maze were fantastic and the staff really did make it. Excellent enthusiasm and acting which really did make it for all ages. Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend and well worth the entry charge.
Lyndsey Joy — Google review
We had so much fun and the kids (6 and 8) didn't have time to worry about the cold weather - there was lots to do!
Loved all the rides and every single member of staff were friendly and enthusiastic. Enjoyed the lights trail too
Nicole Mortimer-Dowse — Google review
Thank you for a brilliant year at Christmas at crealy!
This year we had the option to have the Santa experience or not and chose against it as my children with additional needs didn’t cope well last year. We had the best experience yesterday with no meltdowns and access onto rides without much wait which was brilliant.
Staff were very patient and understanding of my sons needs and that made the whole day go smoothly. We loved the twilight lights in the evening as sensory heaven. Thank you so much we can’t wait to re visit.
Chloe Overington — Google review
It’s alright for little kids but not ideal for older teens. It was the first time visiting and it was underwhelming. However, there were a few things the kids really liked, such as a reptile house and the wrestling show. Half the rides weren’t working either.
The food service in the main food court is shocking. I felt so sorry for the workers to be honest - there doesn’t seem to be a manager keeping an eye on what’s happening. The system they have in place for ordering food doesn’t work- it needs reviewing; many people got the wrong order. We waited 40 minutes and got the wrong food, and had to wait again- it wasn’t that nice.
I don’t think we will go back anytime soon.
Lyndsey Carmichael — Google review
We went to the theme park only and It was amazing. At £14 a ticket it is great value. Our kids (5&3) were able to go on pretty much all the rides more than once and had such a great time. The soft play is huge and on a rainy day I'd just go there for that and the inside attractions.
MARCELLE Cowley — Google review
I have been fond of this place for the past twenty-plus years, and it is great fun. It is the first time I have stayed. The sooty lodge was very good. We did have an issue while there; the park was a little slow to respond, but they got the problem sorted and gave us vouchers to compensate us. On the whole, our experience was good and as expected. It has the potential to be great and probably will be when the season starts in earnest.
The park is currently a little understaffed, but I suspect it will improve as the season gets warmer. It is great for smaller kids to about 12.
I enjoyed it, it's easy, safe, and the staff are polite.
Andrew Crooks — Google review
This was our second visit. The theme park was great, very clean and tidy and didn’t ever seem too busy which was great over the Easter weekend. I’m always surprised that all the eateries aren’t ever open and this limits choice. We took our caravan and stayed as part of the stay and play weekend, which is great value. The washing facilities are great, shower block and toilets also great and so is the little park, my only criticism is the small hard standing part of the PAW pitches, they just need to be 3 or 4 foot wider so that you are able to get in the caravan without getting covered in mud, there’s plenty of room for it, it got tiring having to manoeuvre the children and dog in and out! Also, I’m sad to say that the evening entertainment is not comparable with high end campsites, this could be a much better feature and puts me off coming again because my children love this aspect of our caravanning trips.
Clare Davies — Google review
It's been years since I last visited but not a huge amount has changed. It's perhaps fine for little kids, but for over 5's there's not a great deal in the way of rides. The best area that kept my 7 Yr old entertained was the soft play, but is that worth the entry price? Also, the soft play was unstaffed and we had issues with bigger boys and gangs picking on, and being violent towards our kid. The queues for the Vortex were ridiculous and the ride disappointed. Overall, made the most of it, but wouldn't return anytime soon. Staff were great though and the gift shop was well stocked.
Jules Philpott — Google review
It’s a fun day out but i feel it’s slightly overpriced for little ones that are scared of the bigger rides. My 4 year old son only went on 5 rides we arrived at 10 and left at 1 and that includes having lunch. It was our 1st time visiting Crealy theme park and to be honest we probably wont return until he's a bit older. We have loads of soft play around Plymouth that are better so would not go to Crealy for that. I could not by a coffee due to a power cut in the Sooty section and the coffee machine was broken in the donut hut.
Aaron Dinham — Google review
We have just returned from a 4 day break with our grandchildren staying on a touring pitch. We have stayed many times before.
The theme park does not appear to have changed at all. It looks a bit tired. Staff all helpful but a lot of them were new young members who did not know much when we had any queries. When they tried to contact other members no response was forthcoming. Not their fault. There appears to be a lack of middle management.
The caravan site toilets were kept very clean. The gravel pitch was fine but need spraying to kill weed and grass growing through. Staff again helpful but little things like the sports area not opening on time were annoying.
Andrew Sanders — Google review
Went during the Easter holidays. Appreciate it was going to be busy but some of the queue times were too much for young children, so didn't actually go on many rides. Very disappointed that the Easter trail wasn't on, for having run out of Easter eggs....we were with a group of people though so all the children had fun together. Staff were very friendly and polite.
ab baby — Google review
4.3
(5658)
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4.0
(3653)
Sidmouth Rd, Clyst St Mary, Exeter EX5 1DR, United Kingdom
The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth relies on donations from visitors to provide the best possible care for 500 donkeys and mules. The animals are kept indoors and out of the wind, and visitors can stroke, pet and even hug the friendly creatures. Kids learn about the importance of donkey conservation while visiting this animal rescue service.
Absolutely amazing place to go. Loads of lovely donkeys everywhere! So many beautiful donkeys. Isn’t a full day out but will occupy you for a good few hours. It is honestly one of the loveliest days out ever. It was even better that we could bring the dog to walk around and the talk was very informative. Really recommend
EHBuckethead — Google review
This was such a wonderfully fun time for us! They truly do uphold comprehensive care on all levels for the donkeys and you can clearly see how evident that is. The donkeys are relaxed, adventurous and beautiful to see! Our tour guide was enormously helpful and gave great insight and practical information. Afterwards, the cafe is a great place to unwind, with delicious food and drink. Altogether, it was a great and adventurous visit for us and we’re really excited to visit again! Highly recommended!
Luke Daniel — Google review
Wow amazing inspirational sanctuary, free to get in but please make a donation. Lots of parking. lots of lovely paths to walk, right in the countryside with lots of wild flowers too, it is very spread out didn't feel over crowded , over 200 Donkeys!! lovely views over the sea, great maze! Amazing cafe and views, good gift shop and plant sales, we stayed near by and went 3 times in 5 days, there is also a public foot path, through the reserve, to the beach but steep steps at the end, please don't drop your Litter here, look after nature.
Jo anna — Google review
It exceeded my expectations.
Highly wheelchair accessible.
Enough benches and shaded areas available for who needs a rest.
Beautiful flowers of all types.
The restaurant is roomy and has beautiful views.
Silvia Lillie — Google review
We were expecting a couple of hours for our first visit but spent 4.5 hours!
It was a lovely location to spend some time quietly observing the characteristics of these lovely animals. It is free to visit but of course it was an obvious choice to adopt a couple of donkeys for only a few pounds a month. The cream tea was lovely too! Absolutely worth the couple of hours drive each way.
A M — Google review
Much bigger place than I expected. Unusually free admin but very thankful for any donations. Over 400 donkeys on site & place was extremely well laid out : very clean & well kept. The staff & guides were friendly , knowledgeable & helpful. Fully recommended. Well done to their team.
ian leach — Google review
Great place to go for a few hours. Free entry to visit. The kids did the trail which is £5. It seemed pretty popular to take your dog also. Wasn't overly busy when visiting, but can imagine during the holidays / summer months it would get very busy.
Matthew Bonham — Google review
So much has changed since we last visited. The restaurant and gift shop are much larger with a great range of food options and gifts for all budgets, including pocket money prices. And being able to visit and mix with the donkeys is a treat not to be missed. We found some access was via stiles but most were through gates. Honestly, if you love donkeys, fields and open spaces with views to the sea, a visit to The Donkey Sanctuary is not to be missed.
Lisa Christmas — Google review
A really great visit despite constant heavy rain all day. I visited quite a long time ago and can't believe how it's grown. The cafe was very small and up some steps above a small building in the main yard.
All staff friendly and helpful and very knowledgeable about the donkeys. All the donkeys look very happy and content and have access to lots of land going down towards the sea.
A great place to bring children. Dogs are allowed but must be on a lead.
Clean toilets and ample free parking.
Corin Jacques — Google review
A lovely place to visit, plenty of donkeys to look at. Free spacious car park and free entry. A lovely cafe with views of the donkeys and countryside. Great gift shop and clean toilets.
Donna S — Google review
The Donkey Sanctuary at Sidmouth is lovely. Free to enter. Plenty of Donkeys to view all around the site, which is huge BTW. Plenty of opportunities to sponsor and donate to them. They have a cafe and shop on site. I'm sure there were talks happening throughout the day. Shop was reasonably priced, and it's a good old walk round. Public footpaths also run within the site. Plenty of parking.
Jake Phillips — Google review
The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth, Devon is a fun little place to spend a couple of hours or even more.
There's so much to see and do here, with a nice cafe and shop where you can also adopt a Donkey or pick up some lovely gifts, and most importantly, donate and adopt donkeys!
To start with, the Staff are all friendly and happy to stop and chat. If we’re lost, they'd be happy to help guide us. There's plenty of walks available, with multiple sheds where donkeys are kept. There are other rooms as well, with various activies.
One can also find the details of all donkeys inhabited there, and all details about the life of donkeys. They house all kids of donkeys - mules, stallions, blind ones etc.
Two of my favourites spots in this sanctuary - the maze and the restaurant.
Although the maze might sound childish, one would enjoy doing it especially in teams. The maze with flowery plant fences is amazingly designed, and is best experienced during spring or during winter days with fog where the visibility is limited.
The restaurant was an unexpected highlight! Every single thing we tried from there was amazing - from snacks to burgers to hot chocolate to shakes.
The location is in Sidmouth, Devon, not very far from a WWII airstrip atop the hills & the Sidmouth bay & beach. Well, if you're an animal enthusiast, you could make a day out of it too.
Parking: Free parking area, with a couple of big areas for overflow car parking too.
Entry fee: None
Working time: Till 5 PM in the evening
Verdict: if you're looking for a quick visit, add this to the list. Recommended!
Aravind Anil — Google review
Such a lovely place. My son absolutely loved seeing all the donkeys so close. They are so calm and let you come close to them. He loves to touch animals so that was really lovely. Lovely cafe too with amazing views while to relax. Well worth a visit. We will be visiting many more times.
Sarah Grange — Google review
What a lovely place. It's just beautiful with a lovely restaurant and other facilities.
The donkeys are the key attraction, of course, living in this outstanding environment.
Do go and support the wonderful work they do.
Grenville Bradder — Google review
We really enjoyed our visit to the Donkey Sanctuary. On our arrival we were given a warm welcome. We were provided with a map and information on the best bits to see, based on the weather, which wasn't great. Entry was free, with the opportunity to make a donation.
I found it to be a quiet and gentle place. The staff were friendly and everything looked very well looked after, especially including the donkeys. The cafe was really good.
I definitely recommend it as a worthwhile place to spend a day. I loved it.
Christian Reynolds — Google review
Such a beautiful, calm place. Much bigger than expected, so prepare for lots of walking. Very pretty flower borders. Lovely to see the donkeys in such a caring place.
Restaurant food was very good.
It's free to get in and you can spend hours there.
We went on a very hot day, so will go back again when it's cooler.
Ann Mackenzie — Google review
Absolutely worth the visit! It’s free to enter, but donations are accepted… the cafe and shop are a great addition to help support them too.
The grounds are huge! There are SO many donkeys and they are all adorable 🥰
Also doggy friendly 🐕
Kylee Kotyk — Google review
The donkey sanctuary is a delightful haven for both families and animal enthusiasts. With its free admission, wheelchair accessibility, and expansive green spaces, it's a welcoming environment for all. Families can enjoy the company of their furry friends, but ensure dogs are kept on a lead. The staff's warmth and friendliness enhance the overall experience. Don't miss the captivating donkey talks held twice a day – a perfect opportunity to learn more about these gentle creatures. The educational room provides fantastic insights into the world of donkeys, making this sanctuary not only a joyful outing but an educational one too.
lucy de rojas — Google review
Lovely place to visit. Really clean and well laid out. We went in December so the donkeys were in the barns but we were able to see them and they would come over to the fences. Great interactive bits too. They had a sticker trail too which was great for my littlest to do. Looking forward to going back in the spring.
Carolyn Salter — Google review
Never made it early enough for breakfast before and that was excellent like the regular food on offer. Still a great day out, even when the stars of the show were mainly sheltering due to the weather.
Allister Beaton — Google review
One of my favourite places to visit regularly. The donkeys are so well looked after and loved by the wonderful staff there. It’s a big outdoor area so even on a busy day it never feels that way, it’s always peaceful to visit. A beautiful setting and the site is clearly cared well for too. The staff are very passionate and caring and always up for a chat. Well worth going to the talks that they put on, always interesting. The cafe is lovely and you can enjoy views of the site and the sea in the distance. Food is always very good and generous portions. As it’s free to enter and park it’s always worth at least getting a coffee to take away with you, as the profits go back in to the charity. We ‘adopt’ Cocoa so we always look forward to seeing him. Highly recommend a visit.
Tom Auton — Google review
What a lovely place. Free entry (although you will want to leave a donation I'm sure!). A lovely reasonably priced restaurant with good local food. There is nice walks around the sanctuary and you can see the donkeys up close. There is also a small play park and shop. Nice way to spend an afternoon.
Ray Creasey — Google review
4.8
(6739)
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4.5
(3724)
Slade House Farm, Weston, Sidmouth EX10 0NU, United Kingdom
Beer Quarry Caves is a highly recommended tourist attraction that offers daily tours of its fascinating 2000-year-old vaulted caves. The tour takes visitors on an eerie and spine-tingling journey through mysterious underground tunnels, providing over 2.5 hours of exploring with safety gear and an expert guide full of knowledge and stories. The guide, who used to be a deep-sea fisherman, adds to the experience with his gift for storytelling.
Amazing is an understatement. Do yourself a favour and bring your family here, you won't regret it. Our guide was AWESOME, used to be a deep sea fisherman and definitely had the gift of the gab. Kids enjoyed the experience immensely. Highly recommended.
Mark Minehan — Google review
It’s deep, dark, dank and downright cold but also a must place to visit if near Beer. The quarry closed in the 1920s but it’s hand crafted vastness needs to be seen to be believed. You need to book in advance onto one of the tours which each last an hour and are led by a guide who gives an insight into how it was mined and the lives of those who did it. You will need to bring a warm woolly jumper or coat as it’s a rather cool 7-8 degrees (C) even in summer. We had Mike as our tour guide who did a good job of entertaining but also informing. There is also a cafe offering what smelt like amazing sausages and bacon.
SP W — Google review
A really informative tour of stunning caves. Travelling through time from the Romans to modern day.
Saw a bat too which was an added surprise.
The tour guide Gill was really good and knew so many good stories about the caves and the history.
Would recommend a visit but dress warm and wear wellies.
Wendy Kelly — Google review
This tour was great, at first you think oh it’s just a small cave. Then the tour guide turns a corner with his torch and you’re lead deeper underground through a mysterious link of cold dug-out tunnels.. it’s eerie, spine tingling yet very interesting!
Nearly 2.5 hours of exploring with safety gear, a great guide full of knowledge and stories.. I would recommend anyone to check out this spontaneous moment of history. 👷🏼♀️🔦 be sure to take a coat though 😊
Beccy Copus — Google review
Very interesting place. Mike our tour guide was very informative and i learned some new things about the origin of the name Lewis and where a few common phrases come from and the local Bats (and obviously alot about Quarrying! Ranging right back to Roman times). The tour lasted 1 hour 30. It was 17 degrees outside and the caves were 9 degree's inside, You definatly need to wrap up, as they recommend, it was chilly underground and dampish.
There is a cafe hut with undercover outside seating, tea/coffee, cold drinks, snacks. Souvenirs etc. Reasonably priced. And amble parking.
H W — Google review
Beer Quarry Caves offers a mesmerizing journey into history, thanks to the guide's captivating storytelling. Not ideal for small children due to darkness and lengthy explanations, but perfect for adults seeking adventure. Remember to wear suitable footwear for the uneven, wet terrain. While the experience is enchanting, additional lighting would reveal more of the caves' beauty.
Andrzej Lengiewicz — Google review
Absolutely worth a visit. Excellent for all ages. Our guide, Dave, was very friendly, funny, and knowledgeable. Friendly for dogs too. We even stopped for a Quarryman’s lunch, which was tasty and excellent value for money. Sue in the shop was also lovely. All round excellent morning! Well worth it!
Tim Clifton-Wright — Google review
Lovely hidden gem near the pretty seaside village of Beer. Plenty of parking and nice area to be before heading down to the caves on the guided tour. These are man-made caves with a lot of history. It's a shame I missed the bat's but I will be going back later in the year to see them. They do recommend warm clothing while in the caves, this is not a joke! it got very cold in there and was 20 degrees lower than outside. I also recommend the cafe, the food was good and surprisingly didn't have inflated tourist prices like most other tourist spots.
Nick Eagle — Google review
Me and my 3 sons (4,8,19) had a wonderful experience here. The caves were massive and our guide Jed told us a lot of history in a very humorous yet fact way and we all could relate and had fun!
As a side note please take something warmer to wear as it is a little wet and cold 🥶
Will visit again
Zilvinas Navickis — Google review
Great tour! Learned a lot about an underground rock quarry that’s existed since, at least, Roman times. The tour guide was knowledge and all folks associated with the attraction were friendly and helpful. Highly recommended!
Tom Nitroy — Google review
Really detailed tour with lots of interesting facts and stories about local history. Easy to find, ample parking, and great value for money. I definitely recommend a visit if you're visiting the area.
Gage Conway — Google review
Relatively expensive (£11 per Adult), but full of history. The website states the tour is 1 hour - 1.25 hours, but ours lasted for a while over 1.5 hours. This included some interesting facts, but went on for too long (relative to the size of the publically accessible part of the caves), as it meant interest was starting to be lost as it was difficult to listen to talking for so long.
James West — Google review
I thoroughly enjoyed this tour. Tourism as it should be. Our guide, Steve, was excellent, both on the historical and local detail. Our youngest child (4 years old) got a bit tired and cold by the end of the 1.5 hours so my wife took her out of the cave. But our other two children loved it.
James J — Google review
Really interesting place to visit and in poor weather can get really busy (think 50+ to a guided 1hr tour). Fortunately the caves echo and you can hear them talk - lots of really interesting history about the local area, geology, bats and smuggling. Definitely worth a visit, give yourself 2 hours in total including tour.
Stuart Norton — Google review
We visited Beer Quarry Caves over the Easter weekend this year. It was completely brilliant. Our guide was informative, funny and really made the history of the place come alive particularly using audience participation!
We had lunch first at the little café and I must say it was spotlessly clean.
I have told many people since of our visit there and what a brilliant place it is to go and learn about.
Seaton Tramway is a fun tourist attraction that allows visitors to ride on replica electric tram cars along a scenic 3-mile route.
Seaton Tramway really is a wonderful family trip destination and on this occasion it was enhanced by their fantastic Polar Express transformation & experience. There is so much energy & enthusiasm from the staff and volunteers it really makes the whole time spent here truly memorable. From the ease and efficiency of tickets through to the travel Seaton Tramway has been a fantastic for this family for many years and will continue to do so.
Nigel Sturt (Hampshirelibrarian) — Google review
What a great day. Staff are amazing tram was great fun. Well worth the £35 for a family. Ride the teams as much as you like. We stopped for lunch and a pint before heading back on the tram for the return journey. Nice simple play park for the kids at the end and a good old fashioned shop.
Geoff Towns — Google review
Interesting attraction, the driver provided a good amount of information. The journey would be more pleasant with warmer weather, or on the more closed carriage. Important notice: the trams differ and sometimes it is better to wait a little and choose the carriage which would fit you better.
Andrzej Lengiewicz — Google review
We went in the morning, it was the best timing to see beautiful coloured birds like pheasant, wild geese... It was a great family trip. Friendly staff, they stop and they give a short summary... At the end of the "line" while waiting for the tram to take you back, you can take a walk to the village or do some shopping at the gift shops & antique shop or have a bait at the coffee shop. They serve from scones to fish cakes...coffee or tea with local cow's milk. There is a small play ground/area for kids.
Monika — Google review
We had so much fun😊 the tramway line goes through a beautiful area of Wetlands and River Axe, you can hop on and off few stops with Explorer ticket. Would highly recommend 👍
Aleksandra Jeziorska — Google review
We spent a lovely few hours here, riding the tram both ways and a little explore along the way. Would love to return in the summer when it's warmer to explore the wetlands. Dog friendly.
Lisa Christmas — Google review
I didn't really know what to expect here at Seaton tramway. And was very pleasantly surprise that it is a really good place to visit. We started at the Seaton terminal and it looks very new. In the terminal you have a massive webcam which the said showed our tram coming down and gave you a good idea of what to expect.
The trams are old and have history behind them which can be found in various locations.
The tram ride took about 25-30 one direction and is very picturesque going alongside the wetlands and river.
You stop at a few locations and the drivers give you some info about what is happening. Some new stations are being built to add more to the journey so you can stop to have a picnic or visit the wetland.
There are two stops currently, one for a little village and the last stop which looks like an old station completely done up with a cafe, shop, toilets and an info area, must not also forget the play park for the young ones.
The staff made this place as they all seemed so happy to be doing what they were and more than happy to talk to you, provide info and generally be great.
There is a selection of different trams to ride on and most are double deckers and you get great views from the top deck.
One piece of advice tho take a jumper even on a warm day as that wind can be chilly.
chris Evans — Google review
So cute definitely worth a visit, we contributed to the donation too. Couldn’t get over how small and cute the trams were. Shame Colyton didn’t have more to offer, but worth visiting merchants tea room, but careful they stop searching after 230pm. We didn’t get time to visit all the stops but you could do that. A treasure hunt for kids would go down a treat, especially getting off at each stop to explore - and installing cafe on these sites would bring in some great income x
Sarah Booker — Google review
Super vintage tramway! Nostalgic if you can remember trams and if not a great way to experience another method of travel. You can get off at the stops and visit the bird hides on the wetland if you are keen on birdwatching. Suitable if you are disabled as they have adapted spaces. Very nice and knowledgeable staff and a lovely tearoom and shop at the end of your journey.
lynne mellstrom — Google review
As you enter the main Seaton Tramway terminal you will find the ticket booth Cafe and gift shop all in one.......... Here you can get something to eat and drink but a souvenir and purchase your tickets for your tram trip.......Then with the trams running every twenty minutes, you don't have to write long to enjoy your ride.......The trip takes you along the river side,with lovely views and there is plenty of wildlife to be seen......If you get the explorer tickets you can get off at any point and rejoin the tram as and when they come along..... All in all a great experience for all the families......👍
Ivor Humphries — Google review
A brilliant day out on the trams. My two young kids loved it. I just wish we'd had more time to explore some of the stops. Staff are really helpful and friendly.
Bex Davis — Google review
It was a lovely ride, but would have been better on a slightly cooler day.
Friendly staff and an interesting experience if you've not been on a tram before.
Great views and a fun experience.
Ann Mackenzie — Google review
Great trip on the number 11, sat on the open top (even through the rain!)
Saw some beautiful birds, deer, rabbits and a badger!! Stopped for breakfast at Colyton station and then walked into the town. Will defo go again in late spring to see different birds 🐦
greg viner — Google review
We took the family for a trip along Seaton tramway, leaving Colyton Station, booking a return trip. Our party consisted of 6 adults, one with a scooter plus a 4 year old. First the bad bits, I’m 6’4 and these trams are not built for the taller gentlemen! However this is my own curse in life and can not hold this against the Tramways! The plus points….all representatives of the tramway were so friendly and accommodating, helping load and unload the scooter (big bonus for disabled accessibility) they were very knowledgeable aswell. The journey is around 30mins each way if you choose not to stop at way points with the option to sit upstairs and admire the views if the weather is kind to you, or to sit in the lower deck of the tram and keep dry. The cafe and shop are very welcoming and well priced so that whichever way you wish to complete your journey you will have things to do at either end of the line. A great experience for the day with the family!
Ben Small — Google review
Very Interesting. The train driver was excellent telling us about the history of the trams and where they came from originally being born in London and am only living now 20 miles from Bournemouth was so good to know.
Although it was windy and a bit of drizzle it was still a good deal. We'll done to all that work there and in the cafes.
bill bicknell — Google review
This was an amazing experience. The Tramways are so cute. The scenery is fantastic.
The best way of doing this is to buy the ticket that allows you to hop on and hop off. This way, you can see the little villages and explore nature..
I would definitely do this again!
Fatima A — Google review
Expensive, obviously to keep it running but worth it for a lovely ride. At the end of the line we stopped for drink and cake before heading back. The food menu looked great too. Tram drivers were friendly & knowledgeable. Scenic journey with lots of birds to look out for en route. Enjoyable trip.
Carla Scott — Google review
We visited Seaton tramway for their Christmas Polar express experience. We had a large group of 5 children and 7 adults. From booking the tickets to the moment we left the whole experience was fantastic. We had a few questions around changing our booking, new baby to add to the booking etc, and the staff couldn't have been more helpful. On the day we had a short wait upon arriving before the experience started, and from the get go everyone was thoroughly entertained. The whole experience was immersive, all the characters were entertaining and even my 12 year old non believer had a great time. I thoroughly recommend, although definitely book early as tickets get snapped up quickly!
Claire Lee — Google review
A fabulous attraction and experience, with a beautifully built “station” in the heart of town, and the trams are all different which makes them a joy to watch and ride on. Every single person was smiling and exclaiming - if an attraction like this can bring a smile to everyone’s faces, it’s worth it. The track takes you through countryside you wouldn’t otherwise see, and it’s rather lovely. Spotting birds like egrets, buzzards etc is fun even if you don’t know them all. The stops are well worth getting off for a little amble around, but the jewel in the crown is the buffet at the end of the line. Lovely fresh food, masses of it and it’s all so pretty with fresh flowers. A real joy and a lovely way to spend the day.
Fiona Thomson — Google review
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Tramway, Harbour Rd, Seaton EX12 2WD, United Kingdom
Museum of Somerset is a place where visitors can learn about the history of Somerset from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum uses real objects and interactive games to inspire visitors.
This is an excellent museum. Well arranged with brief descriptions that are informative for each exhibit. Some real gems including an amazing mosaic and a number of hoards of coins. A personal favourite was a bronze age toy axe. All Somerset based as well and free to enter - the suggested donation is £3. Booked in advance as suggested and they apologised for being busy but there were no ques and it didn't feel crowded
Robert Heaton — Google review
Super Museum tucked away in the middle of Taunton, follow road signs. Spread over several floors a real gem on the history of Somerset. The museum is run by volunteers who were extremely helpful, friendly and knowledgeable, Cafe and gift shop. No car park but parking available near Lidl a short walk away. Well worth a visit, free entry but please give a donation.
Collin Robbins — Google review
By chance we came upon the museum today. Very friendly and helpful staff. Lots of immaculately presented exhibits covering thousands of years. And it is free to get in. Thoroughly recommend a visit
Andy Cockeram — Google review
One of the best museums I’ve ever been. Very pretty and interactive. Staffs are very friendly. For such high quality displays and environment, I can’t believe it’s all free. The café is lovely, too. Very clean toilet and baby friendly.
??? — Google review
Interesting museum; I recommend that you go around it on the suggested order, which is primarily in chronological order. Good cafe. (For those interested in musical instruments, I was fascinated by the virginal, which I have never come across before. Pictures came out well, but don't really do justice to quite how curious it is!)
Hugh Roberts — Google review
One of my favourite thing about the museum is learning about the rich history of Somerset from the archeological objects in a great building which was once a castle. So cool!
Hlyan Htet Oo — Google review
The Museum of Somerset is an excellent museum with lots of galleries to explore. The current temporary exhibition is on Myths and Monsters and continues to end of October 2022, but check the dates.
It has a nice Court Yard Cafe. The guides and volunteers were extremely helpful.
Christopher Watkins — Google review
A very nicely set up museum with a fantastic and clever display of Somerset history. The staff are very friendly and the cafe is very nice.
mark gray — Google review
What a great day for children. Their exhibition of Axel Scheffler and his illustrations is great. We had 4 children with us. The Bingo around the Museum was so much fun. Making sticks and flags etc and the exhibition itself was fantastic. The only thing you may struggle with it is being busy but I expect if you go earlier or later in the day this wouldnt be an issue. The staff were very helpful. The cafe was busy but well organised. Great experience considering how cheap it was. Very much advised over the summer hols.
Angela Danielsu4g56 — Google review
This was an interesting museum to visit, with exhibitions at the start showing the great county of Somerset back as it was before humans! The artefacts are preserved ancient relics, history is provided about the creatures who inhabited the county and Roman area has more info on civilization with clothes to even try on. Cultural history is also depicted through the ornaments and items used back in the day for practices, models are glorious too! There is even a section showing transport from back then, staff were helpful as well.
K. Peake — Google review
Well laid out really interesting museum. Some key exhibits such as Cheddar Brooch and Roman mosaic. Friendly staff. Nice cafe. Well worth a visit
Eirene — Google review
I visited an exhibition at the museum a few months ago but this time I had the time to explore the whole site. The more permanent exhibitions covering the local area through history are excellent with many superb items, fascinating. There are also temporary exhibitions on the other side of the museum and these are varied and excellent. Lovely cafe with the museum and a great gift shop. My only complaint is that the lifts are much too small for many wheelchairs. I accompanied a relative in a medium size wheelchair and struggled every time, pulling the legs in and raising the back right up which was uncomfortable for my relative.
WilliamsAudio Pedals — Google review
The Museum of Somerset is an incredible museum with a castle section showcasing fascinating historical exhibits, taking you on a journey through time. The military section is fascinating, offering insightful insights into Somerset's military past. The collection of fossils is impressive, giving visitors a glimpse into prehistoric life. The wide array of artifacts on display is a real pleasure for history lovers. Overall, the experience was phenomenal, offering an engaging and enriching visit. A five-star must-see for anyone interested in Somerset's rich heritage.
Maks Traveler — Google review
A wonderful and carefully-planned museum! Makes excellent use of the space available and has some fascinating artefacts, especially the most perfectly preserved Roman Mosaic I've ever seen!
A fantastic, if fittingly depressing exhibition on the destruction of church artwork during the reformation was very moving indeed.
In addition to this, the museum gives justly thorough attention to the history of local people; something that is shortly sorely lacking in many museums in the South West!
Jamie Stainer — Google review
Free to enter. Some nice displays especially the coin hoards. Excellent Roman mosaic floor. Morden and clean museum.
richard parkhouse — Google review
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Castle Lodge, Castle Grn, Taunton, TA1 4AA, United Kingdom
The gardens at Hestercombe House & Gardens are a stunning mix of Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian features. The garden is home to some beautiful buildings by notable landscape designers Gertrude Jekyll and Sir Edward Lutyens, as well as fascinating planting and views.
Review- Garden only: There are two parts to Hestercombe, a woodland walk to the North and the formal gardens attached to the house. The woodland walk follows the stream and the 4 lakes and is just over a mile round trip. There is plenty to see, a waterfall and numerous temples and monuments etc. I noticed on the way around that with the ducks and swans children seemed to really enjoy this walk.
Attached to the house there are Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian gardens. From the South side you look down onto the main garden which has a great sense of scale. This garden is flanked by two water gardens and a beautiful pergola at the bottom. The Dutch garden is an absolute gem, super soft cool colours. All staff and gardeners are wonderfully polite and welcoming, the service at the Stables restaurant is impeccable and they serve the best lamb burger I have ever tasted.
Put Hestercombe on your list of visits, these gardens really are lovely, easily five stars.
Alan Keevil — Google review
Unique history of gardening at this place. From some ancient medieval (?) To Edwardian. A sit down table service menu and a café on site. Nice food. ££. Nice walks with dogs welcome and dog bins available. Lovely paths along the stream which comes through the estate all the way down to the gardens.
Not national trust. The house needs restoration but is open with great views over the garden and some artifacts from the house on show. Bat house with CCTV was empty but is there usually.
Martin Boyd — Google review
We had a tasty lunch, and there was a beautiful metal tree sculpture in the restaurant courtyard. We then walked around the grounds. The woodland walk was lovely, with lakes, buildings, and many birds. House was interesting with an art exhibition and an excellent second-hand book shop.
Christine Turner — Google review
Think this is are third visit here and as always not disappointed, early in the year this time for us, so plenty of new plants to see, with seemingly different views, bluebells out all over with the bluebell walk a real treat, had a nice snack at the cafe this time which was lovely and fresh. The house had a very interesting exhibition about the house and estate with items found in and around during renovations. Spent the best part of the day here, which gave us plenty of time to wonder around and find places we had missed before, the on going renovations and different plants. Friendly helpful staff.
Myles Breary — Google review
Fantastic garden. We had a wonderful visit, taking our Standard Poodle with us.
Lots of parking, and even an electric charge point for our car. (Ask for the key fob from the welcome desk.)
Good welcome and everything explained and we were given a map.
Wonderful landscape garden with good paths, some steepish, but not hazardously so. Lots of architectural garden incidence - towers, mausoleum etc. Beautiful trees.
More formal gardens. Beautifully maintained and friendly gardeners, happy to talk to visitors. Really inspiring ideas to take home to ordinary domestic gardens. And interesting plants for sale.
Good restaurant and cafe, and dog welcome in the cafe.
A first class visit.
Tiggy Greenwood — Google review
Spent over four hours walking through the gardens and paths. Map does tell you which paths are easy or steep. On the steeper routes you get some really good view points. Seats dotted around to take a break.The scent from the roses was lovely. We had been advised that a wedding was taking place in the Orangery so it would be off limits for a while. Not a lot in the house . Staff friendly in the cafe. Enjoyed our pasties. Would recommend it to anyone who likes gardens formal and informal.
Pat W — Google review
I attended a wedding there, it is a lovely venue with beautiful grounds.
Catering was excellent.
We had a very enjoyable day.
The Victorian gardens are lovely.
HELEN THOMAS — Google review
Fantastic place to visit for a lovely walk around the beautiful gardens and through the trees and across waters, with opportunities for spectacular views for miles. Gift shops had a range of quality handmade items, whilst the art gallery had unique works on display in large historic building with original decor. I also found the watermill really fascinating, being able to see the old machinery on display. The cafeteria offered a very delicious afternoon tea for us, definitely worth the money. Phoned and booked in advance. All staff on site were very welcoming and friendly. Will probably return especially for the illuminate light show at night which I’ve heard good things about. Overall definitely recommended and offers good value for money for a good few hours visiting.
Luke — Google review
Superb little jem of a place ! Well tendered gardens offering relaxing, scenic walks. The house and art gallery are beautiful, and the used book shop is a treasure trove for those who like a bargain read.
Food in the restaurant is first class. Tasty, and plentiful. Staff are friendly, polite, and helpful. Definitely worthy of more than one visit. !!
Roadrage Monkey — Google review
Lovely gardens originally designed by Gertrude Jekyll with lake and orangery, tea room, plant shop and house with gift store. Lots to see, very helpful volunteers, beautifully quiet when I visited on a Saturday during the bank holiday. Recommended.
Julie Bertjab — Google review
It was wet and windy. Still we had a lovely time. Afternoon tea was a bit cake heavy, scones we're really nice. Would have preferred a bit more savory but that's personal choice. We also went for a walk. Got the last 16 minutes in the bee education centre which was fun. Even for us adults. Event in the wet and the rain it was a lovely walk. Even fed the ducks up close and personal
Clare Hartland — Google review
Lovely return visit for the Christmas Market and stroll around the grounds. Well marked out paths around the lake and places to explore with great views. Did the evening light show last year, well worth a visit this year.
Donna Stevens — Google review
One of the best Christmas lights and sounds spectacular I have seen so far. Pre-booked tickets were affordable. A nice effortless walk around and the mild weather made it to be so special for us.
T Sultis — Google review
Beautiful gardens and scenery, definitely worth a visit for the Christmas lights too. Was a bit expensive for the food especially when the hotdogs rolls were hard and the turkey roll was bland I tiny thin bit of turkey and stuffing. Wasn't worth the price but the hot chocolate was so tasty and the sight seeing was so worth going.
m — Google review
Lovely formal gardens with different garden levels and different planting. Nice woodland walk around the estate up to the Georgian landscape garden lots of different buildings to see there are some steep slopes up there.
There is a lovely cafe back by reception to have something to eat, the scones were delicious but the cream tea with 2 scones come with tea for 1 not 2 people
Rose Hughes — Google review
Visited the garden light show December 23 - excellent organisational skills, booked tickets, good value. ample parking, no queue , great show of lights and fountains. Will return after the winter deluge to visit house and gardens in daylight!
Anon Mouse — Google review
Haven't visited for some years and was rather disappointed with this visit. There is very little to see in the house and most rooms are mainly empty. The formal gardens are lovely, certainly worth a look, but are rather lacking in 'colour' and the Orangery was empty. The upper gardens/walks/ponds are nice for a stroll but are overgrown in places and seem to have been left to their own devices. The £16 entrance fee does seem rather excessive.
Chris Kinnersley — Google review
lovely gardens, both formal and woodland, with lots of meandering paths and a choice of sun and shade.
Very dog friendly with plenty of water bowls.
Excellent restaurant and food, equally good cafe.
A really great full day out.
clare booth — Google review
We went for a lovely meal in the bistro, followed by a wander through the illuminated gardens. It was very pretty, but I think the lights were a little disappointing
This is a great place to sit, chill and unwind.
Views are spectacular and stunning 😍
Plenty of amenities close by, with pubs, restaurants, tea, coffee, just great!!!
Great food available right near to where you could sit a d chill!
Very romantic setting as the sun goes down!
It's a "must visit place!"
dave sawyer — Google review
What a beautiful piece of land in England 😍😍
perelka x — Google review
Nice little place by the sea. Old fashioned with an amusement arcade. Could be a bit less coin pusher and a bit more space invaders in my opinion.
Mark Farley — Google review
Nice area very popular for crabbing and plenty of food to choose from
Matthew Ashby — Google review
During my recent visit to Bridport Harbour, I had a delightful time exploring the beautiful coastal scenery and enjoying the seaside atmosphere. However, I must confess that my attempt at crabbing left a lot to be desired. Despite spending a whole hour with my trusty crabbing net, I didn't catch a single crab, much to the disappointment of the kids. I guess you could say I was "crabby" about not catching any crabs, but hey, at least we had a good laugh about it and enjoyed the picturesque views of the harbor!
Paul Varty — Google review
Depends what you like, very busy, loads of people with kids 'crabbing' round the harbour, beach pretty busy but still room, nice walk along the west prom, fairly easy climb up West Cliff with good views, harder climb up East Cliff with good views and coast path to follow. Indoor market with over 100 stalls, lots of takeaway places all over town. Plenty of car parking on edge and in centre of town. Two good pubs too.
Warren Heath — Google review
Great view of boats and nice to walk around, right in the centre and surrounded by good eating places and long stretches of coast line, be careful of tide and collapsing cliffs, if you venture along the coast from the harbour as they are very soft and crumbling
Zemertz — Google review
Beautiful little harbour with it's own small fishing fleet and several angling boats
Buster Brown — Google review
Fantastic place (West Bay). Superb views and good coastal walks.
Barry Owen — Google review
Great view of the golden cliffs obvs but also local history about the Second World War walk to from Burton Bradstock along cliffs lovely
Peter Robinson — Google review
Flood defence work is underway, a few parking spaces lost until work completed, quaint little harbour.
pego flat — Google review
A lovely little seaside town and fishing port, commercial fishing is still carried out here on a daily basis. With lobster pots and fishing nets spread out along the port landing area, when we were there a small fishing boat unloaded about 50 sacks of whelks onto the dockside.
There's a couple of nice pubs around the queyside, both with outside seating for you to enjoy your tipple while taking in the views.
Either side of the port area are two of what I can only call, mountainous hills of sandstone rock having been laid there over the millennia and now subject to coastal errosion, and on a sunny day look absolutely glorious crowned with it's grassy peak.
Both of these hills have well beaten tracks to and from the their peaks, and during our visit we saw lots and lots of people making pilgrimage to the top of this natural viewing point, looking out over the sea. Car parking here is up on the sea front, and it's pay and display. On one of our days we decided to take a walk to Bridport town, and whilst there we popped into the Morrisons supermarket ( see my review ) we went along the road between West Bay and Bridport , it was a sunny day and just over a mile and we were there. Would recommend. ps if you find this review helpful, please give it a 👍
Hive Beach is a well-maintained and dog-friendly pebble beach with a relaxed vibe. It features dramatic cliffs and offers plenty of space for activities like fossil hunting, flying kites, or playing with a ball. The beach has clean facilities including toilets and a cafe in the nearby National Trust car park. Parking is available for non-members at reasonable rates, while National Trust members enjoy free parking.
An absolutely stunning beach. A little cafe near car park.
Must pay for car park unless you are a national trust member.
Shinglely beach.
Big grassy hill to walk along aswell to look at beautiful views.
Charlotte Gosney — Google review
Serene and soul searching place at the far end of Chesil Beach. Beach itself is shingle so a bit easier to do the paths rather than the Beach unless you are up for some decent exercise.
darren broome — Google review
Stunning beach. National Trust car park.
Must visit. Cafe. Toilets. Mostly pebble beach. Deeply shelving sea so be careful with small children especially when there are larger waves.
david simpson — Google review
What a fantastic beach. Just past the shack is the area for dogs and our pooches just loved it.
Catherine Heather — Google review
Great dog friendly beach with good parking and a nice cafe/restaurants with facilities. If you plan on spending the day make sure you bring things todo as theres not alot todo. But is swimming and walking are your thing then its a great beach. The water was so clear you could see the bottom.
Simon — Google review
Beautiful beach, and very clean. Enjoyable long walks along the sea or on top of cliffs, both directions. Parking and cafes are available nearby.
Svetlana Morgan — Google review
Lovely beach, with a good seafood oriented restaurant - free parking if National Trust Member
Tim London (Soliciting Flavours) — Google review
Superb little spot for a picnic on a sunny day. Parking right on the shingle beach with grassland all around.
Has a very nice cafe bar on the beach if you prefer to sit and watch the world go by.
Dogs can go on the beach in restricted areas.
Mac Wolf — Google review
Beautiful place ro enjoy watching the waves or walk along SW Coast Path, easy accessible parking
Alina Val — Google review
This is a nice dog friendly beach.
There is a large national trust carpark very close by with a cafe and toilet facilities as well.
This beach is great for fossil hunting and plenty of people were enjoying the calm waters.
The sand is mostly made up of very fine curshed pebbles, which are useless for making sand castles from, but there is plenty of room for flying a kite or playing with a ball etc.
Danny Iwan — Google review
We visited this fantastic beach last week. It stretches for miles in both directions and the sea views and cliff faces are breathtaking. A really great place to visit for a long walk, combined with some fossil hunting. There's a very popular cafe and plenty of parking, which is free for NT members. Well worth a visit and much more accessible than nearby West Bay.
Chris Baker — Google review
Nice beach. Lovely walk along to cogden. Parking is free if you are with NT. able to get a cuppa and food from the hive cafe (on instagram hivebeachcafe) as beaches go this is another lovely gem on the Jurassic coast.
sharon wilson — Google review
Great place to relax and enjoy the views. National Trust car park next to the beach. Free parking for Trust members. Toilets one minute from the beach next to cafe.
Shingle beach, not great for sand castles, but if you jus want to sit by the sea it's great. The beach is monitored by the Environment Agency between May and September and the bathing water is regarded as high quality.
Bedford Burrow — Google review
Lovely clean beach. Parking £2.50 for 2 hours, £5 for 4 hours or £7.50 for all day. Free for National Trust members. Clean toilets in the car park and a fantastic restaurant which also does takeaway (See Hive Beach Cafe). Dog friendly. You can do the coastal walk and walk back along the beach- tides permitting! Disabled parking and benches suitable for wheelchair access as well as other seating.
Jo Davies — Google review
Beautiful beach with gorgeous views.
If you are not a National Trust member, you do have to pay for parking but, it is fairly cheap.
Some of the paths were a little muddy and slippy on the winter route but there's always the options to walk along the beach instead.
Montacute House is a remarkable Elizabethan country manor, nestled in Somerset's countryside. Built for Sir Edward Phelips in the late 16th century, the house boasts exquisite interiors featuring splendid plasterwork, tapestries and chimney pieces. The Long Gallery with its extensive collection of Elizabethan portraits is one of the most fabulous highlights of the house.
Over 400 years old, this stately home is a stunning place to visit. The architecture inside and out is amazing, as is the formal landscaping and gardens. The presentation of the three floors of the house have faithfully recreated and must be seen to be fully appreciated. Walking around the gardens, orangery and fountain garden is just a wonderful experience especially on sunny days. We highly recommend this place to visit.
Michael and Julie Bowell — Google review
A great day out. Adequate parking spaces. Route in was well signposted. Loads of spring flowers on display when we visited in May. There is the usual shop and flowed sales. Café was busy, but efficient. Outside covered tables, or indoor seating available. The house was full of historical artifacts
Michael Billinge-Jones — Google review
Visited today and such a beautiful house full of history. The gardens are also lovely and great to relax in. Definitely recommend this place for a visit if you haven't been before
Victoria Pearce — Google review
Beautiful Elizabethan house in such good condition that you can easily imagine living there. Fascinating stories and impressive artworks add to the whole experience. The gardens are also beautiful. Definitely worth a visit. We have already been there a few times now.
Nick Hiscott — Google review
Stunning house with incredible paintings loaned from the National Gallery. Very atmospheric as it is such a very old house hardly changed from when it was first built. Well worth a visit.
Kathy Fairey — Google review
Fabulous old house with extensive grounds. The upstairs is shut awaiting renovation but there is plenty to see. We took a free tour around the outside of the building and the guide, Helen, was very good indeed. She explained the history in a clear and very engaging way. There was a woodworker with various activities for children and a challenging escape room style puzzle for grown ups. Well worth a visit for a few hours.
There is a small cafe with good quality but quite limited options.
Jeff Bulled — Google review
Had a wonderful visit here this afternoon despite the rain. There's plenty of parking and it's easy to find.
The gardens are stunning and well maintained. They don't take that long to walk around. They are all fairly level and easily accessible.
The house has lots to see with information boards and volunteers in each room. The house is spread throughout 3 levels.
The cafe has lots of delicious treats treats and lots of seating inside and out. The service was quick and easy.
Hannah Wild — Google review
This is one of my favourite national trust properties. Came for the day, accessibility is excellent, I could use the mobility scooter to get almost everywhere and staff went above and beyond to help. The food at the cafe was delicious, the second hand book barn was well stocked and the shop offered a good range of products. We were able to wander into the historic village as well from the car park.
Leanne Swift — Google review
This left an everlasting impression on us after our visit here. Beautiful grounds absolutely breath taking. Amazing building both inside and out. Well looked after. I would highly recommend a visit here. Pack up a picnic there's lots to see.
Lynne Brady — Google review
Stunning National Trust building and grounds. Lovely gardens and grounds to walk in and cafe. The house has a generous portrait gallery and the scale of the building is impressive. As will most National Trust sites the area is accessible where possible and tries to cater for all, whether elderly or families. Highly recommend. Also, and odd thing to comment on - but one of the most impressive hedges I’ve ever seen.
Harry Webster — Google review
Beautiful building steeped in history and a step back in time. Opted for a tour around the building which was interesting by a very knowledgeable guide. Paintings and furniture can be seen in the house together with some exhibitions. Well worth a visit. Lovely cafe in relaxing surroundings.
Jacqueline Andres — Google review
I had a very relaxing day here, the admission staff was very friendly and helpful. The grounds are so beautiful with plenty of space for everyone. There was even are area on one of the lawns set up with children’s games, it took me back to the 70’s seeing a space hopper. Just beyond this lawn there’s a most relaxing area under the trees to have a picnic. Dogs are welcome in the outside area but not inside the house.
The house was very interesting with pictures on loan from The National Portrait Gallery in London depicting ladies and gentlemen of the Jacobean era. The rooms are very well preserved with literature in each room of importance. The tapestry at the end is quite remarkable I believe it was made in 1470 and has been restored to its former beauty. All in all a day well spent.
Nicola Willis — Google review
The gardens are beautiful, it's a shame only the downstairs of the property are open at the minute. Thankfully we are NT members, but would be disappointed if we turned up and paid £12 each to just see the ground floor of the house. Luckily we had visited Montecute before so have seen the beauty of the upper floors previously.
Tracy Hughes — Google review
Only went to walk the parkland with the dog, great to find no livestock. Fantastic walk, bit damp, windy and showers, but we all enjoyed it, did just under 3 miles. Followed off by lunch in the phelips Arms.
Chad Cardale — Google review
Only ground floor of house was open. Coffee shop closing early due to staff meeting.
However the volunteer in the drawing room was most helpful and knowledgeable
John Hemmings — Google review
Had high expectations due to the size of the property, however we could only view 4 rooms on the ground floor!
If we weren't national trust members I would feel very let down.
Aaron Healey — Google review
We love coming here for a dog walk, so much open space, water and mud his perfect combination! Perfect for families with kids too, very open and safe (the deep water section is well off the beaten path accessed via another gate so not at all easy for little ones to get to unless you let them)
Steve Maynard — Google review
Lovely old hall with extensive grounds. Upstairs closed when we visited due to issues with staircase. Nice cafe.
Andy G — Google review
A beautiful setting and lovely house. Unfortunately, the upstairs has been closed as the stairs are deemed unsafe, but you can still walk around the ground floor.
There's a ramped disabled entrance on the side, which means you don't have to walk round the whole house to get to the front entrance. There are some places to sit down in the house (as you can't use a scooter indoors), which I was very grateful for.
The gardens are also mostly accessible if you are in a wheelchair or mobility scooter. There's a lovely hot house where they are growing ferns and things and they sell plants in their shop.
We had coffee and a bit of cake in the cafe. The cake was tasty (if a tad dry) but the coffee was expensive brown water that wasn't very nice plus the mocha my friend had was very sweet with no coffee flavour. There is indoor seating with a heater in a small room off the courtyard, which was a warm place to sit on a rainy day.
I'd be happy to return
Isobel Kearl — Google review
This is a very beautiful Tudor house.
I only walked around the gardens today, they are well kept. It was an enjoyable stroll. There is a NT shop and a book barn to explore.
HELEN THOMAS — Google review
Montacute House by the National Trust is a historical treasure. The stunning architecture and curated exhibits provide a captivating journey through the past. The meticulously maintained gardens are a serene escape. A visit here offers a delightful blend of history and natural beauty.
Sydney — Google review
The entrance is tucked away just off the main road. I managed to find a space in the overflow car park despite it being busy.
Loads to look at here in the garden and the house. The hedges are particularly distinctive.
The cafe looked busy so I continued looking around the property.
There are also a couple of additional walks that take in 3 different routes around the grounds and in the local area.
You can easily spend 3 hours here.
The Fleet Airarm Museum is a museum dedicated to naval aviation that is located in Somerset. The museum has an extensive collection of Royal Naval aircraft dating back to the early days of aviation.
Came here for a birthday visit and was thoroughly impressed, lots of interactive displays and family activities. Viewing stations located around and all staff are friendly, all with knowledge of planes and equipment and were happy to educate and share their knowledge. Everything followed previous covid and hygiene guidelines. The exhibits are amazing and so interesting. If you are interested in planes or just want to learn I highly recommend this place
Ellie Cairns — Google review
A really good place to visit the aircraft carrier experience is great, and all the displays are awesome. There is even a concorde to look around. Outside has a working airport and we got to see some helicopters taking off from the viewing gallery. Overall a brilliant place to visit.
Chris Arnott — Google review
Having the option to purchase tickets in advance not only speeds things up, but also gives you a little discount. Straight up the stairs and into the gift shop / entrance and showed the tickets on my phone and we were in.
There are a couple of pinch points when trying to navigate your way down. When trying to read some of the detail and you have people barging past was a bit frustrating.
So much to see and read, with the highlight being Concorde. Never would I have thought I would step aboard. Also enjoyed watching the helicopters take off from the airfield. That was a nice touch, although did get busy in there. Nice we can go on some of the aircraft. Really gives you an appreciation of how skilled everyone is to build, maintain and fly these craft from yesteryear to present day.
We were here for over 2 hours and probably will need to visit again as I'm sure we missed something. We didn't really see much in the way of signage, though that could've been us just absorbed in the museum exhibits.
Bit disappointed with the size of cafe, no tables free and there was still a queue to get food, so we had to go without and find somewhere else down the A303 to eat.
Other than that, we enjoyed the visit. Moderately busy for a weekday in September. Plenty of people about if there were any questions that needed answering, but we were happy just going at our own pace.
Mookii — Google review
Great place for all the family. The highlight is obviously being able to walk through Concorde. The hall she is in also holds the key planes that were instrumental in testing the shape, etc, of Concorde. So many historical planes there. Take your family. Keep your tickets as they are valid for 12 months.
Geoff Wakelam — Google review
Perfectly situated next to a Naval Air Base. Just amazing. Felt like a big child on Christmas morning knowing I was coming here purely because they had a Concorde. This place took me so far back through history and the staff were extremely helpful and knowledgeable. I spent easily 2.5 hours here and still think I could have seen a little more. That's me now seen my top three favourite aircraft! 🙌 Bucket list item checked ✔️ I just wish I had my photo taken in between the landing gear of the Concorde, that would have been a good one! So many planes and helicopters to see! There is a cafe inside and a gift/souvenir shop also.
Andrew Glen - Maddison Productions — Google review
This is a fantastic museum for the price (at writing £15 online and it lasts a year). There are a lot of aircraft to see, plus the carrier experience is really good.
The Concorde there is 10 meters shorter than any other, due to needing more windows in the cockpit than that version had. It's also got a leading edge that rolls down, the only concorde to have this as well. Really useful for landing and taking off, but not so useful in flight.
It's changed a lot since I last went there in September 2020. I feel the carrier experience was better back then with take off on one side and a landing on the other side of the carrier deck. I also feel that walking around the island was better before. Though I know why they updated it as it was something you needed to follow around and go through doors when it told you rather than walking round. They have lost the interaction side of it though.
I have knocked a star off as I feel it was better previously. However I know why they did the change, in some respects. It really is not as good as it used to be.
Didn't try the cafe, but it's no longer in a separate building as it was before.
I will say it is one of the better museums I have been, but it was better than this before.
Matt Belcher — Google review
We had an amazing day here! My Sons enjoyed every second of it. There's dressing up stations throughout the museum, which added to their imagination and created some fun whilst taking photos. They loved exploring all the different aircraft! Their favourite part was the carrier experience! The employee's were wonderful! We look forward to returning within the year!
Kirsty Jones — Google review
What a fantastic place!!!!
This is a great museum with loads of aircraft displays and the most awesome replica aircraft carrier deck.
This is a great place to bring the family, especially on a rainy day.
Best of all the tickets last a year so you can come back as many times as you like.
There's lots of interactive stuff for the kids to enjoy.
Recommend!!!!!
Rachel Jones — Google review
Wow what a brilliant museum. Lots of displays and aircraft you can climb aboard on. Visit the runway viewing room and watch helicopters and planes taking off from the airfield. Kids and adults will love this place. Currently you need to book tickets online but check their website out first.
Crash Media UK — Google review
Dropped in on a Saturday afternoon after another visit and thoroughly enjoyed the attraction. There are four halls, all with a variety of airplanes and helicopters which you can get up close to. A few you can go inside which was fascinating.
The highlight for me was hall 3 which was the working carrier. Although it's from the 1070s there was lots to see and I loved the recordings of current serving personnel explaining the intricacies of each section.
There's a café which we didn't go into but looked good and a great gift shop with souvenirs for everyone.
Outside was a children's play area and picnic site which I thought was a nice touch.
jezabel13262 — Google review
Really enjoyed our visit, fascinating exhibits well presented. Learned a lot about the early days of Naval flying and can't fail to be impressed seeing historic aircraft up close. Entry is pretty good value at £40 for a family ticket but be advised that the cafe and gift shop are expensive. Would recommend and may even come back as I believe the tickets are valid for a year.
Family Account — Google review
Really lovely museum. They have a very good collection of naval aircraft. I particularly liked how the museum is set out in such a way that you quite literally walk through the history of British aviation from the beginning all the way to present day. The exhibits are really immersive in the way they are designed. The highlight of my visit was getting to walk through a prototype concord and get up close to the controls. Highly recommended to any aviation enthusiasts.
Shaun Struwig — Google review
Took my son as he's interested in fighter planes. It's very informative, has a wide range of planes and helicopters you can actually go inside and view unlike other museum we have been too. The battle ship deck area is good it gives you an insight into what life is like on them. If you are interested in the navy and planes, I would recommend here.
Erica Smith — Google review
I think this is an overlooked place if I'm honest, I assume most people don't understand what the Fleet Air Arm actually means, but don't let it put you off. There are some real unique aircraft and they are not roped off meaning you can get up really close ad touchy/feels with them. The mock up of aircraft carrier is really cool. Everything from the flight deck to the inside ops rooms etc. I must admit, I learnt a thing or two.
Everything aircraft including helicopters is 5 stars in my opinion, however.....
I think the admission price is a little bit expensive by about £5. Also, the food and drink options are not great and are expensive for what you get. I brought a latte at an over inflated price, the cup was small and you got more froff than coffee.
The site is child/pushchair and wheelchair friendly.
There's also an overpriced, but well stocked shop.
We went on an early spring Sunday and it wasn't to busy.
If it wasn't for the overpricing I would of given it 5 stars.
Handy Manny — Google review
As a family we have been meaning to visit the museum for some time, and I am glad we finally did! What an amazing place, the exhibits are beautifully presented, in a very clean and spacious environment. Lots of interactive bits for the children to get involved in. The cafe was very clean and great service. All staff members were very helpful and made us feel very welcomed. We ran out of time to see the whole museum in a day, but we look forward to coming back again soon! Highly recommend to family's off all ages.
jamie osborn — Google review
The museum opened at 1000, worth buying tickets online as you will save a few pounds, you can also gift aid your purchase.
The exhibits are split into four halls covering the history of the Fleet Air Arm.
The flight deck experience is good , but not all of the effects were working during my visit which was a bit disappointing.
The staff are friendly and helpful and will try to answer any questions you have.
The whole display gives you a great insight into the Fleet Air Arm and the Royal Navy as a whole.
The museum is open until 1630 , it took me until 1530 to cover everything, taking time to read the information available and appreciate everything.
There is a cafe that offers a range of snacks at reasonable prices, and a gift shop sells plenty of gifts and souvenirs.
An enjoyable day out, my ticket allows me to return throughout the year so I will definitely return .
AL N — Google review
Fantastic visit easily spend a good 3 to 4 hours here if not longer. Extraordinary exhibits with plenty to see and interact with. Also a cafe located inside plus a gift shop.
Will Haycock — Google review
Came here couple years ago, amazing museum, full of different aircraft. Full day out, worth the visit. Especially liked the Concorde!
Benjamin Murtagh (Benjamin Murtagh) — Google review
The Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Museum is a fascinating and educational attraction that showcases the history and achievements of British naval aviation.
The museum has four exhibition halls, featuring over 90 aircraft, models, paintings, and artefacts from the past century. You can explore the first British Concorde, the Aircraft Carrier Experience, the Barracuda Live: The Big Rebuild project, and more.
The museum also offers a stunning view of the active airfield of the Royal Navy Air Service Yeovilton, where you can see modern aircraft in action. The Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in aviation, naval history, or technology.
Will Cranston — Google review
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4.5
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RNAS Yeovilton, Ilchester, BA22 8HT, United Kingdom
Chesil Beach is a long and wide beach in Dorset, England. It's popular with anglers and walkers, with many cafes along its length. The beach was formed by the fast-rising water levels at the last ice age, around 20,000 years ago. Dogs are welcome on Chesil Beach all year round, but must be kept on a lead at all times.
I just love this place.
Can be a bit of a tough walk on the pebbles but with so much scenery and the nature reserve here it’s well worth the effort.
Photos were taken from the viewpoint near the Heights Hotel on Portland.
Martin Upton — Google review
This is now my favourite beach in the uk. Its clean, the water is clear, and it's a lot of fun for the family. .are a packed lunch and enjoy a hidden gem.
D'Jorn Fevrier — Google review
Lovely shingle beach, can't really walk by the water because it's just all fishermen & women.
Cafe only open in summertime which is a shame.
However it is a beautiful place to visit
Mandy & Andy On Tour — Google review
Beautiful beach and the waves are amazing to see. We went two days in a row and it was extremely windy. Seems like that part of the UK is really windy. Also the saw the beach from a high viewpoint looked absolutely gorgeous. Will come back here for sunset next time we in Dorset.
Jahangir Ahmed — Google review
We visited the section near Abbotsbury, and it’s hard to rate Chesil Beach as depends on expectations and how you're judging it. It is a 29km rocky beach, that is quite windy and seemed to be good for fishermen (based on who was there). You're able to find a quiet spot to sit in the rocks or on seating you bring, as most people seemed to congregate near the parking entrance.
However, it is super windy, not a ton to do (at least in the central section), and doesn't feel too unique (beyond the length) compared to other English beaches.
So the beach is good if wanting rocky quiet, but wasn't quite the experience we hoped for.
Becky T — Google review
Great place to stay, good base for taking long walks, bird watching, etc. Within easy reach of Jurassic coast, Portland Bill and has the occasional amazing sunset. Will definitely be returning.
steve plested — Google review
Fantastic beach for the scenery. Definite wow factor. Not the easiest beach to walk on as very pebbly, some quite large. Car park at the visitor centre next to the Fleet Lagoon. The sunsets over Chesil Beach and the Fleet are spectacular!
Mark Howell — Google review
Just a magical, astonishing place. Tough on the older person's knees walking in the shingles, but worth it. It's an other-worldly, must see place
John Harrison — Google review
Magical place! Great for fishing, its an amazing place to walk if you are strapped up with ankle support, i did walk the whole 11 mile stretch from Abbotsbury down to Ferrybridge and I've never felt such pain, my dog couldn't walk for 3 days, it's not for the under prepared, but short walks along the cove is lovely at sunset. Obviously world famous for fishing, great all year round when the wind is right, although avoid storms as those rogue waves are no joke, a few people get swept away most years when they ignore the warnings.. Also totally open to dogs all year round, just keep an eye on them, fishing line with hooks often get washed up, along with wood with nails, stick to the upper ridge and you will be away from the wash up zone. And have good etiquette with the anglers, dont let your dogs go running over, anglers often have bait knives, hooks and other sharp things in their area and bait will attract dogs, this wont go down well and puts your dog at serious risk, just be polite and pop them on a lead if recall isn't perfect. And for kids, in summer months you'll often see dogfish eggs washing up, quite interesting, if you find one with the contents moving, pop it back in the sea, let that baby shark live.
Darren — Google review
Absolutely astonishing in every possible way. 14 miles of pebble beach! Ashamed to say that I live an hour away from Weymouth and Portland and whilst I have stopped off at this beach nearer the West Bay end, this is the first time I've stopped to visit Chesil beach at Portland.
Family McCoy (TheMcCoysUK) — Google review
Very beautiful beach and the views are just mesmerising. Great to see that the beach is very clean and not a single litter could be found anywhere, kudos to the locals and tourist alike.
Rizwan Nazar — Google review
I don't understand how nature can be so spiteful and create a beach so unwalkable.
Dorset council need to get their act together and sort this place out
I would give it zero stars but there isn't an option for that
Pollyanne Veazey-French — Google review
It's a stony beach with a deep shelf. Confident swimmers only. Famous for its fishing.
Stephen Bassett — Google review
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United Kingdom
I'll never travel to Bournemouth without this trip planner again
The Haynes Motor Museum is the UK's biggest exhibition of cars and motorbikes dating from 1900 to today, with a range of activities for kids.
Great day out. Would recommend for slightly older kids just for the distance you walk, although great effort has been made to keep them entertained (including a trail to follow and brass rubbings to do on the way!). The playground outside was excellent for kids too, so those with more patience will be fine. The exhibits are excellent. A true spread of vehicles with detailed notes beside every one. The staff also were brilliant without fault and are a credit to the museum. Always present but never in the way and will offer information when needed.
Mat Moore — Google review
Bought regular tickets (cheaper online and in advance) and then on check in upgraded to annual tickets at no extra cost. Never been before and had a great time. Some amazing cars, even they are happy and smiley!
becci wilde — Google review
This is an extremely impressive destination for both car enthusiasts and families alike. Not only does the museum cater to the automotive aficionados, but it also offers an abundance of family-friendly activities for young children, exceeding my initial expectations. The level of customer service provided was exemplary, displaying warmth and hospitality.
Salim Miah — Google review
A bright and clean environment full of a wide range selection of vehicles from all over the world. The restaurant was well stocked with pasties and sausage rolls as well as sandwiches, the museum itself was well layed out so that you don't miss anything. You can get up close to most of the cars and they have a motorbike selection too. There was a dedicated Formula 1 section with F1 cars from Williams, we were able to make our pass an annual pass so we'll be back again for sure!
Jamie Glover — Google review
Excellent variety of cars and motorcycles, from very early models to modern day. Lots of interesting information. Enjoyed getting up close outside with some of the cars. Great cafe too, with good choice of food. Day tickets can be changed into an annual pass at no extra cost. Go karting (extra charges) needs to be booked in advance. Highly recommended destination.
Mathilda Murray — Google review
Absolutely love the Haynes Motor Museum - and once you've bought a ticket you can return as many times as you like which is ideal. They have a great collection of weird and wonderful cars and really shows a thorough insight into the history of the automobile. We love the monthly cars and coffee meets too, there is always a good variety and the Marshalls are really helpful upon arrival. You can buy the books in the shop too which I've often found useful when working on old cars
Callum — Google review
Really enjoyed. Vast amount cars & motorbikes available to see. Starting off with earliest cars & taking you on a journey (pardon the pun) to most recent cars. One huge area dedicated to simply red cars. Museum very clean & tidy. Informative boards on walls & in front of cars. Really interesting. Mock garage set up with petrol pumps etc. Formula one, American, James Bond, convertibles, jeeps, Ferrari. Children could trace some cars from brass stamps. Food available. Eating inside or out. No dogs allowed unfortunately inside. Only criticism was promoted as dog friendly & gave impression that there was lots to do outside. This was a little misleading as only 5 cars outside. We therefore took it in turns.
Foxy 82 — Google review
Brilliant place. The kids enjoyed it. Good for 1.5 - 2 hours for them (3 and 11). Outdoor play area was good and there is a place to picnic. Range of cars was good. Could do with more exhibits for kids to sit in or on or interact with and it would be lovely to see a Saab or two in the collection.
Anthony R — Google review
Excellent museum even if you aren’t interested in cars or motorcycles. (It’s the largest in the UK.)
There are lots of cars from different periods and plenty of interesting stories and vignettes.
Staff are friendly and happy to chat about interesting tidbits re the displays.
Do book in advance for karting though as the slots fill up quickly. (Minimum age 8.)
Karin Sinniger — Google review
Cars isn't really my thing, but plenty to look at.. I quite enjoyed myself.
Lovely and clean, toilets were too!
Had a very spacious feel, even though the lighting was quite low.. had a shop full of goodies, we resisted bar a fridge magnet..
If it wasn't soo far away, we'd return again!
Rachel — Google review
We absolutely loved it in the Haynes Motor Museum. Prices are good £19.75 each for adults. There is a cafe, toilets and a gift shop on entry. Staff are friendly, very helpful and knowledgeable about the vehicles. There is loads to see and you can definitely spend a few hours in here. Worth a visit and the prices includes returning visits. Plenty of parking.
Louise — Google review
Brilliant place for all kinds of people of all ages, especially for car enthusiasts. Hundreds of cars through the ages and some very special film stars 🤣
Well worth a visit, the gift shop is great.
Weekend Wildness — Google review
We didn't properly go into the museum as we were there for a Drivetribe event. What we could see looked amazing and the event itself was good, with q and a's with the likes of Richard Hammond, Mat Armstrong and Ben Collins. I would say the museum itself is well worth a visit.
James Howard — Google review
Great variety of motors. Able to see most from all angles and close up - not roped off which is brill. Perhaps a little pricey although your ticket gets you free entry for a year. You can order tickets online before the day in order to save 10%, which I foolishly forgot to do. You’ll be able to spend a good few hours here if you’re into motors, so a good day out for the family. There are some interactive elements, a LEGO area, plus an outdoor play area. The gift shop has a wide range of products. I purchased the diary, a 7 in 1 pen, a cap, and some sweet treats - pleased with all purchases. I definitely recommend this museum.
Luke — Google review
My first visit. Excellent museum with friendly staff. Great cafe. A really good day out. For discounted tickets, see Picniq Tickets website.
Ian Roberts — Google review
Absolutely brilliant 5 star museum and a huge credit to the staff that maintain the facility ….. easily spend all day there and all the vehicles have been lovingly restored and brought back to mint condition … very educational and informative
However went to get lunch and the cafe is 3 star at best …. Enderd up eating a sausage roll and was lucky to get that ….really needs a quality restaurant that matches the overall quality of the museum
…
James Ocallaghan — Google review
Fantastic museum for the self asset petrol head car or motorcycle, young and old. And value for money considering you get a free 12mths membership with your purchase 😉.and proof using your receipt or address at the kiosk.
terry jackson — Google review
Really enjoyed a wander here. A great collection of cars. Bits to keep the kids entertained were appreciated and the come back free for a year ticket will come in handy.
One thing I would like is to see more cars being accessible and to have bonnets up/doors open.
Nathan Cass — Google review
Great museum with lots to see and do to for the adults and the kids there is a very good range of vehicles from all decades and places from all round world with bikes and f1 cars sports cars and your every day car from years gone by there is also a really nice cafe for food and drinks prices are reasonable
The coast guard station at Portland Bill Lighthouse, which dates back to 1906 and includes the keepers' quarters turned visitor centre, showcases maritime history exhibits. The lighthouse stands tall at 41 meters with candy stripes and provides stunning views of the Race, a turbulent vortex caused by opposing tides. For a true sense of Portland's remote nature, visitors can explore interactive displays in the former lighthousekeepers' cottages like Into the Dark, which simulates sailing through stormy seas.
Beautiful place to visit. Stunning views of the sea! And has a lovely cafe next door, called The Lobster Pot which serves delicious food and the staff are brilliant. It also has a little gift shop too! Around this time of year it's not too busy, so it's been so lovely. Would absolutely visit again!
olivia Anne — Google review
A good visit and a very knowledgeable guide.
The Tour takes about an hour and it's not too pricey.
Great views from the top.
You may have to pay for parking, luckily for use the machine wasn't working so it was free 😁
A good walk along the cliff top and around what's left of part of the quarry.
Local cafe near by.
Peter Hill — Google review
Great place to visit and lovely staf to give guided tours up the lighthouse, where there are amazing views.
The gift shop does have some items that do not accurately portray this lighthouse, which needs correcting. Overall a great place to visit for a reasonable cost. Nicky was a great host and very informative.
stephen white — Google review
It's a very lovely place, definitely worth visiting. The bus goes from there to mainland every hour so you've got plenty of time to check all the rocks and other views. 😁 Just remember, on a sunny day, take something to protect yourself from sunlight, as there's hardly any place that you can hide in the shadow.
Radoflow — Google review
It's a long drive out, the view was beautiful and the light houses a good photo op. But carpark unsurfaced and can imagine it gets mega busy in high season
Siobhan Lalor-McTague — Google review
Stunning Views, Rich History, and Outstanding Service!
This lighthouse is a must-see, especially for those interested in lighthouses, maritime history, or stunning coastal scenery. Here's what to consider for your visit:
Climbable Lighthouse: They offer a fantastic climb to the light section with incredible views. However, the final ascent requires climbing a steep ladder. This might be challenging for young children or those with limited mobility.
Informative Tour: The guided tour provides fascinating explanations of the lighthouse's history and operation.
Ample Parking: The car park has plenty of space, making it convenient to arrive and leave.
Gift Shop: There's a nice souvenir shop where you can find mementos of your visit.
Exceptional Service: We arrived a few minutes before closing time, but after a quick call, the staff kindly waited for us to ensure we could still enjoy the tour.
Plan on spending roughly an hour to fully explore the lighthouse and enjoy the tour.
For families with young children: While the views and history are engaging, keep in mind the final climb to the light requires a steep ladder.
Overall, the friendly and accommodating staff and the informative tour make this a great visit. Just be mindful of the climbing requirement for the light section.
amith jayasekara — Google review
Excellent stop off point to visit.
The lighthouse is beautiful (we visited on a Friday when it was closed 😕) and we would have loved to go inside, check their website for details. Still plenty to see with Pulpit Rock, The Trinity House Obelisk and the gorgeous views out to sea.
The coastal.path isn't wheelchair accessible or suitable for those who have difficulty on uneven ground but you can get to the lighthouse and cafe easily (although good, it was the tiniest takeaway cappuccino I've ever had 😒).
It's safest to keep your dogs on their leads due to cliff edges and maybe wrap up as it's very windy, even on a sunny day.
We filled our lungs with heady fresh air and really enjoyed our walk taking it all in.
Highly recommend.
Louise Bentley — Google review
Stunning view, lovely atmosphere
Grab a folding chair and sit on the edge, lovely breeze. Definitely worth the visit.
Ample parking space starting with just £1 for 30 minutes and £2 for an hour.
Very clean and beautiful place
Shakeel Ahmed — Google review
Car park machine needs updating. It's is such a far getting a ticket. Anyway a wonderful beauty spot. You can climb the lighthouse and I would recommend it. Great history and photo opportunities..
James Murphy — Google review
Bracing walk along the edge with soul searching views out to sea and along the coastline. Drive to it was beautiful too.
The car park and cafe is expensive though so take a flask and some nibbles.
OsoChic Ragdolls — Google review
Lovely place with great views. I especially liked it as the car park is right next door to it, and as I have mobility issues, this was great for me. The staff inside the lighthouse shop and the Lobster Pot across the road were really friendly and helpful. Well worth a visit.
Linda Labrooy — Google review
Fabulous working lighthouse. Great tour guides, safety a major priority. Lovely museum , child friendly. If you get to the top, it's well worth the views. It's not good to go if you have vertigo or medical conditions.Lovely walks. Views out to sea are amazing on a clear day, obviously. Watch the car park payment system. Be prepared to pay by the app as it can be difficult to pay by card. Download it before you go if possible.
Moggy Malone — Google review
The island of Portland is a unique and picturesque setting for this famous little lighthouse set at the far end of the isle. The day we went it was foggy so with the horn sounding it felt eerie and atmospheric. Lighthouse was closed but carpark was spacious and toilets clean. Lovely for walks or birdwatching but the carpark is a little pricey and there isn't much else of interest on the island.
Sam Burbidge — Google review
A good visit and a very knowledgeable guide.
The Tour takes about an hour and it's not too pricey.
Great views from the top.
You may have to pay for parking, luckily for use the machine wasn't working so it was free 😁
A good walk along the cliff top and around what's left of part of the quarry.
Local cafe near by.
Peter Hill — Google review
Lighthouse was closed for the week for maintenance so a little disappointing. The views are beautiful and it's always lovely being by the sea. There's a decent restaurant. The food is lovely and reasonably priced. Worth a visit for the views alone.
Ammo Soggi — Google review
Amazing scenery, amble parking but the parking meters were not working and the app payment was annoying to use but reasonably priced. Minimal crowds because plenty of room for people to wander. Cafe looked good but pricy so we didn't use.
abigail howlett — Google review
Lovely beautiful attraction & just the best location. Fantastic sea views, open air & historic building.
Does have a great guided tour of the Bill with gift shop too
paul westwood — Google review
Brilliant views and a very great old light house at the end of the land in portland. Beautiful views. The spot has a beautiful cafeteria that has hot and cold food. The cafe has vegan options and great food. Scones with jam and cream and sweet cakes coastal trails go off in both directions if you fancy a walk. Parking is available at cost, but the views alone make it all worth it.
Garden Yard Gainz (Boom) — Google review
This is a lovely place to visit. The only issue was trying to purchase a parking ticket on the phone app (we did not have cash). There was absolutely no phone signal to do this! Instead, we went into the gift shop and spent money there! We had our lunch on the rocks and done some walking. It was a gorgeous August day.
Ruth Keetch — Google review
If you want to visit a cold but peaceful place, this is your spot. A nice almost 3hour drive, but the view, oh my God, the pictures doesn't do justice. Get your warmest clothes to enjoy the serene views.
Lemonade — Google review
Gr8 place to visit a specially if it’s windy. Beautiful view of nature power from the lighthouse. Also lovely service from the staff. Definitely will be back here in future.
Camel On Wheels — Google review
Such a picturesque spot for taking pictures of anything related to the sea. Lighthouses, rocks, marine life and the sea. There are three lighthouses, one for bird observations, one small one on top of the hill which I think is a private residence and of course the white and red lighthouse that is a portrait on every postcard. Nearby there is a cafe called The Lobster Pot, plenty of parking and a memorial to the D-Day landing.
Dennis Henshaw — Google review
If you like lighthouses, the sea, the breeze, impressive views above the sea, this is definitely your place. The lighthouse can be visited front inside, unfortunately for me that day the staff was off sick, so no visit. Anyway, there is a gift shop at the entrance of the lighthouse with lot of gifts. You need to pay for the parking, and there are two good placed in which you can have a meal, or a coffee (or tea).
Recommended place, very turístic, and it is worth to visit it.
Carlos F. Gómez Llavero — Google review
Lovely popular area to wander around when the weather is fine. It is very exposed if the weather is inclement and windy. There is a tidal race around this part, so the waves are always crashing. You can tour the lighthouse, we didn't because the tours were full, but would on another visit.
David Troughton — Google review
Stunning place, breathtaking views on a sunny day in March. Parking charges via app, higher prices from April throughout the summer, but toilets on site. Lovely cafe if you want to stay a while, but gets busy.
Donna Rigby — Google review
Thoroughly enjoyable visit to the lighthouse and visitor centre. Our guide, Suzie, was very knowledgeable and friendly. The climb to the top has several stops along the way which we were grateful for. Highly recommended.
latenightlizzie — Google review
Always love a trip here, especially in wild weather. Perhaps I should add that you need to be cautious and sensible, don't climb anywhere silly and be mindful in rough weather of large waves.
We like the location, the view, the lighthouse and the cafe.
Neil Stewart — Google review
I really enjoyed it here, very wild and rugged spot. Beautiful skies and seas. Car park is right next to lighthouse, there is a good cafe. Worth visiting.
Neil Collins — Google review
This is one of the must visit place, the view is mesmerizing and the route is just wow.
albert abraham — Google review
An interesting place to visit if you're interested in lighthouses past and present. Worth the climb to the top to see the interior and views from the top of the building. The tour guide was enthusiastic and informative about the building and use.
Weymouth Beach is a long, curved beach which is popular for sunbathing, swimming and playing in the sand. The beach is located in Weymouth, Dorset, England and was once frequented by King George III. There are plenty of attractions to take advantage of while at the beach including an arcade, donkey rides, swings and ice cream stalls.
Beautiful beach. I especially like it because is just next to the city. 1 side Is a relaxing fishing harbour and another side a busy beach with lots of arcade and fish and chips. Lot to do with kids. You can park all day if you follow the beach road until the end but you may need to wake-up early. 😉🏖☀️
Bernadett Arvai — Google review
Beautiful sandy beach with excellent facilities close by. Lifeguards are on duty in case of emergency, and rentals of loungers and deck chairs are available for the day.
Plenty of parking lots are close to the beach, but if you don't mind a little stroll, there are plenty of other (cheaper or free) parking lots farther away.
There are pebbles on half of the beach and a gorgeous golden sandy beach with lots of attractions on the other half.
Margrit Gunther — Google review
Such a beautiful beach, very sandy and long to walk along. There's a section on the beach for dogs which makes it great for dog owners to let dogs play in the sea and sand. There's a wide range of things to do along the sea front including punch and Judy stand near the clock tower end. Such a amazing beach well maintained by the Dorset Council.
Ray Bangerte-Spiers — Google review
Great place for families, lots of shops, restaurants and a little fair for children to enjoy 😄. The water is nice and clean, loads of people in the water doing all sorts of activities. The water was really shallow when we was there. There is always something to do in the area.
I would recommend this beach to anyone we enjoyed it and love it here.
Claire Louise m — Google review
Sandy beach with calm sea. Shallow water which is suitable for the children.
There is a dog beach near to Alexandra Garden - you will see a lot of dogs running around!
Your phone signal might be zero or very weak depending on your telephone provider.
Great fireworks display on a Monday evening at 9pm during August.
Hungry_Hippo London — Google review
5th November, firework night, the big wide sandy beach full to capacity, several thousands of people filling the promenade as well. A car parking nightmare tho, luckily we sorted that out the day before.
Fireworks display set off from a very safe distance out in the bay, and people seemed very happy as they left after the show.
pete aps — Google review
Weymouth is a seaside town in Dorset. It is situated in what can be described as a sheltered bay at the mouth of the River Wey. Having visited both Bournemouth and Poole over the years, I felt it was time to visit Weymouth and I was pleasantly surprised. Positioned halfway along the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site, it is a fascinating area. Transport around the area is regular and frequent and can highly recommend the Jurassic Coaster tour bus as a way of exploring the immediate area.
The beaches were clean and family friendly and the local shops cater for all needs and requirements.
A most enjoyable seven days.
John Cintas — Google review
Had amazing long walk at this lovely beach which is half pebbles and half golden sand. Very clean beach and good facilities around such as toilets, food places, cafes & drink places etc. Deck chairs available on rent for the day. Nice to see lifeguards standby for any emergencies.
Car parks near the beach and plenty of free parking further away. Good for all day fun as have plenty of entertainment and amusement around.
win task — Google review
Wow what a stunning beach and beautiful views.
Lots for the kids to do, rides on the beach, donkeys, Punch and Judy show, arcade and more rides, peddle boats.
Lots of lovely places to eat ( cafes on the beach front ) fish and chips, pubs and lots of seafood restaurants.
Nice shops to walk around as the beach is right near the town.
Lots of B&Bs and pubs with rooms if you want to make a weekend of it.
Best beach……….
Kelly Butler — Google review
Lovely sandy beach, very clean and good facilities nearby (toilets, food & drink etc). Loungers and deck chairs can be rented for the day and lifeguards are on hand for any emergencies.
Plenty of car parks near the beach but plenty of other (cheaper or free) parking further away if you don't mind a short walk.
Half the beach is pebbly and the other half is an amazing golden sandy beach with loads attraction.
Overall Weymouth is amazing and definitely come back with the family.
Jay Miah — Google review
Weymouth has a long beach and much of it is sandy. There is also a harbour with various boats. There is Lodmore Country Park and Radipole Lakes to walk around. There are a variety of shops. Walks along the coastline including Lulworth Cove and Durable Dor, Bowleaze Cove, Studland and Swanage, all nearby. It is a beautiful part of the world, and quite quiet this time of the year. It's a family friendly town, and dogs love it on the beach too
Ruth Greenaway — Google review
Brilliant beach, big, lovely soft golden sand. Not overcrowded, even on a hot sunny day. Plenty of reasonable price parking nearby. Close to the town centre and amenities. I actually think it's much better than Bournemouth.
Tim Husain — Google review
Lovely visit as always. Clean beach. Close to the shore there is a lot of black sand at the moment. But doesnt seem to bother anyon3. The little kiosks are a nice welcome break in between walks. Plenty of fish to see from the pier. Dog walking end if the beach is alao very clean. Great walk even on a rainy day
The Cerne Giant is a perplexing and intriguing chalk figure that stands at 60m high and 51m wide, with an age shrouded in mystery. Some speculate that he may be of Roman origin, while others point to historical records from as far back as 1694. This naked male figure wields a club and is notoriously well-endowed, making him quite the spectacle for tourists.
Worth the hike to the top and around. Make sure you visit the lovely village following the river walk.
John Anglin — Google review
Only ever seen the Giant from far away, so to get as close as possible to him, was on my bucket list (ticked off ✔️)
The village is so lovely, quiet and the walks are well worth it (if you can manage it)
The small car park is in the village and is run on donations. Just a lovely,lovely place with a very special ambience.
Kristin Plant — Google review
Of historic interest and the village is quaint. But the best view is from the carpark and it didn't look even half as good as the photos. Appreciate this may be due to the heavy rain the week before.
Went and climbed up the easy side and down the left hand side which was almost vertical. Was a lovely but strenuous walk.
Nice to see but would say probably not worth a long trip as it is out of the way. Enjoy!
Siobhan Gallagher — Google review
Surprisingly nice trip, we parked at the viewpoint and ended up walking up the hill and around the giant then into town, visited the abbey & well and other historic sites in town. Finished off with a stop in the pub on the way back. Lovely day all round. Apparently the giant looks better once he's been re-chalked this wasn't the case when we were there.
Sam Larsen — Google review
Who knew something so phallic could be so interesting?! A good walk up the steep hill from the Kettle Bridge car park to get amazing views. The best views of the Giant itself though are down in the small car park (“Cerne Giant Viewpoint”). Baaa.
Luke — Google review
"The Cerne Abbas Giant is a hill figure near the village of Cerne Abbas in Dorset, England. 55 metres high, it depicts a standing nude male with a prominent erection and wielding a large club in its right hand.
Regardless of its age, the Cerne Abbas Giant has become an important part of local culture and folklore, which often associates it with fertility. It is one of England's best-known hill figures and is a visitor attraction in the region.
The Cerne Giant is one of two major extant human hill figures in England; the other is the Long Man of Wilmington, near Wilmington, East Sussex."
Mark Smith — Google review
Nice place with plenty of parking spaces.. remember to donate 1 pound for parking.
TheBooklice Booklice — Google review
I've known about this particular place for a long time; but even though I've passed it many, many times, I've not had the opportunity to stop and see it.
No-one is absolutely certain when it was created; it might have been prehistoric, or just in the 17th century. But it is an interesting piece of our past.
The Giant is probably best seen from an overhead shot from a drone or aircraft, but can still be made out from the viewing platform if the weather is OK, the light is in the right place, or if they have renewed the chalk filling.
There are a series of footpaths that allow you to get a lot closer; the gradient is quite steep and the less fit might prefer to leave it to those that can handle the climb.
Anthony Sutcliffe — Google review
Wow.. just wow, best photos from top viewing Carpark.... Followed the stream down in to the village where we explored the Abbey first, then on into the small village... Lovely old world village..
Trevor Smith — Google review
Worth the visit and walk up the hill. Wild orchids were flowering in early June with plenty of insect life. A lovely walk through many different trails before & after the giants hill. Yes you can't see the giant very well while walking on the hill, that's the way it was made, to be seen from a distance. It is also fenced off to protect it, if every numbskull was allowed to walk over it, erosion would soon take hold and it would start to disappear. Also don't expect the grass to be trimmed every week for your viewing pleasure, Cerne Abbas doesn't receive anywhere near the number of tourists to justify the money it would cost to do this. Take your time here and spend some money in the village to help out the locals.... and don't be ungrateful, rate it 5⭐!
Mark Field — Google review
Nice place. Please take the time to look round before making a hasty decision. Pretty village too. I would recommend having a walk around the area. This has been here a long time.
It's been a childhood dream of mine to see this landmark feature.
The viewing area is slightly neglected which is a shame, despite clearly costing the tax payer a fortune to install. We spent 5 mins litter picking but didn't bring my mower or hedge trimmer.
Clearly not been kept on a maintenance schedule for over a month or two.
Maybe Dorset council should spend some of the monies on a mower, sweeping 🧹, shovel & labour(or the residents could make an effort as we do in our village which isn't a world renowned site).
bessbobs — Google review
It's hard to see the giant from the viewing place or from the fence around the edge of the actual field. I like the legend around him, though. It's still good to be able to say we have seen it 😊 another landmark ticked off!
Hannah May — Google review
Impressive. Lovely view from the viewpoint, but if you have a drone, it's definitely far better.
Earl Palmer — Google review
I went here and we walked through the town and onto the hill expecting to be able to walk through and past the giant. A small sign said “Public asked to stay of the grass due to erosion”
Lucas Underhay-Walsh — Google review
It was great to see, but you obviously don't get the view you see online which I suspect is taken by a drone.
Lovely walks in the area and an interesting town. The carpark is free with a donation box so you can contribute to the upkeep.
Thomas Coombs — Google review
Nice picturesque village and countryside walks over the hills. Good parking for the Cerne Giant chalk drawing. However only a sign at top of hill on a barbed wire fence around the cerne giant area that no one can actually go up close to see it. A steep climb and good cardio workout. But disappointing that you can only really view it from the car park. Grass was long so not all the features can be seen apart from the big knob.
Laura Connolly — Google review
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The Giant Inn, 24 Long St, Cerne Abbas, Dorchester DT2 7AL, United Kingdom
The Tank Museum boasts an impressive collection of tanks, including the world's first-ever tank. Visitors can enjoy interactive activities and exhibitions showcasing armoured warfare machines from World War I to the present day. The museum also features an outdoor area where tanks drive around and offers rides on them for a fee. Additionally, there is a pleasant cafe, clean restrooms, and a gift shop. It is considered by some as one of the best tank collections in the world.
Fascinating place. If you considering it, do go.
We went today as as two adults with our tank mad 14 year old.
It is the first time we have been and can't recommend it enough.
Very informative in relation to tanks and virtually every battle since 1914.
There were numerous tanks on display.
I found the description boards next to each tank particularly interesting.
We were there 5 hours and are going back later in the week to finish the last 30 per cent.
The layout was a little confusing, but it didn't matter.
The food was average price and average quality. Reasonable. Plenty of seating.
There were lots of interactive displays for younger children and a soft play area (that did look a bit manic).
The outside arena display was probably the highlight.
Louise Henry — Google review
Absolutely superb day. If you are into military vehicles then allow a full day. The layout of the exhibits is excellent and takes you through the development of the tank, the first world war as well as many other eras. We took our 8 month old in a pram and the facilities were great. Cafe provided good food for a fair price and everything was very accessible. I am sad that I live so far away or I would be back regularly. Buy tickets online for a small discount. Shop was fairly priced and had an excellent selection, particularly of clothes and model kits.
Benedict Stek — Google review
A brilliant museum for anyone interested in tanks and war history! Drove 3 hours to visit and I’m glad we did. All exhibits are interesting and the quantity, quality and variety of tanks and their information is amazing. Got to tick off some bucket list tanks to see. Cannot wait to return.
Thomas Howe — Google review
What an absolutely brilliant day out. So worth the visit. The live tank display is a must and thoroughly enjoyable. Tank rides are available at an extra cost to the entrance price but worth it. Lots of WW1 and WW2 exhibits with interesting and moving personal accounts. With recreations of what life was like in a wartime bunker which you can actually walk through. Large cafe and seating available but gets busy. You can bring your own picnic and sit on the grass overlooking the tank display arena. Very friendly and helpful staff ready to answer any questions. I highly recommend a visit.
Paula Turner-Howarth — Google review
We were so impressed with our visit. We visited with our 3 year old and stayed for over 4 hours. There are some really great kids activities throughout the museum like army figures, lego, top trumps, dressing up, puzzles etc. I’m not that into tanks myself, my husband is the one who wanted to go, but I still really enjoyed myself and found everything so interesting. So much to see and a very big museum. Highly recommend. They also have some bargain books!
A Knight — Google review
Fantastic day out. Book tickets online as they are cheaper than buying on the day. The food is below average but that's not why you come here.
I'd advise bringing a picnic and eating at the tables looking over the exhibits or outside on the grass if it's good weather.
The tickets get you an annual pass, making it great value for money. I was feeling unwell so I left early and ended up coming back the following day to finish the museum and am glad I did so.
There are talks throughout the day that are great for those who struggle reading the vast amount of information in the exhibits.
If you're not a fan of tanks (and have been dragged along) I'd suggest completing the story of the tank exhibition and going through the trenches. It will take most of the morning and I've been told it was interesting to a non enthusiast.
The staff were very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. A great day out.
Also you may see some tanks on the road on your way in, which is great to see they are still operational and brings home their power.
matthew foley — Google review
Just the most fantastic museum, so we'll laid out. Brilliant value as your ticket lasts for a year. 1000% better than 10 years ago. Very nice cafe with great views. You will need at least 5 hours.
Marki Allum — Google review
So much to see and learn even if you're not a tank enthusiast specifically! We went on a rainy day as two adult women but had an amazing time. The museum does a great job of taking you right from the start of their introduction to modern day so you really can understand the decisions made and their impacts.
My only note is that it gets really warm, so definitely consider a t shirt or even shorts!
Gift shop and book shop were great, and the little cafe is a good stop for a quick refreshment although probably not the best bet for a full lunch!
Flora S — Google review
Visited for Tankfest weekend and was amazed by the size of the place and the incredible number of tanks on display. And that's not giving credit to the vast number of "undisplayed" tanks in the storage hangar. Very well organized event overall, although I would like to see more undercover grandstand seating given that the glorious sunshine was beating down all weekend.
Mick Morley — Google review
Can't rave enough about this place. This was our first visit as a family of 5 with two boys on the spectrum. At the admissions desk, we saw there were Sensory Bags available, these were just what was needed, ear defenders, torch, fidget spinners, periscope and loads of other items to keep them occupied while adults explored. There were loads of activities that occupied the kids too. It was nice to stop and get a coffee while they ran around the softplay. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable, making the overall experience great. The outdoor display was great as well. We didn't get time to ride the tracked vehicle and there were some exhibits we couldn't appreciate while keeping an eye on the boys but thoroughly enjoyed the day. Highly recommend it.
Nick Marfleet — Google review
The tank museum was amazing! Even people in our group who weren't into tanks enjoyed it. There was plenty of space for the kids to look around and fun activities for them. Our autistic daughter had lots of fun too and was able to move around freely with no judgement.
We will 100% be returning, numerous times I hope!
Steven Aley — Google review
Wow wow wow. This place is absolutely brilliant! There are so many things to interact with and the actual engineering and all the different types of tank is mind blowing. This is an exceptional set up, brilliant cafe serving wholesome meals and snacks, separate cafe next to soft play all indoors. Also if you paid for a ticket online you got the next 365 days entrance for free. Such good value if you are staying in the area or plan to come back.
Lots for kids to do too, my son loved all the dressing up and the Lego builds a tank station. Plenty for military enthusiasts too, we will definitely be back!
Joanna Lothian — Google review
So many tanks to look at, far more than I expected. The displays are interesting and in a light and spacious area, not fenced off behind barriers, you can look up close. There is an outdoor area where you can see tanks driving around and for an extra fee you can take a ride on one. The cafe was nice, had a tasty Tuna panini and chips. Lovely clean loos, nice little gift shop. Glad we went.
Kim Wood — Google review
If you love tanks, then this place is for you. The attention to detail to the tank presentation is out of this world. Information on the tanks is very accurate and interesting. To be honest, I wasn't ready to leave and spent a good 4 hours there and still didn't see everything. 10/10
Best tank museum in the world.
Plus the kids loved it!
Richard — Google review
Wonderful experience. Fascinating. Lots of interactive exhibits for our children. Our teenage son, who is very interested in WWII and tanks, thought it was excellent. We all enjoyed our time here.
Kerri Christie — Google review
What a fantastic experience! Amazing collection, well displayed. Definitely worth traveling across the world to see it.
Fairly easy to get there by train from Bournemouth. Best to take a taxi from the train station, takes about 5min. Food at the museum is decent. Probably 2 days needed to have the full experience. We spent 6 hours and it wasn’t enough time. WW1 exhibits are amazing! Don’t miss it.
Roman Krzaczek Quadra Island Cortes Island and Campbell River Realtor — Google review
Absolutely brilliantly day out. I had very little expectations. Thought they’d have a few tanks on display and a few medals. Nothing like that. The place has so much going on. They’ve thought of everything. And parking is free, which is always a bonus. We visited in the 6 week term so really busy but when I booked my ticket for the day (£45 for 2 adults and 2 children) I noticed you can add the annual pass for free with the ticket so make sure you do that. We will definitely visit again. The kids loved it. Highly recommend a visit
Lorna Morton — Google review
Having last visited the Tank Museum in 2001, I was not sure how much could have changed in that time, and I was slightly apprehensive that my young child might be quickly bored, but this was absolutely NOT the case!
There are more than ample interactive activities for kids in almost every room, with each section being very well thought out to appeal to all age ranges. There is also reasonable cafe and soft play to keep young families occupied if the activity trails aren't enough, which is a bonus.
The museum also offers sensory backpacks for children, which was a very nice touch.
The tanks themselves are still very tastefully displayed and remain the real highlight.
Highly recommended!
Chris Green — Google review
Easy to find and significantly more professional and well presented than when I went as a kid. So, so many tanks and military vehicles with loads of info about the exhibits. One area was closed off due to a wedding, but we still ran out of time to see it all. Hopefully in a few years time they will cover the Ukrainian war and the impact drones have had on tank design and tactics.
C Tooth — Google review
I think I felt like a 6 year old with big toys for the whole 4 hours it took to take the place in... Loved it!
I arrived with a love for tanks and left with knowledge of the reason and history of the modern tank. It's an amazing collection expertly presented.
Dan — Google review
What a great day out. So many tanks to see but other interesting things to do like tank PC gaming and exhibitions. Caters to all ages and plenty of places to sit and read and interact with. My son's 15 and loved it. Great value for money as well. Great shop and restaurants there. And you get an annual pass with entry which is great we want to go back in the summer to see the tank shows. But your tickets online it's cheaper but very good price for everything you get to see and do.
Sarah Morris — Google review
WOW! this Museum blew my mind away such a huge collection, excellent displays and information, take plenty of time for your visit so much to take in. Staff make you feel welcome from the moment you walk in, tours are available at different times throughout the day with guides. There is a restaurant, parking is easy, plenty for kids to do all in all a fantastic day out. Having a Grandad that served in WW1 who won medals during the battle of the Somme who survived to return a broken man, and uncles that served in the Army during WW2 who also returned home made this visit even more important for me.
Ian Stewart — Google review
How amazing is this place.. I cannot wait to recommend this amazing experience. There is so much to see and learn here for young enthusiastic kids, and even the big kids like mums and dads will enjoy this place. I have to comment on the value for money. The tank show is a not to be missed either.
A brilliant day out.
Johnny Clingham — Google review
What a brilliant museum. So much to see and do. My son wanted to visit this place for his birthday treat. If you like military history or not it is very interesting, some of the machines are incredible. The staff are great and very friendly. The food is a bit pricey, but to help support the museum I don't mind. Admission is very reasonable, 1 adult and 2 kids under 15, £34 for a year ticket. We stayed in nearby Swanage to make a weekend of it. Some lovely places to stay.
Karl Irons — Google review
If you are into military vehicles this is a must place to visit (in Dorset), hundreds of vehicles with their history attached. Some you can go into others just to look into.
The price is £21.50 (adult) so not cheap BUT that is valid for a year so even if you visit twice in the year it's very good value for money as you can spend many hours there.
Lots of car parking spaces, a cafe and a restaurant on site.
I would highly recommend a visit.
Just a few photos attached.
John Boneham — Google review
Excellent day out. Very informative and interesting. Much bigger than I thought, and not at all boring. Brilliant displays and interactive exhibits. Thoroughly recommend a visit. Make sure you see the outdoor displays too - great to see some proper tanks in action!
Daniel Robins — Google review
I think this is the most excellent museum I have ever been in. Quite jaw dropping in its scale, with highly informative exhibits brought to life through many personal stories. We were there for over 4 hours and still did not see or read everything. We were quite overwhelmed by the experience. Luckily the tickets are valid for a year and we will definitely return. To help spend a whole day here there is a cafe with a kids play area and a less noisy restaurant. There is a ton of stuff for kids to do. Put simply, everyone should visit to be better informed about war, UK innovation in tank warfare, and how ordinary people were impacted at such a young age.
Kathryn Barrow — Google review
Had never thought about visiting a place like this before, but really glad I did as was a great day and an amazing insight into history. The perfect place to visit too when the weather ain't great as it's all indoors. A really great varied collection of tanks and other historical military equipment. Great history education throughout and a sizeable gift shop to choose souvenirs from.
Shaun Maloney — Google review
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R A C Tank Museum, Linsay Rd, Bovington, Wareham BH20 6JG, United Kingdom
Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre is a 40-acre open-air animal park that offers visitors the opportunity to view over 100 rescued and endangered primates. The park also features a petting zoo, assault courses, an indoor play area, a gift shop, and a cafe that serves reasonably priced food. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, host events such as weddings or birthday parties, and even adopt their favorite animals. Monkey World is an excellent destination for anyone interested in wildlife and conservation efforts.
Enjoyable day out with the family, interesting to see the different species of monkey they have there. Information boards outside enclosures filled with backgrounds of the monkeys about their past. Very wide open green area to park cars. Really good for kids as there are two play grounds and lots of benches dotted around the park. Definitely worth bringing a picnic as not much selection from the on-site food vendors.
C R — Google review
Slightly eye watering price tag but we understand they are surviving on charity to be able to afford to do the amazing work they do with saving and caring for so many animals.
We had a fantastic family day out. The cafe food was expensive but all very tasty - much better than expected and better standard than any other zoo/farm/kids place we have been to in recent memory!!
There are lots of parks dotted around and the big one was huge and easily accommodated all the kids wanting to play. With tonnes of different climbing activities and loads of swings so no kids really queuing for any activity.
There were loads of animals to see and, as they are primates, they were mostly jumping or running about so my daughter enjoyed it more than a big standard zoo.
Gift shop prices were mostly quite reasonable although most the stuffed toys were extortionate in my opinion! However we bought a few other bits and liked the range of bits and bobs.
Would definitely go again. Highly recommend as a slightly different day out.
S C — Google review
Monkey World will be very familiar to anyone who has seen the TV series about the dedicated rescue work of Jim and Alison Cronin and their colleagues. It is, however, a fascinating place to visit for any animal lover, regardless of whether they've seen the shows. It's readily apparent how much care has been lavished on providing a safe home and an attractive, sympathetic environment for the many rescued animals, many of whom still bear the marks of their harsh former lives.
On site facilities are good. There are cafes, a fair sized gift shop and a reasonable number of toilets. The paths are fairly friendly for prams and wheelchairs.
Gillian Pearson — Google review
Amazing. The monkeys are so well looked after and have very large enclosures. The map was slightly confusing but that could have been how we interpreted it. It is very large and definitely needs a whole day to see everything. It is very well priced and not expensive. For one adult and one child it cost £27. The food, gift shop and drinks were a good price and good quality. It's a good place to take the family and enjoy a day out. Will definitely be visiting again.
Robyn — Google review
It’s a great place for adults kids alike. What this place provides for these maltreated animals is amazing. I highly recommend this place for anyone interested in animals.
You can see that they’re well cared for they’ve got a lot of space in their pens and they given a completely comfortable and safe life.
It’s a lot larger than you think it is, when you look on the map, it does look a bit small but trust me you can make a whole day out of this.
My advice is not to rush through like a lot of people do. Stop at each animals enclosure and read the story about what they went through before coming to the rescue centre. (Each section has a placard with what the animal went through, along with their name and general information)
It will absolutely shock you what they went through before they rescued, and I think it really adds to the experience to truly understand what these animals have been through, and what this place provides them now in terms of safety, comfort and happiness.
One other thing I really like is usually places in this genre hike the cost of food and the shop at the end. I have to say the tickets the food and the shop were all very well priced. It meant that you’re not breaking the bank just forget lunch out.
It’s worth stopping for food and getting something in the shop before you leave
I definitely will visit again, and I joined my time so much
Josh T — Google review
Really nice place to visit. We went as a family, kids 10 and 11. The park is very accessible with most paths being tarmac. The primates have a great environment to live in with loads of space. There are plenty of opportunities to see the animals and have a read about their backstory.
The park was great for the kids, there are plenty of kiosks, toilets and bins dotted around. I would definitely recommend a visit.
Darryl Ponting — Google review
A great day out for all ages!!! There are plenty of monkeys to see and lovely locations for picnic. Would recommend purchasing tickets online in advance as they are cheaper. We were very fortunate with the overcast weather, I probably wouldn't recommend going when it is raining as most of the enclosures are outside. A well spaced out attraction where you can take each element of the park at your own pace; various outdoor play areas available for children to play. It brought back many great memories for me from when I was a child. Even thought the gift shop was fairly priced for a park gift shop.
S31BY — Google review
Absolutely great day out. We went in around midday and left at around 4.15.
Toilets are clean and dotted around quite well. Snack and food places about, though a little pricey, but you expect it, and we had coffees and sausage rolls by a big area of picnic benches. Lots of benches and picnic tables to sit and take five where necessary. Park was bigger than I expected and would highly recommend.
KS — Google review
Great place for a day of family fun. Plenty of different monkeys to see; all in big open spaces. Huge site, with plenty of facilities including toilets, cafes, shop, play areas and more. You'll most definitely be there for the best part of a day. Order tickets online for quicker entry.
blackhearttek — Google review
Been before, an interesting place to visit, took the grandson, he loved the monkeys and apes, especially the play areas, but had a meltdown in the gift shop as he couldn’t have a toy car, instead of a furry ape toy. Just no pleasing some children. Overall worth a visit a really good day out. The cafes on site are reasonable, and the coffee is not to bad. One slight issue is the exit is not well marked till you get close to it.
paul mathias — Google review
It was very, very busy, which made the day slightly less enjoyable. We had hoped the watering hole would be open, but it never seems to be.
The animals, as always, are clearly very well cared for. You always see staff around cleaning. The toilets are cleaned hourly, which you can see on the checklist in each cubicle.
A lovely place to visit
Kiara Werran — Google review
It was very cold, but sunny and we had a lovely day. A lot of primates to see, with explanations of how each one comes to be at monkey world. They have lovely accommodation and huge outdoor play areas with lots of very big interesting climbing structures.
Christine Hobson — Google review
Fantastic day out for a wonderful cause. Huge enclosures for all primates which is great to see. Great to hear the staff doing talks throughout the day and lots of information on how the animals came to the sanctuary. Recommend booking in advance to save that little extra. Gift shop reasonably priced too. Can see new enclosures being built so will have to come back to see once finished!
Trish — Google review
It's a lovely place to visit. Plenty of primates to see and enjoy. A leisurely walk all around the park. The cafe was busy but it didn't take long to get our food. Very tasty burgers and reasonably priced. Everybody enjoyed the day out.
trevor luckett — Google review
Absolutely fantastic day! It was nice to see all the animals in big, clean enclosures with lots of enrichment and places to hang out either in sight or away from people. The animals seemed relaxed and often came to watch us as much as we watched them. The staff where helpful and seemed to enjoy there work and the gift shop was brilliant too.
Starly — Google review
Having watched a couple of the TV shows, found this place different. Much better!. Layout is very well done and as natural as possible with the foliage, trees and plants. Easy to identify as a rescue centre as opposed to a manicured garden zoo. Just please take with you any clean unwanted sheets and towels etc. Fab to watch the orangs in particular 'wearing' the towels. Such a lovely place, on fact so lovely spent 4 hrs on Sat and then another 4 hrs on the Monday. We'll worth a trip, and we'll worth sponsoring / adopting a primate. Also read on a notice that they need plants. Next time I go I will take bedding, towels and some plants. They do need donations of plants but only specific ones. Thoroughly recommend the Park. Staff are committed and that is evident from watching them. If you time it right you can see the chimps with their broccoli. The staff put it on top of their enclosure so they need their hands to get it through the bars! Had lots of happy hours there.
Karyn Fryer — Google review
This was a great day out, all the chimps, monkeys you know from the TV show, also a new baby woolley monkey sooo cute. It was a lot of walking but there was seating and rest points. Picnic & play area, outside seating + cafe. Nut free Oat Bars a selection of food drinks. Gift shop has a good selection. The main plus staff were helpful and friendly.
Shirley Bourke — Google review
It's really easy to find as it's well sign posted. I felt it was reasonably priced at £46 for a family of 4, including days parking. Usually, that means that they rip u to shreads on the price of food, this was not the case. 4 main meals with drinks was about £36. It tasted lovely and fresh with great portions. Staff were so polite and were happy to accommodate.
While walking around the park, it was clean and tidy with plenty of seating. The enclosures were beautiful, bigger than i thought they would be, and well kept. There were names and photos on every enclosure so that you knew who you were meeting when they came to the window. Some had detailed descriptions of their journey, which were sad to read. The level of cruelty they had experienced was unimaginable. Makes you ashamed to be human. Would visit again.
jaymie leatherdale — Google review
Visited here with my elderly disabled mother. The animals have nice enclosures and seem well cared for. Essential carers enter free, pathways are sound (there are a few inclines) and plenty of toilets. These are all important considerations when visiting with someone with a disability. Well done Monkey World for being very inclusive.
graham johnston — Google review
I recently visited Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre with my elderly mother during our holiday in Dorset. The experience was quite enjoyable overall. The enclosures were impressively spacious, and the monkeys appeared to be well cared for, providing us with great viewing opportunities. Their entertaining antics kept us engaged throughout our visit.
However, one minor letdown was the café's food variety. It could have offered a more diverse selection, especially for visitors with varying tastes and dietary preferences.
A word of caution to fellow caregivers: if you're accompanying someone in a wheelchair, be prepared for some steep inclines that can make navigation a bit challenging. It's worth keeping in mind for a smoother visit.
Despite these minor downsides, both my mother and I had a nice time at Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre, and the opportunity to witness the monkeys in their spacious enclosures was certainly a highlight of our trip to Dorset.
Anna Louise — Google review
It was great seeing all the monkeys & orangutans. It was a dry day we visited & quite a few of them we're out & also playing around. My only downer was that there is one way in & then retrace your steps out. Having it go in & out from different ways would have made our day perfect in my eyes.
Andy The Butcher — Google review
A nice place to see various apes. There are several kids play areas and seating for food. Probably better to go here nearer the summer period.
Stephen Saloway — Google review
Second visit to monkey world now and it was once again a great day out. Credit to all the staff who do such fantastic work helping conserve these amazing animals.
Alan Jones — Google review
This was a wonderful site seeing all the amazing work they are doing and have done.
Each monkey having been given support in some less than nice situations.
It was extremely educational when it comes to legislation and the lack of government support (of all political persuasions) to help more!
Highly recommended fun, educational and heart warming/wrenching
Mark Costello — Google review
Another brilliant experience at Monkey World. My boys & I loved seeing all the monkeys & what they were up to. Great experience for my youngsters and me alike.
Food in the cafe was really tasty & great value for money & the gift shop was loved by all.
Niki McCormick — Google review
A truly magical experience. I have been to a large number of zoos both in England and abroad. This is truly the best from an animal welfare point of view and also from seeing all the beautiful animals. They have descriptions about the animals and what has happened to them previously. The keepers are very knowledgeable about all their animals and very happy to talk about them. We were lucky enough to hear the gibbons singing to each other and also swinging across the tree tops. I would highly recommend it to anyone that loves animals.
Robin Turner — Google review
Returning from Devon popped in and spent 3hrs there. Great price £40 paid for family of four.
Fascinating place.
Buy tickets online saves 10% worth it show booking reference to cashier turnstile gates.
Plenty of parking.
Deep Distinct — Google review
4.7
(10863)
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4.5
(6228)
Tout Hill, Longthorns, Wareham BH20 6HH, United Kingdom
Old Wardour Castle is a 14th-century fortified residence that offers panoramic views of the Wiltshire countryside. The partially ruined castle is turreted and stands in landscaped grounds by a beautiful lakeside setting. Scenes from the movie "Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves" were filmed here. Visitors can explore the castle's interior and climb its turrets for breathtaking views. The surrounding area also features a grotto and picnic area to enjoy.
Beautiful castle in lovely surroundings! Much more to see than expected lots to discover.
The information panels were very informative and helped to imagine life as it was back then.
Loved the grotto in the grounds and pleased to see a picnic area too. It will be even better when the new visitor centre is open.
Sandie Reid — Google review
A nice ruined castle, with lots of rooms and staircases still accessible. Lots of information boards, and there are audio guides, though these weren't working when we visited. Reasonable but of ground around it, including a more recent banquet hall and a grotto.
Children will enjoy being able to run around outside, and exploring the little rooms and nooks in the castle and grotto.
A quick visit would probably take under an hour, but could probably spend a couple of hours.
Toilets available, as well as hot and cold beverages to purchase, and a shop selling souvenirs.
Victoria Watton — Google review
We visited as a family of 4, two children 9 and 3, both had a great time exploring the castle and going up all the stairs. The castle itself is exquisite. There are some great information points and bits for the children to read and things for them to take part in, like memory games for example. The views from the top were stunning. We visited because it's "Loxley Castle" in the 1991 version of Robin Hood and I always wanted to visit it but we also enjoyed hearing the real history of the place. With a gentle pace and taking it all in we was here a good 2 hours. So it's not a day trip place, but there are some nice places/villages to explore nearby. I think the price of admission online is reasonable considering it's only open during the weekend and the time spent there.
Car park is on a slight slant and it's not huge but plenty of space when we got there.
Toilets were clean but down some stairs.
With the castle and the stairs this is not a site for wheelchair users or people who struggle with their legs.
There is currently no English Heritage information building as it's being built. But there is little information hut and attendant right at the front. The gentleman there was really friendly, and explained the history of the castle to us and dulled it down for the kids so they could also understand.
No food options.
You can also get married here which seems very dreamy!
Lauren Tetsell — Google review
A lovely afternoon spent at Old Wardour Castle ruins. Lots to explore. If you're agile with a head for heights it's possible to climb to the top reach of one of the towers, and take in the amazing views. The castle looks over a lake with several clusters of beautiful lily pads. With a grotto made from fallen castle debris, and the later addition of a banqueting house. Audio and written aids to enlighten the visitor. Car parking. Dog friendly. Ideal for older children to explore, and toddlers to run safely on the lawns.
And 'thank you' to the helpful staff.
SALLY H — Google review
Set in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside near Tisbury a visit to the ruins of Old Wardour Castle is an absolute must . Steeped in history including the English Civil war. The climb up the winding tower steps to the top of the ruins gives you the most stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside.
For the movie buffs this castle was used as Loxley Castle in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves.
gav perry — Google review
What an amazing 14th century piece of history. The ruins, the lake, the woodlands, the grotto are very picturesque and worth visiting for sure!
Coming close to the castle can be tricky due to very narrow lanes, so watch out for tractors! :)
Car park is free of charge, although an admission fee applies.
From 1st November until 31st of March open only Saturdays and Sundays between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm. Last admission is half hour before closing. Christmas time and on 1st of January closed.
There is no cafe on site, so pack up your picnic with you.
Public toilets in working condition on site.
Lots of information boards around to read about history of this place.
Plenty of benches around the castle to sit, relax and take it all in.
Definitely recommend it!
Irina Springate — Google review
A very beautiful part of Wilshire and definitely a recommendation to visit. A little off the beaten track but once you're there you're surrounded by stunning countryside, a beautiful lake, and a historical castle. The grounds and castle are kept in good condition, and lovely public walks around the castle, and into the woods nearby with a less known gate house on your way. Perfect place for a picnic too. Shall be coming back soon.
Jake B — Google review
My first visit and definitely not my last. Such a stunning and tranquil place! Had a fantastic free tour also, given by a member of the English Heritage team. He was so knowledgeable and clearly a passionate historian. Well worth a visit though the narrow lanes to the Castle are a bit of a nightmare if a car comes from the other direction!
Nikki Vosper — Google review
Spent a nice afternoon here at this dog friendly attraction. Road to it is single track but there are passing places on the way. Reasonably priced at £41 for two adults and four concessions including a charitable donation and audio guides. Underfoot it’s pretty good although when you go upstairs it can be a little tricky but worth it for the views of the surrounding area and for the extra info of the castle. Went to walk around the lake with the dogs but sadly you can only walk part of the way as most of it was private land which wa disappointing. Spent about 2 hours here but before you come, check availability as they close for private functions! Worth a visit.
Mr Bukaroo — Google review
Having rejoined English Heritage recently, we have begun working through nearby places. And this was quite the find! Old Wardour is a beautiful old ruin — full of fascination with rooms, corridors, stairs and more to explore. The view from the top is amazing — with the woods and lake nearby. Oh, and there’s good coffee (and snacks!) too in the small shop. Ideal for all ages.
Andy Bannister — Google review
Very narrow roads and free parking right outside the gates if not a busy day. The new Wardour castle can be seen from the top. Boots are useful to walk through the garden, which can be muddy in places.
Pramod Nair — Google review
Hidden gem of a ruin. Well maintained and loads of history. Knowledgeable friendly staff, free parking. Some nice dog walking in surrounding countryside. Easy to find with satnav
Mark Johnson — Google review
Amazing, a hidden gem tucked away in the middle of nowhere. OK, the roads to the sites aren't brilliant and are mainly single track and winding, but when you get to the castle, just wow! Beautiful location really well maintained by English Heritage. The castle is partially ruined but we'll worth a visit. Scenes from the "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" film were shot here too.
Captain Gingerbeard — Google review
Well, what a hidden gem in the middle of nowhere. The roads to get there are extremely narrow, drive slow, and take care, the drive is absolutely worth it. The castle is situated on a stunning location on a small hill above a lake. There are many floors and rooms to explore in this castle. Ran by english heritage who have done a fantastic job taking care of this historic site. Small entrance shop with helpful and friendly staff and a reasonable sized car park.
Steven Moseley — Google review
Loved it, great day out with the family and friends. Has toilet facilities too!
Jevgenia Malkina — Google review
Interesting place to visit. Spent over an hour there. Many people with picnics
Stuart Seale — Google review
Came here on a Saturday afternoon and was really pleasantly surprised. An impressive amount of castle remains and set in lovely surroundings including an impressive lake. There is lots here to explore and lots of different stairways and rooms to be seen and some lovely views from the windows. The children I had with me had a lovely time finding out every bit there was to explore. What's good here is as well as the great castle remains to explore, there is also a fun grotto area built at the left of the grounds after you enter the main entrance with some fun nooks and crannies for the kids to explore. There is a good amount of space on the exterior of the castle to sit and enjoy a picnic or just some quiet time and this leads over towards the gorgeous lake. Following the wall around takes you to a small building that was open when we came which is part of the grounds that looks like a small chapel with some nice windows. Down below this building were the toilets. We followed the perimeter edge a bit further round and came across an old toilet block for the castle which was fun to show the kids how different they were from today's. In all, we spent a good couple of hours here and enjoyed it and would recommend it if you have a bit of time spare.
Jason Lovelock (Jaydemon) — Google review
Lovely spot, views from inside the castle. Worth a walk around and dogs accepted on leads, there are walks outside the castle for off lead too
Durlston Country Park and National Nature Reserve is an extensive nature reserve situated on the clifftop of the picturesque Jurassic coast in Dorset. The reserve boasts a renovated Victorian castle that functions as a visitor centre and gallery. The park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, though some trails may be steep. Visitors can also take a trip down memory lane with a walk along Swanage's pier to explore Edwardian gaming machines and naughty seaside postcards before heading to Durlston Castle.
Very interesting place to visit. A good café serving hot and cold meals. The "castle" itself is lovely and there is an exhibition room as well. The walks along the coastal path to the lighthouse are really easy about 1/2 a mile to the lighthouse.
Mike G0HWK — Google review
This is a favourite place as a start of a coastal walk to Dancing Ledges and back over the top via the Priest's Way.
A really varied part of the coastline with lots of birds and wildlife to see against the backdrop of the sea.
The castle is a good spot if you need toilets or a cafe. It has an interesting little shop too with all kinds of things on offer. Well worth a visit.
Penny — Google review
One of my favourite places in the world!
Amazing views, amazing wildlife!
Timed our visit so we could see the guillemots and razorbills fledging, which we did, and also had a Raven fledgling.
Tons of butterflies... skippers Inc Lulworth skipper, marbled white.. lots of insects.
Such a stunning place and looking amazing where they have been doing work.
The Reiki Saker — Google review
Durlston Country Park and National Nature Reserve is a true hidden gem along the South Coast, offering breathtaking views and serene surroundings. The best part? Entry is free, making it an accessible destination for all. Unlike more crowded attractions, Durlston remains relatively undiscovered, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
From stunning coastal vistas to lush greenery, the views from Durlston are simply awe-inspiring. Located just a short drive from Bournemouth, it's a must-visit for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Durlston Country Park is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Abhisek Patra — Google review
A beautiful "clifftop" country park in the heart of Dorset's Jurassic coast and located just above the west side of Swanage. Fabulous walks and views, although some walks can be on the steep side. The views out to sea are stunning, as is the surrounding countryside.
Allan — Google review
A very well looked after park with excellent information boards and good paths. All very clean and tidy. The car park is paid for and reasonable price otherwise there’s no charge for the park or the castle which has information, a shop and cafe. Great views from the coastal paths over Swanage bay, across to the Isle of Wight and towards Portland. Lot of nature and birds especially in the cliff faces.
Rog Edwards — Google review
Fantastic place to wander and walk. Accessible walk from Swanage or park at the carpark. We absolutely loved all the wooded area with things to climb and swing on. A great walk around from the castle to the lighthouse aswell.
Beth B — Google review
Durlston is a fantastic place to visit. Beautiful walks along the coast with plenty of photo opportunities. There's a great variety of wildlife in the area - keep an eye out for dolphins if you're there at the right time of year!
The castle / visitor centre has good facilities. Seventhwave Cafe & Restaurant is a lovely spot for a refreshment and bite to eat, with plenty of options available
Matt Hine — Google review
I absolutely adore this place and will be returning this year to do the costal path back to Weymouth. The views are absolutely out of this world and you wont be dissapointed, be careful with young children as some parts are completely high at the top of cliffs!
Dean Chilcott — Google review
Great views, beautiful walks, The castle is a lovely place to explore and we usually visit when we come to Dorset.
Would highly recommend it, maybe better on a dry day but if you're an all weather person you'd enjoy it anytime of year.
The cafe/restaurant is also very nice serving good food and drinks.
Grahame Elford — Google review
We loved this place. So much to recommend it for all ages. Lovely walks in material settings, lovely cream tea in the café. Fabulous views and presentations including a four screen cinema. Great architecture in the modern lower ground floor. All round wonderful experience but needed more time than we had. Free access but cheap pay parking.
Paul Dennis — Google review
A wonderful coastal country park, with cafe toilets parking and walks. It's free entry but pay for parking. I walked from Studland so didn't visit car park. Very well kept. Things for young children in the wooded areas, swings etc all wood made. Views across to Isle of Wight.
Sarah WL — Google review
This beautiful part of the Dorset coastline is interesting to explore with its castle and stone globe, as well as a lighthouse.
The coastal path is reasonably accessible and the views over Swanage and to the Isle of Wight are spectacular.
There are a few bird hides and a number of benches for anyone wanting to watch for Dolphins.
The cafe is good and the home-made soup today was delicious.
There's a large car park and accessible paths to the castle, cafe and shop.
Rachel Lapworth — Google review
Durlston country park has interesting features..great views from the headland especially looking back towards Old Harry's Rocks across the bay at Swanage. Nice sitting outside on patio with coffee and cake. The Globe is an unusual feature ..worth a look if rather inaccessible except down steps. All a bit Victorian in the sentiments expressed on the walls around ..but yes... pausing to think a little about our place in the universe is a good thing to do...
We didn't get as far as the walks in the nature reserve as we were short if time...but they look promising.
Sara Jennett — Google review
Lovely. Enjoyable coastal walk. Notably, very clean, well maintained, and with free toilets (nice ones) - unheard of where I live.
Julie Stephens — Google review
Fantastic place for a day out.
The information centre is full of useful advice, or a great coffee shop with a terrific view and a well stocked gift shop. But the main reason to come here are the amazing costal views. Keep your eyes peeled and you might see a peregrine falcon.
krish kandiah — Google review
We parked on the main road for free rather than use the carpark. It was a nice walk to Durlston castle.
The cafe was rather expensive, it did however have nice views & was dog friendly. There are plenty of benches if you'd rather bring a picnic.
There are several walks to choose from, the one we did was well signposted.
Louise M — Google review
Excellent place, amazing views. Easy parking. The access was quite simple. No hiking required. Enjoyed thoroughly.
Brownsea Island is a National Trust property located in Poole Harbour, near the mouth of the River Stour. The island is famous for its red squirrels and wildlife, including red deer, foxes, rabbits and Peregrine Falcons. There are also many trails through the forests and heaths which make for pleasant walks or hikes.
Really enjoyed our visit to Brownsea. So peaceful and excellent views of Poole Bay from different viewpoints. However, didn't see any red squirrels this trip.
Rog D — Google review
Absolutely amazing Day on the island.
We got the first ferry over and it was beautifully quiet just us walking alone for miles. Easy access to all the beaches below with some steps down.
Loads of red squirrel sightings which was so sweet as the only place I've seen them is at Escot in Devon.
Helpful smiley and knowledgeable national trust staff from the entrance to the finish.
It seems like October is a fab month as the squirrels are getting ready for hibernation so they were all over the place collecting.
I cant wait to go back may be at another time of year to see the difference.
Would highly reccomend.
Freya Salisbury — Google review
Well worth the visit. Short boat ride from Pool harbour. Plenty of wildlife notably the Red Squirrel. Lots of Birdlife especially near the lagoon. Nice cafe ideal for lunch or tea and cake. All the staff very helpful.
L S — Google review
Wow, what a lovely place, we got the first ferry over at 9 and the last one back at 5. There's loads to see and lots of information boards. There are different way marked trails and all are easy to walk. There's a nice little cafe selling the normal National Trust food. There are 3 different bird hides with a massive range of birds to see.
Hannah Wild — Google review
Defo worth a visit. Lovely place for a family walk, swim and just time to relax and escape from a busy world. Easy to book tickets through National Trust website which confirms your ferry booking and then you pay at the kiosk for the ferry upon arrival.
Rasa Jonuskiene — Google review
Amazing island with beautiful views a lot of nice walks. Great little cafeteria wit good of and some good pastries.
Mat Kantowski — Google review
Stunning, beautiful place and seeing red squirrels in the wild to top it off. Need a couple of days minimum to explore it all properly.
Alyssa Jones — Google review
Just lost myself there watching the sunset beautiful
warren atherton — Google review
Good day out taking some wildlife photos, worth booking as you can only reach the island by boat. Red squirrels on the island are fairly easy to see and photography. Some birds but not many interesting varieties. Small island so not much else to see. Worth a trip though
Edward Balch — Google review
Absolute lovely place, stayed for the weekend in the castle, as my Fiancee is Waitrose staff. The wildlife and views are amazing. The weather was brilliant. Highly recommend a trip, just to walk around the island.
Richard Fisher — Google review
Spectacular Island. Not enough one day to explore properly. They do fantastic camping sight. Ideal for families with any age children. Some of the hills can be a bit steep, please bare in mind. Food it's a must to bring otherwise only National trust café is open.
Bozena Bozena — Google review
Brownsea island is very cool, you can get there from Poole it's only 20 minutes on a ferry, there's a cafe and a lovely walk and animal watching spots for all you nature lovers, definitely worth a visit.
Hasnain Nurdin (HAS) — Google review
After a brief boat journey to the island, you will be greeted by a wonderful period property as part of the National Trust. The island is a unique place to visit as it lies at the route of scouting. Lord Baden-Powell used this amazing island for his first ever scout camp, which makes it a sort of pilgrimage for scouts worldwide. So if you are a member of scouting, then I'd highly recommend a visit. Camping is available for scouts also.
david fletcher — Google review
Decent to go and have a look around, but was pretty busy, and the walks through the woods were a bit samey, not much variation. The museums were ok, but a bit bear. Does seem a bit of a tourist trap.
Sam March — Google review
A beautiful island about 20 mins from Poole Quay. Maintained by the national trust and the entry is free for members. The boat service costs 13 pounds. The Island is full of greenery with lots of wildlife and places for birdwatching. A walk around the Island is very relaxing with great views of the ocean.
Swanage Railway is a heritage railway that operates diesel and steam locomotives, providing visitors with the opportunity to enjoy dining trains and driving experiences. The railway offers a variety of experiences for enthusiasts, from the bustling atmosphere of Swanage to the picturesque charm of Corfe Castle. Both stations are well-preserved gems showcasing transport heritage, complete with fascinating artefacts and friendly service.
A thoroughly enjoyable experience. Definitely a Mother’s Day I will not forget. Highly recommend!
Connie L — Google review
Brilliant team of volunteers and staff... Its like going back in time. Great trip
sully mayd — Google review
For me was the one attraction in the area I wanted to visit on our holiday and it didn't disappoint. A long time since I went on a steam/heritage railway but this was by far one of the best I've been to. The stations and carriages were all in noticeably great condition, with the stations decorated in the 'golden age of steam' fashion - they look great.
It's gets busy, we got the 1040hrs train out of Norden and we were lucky to get a seat so get there early - there is a luggage carriage for wheelchairs/buggies
Tickets can be bought online, on the platform or with the ticket inspector, kids under 5 go free (!) and adults were a very reasonable £18 open return. Journey to Swanage took about 20 mins and was very picturesque with a great view of Corfe Castle. The numerous return journies allows for ample time exploring Swanage. There are various museums at the different stations to explore and a shop at Swanage station. Staff were very helpful and a pleasure to see being so enthusiastic about working there - certainly added to the experience.
Richard Smart — Google review
From the rush hour type bustle of Swanage to the rural idyll of Corfe Castle, pulled by a majestic West Country Class locomotive. A steam dreamer's delight, with both stations gems of preservation. Great vantage points, fascinating artefacts, friendly service and more than a whiff of transport heritage. Swanage Railway is up there with the best of British steam railways, with a lovely diesel railcar for those of us who love such variety.
Bob White — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous. It's not a terribly long run but ideal if you love steam trains. Regular service and good prices.
Iain Hamilton — Google review
What a lovely experience!!! Everyone was so pleasant, and we enjoyed it so much.
Tim King — Google review
Always love a steam railway. A decent journey to Corfe Castle (lovely village), or Norton if you want decent parking and Steam into Swanage, the opposite way round.
Karen Elliott — Google review
Absolutely wonderful return trip to Swanage from Corfe Castle. Our little dog hadn’t travelled on any train before and they made a fuss of him which he loved.
Scenery is stunning and we thoroughly enjoyed it!
The staff have to be commended because they were so friendly and obviously enjoyed their work. I think many are volunteers? If so that’s amazing!
Tara McCarthy — Google review
Great staff to talk to. The diesel gale. Never disappointed over the wide variety of different locomotives to ride behind. In diesel gala if I mist 1 train, there will be soon another. It's fun to enjoy.
Daryl Tay — Google review
A beautiful heritage railway manned by friendly and well mannered volunteers. This has to be one of the best kept and most scenic heritage lines the UK has to offer. We have visited many time and have always has a great experience, even on poor weather days. But if the sun is shining, then it is absolutely magical. Great views of the local rural countryside. Get a seat on the observation car if you get the chance (it is not always hooked up). For £3.50 you get the best views whilst travelling in this panoramic glazed rail car. Awesome 🤩.
recogniseman — Google review
A beautiful traditional station with old steam and diesel engine train takes you back into time. We parked round the corner in Swanage car park costing £8 for the whole day parking and has a toilet on site and lots of parking space. We booked 2 x family tickets for up to 5 people per family for £45 each. Lots of space on train and lovely staff at the station and the station even had the old traditional feel and look about it. Once boarded on train the train visits 4 stations along the route. We got off at Corfe Castle and took a walk and lunch seeing the historic castle ruins and village. To visit the castle you have to purchase tickets but we opted to see the ruins from the path route and hill top views. The village has lots of shops to eat, drink and buy souvenirs. Was really great to hear the history and story from a volunteer who has been working on the train line for over 30 years. He was very funny and had a great sense of humour not just telling us about the train history but about the castle history also. Its a must visit, transports you back into time and worth the money. Thank you to everyone who is keeping this history alive!!
Anam Hoque — Google review
Each visit to the charming town of Swanage, nestled along the picturesque Purbeck coast, feels like stepping into a haven I never wish to leave. There's a timeless allure here, reminiscent of a 1970s seaside retreat, untouched and brimming with simple joys. The air is filled with the inviting aroma of freshly fried fish and chips, cozy cafes dot the landscape, and there's even a nostalgic "Wimpy" that adds to the town's quaint charm.
The heart of Swanage beats with the rhythm of its heritage railway, lovingly operated by passionate volunteers who breathe life into the romance of steam travel. The journey offers breathtaking views of Corfe Castle, creating a scenic backdrop that feels plucked from the pages of an Enid Blyton adventure. On a sun-drenched day, tracing the paths once imagined by Blyton herself, the essence of Swanage unfolds in all its beauty, offering moments of pure bliss that linger long after the visit.
Paul Hames — Google review
Lovely afternoon out, specially good if the weather isn’t beach worthy.
The staff are always friendly, the trains are clean and a joy to watch, and ride in.
I have taken to riding to Corfe, having a pub lunch and riding back again (not having to park in Corfe is always a plus).
UPDATE: If you're here at Christmas, go on the light spectacular trip. Great evening, whether with or without kids.
And finally, nothing to do with this train, but made me smile...... Did you know reading between the lines can be dangerous, specially if you’re at a train station.
Jon Baker — Google review
Lovely visit and good to see the staff operate with COVID measures in place.
Felt safe the whole time and people where respectful of social distancing.
We couldn’t stay in Swanage and not go on the train to Corfe Castle