9 Things to do in Dorset when it Rains

Don’t let a little rain stop you exploring the sights and sounds of Dorset! With indoor activities for the whole family to enjoy, there’s plenty of things to do in Dorset in the rain.

It’s time to grab your wellies and put on your raincoats as we dive into our top 7 rainy day activities in Dorset…

1. Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park

The Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park is uniquely laid out with 50% of exhibits indoor and 50% outdoor. With over 1,000 creatures to discover from sea turtles, sharks, penguins and stingrays; SEA LIFE is one of our top things to do in Weymouth.

On rainy days it’s easy to drop in and out of the different areas and there are 2 eateries on site too (including delicious wood-fired pizzas!) Warm-up with a hot chocolate in Caribbean Cove or shelter in Fairy Penguin Island, there’s plenty of fun for the whole family during a Dorset rainy day!

2. Splashdown, Poole

Splashdown, Tower Park is one of the UK’s biggest waterparks and a fantastic day out for all the family come rain or shine! With a spacious indoor pool and 13 thrilling indoor and outdoor flumes to discover, there’s also a lazy river and outdoor pools to splash around in too. Tower Park, located in Poole, is also home to some fantastic restaurants, perfect for a spot of lunch or dinner after lots of splashy fun.

3. The Tank Museum, Wareham

The Tank Museum, located near Wareham is a great rainy day activity in Dorset, perfect for all ages. With a huge indoor museum, displaying over 300 military machines, the Tank Museum is known as the world’s best collection of tanks.

The multiple exhibitions and displays bring the story of tanks and their crews to life, representing key battles since the First World War, featuring powerful stories of the soldiers that fort in them. During peak times outdoor displays in the arena are fantastic to watch and you can even upgrade your ticket and experience it for yourself inside a magnificent tank.

4. The Project Climbing Centre, Poole

Offering climbing and bouldering practice, The Project Climbing Centre also runs yoga and fitness classes too. Located in the Dolphin Centre it’s a perfect indoor activity in Dorset, ideal for a rainy day when it’s too difficult to climb on the outdoor Jurassic Coast hot spots.

With a range of courses from Junior Casual Sessions to Adult Bouldering Inductions and even a Family Induction available, you and your family will be able to enjoy a day at The Project Climbing Centre regardless of age and ability!

5. The Dinosaur Museum, Dorchester

Showcasing the treasures of the Jurassic Coast and beyond, the Dinosaur Museum in Dorchester is a totally roar-some day out! Learn all about the Jurassic Coast from the pioneers of fossil discovery and discover real fossil displays including dinosaur heads, teeth and eggs.

Located on Dorchester’s high street, you’re not far from popular Dorchester restaurants, local shops and attractions. Check out our guide to exploring Dorchester, with plenty of things to see and do in Dorset when it’s raining.

6. Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium, Lyme Regis

Learn all about the marine life that inhabits the waters of the Jurassic Coast at Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium. This traditional family-run attraction provides a fun, interactive insight into the local sea creatures and is a fun-filled indoor activity in Dorset.

Situated at the end of the Cobb in Lyme Regis, the aquarium is brimming with local sea creatures and is sure to spark your imagination. With regular presentations and historical exhibitions, Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium is one of our favourite attractions in West Dorset.

7. Athelhampton House and Gardens, Dorchester

A visit to Athelhampton House, one of England’s finest Tudor Manor Houses, is a fine rainy day activity in Dorset. Spend an afternoon exploring the 500-year-old house and discover its interesting history and connection with the famous author Thomas Hardy.

Whilst you’re wandering around Athelhampton House, appreciating its complex history, be sure to keep your eye out for any paranormal activity! Built in 1485, the house is well known as one of the most haunted locations in Dorset!

8. Farmer Palmers, Poole

Farmer Palmers is a great day out for the children with indoor soft play, role play areas, farm animals and tractor rides. With different animal activities every half an hour and play areas aplenty, you can enjoy a full day’s entertainment at Farmer Palmers Farm Park.

9. Palmers Brewery Tour, Bridport

If you’re looking for a child-free indoor activity in Dorset, be sure to check out Palmers Brewery Tour. Located to the south of Bridport, just a mile from the Jurassic Coast, Palmers Brewery is the only thatched brewery in the UK.

Gain insight into the production process of their five award-winning ales, during a tour of the historic brewhouse. The tour ends in time to enjoy a hearty meal in one of the Palmers local pubs, before trying a few halves of the final product at the wine store.

To see a full list of festivals in Dorset, take a look at our Dorset festivals blog.

Come rain or shine, Dorset is a stunning area to explore! We hope you now have plenty of ideas for things to do in Dorset in the rain. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, these Dorset holiday cottages will provide a home away from home. From cosy accommodation for two to cottages perfect for a family reunion, Dream Cottages will ensure you have a Dorset holiday to remember.