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Who said you had to go on safari to Africa in order to experience wildlife and animal madness? There are plenty of ways to get out and about amongst wings, tails and whiskers in Dorset too!

Dorset has a number of attractions that are simply perfect for children and animal-lovers alike! From a quiet walk through Abbotsbury Swannery and monkeying around at Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre, to diving in at the deep end at Weymouth Sealife, the kids will undoubtedly learn more about interesting animals and wildlife, as well as making the most of England’s fascinating countryside.

Abbotsbury Swannery

The most exciting thing about Abbotsbury Swannery is that it is the only managed colony of nesting mute swans in the world! Mute swans are white birds with long S-shaped necks and an orange bill with black at the base of it.

For more information about Abbotsbury Swannery Click here.

Prices for entry are £11.50 for adults and £8.50 for children (5-15 years). A Super Saver Family Ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children) costs £39 and includes entry to the Swannery, as well as the Children’s Farm and Subtropical Gardens.

Abbotsbury Children’s Farm

Abbotsbury Children’s Farm is considered to be one of the best Children’s Farms in Dorset and is based in the ruins of an old monastery. Children will love cuddling the guinea pigs, riding the ponies, racing tractors, playing in a large undercover play area and jumping around on a bouncy castle, as well as bottle feeding cute little lambs. There is also usually a midday race for the lambs around a track, where the children can take a lamb for a slow walk on a lead after the race.

Find out more about a day trip to Abbotsbury Children’s Farm here: http://abbotsbury-tourism.co.uk/childrens_farm/.

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens feature a mixture of flowers and is famous around the world for its fascinating Camellia groves and magnolias. It is also popular in Dorset for its impressive Rhododendron and Hydrangea collections and the charming Victorian Garden.

Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre

There are a range of different monkeys you’ll discover at Monkey World from chimpanzees to gibbons and squirrel monkeys, that have been rescued from all over the world! A fantastic day out, with plenty to see and do for all ages – we recommend taking one of the guided tours of the 65 acre park, to learn all about the parks history and the fascinating stories behind rescuing and rehabilitating the primates.

Find out more about Dorset’s Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre and their rescue work here: http://www.monkeyworld.org/monkey-world-centre-information.

Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park and Tower

At Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park, the children can get close to up to 1000 different sea creatures as well as explore the exciting adventure park! They can visit the playful otters and seals, as well as the calm turtles and snappy crocodiles. Why not encourage the kids to have a go on the rides on Adventure Island too?

Check out the map of the Adventure Park as well as information on prices here: http://www.sealifeweymouth.com/explore/attractions.aspx.

What’s more, a trip to the 53m panoramic tower is included with every ticket to Weymouth Sealife Adventure Park, where you can simply enjoy amazing panoramic 360 degree views of the Jurassic Coast, the Nothe Fort, Portland and Weymouth Harbour.

For more information on animal based attractions in Dorset, contact Dream Cottages on 01305 789000.