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Discover beyond the beach

Enhance your UK Staycation by venturing beyond the beach with these things to do across Dorset & Hampshire

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Shorefield Holidays

We’ll be the first to admit we’ve got some incredible beaches near our parks and we wouldn’t blame you for wanting to spend your holiday lounging on the beach and taking a dip in the south coast sea.

A serene beach scene with golden sand stretching along the shore. A couple walks hand-in-hand, their shadows cast on the sand. Calm waves lap at the beach, with colorful beach huts visible in the background. The sky is clear with soft, wispy clouds.

But why not also explore beyond the beach on your next Dorset or Hampshire holiday! With plenty of towns, villages and forests to explore, each with their own unique charm, you’ll be surprised at how much there is to do beyond the beach.

The New Forest National Park

We're incredibly lucky that our parks border both the New Forest and the South Coast. With miles of walks, cycle routes and even open top bus tours there's so many ways to explore the New Forest, known for it's free roaming ponies and other cattle! As well as beautiful heathland and wooded areas to explore you can also head in to the small villages and towns, such as Burley, for some great local produce and novelty gift shops. If you're after something a bit more unique to do in the New Forest you can opt for a tour around a working farm.

A family walks through a wooded park, with a person walking a dog and two children riding bicycles. Lush green trees surround the path, creating a serene outdoor atmosphere.

Bournemouth

Known primarily as a bustling seaside resort however, there's plenty to explore beyond Bournemouth's 7 miles of golden sands. Choose from The Russell Cotes Art Gallery, Bournemouth's Gardens, Oceanarium, shops, restaurants and so much more! Or choose to venture in to the towns surrounding Bournemouth: Boscombe, Westbourne, Pokesdown and Southbourne. Each with their own charm and plenty of independent shops, cafes and walks to explore!

A person in a blue helmet and black shirt is zip-lining above a beach with a crowd of people, colorful umbrellas, and ocean views. The scene captures a sunny day with clear skies.

Lymington

Just beyond the seaside town of Milford On Sea you'll find Lymington. Famous for it's sailing history, here you'll find independent shops along cobbled streets leading to two marinas. Take a dip in Lymington's popular sea water baths, jump on the inflatable obstacle course or hire a paddleboard/kayak. Take a stroll around the Lymington and Keyhaven Marshes nature reserve or hire an E-bike to explore the area!

A charming street lined with traditional buildings and adorned with colorful triangular bunting. Cobblestones lead up the incline, with planters and decorative details enhancing the quaint atmosphere.

Christchurch and Hengistbury Head

At the east end of Bournemouth's sandy coastline you'll find Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve, a walk up here will provide incredible panoramic views across the sea to the Isle Of Wight but also inland across the historic town of Christchurch. In Christchurch you'll find harbours, quays and rivers. Perfect for the water lovers who still want to explore beyond the beach. You can hire self-drive motor boats along the river Stour for a fun river cruise!

Modern waterfront building with large glass windows reflecting in calm water, alongside boats and a small shed. Clear blue sky above with some vegetation in the foreground.
Thrilling amusement park ride with children and adults enjoying the experience, arms raised in excitement against a bright blue sky and fluffy clouds.

Stay on-park

And of course, you don't even have to leave our parks to experience fantastic entertainment and activities! Enjoy nightly live entertainment from our entertainment teams and the Squirrel Squad or get crafty in our Woof's Workshop sessions including sand art, slime school and pottery painting.

Our brand new on-park Escape Room is great fun for all ages. Plus, we have a whole range of Go Active+ activities from Water Walkerz to Nerf Wars!

Please note: Not all facilities are available on every park.

A family poses in a colorful indoor play area, smiling while holding a large blue sign that reads "I'm Still Confused." The boy in the front has a playful expression, and the adults are engaging with him and each other.

So whether you head out into the New Forest or explore the harbourside towns there's plenty to discover beyond the beach on your next staycation.

A child navigates a high ropes course, balancing on wooden beams while secured in a harness. Lush green trees surround the scene, creating a vibrant outdoor setting.

Days out for everyone

Whether you love nature, family attractions or historic towns, find inspiration for your next adventure beyond the beach.

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