25 Free and Cheap Things to Do with Kids in Dorset This Summer (2026 Guide)

Keeping the kids entertained throughout the summer holidays doesn't have to cost a fortune. Some of our favourite family adventures in Dorset are completely free, while others cost little more than an ice cream or bus fare.

From fossil hunting and beach days to woodland walks and hidden historical gems, here are 25 of our favourite free and budget-friendly things to do with kids in Dorset this summer.

1. Fossil Hunting in Charmouth

The Jurassic Coast is one of Dorset's greatest treasures and Charmouth is one of the best places to search for fossils. Bring a bucket and see what prehistoric treasures you can find along the beach. 

2. Spend a Day at Knoll Beach, Studland

With soft sand, shallow water and plenty of space to play, Knoll is one of our favourite beaches for a family day out.  Free parking if you have a National Trust membership but I'd recommend getting there early as it gets busy. Look out for the ice cream boat in the Summer!

Even cloudy days are fun at the beach

3. Explore Upton Country Park

With beautiful gardens, woodland walks, a children's play area and lots of open space, Upton Country Park is perfect for a low-cost day outdoors. The fountains in the Walled Garden are fab on a hot day!

4. Go Rock Pooling at Kimmeridge Bay

Armed with a net and a bucket, kids can spend hours discovering crabs, fish and other marine creatures hidden among the rocks. The carpark is privately owned costs £6 per car. 

5. Walk to Old Harry Rocks

This classic Dorset walk rewards you with some of the most spectacular coastal views in the county. Suitable for all ages and levels of fitness, it's a lovely amble up to the top.  Finish up with a nice cold drink in the Bankes Arms and enjoy the view. 

6. Enjoy a Picnic in Poole Park

Pack a lunch, feed the ducks and let the children burn off some energy in one of Dorset's most popular parks. There are two play areas - the smaller one by the Ark is best for young children, whilst the larger one at the other end is great for older kids. 

7. Cycle Around Holes Bay

If you're looking for an easy family bike ride, the route around Holes Bay is a great choice. The relatively flat cycle paths make it suitable for children, while the views across the water and chances to spot wildlife keep things interesting. It's a great way to get some fresh air, burn off energy and enjoy a different view of Poole Harbour without spending a penny.

8. Experience Wareham Wednesdays

If you're visiting Dorset during the summer holidays, don't miss the famous Wareham Wednesdays. One of the highlights is the pirate invasion, when swashbuckling pirates arrive in town by boat and have a huge waterfight with the locals on the riverside.  There are family activities, entertainment, live music and plenty of opportunities for children to join in the fun. Best of all, many of the events are free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly evening out for families. Bring your water pistols! 

9. Explore Moors Valley Country Park

With beautiful forest walks, cycle routes and plenty of places to stop for a picnic, it's easy to spend a whole day at Moors Valley without spending a fortune. This Summer, Families can enjoy the magical Room on the Broom trail, where children can follow the story through the woods and search for familiar characters along the way. There's also a brilliant play trail packed with climbing equipment, balancing challenges and woodland adventures that can keep kids entertained for hours. Free entry but there is a charge for the carpark. 

You might even bump into The Gruffalo at Moors Valley Country Park

10. Visit Durlston Country Park

Dramatic clifftop views, wildlife spotting and family-friendly walking trails make Durlston a great day out.

11. Treat Yourself to Chips in Swanage

After a walk around Durlston Country Park, head down into Swanage for a well-earned portion of chips by the seafront. Find a bench, take in the sea views, and enjoy a simple but perfect family moment watching the boats and beach life drift by. 

12. Step Back in Time at Tyneham Village

Tyneham is one of Dorset’s most fascinating places to explore — a deserted village frozen in time since World War II. Families can wander through the old school, church and cottages while learning a little piece of local history along the way. If you’re up for a walk, you can continue down the valley to Warbarrow Bay, a stunning hidden beach that feels wild, remote and completely untouched. It’s a bit of a trek, but well worth it for the views and sense of adventure.

13. Visit Pamphill Dairy Farm Shop

Pamphill is a lovely little stop for families, especially if you’re exploring the wider Wimborne area. Alongside the farm shop, there’s a brilliant new play area where children can let off steam while you enjoy a slower pace for a moment. And no visit is complete without one of their amazing ice creams — the perfect treat after a countryside walk. 

The ice cream flavours change regularly so you never know what you're going to find here!

14. Watch the Sunset at Sandbanks

Sandbanks is a great spot to finish the day, especially in the evening when it’s quieter. Head down to the harbour and you’ll get clear views across the water as the sun goes down. It’s an easy, low-cost way to end a day out, and a good chance to slow things down before heading home. 

15. Catch the Open-Top Bus to the Beach

The journey is part of the fun and children love sitting upstairs enjoying the views. You can the catch the Harbour Breezer 60 from Poole Bus Station and this will drop you off by Sandbanks Beach. 

16. Wander Around Kingston Maurward Animal Park & Gardens

These beautiful gardens offer lakes, wildlife and plenty of space for children to explore. You can see a variety of farm animals up close, including goats, pigs and donkeys. Free entry but there is a £5 carpark charge

17. Walled Garden Moreton and a River Paddle

Moreton is a great combination stop for families, starting with a wander around the walled garden and its peaceful surroundings. Entrance is only £4 for adults and under 18's go free. After exploring the garden, head down to the nearby river where there are shallow spots that are perfect for paddling on a warm day. It’s an easy, low-cost outing and perfect for cooling off on those long hot Summer days. Tip - pack water shoes as it's a bit stony in the river.

18. Visit Poole Museum

Poole Museum is a great free indoor option for families, especially if you need a break from the weather or a change of pace from outdoor activities. It’s small enough to explore without it feeling overwhelming for children, with exhibits that help bring the history of Poole’s maritime past to life. A simple, easy stop that works well as part of a budget-friendly day out in the town. If your budget allows, I'd recommend heading across the street to Truly Scrumptious where you can find all kinds of sweets and treats. 

19. Go Crabbing at Lake Pier

One of our favourite Summer holiday activities when on a budget! A bucket, a line and some bait are all you need for hours of entertainment. The views from Lake Pier are fantastic - and look out for the low flying Chinook helicopters coming and going from the nearby Military base. 

20. Spend the Day at Hamworthy Park and Beach

With a playground, toddler friendly paddling pool, beach, green space and stunning harbour views, Hamworthy Park is a brilliant budget-friendly day out. There is free parking in nearby roads but these do get busy so would advise coming early. 

21. Explore Tout Quarry Sculpture Park

Combining art, history and outdoor adventure, this hidden gem on Portland is well worth a visit. 

22. Walk the Sika Trail in Wareham Forest

A family-friendly woodland trail with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. Great for bike rides, dog walks or just getting out in the fresh air. 

23. Take the Jurassic Breezer Bus to Durdle Door

The Jurassic Breezer bus (30)  is a great budget-friendly way to reach Durdle Door without the stress of parking. The journey itself is part of the experience, with some brilliant views along the way including the majestic ruins of Corfe Castle. It’s an easy option for families and means you can enjoy one of Dorset’s most iconic landmarks while keeping things simple and relaxed. Return tickets are £6 from Swanage.

24. Discover Maiden Castle

Maiden Castle is one of the largest Iron Age hill forts in Europe and a great place for families who enjoy a bit of space to explore. The vast grassy ramparts are perfect for walking, running and letting kids use their imagination while taking in the views across the surrounding countryside. It’s a simple, free day out that also gives a small glimpse into Dorset’s ancient history.

25. Walk Shutes Lane

Shutes Lane, often linked with the nearby Hell Lane, is a quiet countryside walk with a slightly eerie twist thanks to the carved “faces” you can spot along parts of the route. The tall hedgerows and narrow path give it a tunnel-like feel, while the details in the banks make it interesting for children to look out for as they go. If you're feeling energetic, why not head up nearby Colmers Hill afterwards - one of the Dorset's most photographed spots. 

Climbing Comers Hill

Final Thoughts

One of the things I love most about Dorset is that some of the best family days out cost very little. Whether you're hunting for fossils, exploring ancient villages, paddling in rivers or simply watching the sunset over the beach, there are endless ways to make memories without breaking the budget.

I'd love to know which Dorset adventure your family enjoys most. Let me know in the comments if there's a favourite free or budget-friendly day out that deserves a place on this list.

Teddy Rocks Festival: Music, Family Fun and a Cause That Matters

 

Teddy Rocks Festival Review: Our Family Weekend

Looking for a family-friendly festival in Dorset that’s packed with music, fun, and charity at its heart? Teddy Rocks Festival delivers all of that and more, creating a weekend experience you won’t forget.

How Teddy Rocks Began — From Pub Gig to Powerful Charity Festival

Teddy Rocks Festival didn’t start as a big festival — it began as a tiny music night with a huge purpose. In 2011, founder Tom Newton and his family organised a small gig at The Greyhound pub in Blandford, Dorset to raise money for Teddy20, a children’s cancer charity they had started after losing Tom’s younger brother, Ted, to a rare bone cancer.

That first gig raised just £400, but it planted a seed. By 2012, the first official Teddy Rocks event at the Corn Exchange raised £2,500, and over the next few years, the festival continued to grow — moving back to The Greyhound in 2013 and increasing funds raised each year. By 2016, the event had moved to a bigger outdoor site and brought in over £40,000.

From there, things really took off. The festival found its current home at Charisworth Farm in Blandford Forum by 2018, offering camping, multiple stages and a broader music lineup — and raising record charity totals each year. Over more than a decade, Teddy Rocks has now raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for Teddy20 and partner children’s cancer charities, becoming a multi-award-winning festival with a deeply meaningful purpose.

A Festival With Heart (and a Purpose)

What makes Teddy Rocks truly special isn’t just the music — it’s the why behind it all. The festival raises money for children’s cancer charities, supporting young patients and their families through treatment, care, and research. Every ticket sold, every raffle entry, and every donation goes directly to helping children facing serious illnesses, making each weekend not just fun, but meaningful.

We attended last year and were completely blown away. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and inclusive — families are genuinely embraced, and kids are free to dance, sing, and explore without feeling out of place. You can feel the charitable mission in every corner, from volunteers sharing stories to the festival community coming together in support.

Music for All Ages

Teddy Rocks strikes the perfect balance between adult enjoyment and family fun. The live music lineup keeps grown-ups entertained, while daytime activities, safe family zones, and engaging stalls make it easy to bring children along.

Friday night was Pop Party night and we danced along to Bewitched on the main stage which was a proper blast from the past....and I couldn't believe how many song lyrics were still usefully stored in my brain! Our Friday highlight was Barrioke on the Jan Boyd stage - something that had to be seen to be believed. Shaun Williamson, aka Barry off Eastenders in a shiny red jacket, belting out karaoke classics with the audience! Elliot decided he want to get involved so he got up there and belted out a pretty decent rendition of Livin' on a Prayer. He had the entire crowd cheering him on and he came off stage grinning from ear to ear! 

Our must-see for Saturday was Metallica Reloaded on the Ted Newton (main stage) - Elliot has been getting really into their music this year so it was great experience the songs live, especially the epic Master of Puppets. One act that totally took us by surprise was Slay Duggee - had no idea what to expect but their set was probably the highlight of the entire weekend! I've never heard kids songs like Baby Shark sung in the style of hardcore metal, by men dressed as dogs before, and even typing that sounds bonkers but it was brilliantly bonkers. The confetti and pyrotechnics were fun too, although the water cannon took us by surprise and I wasn't expecting to get so wet!! 

Sunday afternoon had a fantastic line up of acts such as Bon Jovi, Foo Fighters and Pink tributes who were all excellent but the main draw for us was Hybrid Theory, one of the best Linkin Park tributes around. They put on a fantastic show and we really felt like we were seeing the actual Linkin Park - it was really special to experience with Elliot. I first saw Linkin Park back in 2008 and I love that he's into the same bands I grew up listening to. 

Family-Friendly, Without Feeling Tame

One of the best parts about Teddy Rocks is how truly family-friendly it is — without losing the authenticity of a proper festival. The layout is easy to navigate, the atmosphere feels safe, and the sense of community is strong. I was happy for the kids to wander off on their own while we were sat enjoying the music and it felt very safe. We bumped into lots of friends too which is the beauty of it being a local festival. 

Would We Go Again?

Absolutely — without hesitation. Teddy Rocks is more than a festival; it’s an experience, a community, and a reminder that music, family fun, and charity can go hand in hand. 

If you’re looking for a festival that works for families, supports a fantastic cause, and leaves you feeling uplifted rather than frazzled, Teddy Rocks should be on your list. 

Tickets can be found here

Have you been to Teddy Rocks, or is it on your festival wish list? Trust us — it’s one you won’t want to miss.

Our Family Day Out at CarFest 2025

Our Family Festival Adventure

This summer we headed to CarFest 2025 for a family day out, and it reminded me exactly why I love family friendly festivals. Although lots of families camp for the whole weekend, we just went for the day—and honestly, it was more than enough to soak up the atmosphere, try new activities, and see what CarFest is all about. This was our third year attending, so the kids were already buzzing with excitement before we even arrived.

CarFest was created back in 2012 by Chris Evans and has raised over £25 million for children’s charities. Knowing that all the fun we were having was also helping to support good causes gave the whole day an extra feel-good factor.

 What makes CarFest stand out is the variety. Families can dip into so many different areas across the festival:

Cars, Cars, and More Cars

The cars are always one of the big highlights for us. We spent ages in the paddock admiring rows of classic cars, supercars, and racing cars—the kids loved spotting their favourites and asking questions. There were plenty of demonstrations and track shows too, with stunts and speed that had the crowd gasping.

It’s such a brilliant way to introduce children to something they might not see every day, and there’s a real buzz about being so close to the action.

KidsFest: The Children’s Favourite Spot

Of course, the area that Elliot and Erin made a beeline for was KidsFest. It’s completely geared towards children, with craft activities, inflatables, character meet-and-greets (the Gruffalo and Bluey were big hits), a book corner (with celebrity authors dropping in) and so much more.

The real highlight was the Young Drivers area. Elliot got behind the wheel of a real car with an instructor (he said it was “fun but a bit stressful!”), and Erin was absolutely thrilled to zip around in a Firefly Sport mini electric car. It made them both feel so grown up.

FoodFest: A Feast for All of Us

FoodFest was a feast for all the senses, with rows of stalls offering everything from wood-fired pizzas and sizzling street food to curries, burgers, and sweet treats. The atmosphere was lively, with the smells of cooking drifting across the festival and chefs giving live demonstrations on stage. Erin loved the hands-on biscuit decorating, while Elliot was drawn to the spicy sauces!

Many of the exhibitor were offering free samples and we particularly liked the Whitworth's stand where we came away with many, many bags of fruit and nuts, plus even some piping hot vegetarian chilli con carne.

 

Time Out at SpaFest

Festivals can be full-on, so it was nice to take a breather at SpaFest. The yoga sessions, wellness talks, and calmer vibe made it the perfect place to recharge before heading back to the busier parts of the site.

Celebrity Spotting at StarFest

Packed with the sparkle of celebrity, StarFest takes you behind the scenes of the worlds of TV, cinema, music, literature, comedy, and fashion. It’s a space where families can join in celebrating the success of some of the UK's best-loved performers, while also discovering and supporting new talent. We caught a few minutes of Lee Mack's talk and he drew a massive crowd!

RetroFest Fun

Another favourite for our family was RetroFest. Elliot loved the wartime displays and gun demonstrations, while Erin made the most of the retro playground with space hoppers and swingball in the Old Skoolyard. The whole area had such a fun nostalgic feel, and it was a nice mix of history and play.

Music to End the Day

For us, no festival would be complete without music, and CarFest had a brilliant line-up. This year’s line-up included Travis, Kim Wilde, Sam Ryder, Rita Ora, Tom Walker, Seasick Steve, Madness, Squeeze, and The Lightning Seeds, alongside performances from emerging artists and festival favourites such as the Rick Parfitt Jnr Band. The atmosphere at the Main Stage was welcoming and family-friendly, with plenty of space for dancing or just relaxing with a picnic. As in previous years, many families set up their chairs first thing in the morning and this is a great way of securing good spots. 

Family Festival Tips from Our Day

If you’re thinking of trying out a family festival day out, here are a few things we found really useful at CarFest:

• Tickets: In 2025, day tickets were £89–£102 for adults and £21–£26 for kids (under-fives free).

• Food & Drink: Stalls were plentiful with options for all diets, but we also packed a cool box of drinks and snacks to keep costs down.

• Facilities: Toilets and family areas were clean and well looked after, with baby change tents and breastfeeding spaces dotted around.

• Prams & Wagons: The site was large but pram-friendly—we saw lots of families pulling wagons too.

• Lost Children: Pick up a wristband at the entrance and write your number on it. We actually lost Erin briefly in the evening, and the Lost Children tent staff were incredible in reuniting us quickly.

What’s Next for CarFest?

CarFest has always been at Laverstoke Park Farm, which gives it a really warm, countryside feel. From 2026, though, it’ll move to Silverstone. It’ll definitely be different, but with bigger grounds and world-class facilities, I’m excited to see how the festival grows and what new things it brings for families.

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Why We Love Family Friendly Festivals

By the end of the day, we were exhausted but so happy. CarFest 2025 gave us everything we love about family friendly festivals: exciting activities for the kids, live music for us, plenty of food, and a safe, welcoming atmosphere where families can relax and make memories together.

We’ll definitely be back next year!

To sign up for 2026 pre-sale access, click here and to check out our reel from the festival, click here

*Disclaimer - We were gifted day tickets for Carfest but all thoughts and opinions are honest and we genuinely had a fantastic time! 

 

Festival Essentials for Families: The Ultimate Day Trip Packing List

Planning a family festival trip is exciting—but if you’re only going for the day, it’s easy to forget what’s really essential. You don’t need tents or sleeping bags, but you do need the right gear to keep the whole family happy, safe, and stress-free.

Here’s the ultimate family day trip festival packing list to make sure your adventure runs smoothly.

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🎒 1. A Practical Backpack

A sturdy backpack is your festival best friend. Choose one with plenty of compartments to store water bottles, snacks, wipes, and the inevitable “treasures” your kids collect along the way. Comfort is key—you’ll be carrying it all day.

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💧 2. Refillable Water Bottles

Festivals are full of energy, heat, and crowds. Keep everyone hydrated with refillable bottles. Many UK festivals now have free refill stations. Top tip: freeze one bottle overnight so it doubles as a mini ice pack for snacks.

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🧴 3. Sun Protection: Hats, Sunglasses & Sun Cream

The British sun has a sneaky way of catching families off guard. Apply sun cream before leaving, then pack a travel-size bottle for top-ups. Hats and sunglasses are non-negotiable for both kids and parents.

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🧺 4. Family-Friendly Snacks

Festival food is fun but can be expensive and time-consuming to queue for. Bring simple, packable snacks like fruit, wraps, cereal bars, or flapjacks. This keeps hunger tantrums away and leaves room in the budget for special treats like churros or milkshakes like in the picture below!

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🧻 5. Wet Wipes & Hand Sanitiser

From ice cream accidents to sticky rides and muddy knees, wipes and hand sanitiser are absolute lifesavers at festivals. Pack plenty—you’ll never regret it.

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🧥 6. Layers & Rain Protection

British weather loves drama. Be prepared with lightweight raincoats or ponchos and packable hoodies for cooler evenings. A dry, warm child = a happy child (and a calmer parent!).

Good Times Festival 2024 - quite possibly the wettest gig we've ever been to!

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🔋 7. Power Bank for Phones

Your phone is your ticket, map, and camera. It may also be your emergency contact line or entertainment device during queues. A portable charger ensures you won’t get caught out with a dead battery.

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📍 8. A Family Safety Plan

Festivals are busy and noisy. Choose a clear meeting point (like a colourful tent or a big landmark) in case anyone gets separated. For younger kids, write your phone number on a wristband or even on their arm with a marker.

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🪑 9. Something to Sit On

Little legs get tired quickly. A waterproof picnic blanket is a lightweight option that won’t take up much space but will give you somewhere to rest between activities.

Can also double up as a temporary bed if tired ;)

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🥳 10. A Positive Attitude

Festivals are unpredictable—there may be mud, queues, or the occasional meltdown. Go in expecting a bit of chaos, and you’ll enjoy it so much more. Remember: these moments turn into the stories you’ll laugh about later.

A muddy festival experience! 

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Final Thoughts: Family Festival Day Trip Must-Haves

When it comes to festival essentials for families, it’s all about balance—packing enough to keep everyone comfortable without feeling like a pack mule. The must-haves? Water, snacks, wipes, sun protection, and a flexible attitude. With these, you’re ready for an unforgettable day out. 

Things to Do in Dorset for Families During the School Holidays

 Looking for fun things to do in Dorset during the school holidays? You’re in luck! From beautiful beaches and wild country parks to charming villages and historic sites, there’s something for every family in Dorset — whether you want to keep the kids busy, make memories together, or simply appreciate the magic of your home county. 

🍦 Spend Time at Our Amazing Beaches 🍦

Did you know Bournemouth Beach and Weymouth Beach made it into Tripadvisor’s Best Beaches in Europe for 2025? (Yes — we’re up there with the world’s finest!)

✅ Bournemouth Beach — Miles of sand, traditional amusements, ice cream stands — perfect for children and families!
✅ Weymouth Beach — Shallow waters, sheltered sand, and plenty of space for games. More of a traditional seaside town
✅ Studland Bay— Much quieter than it's Bournemouth and Poole neighbours - great for a more restful family day by the sea. We particularly love Knoll Beach. Look out for the ice cream boat! 

Knoll Beach, Studland

🍉 Outdoor Adventures  🍉

Looking for something more energetic?
✅ Dorset Adventure Park (Corfe Castle) — Water slides, an assault course, and lakes to splash in — a wild day for children and adults alike!
✅  The Alpine Adventure Park at Snowtrax offers swings, trampolines, super slippy slides, and much more including a pirate ship situated on it's own island— perfect for children who love a bit of a challenge.

🦉 Get Closer to Nature 🦉

✅ Brownsea Island — Take a short ferry ride from Poole Quay and discover peacocks, red squirrels, secluded beaches, and rich wildlife — a magical adventure for children!
✅ Blue Pool — Wander through this tranquil spot near Wareham, where a dramatic pool glows blue and green, surrounded by heathland and forests — a wonderful opportunity for children to connect with nature. Look out for their special events throughout the year, we love visiting at Halloween! 
✅ RSPB Arne Nature Reserve — Amazing trails, rich birdlife, deer, and beautiful views — a perfect spot for a family wildlife adventure in Dorset. 

Blue Pool

🍃 Enjoy Our Country Parks 🍃

✅ Moors Valley Country Park and Forest — Amazing trails, a miniature railway, high-ropes course, playgrounds, a lake, and it's very own Gruffalo  — perfect for children of all ages!
✅ Avon Heath Country Park — Miles of walking trails, wildlife spotting, a children’s play area, and plenty of space for a picnic with the whole family.
✅ Upton Country Park — Stroll through beautiful gardens, explore the woodlands, let the children burn off energy at the large playground, or enjoy a cream tea in the well stocked cafe afterwards

The Gruffalo at Moors Valley Country Park

 🐷Fun for the Whole Family 🐷

✅ Farmer Palmers Farm Park — Petting sessions, bouncing castles, a dinosaur trail, ride-on toys, and much more — a classic Dorset family day out during the school holidays! (Plus the cakes in the Hen House cafe are 10/10!)
✅ Monkey World — Home to over 250 rescued primates — a wonderful blend of education and entertainment for children of all ages.

Meeting a new friend at Farmer Palmers

🦕 5. Dig Into History — And Some Fossil Fun! 🦕

✅ Lyme Regis  — The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — grab a fossil hammer, go fossil hunting with your children, and uncover ancient creatures!
✅ Charmouth Beach and  Heritage Coast Centre — Learn alongside your children about dinosaurs, ancient creatures, and their stories — and then go and explore the rock pools where you might find your very own ammonite to take home

Fossil Hunting on the Jurassic Coast

🎪 Local Festivals 🎪

Dorset really knows how to throw a family-friendly festival — and summer is bursting with music, magic, and muddy knees (the fun kind). Here's what not to miss during the school holidays in Dorset:

✅ Poole Harbour Festival (25–27 July) — Amazing food trucks, live bands, children’s entertainment, and a chilled holiday-like atmosphere — a perfect Dorset festival for families!
✅ Camp Bestival (31 July - 3 Aug) - The ultimate family festival! Think glittery wellies, circus tents, Mr Tumble, fireworks, fancy dress parades, big-name bands, and a dedicated kids’ field full of crafts, theatre shows, and activities. This one’s family festival royalty — a proper bucket-list experience!
✅ DorsetFest (27–28 June) – A charming folk festival in the countryside with live music, craft stalls, children’s games, storytelling, and plenty of space to run wild.

Camp Bestival - Dorset's biggest festival

Whether you're a local looking to rediscover your favourite spots or planning brand new adventures with the kids, Dorset is packed with unforgettable experiences this summer. From beach days and castle explorations to nature trails, festivals, and fossil hunts, there’s something to excite every kind of family. So pack the buckets and spades and get ready for a Summer full of fresh air, fun and memories that’ll last long after the school holidays end.

Santorini with Kids in 2025 — Top Tips, Activities, and Family-Friendly Spots

When you picture Santorini, you probably imagine honeymooners sipping wine at sunset, dramatic cliffside villas, and romantic blue-domed churches. But here’s a surprise you might not expect:

Santorini is a fantastic destination for families traveling with children.

That’s right — beyond the postcards and Instagram shots lies a warm, welcoming island filled with adventures, safe towns, unique beaches, and plenty of fun and educational experiences perfect for curious young minds. 

We recently spent a week in Santorini with our two children - Elliot who is now 12 and Erin who is 8. The holiday was booked on a spur of the moment type google - we found a good price and decided to go for it! 

When to Visit?

The best time to visit Santorini with children is during the shoulder seasons — late spring (April to early June) and early autumn (September to early October). During these months, the weather is warm but not too hot, the island is less crowded, and accommodation prices are generally more reasonable. 

Oia, Santorini

We visited in the first week of April however I would recommend going slightly later in the month. We had a few warm days but out of the sun it was a cool 14 degrees! 

Getting There

Getting to Santorini from the UK is easier than ever, with multiple direct flight options available from major airports including London (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted), Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh, especially during the spring and summer months. These flights typically take around 4 hours and are offered by airlines such as British Airways, easyJet, Jet2, and Ryanair. For more flexibility or off-season travel, you can also fly into Athens and take a short domestic flight to Santorini or opt for a scenic ferry ride from the mainland — a great option if you want to include a bit of Greek island-hopping in your itinerary.

We chose to fly from Gatwick Airport with Easyjet and it couldn't have been easier - we hopped on a train from Poole and within 3 hours we were at the airport. Our flight was 730am so we chose to stay overnight in the Premier Inn North Terminal - the hotel is great value and literally a 5 minute walk to departures. 

Where to Stay

When visiting Santorini with children, the best places to stay are in the flatter, beachside towns like Kamari and Perissa, which offer easy access to the sea, family-friendly restaurants, and plenty of space for little ones to explore. These areas are less crowded and more buggy-friendly compared to the steep, cliffside villages. They are often better value too. 

Our hotel (Hotel Alexandra) was located in Kamari and was perfect for our needs. We had a one bedroom apartment that had converted sofas in the living area which the kids had. The bedroom had a huge bed, plenty of wardrobe space, aircon and even a TV which came in handy in the evenings when the kids were asleep! The breakfast was plentiful and we never had any issues finding a sunbed around the pool. Location wise it was 2 minutes to Kamari Beach and around 10 minutes to walk into the main town area.

How to Get Around

Santorini is a small island (76 square km) however if you are travelling with kids, I would really recommend hiring a car. You can usually arrange this via your hotel, or just google nearby companies like we did. We found having a car gave us lots more freedom than relying on public transport and we could explore at our own pace. It also meant we could visit places such as Aktori Lighthouse which aren't easy to get to by bus. The views from here were worth the car hire cost alone!

Caldera view from Aktori Lighthouse

There is a regular bus service on the Island however these do get very busy in the North of the Island, especially after Sunset. 

Things to Do

Explore Ancient Thera

If your kids love a bit of adventure and a dash of ancient mystery, Ancient Thera is a must. Perched high on a mountain above Kamari, this archaeological site is packed with ruins to explore—old houses, temples, and even an ancient theatre. You can hike up if you're feeling energetic, otherwise you are able to drive partway and walk the rest. 

Views for days - Ancient Thira Santorini

Take a boat to a Volcano

Set sail from Fira’s Old Port for a boat trip to Nea Kameni, the volcanic island in the caldera. You’ll hike around the crater and then jump into the warm sulphur springs nearby. 
Note: Better suited to older kids or confident swimmers

Wander Fira's winding streets

Kids will love exploring the cobbled alleyways and there are quirky little souvenir shops around every corner. The views over the caldera are amazing once you reach the edge of the town! 

Caldera views from Fira

The Lost Atlantis Experience

Perfect for a rainy day (we had a few of those in April!), this is a brilliant, hands on museum where you can explore Plato's legend of Atlantis with holograms, hands on exhibits and a fun 9D cinema. 

Catch a Sunset

Santorini is renowned for it's amazing sunsets and it would be a crime not to see at least one while here! Many tourists head to Oia but if you don't fancy the crowds, there are plenty of places on the Island where you can catch the perfect sunset. We headed for the highest point of the Island, the Profitis Ilias Mountain - you can drive all the way up and it offers breathtaking, panoramic views over the Island. 

Visit the highest village on the Island

Once the capital of the island, Pyrgos is a traditional village full of winding alleys, whitewashed houses, and blue-domed churches—minus the crowds you’ll find in Oia or Fira. What makes Pyrgos special (besides being the highest village) is the panoramic view from the old Venetian Castelli (castle) at the top of the village. From there, you get a 360-degree sweep of the island—including the caldera, the sea, and the sprawling vineyards below. It’s a great place to escape the tourist buzz and soak in a more peaceful, authentic side of Santorini.

Pyrgos

What to Eat

Greek cuisine is perfect for families with lots to please even the fussiest eaters. We loved trying out the local gyros (pronounced yee-ros, a pita bread stuffed with meat, tzatziki, salad and chips) and found it a really inexpensive meal. Souvlaki was also a big hit - and the portion sizes seemed to be very generous wherever we went so we could all share a couple of meals. 

Elias Grill in Kamari was our favourite for gyros but we also had fantastic meals at Alfresco in Kamari and Triana Tavern in Fira. 

It's worth noting that you will pay more if you are in the touristy areas such as Oia, especially if you are looking for a sunset view whilst dining. 

📌 Final Thoughts 

Santorini is truly a beautiful destination with so much to offer for families who want to make magical memories together. The locals were warm, welcoming, and helpful, and we felt completely safe wherever we went — whether we were exploring charming villages or unwinding by the pool at our hotel. I think Santorini is especially well-suited for families with slightly older children, like ours, who can appreciate its rich culture, stunning views, and all the walking involved in navigating its steep streets. We did a lot of exploring on foot — up and down countless steps — which might be a bit challenging for families with toddlers or pushchairs, especially in the more touristy areas like Fira and Oia. But for those who are up for a little adventure, Santorini offers a blend of relaxation, education, food, and fun that makes for a truly rewarding family holiday.