8 Best Things To Do In Weymouth, England

best things to do in weymouth uk
Lucia
Lucia 
Updated
| 3 min read

The charming town of Weymouth, in Dorset, is a wonderful vacation destination if you’re in the market for a relaxing, fun filled family vacay. Weymouth is rich in history and overflowing with beauty, resting on the scenic English coastline. You will be sure to get a healthy dose of outdoor fun, as well as a cultural experience you’ll never forget. From traditional British pubs and afternoon tea to water sports and beachside leisure, Weymouth has something for everybody.

1. The life and times of Thomas Hardy

Thomas Hardy Statue Dorchester Dorset
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ashley Smith used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Weymouth has a very interesting literary history, as the birthplace of the ‘Tess of the d'Urbervilles author, Thomas Hardy. This tour takes you on a journey through Hardy’s world and the locations that inspired some of his most seminal works. Visitors get the chance to see Hardy’s birthplace, resting place, and his architectural works, from the time when he worked as an architect in the town. Fans of Victorian literature are sure to love this excursion.

Private Tour Visiting The Life and Times of Thomas Hardy from Weymouth Dorset

Address: Portland, United Kingdom

Website:

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2. Powerboat rides at Poole Quay Boat Haven

J70's & J 80's heading out for racing

Posted by Poole Quay Boat Haven & Port of Poole Marina on Thursday, 29 May 2014

For those looking for an adrenaline filled activity, Poole Harbor offers fun powerboat rides and also happens to have a five-star rating, on Trip Advisor. Participants partake in their own choice of trip, which includes a variety of wildlife, geology, and sights unable to be seen from the shore. Captain Joel takes visitors out on his skipper, named Dominic, for a one-hour, fun-soaked ride that is sure to satisfy your need for speed.

Ultimate Fast Powerboat Rides!

Address: Poole Quay Boat Haven, The Quay, POOLE, Dorset, BH15 1HJ

Website: Visit Dorset

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3. Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway

We have a whole host of activities for your family to enjoy across the summer season, from bug hunting, storytelling,...

Posted by Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway on Tuesday, 11 July 2017

Set on 200 acres (80.9 hectares) of land, Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway is a great activity for people who are traveling with children. Families can take a 20-minute ride aboard the Steam Railway and stop off at the adventure play area, built for kids. Ice cream and cakes are available at Mr. Eddy’s Tea Rooms and an assortment of events and activities are regularly listed on their website.

Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway

Address: Exbury, Southampton SO45 1AZ, UK

Website: Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway

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4. Monkey World Ape Rescue Center

Posted by Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre, Official Facebook Page on Tuesday, 9 May 2017

Monkey World Ape Rescue Center is a must see, when visiting Weymouth. It is a 65 acre (26.3 hectare) sanctuary and rescue center for endangered primates, from all around the world. The rescue center avidly works to help end the smuggling and mistreatment of apes, globally. The park has a play area for children, as well as reasonably priced food and drinks, in the cafe. Tours are available for pre-booking on the website, plan your next adventure, today!

Monkey World Ape Rescue Center

Address: Longthorns, Wareham BH20 6HH, UK

Website: Monkey World Ape Rescue Center

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5. Afternoon tea at Good Life Cafe

Posted by The Good Life Cafe on Thursday, 21 May 2015

Afternoon tea is an essential part of English culture, so one should partake, at least once, when visiting the country. An age old English tradition dating back to the 1800s, tea time is a daily staple and the Good Life Cafe has much to offer. Surrounded by sand and sea, this family run establishment offers a daily changing menu. The dishes served use locally sourced ingredients and are made intentionally with love and care.

Have a traditional tea time spread at the Good Life, complete with freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and jam, a selection of small cakes and treats, as well as a lovely assortment of finger sandwiches. Live the Good Life.

Good Life Cafe

Address: 109 St Mary St, Weymouth DT4 8NY, UK

Website: Good Life Cafe

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6. Sandsfoot Castle

Sandsfoot Castle
Source: Photo by Flickr user Andrew Bone used under CC BY 2.0

Sandsfoot Castle is an old artillery fort, built by King Henry VIII. According to Engish history, Sandsfoot is considered to be “one of the most substantial examples” of 16th-century blockhouses, surviving today. Serious renovations have been done on the structure, but years of sea erosion has caused it to lose much of its stone facing. Located on the grounds of Green Flag Gardens, tour guides are available, as well as a beautiful outdoor cafe.

Sandsfoot Castle

Address: Old Castle Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8QE

Website: Sandsfoot Castle and the Rodwell Trail

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7. Horseback riding along the cliffs

Posted by Rosewall Equestrian on Saturday, 17 September 2016

Horseback riding is yet another exciting way to take in the beauty of this part of the world. Ride along picturesque valleys, cliffs, lakes, and countryside, at Rosewall Camping, Riding, and Lakes. Approved by the British Horse Society, Rosewall is open to people of all experience levels and offers easy access to the Dorset coastal footpath.

Rosewall Camping, Riding, and Lakes

Address: East Farm Dairy, Osmington Mills, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 6HA

Website: Rosewall Equestrian

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8. Athelhampton House and Gardens

Athelhampton House, gardens - geograph.org.uk - 500389
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chris Downer used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Dating back to the 15th century, the Athelhampton House and Gardens is a historic destination, for any traveler. Built in 1485, the manor is a jaw-dropping display of architecture, from the time of Tudor rule. The great hall is complete with wood paneled walls and stained glass. Two libraries, a wine cellar, and the iconic King’s Room await. Events are listed on the website, as well as ticket pricing for group visits.

Athelhampton House and Gardens

Address: Puddletown, Dorchester DT2 7LG, UK

Website: Athelhampton House and Gardens

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Historic Weymouth

In a place as old and with roots as deep as Weymouth, history lurks around every corner. It is a place that invites creativity, learning, good times, and exploration for those who pass through. Consider this the perfect location to soak in nature and all of her beauty, as well as delve into the past lives of others. Walk in the footsteps of authors and royalty, or play like children on land or by the sea.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Lucia Pasquale is a writer and poet living in Los Angeles, California. She enjoys hot coffee, new places, and old faces. She believes travel teaches us life's most important lessons, gifts us...Read more

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