Five of the Best Family Days Out Around Christchurch

With beaches made for paddling, castle grounds that lead directly to the coast and forests filled with giant wooden play equipment, Christchurch makes family days out feel refreshingly uncomplicated.

Some of the best adventures cost little more than parking and an ice cream, while others can be adapted to suit toddlers, energetic older children and grandparents. Pack a picnic, keep a towel in the car and try one of these five brilliant family days out around Christchurch.

For children, the journey can be every bit as exciting as the destination, and the little land train at Hengistbury Head proves it.

Begin beside the Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre, where interactive displays introduce the wildlife, archaeology and changing landscape of this remarkable headland. From here, families can either follow the largely traffic-free route towards Mudeford Sandbank or climb aboard the land train.

The train trundles between heathland and Christchurch Harbour before arriving beside one of Dorset’s most distinctive beaches. Mudeford Sandbank is lined with colourful huts, with the calm harbour on one side and the open sea on the other. Children can paddle, search for shells and watch boats threading through the narrow harbour entrance.

Bring a picnic or stop for something to eat near the sandbank. Families wanting to extend the adventure can take the passenger ferry across to Mudeford Quay when it is operating, turning an ordinary beach trip into a miniature expedition involving a train and a boat.

The land train usually runs from April until October, weather permitting, but it is sensible to check its status before travelling.

Best for: Children who love trains, boats and beaches
Good to know: The walk is an enjoyable alternative if the train is full or not operating.

Photo: HengistburyHead

Crabbing at Mudeford Quay is the sort of wonderfully simple seaside activity that can occupy children for far longer than expected.

Pick up a line, bucket and suitable bait from the small shop at the quay, then find a safe place along the harbour wall. Lower the line gently into the water and wait for the first tug. The moment a crab appears at the surface tends to produce enormous excitement, regardless of whether it is the first catch or the fifteenth.

Keep the bucket in the shade, use some seawater and avoid overcrowding it. At the end of the session, return the crabs carefully to the harbour rather than dropping them from a height. It can be fun to release them together and watch them scuttle back towards the water.

There is plenty happening around the quay even when the crabs are feeling uncooperative. Children can watch fishing boats, spot the Run’s powerful current and see the small ferry crossing towards Mudeford Sandbank. Food and refreshments are available nearby, making this an easy outing to stretch into lunch.

The official visitor guide confirms that nets, buckets and bait are available at Mudeford Quay

Best for: A traditional, inexpensive seaside afternoon
Good to know: Close supervision beside the quay wall is essential.

Highcliffe Castle looks ready-made for a children’s story. Its towers, ornate windows and dramatic clifftop setting give it a fairytale quality before visitors have even stepped inside.

The Grade I-listed building was created for Lord Stuart de Rothesay during the 1830s. Much of its stonework and stained glass came from buildings in France, giving the castle a romantic continental appearance. After years of neglect and damage by fire, it was rescued and gradually restored.

Inside, families can explore the castle’s rooms and discover the story of its rise, decline and remarkable survival. Outside, the grounds provide space for a relaxed walk or picnic. Follow the woodland paths and steps down through Steamer Point Nature Reserve and the day changes from historic house visit to seaside adventure.

The beach below is quieter in atmosphere than many of Bournemouth’s central beaches, with views across Christchurch Bay. Look back from the shore and it is easy to understand why this clifftop was chosen for such an extravagant home.

In 2026, Highcliffe Castle is generally open Sunday to Thursday from 10am until 4pm, with last admission before closing. Check for weddings and special events before setting out.

Best for: Families who want history, woodland and beach in one trip
Good to know: Exploring the grounds is free, while admission applies inside the castle.

Christchurch town centre can become a surprisingly good historical treasure hunt.

Start at the Red House Museum, a red-brick Georgian building tucked behind Christchurch Priory. Originally constructed as a parish workhouse, it now contains local archaeology, period objects and changing exhibitions. Its peaceful garden is also a lovely place for a picnic or quiet break.

Admission is free and there is no need to book, although families should check the museum’s current opening days before visiting.

Next, step inside Christchurch Priory and encourage children to look for carved faces, grand memorials and tiny architectural details. At more than 900 years old, the building makes the town’s past feel impressively real. The Priory is normally open to visitors between 10am and 4pm, except during services or events.

Finish among the ruins of Christchurch Castle and the Norman House, then walk down to the Quay for ducks, boats and an ice cream beside the water.

Best for: Rainy mornings and curious young historians
Good to know: This outing is largely free and everything is close enough to explore on foot.

When children need to climb, balance, scramble and run, Moors Valley Country Park is difficult to beat.

Its one-mile Play Trail winds through the forest and features ten large wooden play structures. Children can climb inside a giant hawk, negotiate tunnels and test themselves on balancing equipment, with each new structure appearing between the trees like a discovery.

There are also two main adventure play areas, woodland walking routes, cycle trails and Gruffalo character sculptures. Optional paid activities include cycle hire, Adventure Golf, miniature vehicles and Go Ape, but it is entirely possible to fill most of the day using the included play areas and trails.

With more than 800 acres of forest and parkland, it feels like a proper countryside escape while remaining within easy reach of Christchurch. Entry to the country park is free, although parking charges apply. Full facilities and current activities are available through the official Moors Valley website.

Best for: Burning off serious school-holiday energy
Good to know: Take sturdy shoes - the forest paths can become muddy after rain.

Photo: MoorsValley