Exploring Dorset doesn’t have to stop when the rain starts. Discover 22 brilliant indoor activities that promise fun and adventure without the need to brave unpredictable weather.
From interactive museums to vibrant play centres, there’s something for every member of the family.
Whether you’re fascinated by history or looking to unleash some energy, Dorset’s indoor attractions cater to all interests and ages.
Have fun reading and finding new and exciting places to visit!
Table of Contents
Enjoy Cat Cuddles At Pause Cat Café
Pause Cat Café in Bournemouth offers a truly unique experience for cat lovers. This serene haven is home to a group of rescued cats, allowing visitors to share their company while supporting animal welfare.
It’s a delightful spot for those who can’t have pets at home but still want to enjoy feline companionship.
The café promotes kindness and ethical living. Guests can feast on tasty vegetarian and vegan dishes that are locally sourced and sustainable.
As you sip on your drink, the cats will comfort you with their presence, promising a peaceful retreat from the daily hustle.
Pause Cat Café also plays a role in helping cats find forever homes. Visitors not only enjoy the company of these furry friends but also contribute to giving them a second chance.
🐈⬛ Good to know:
- Booking is a must
- Outside cats are not allowed
- Vegetarian and vegan food options
To read the full article, click here: Pause Cat Café
📍 119 Old Christchurch Rd, Bournemouth BH1 1EP
Browse Unique Finds At The Den Emporium
Step into The Den Emporium in Bournemouth and be prepared to explore a treasure trove of vintage finds and retro collectables.
With over 100 traders, the variety is endless. From vintage furniture to mid-century ceramics and quirky costume jewellery, every item has its own story.
The vibe here isn’t just about shopping. The Den boasts The Kitchen, a café where visitors can enjoy homemade meals and refreshing drinks.
Whether it’s a cosy lunch or a quick coffee, it’s the perfect pause during your adventure.
If you have unique items collecting dust, the team at The Den offers free valuations. They cherish the old, the unusual, and the interesting, ensuring these pieces find a place to shine once more.
🪆 Good to know:
- Free Parking
- Open every day of the week
- Pet-friendly atmosphere
Looking for more Emporiums to visit? Check our guide to 12 Must-Visit Emporiums in Dorset.
📍 Unit 9, 11 – 15 Francis Avenue, Bournemouth, BH11 8NX
Discover History At The Tank Museum
Experience the excitement of history coming to life at The Tank Museum in Dorset. With nearly 300 tanks from 26 countries, this incredible collection brings the stories of armoured vehicles to all.
From the muddy trenches of the First World War to the heat of the Iraqi desert, visitors can see machines that played pivotal roles in world conflicts.
One highlight is the legendary Tiger 131, the only operational German Tiger I tank left. This iconic vehicle is part of the fascinating display, which includes exhibits from the Royal Tank Regiment and Royal Armoured Corps.
There’s something for everyone, with engaging exhibitions that tell the personal stories of the soldiers who served.
The museum is family-friendly, with a cafe, an indoor soft play area, and full wheelchair access. It’s a perfect day out for the whole family.
🏢 Good to know:
- Café and restaurant, indoor soft play area
- Wheelchair accessible
- Assistance dogs allowed
📍 Linsay Rd, Bovington, Wareham BH20 6JG
Game At Insanity Gaming Arcade In Poole
Insanity Gaming Arcade in Poole is an exciting spot for keen gamers and lovers of retro gaming. It’s packed with over 60 machines and consoles, offering a mix of retro classics and modern hits.
All games are set to free play, letting visitors enjoy unlimited gaming during their chosen session.
The arcade spans two floors, with 1, 2, and 3-hour sessions available. It’s perfect for a night out with friends, a family fun day, or group events.
There’s also a bar and grill on-site, serving delicious food and drinks to keep you energised. Limited free parking is available, which is a bonus for visitors.
🕹️ Good to know:
- Wheelchair accessible ground floor
- Great food and drinks at the bar and grill
- Limited free parking
For the full read, check out this article.
📍 42 Harwell Road, Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole BH17 0GE
Watch A Film At The Colosseum, The UK’s Smallest Cinema
Nestled in Westbourne, Bournemouth, the Colosseum Cinema offers a cosy and intimate film experience. With just 30 seats spread across three charming screening rooms, visitors can feel right at home.
Each room boasts large screens and powerful sound systems, ensuring an immersive viewing experience.
Guests can enjoy a variety of films daily, ranging from afternoon matinees to evening shows.
The Colosseum also features a snug bar open to moviegoers, regulars and passers-by. The bar is beautifully decorated with unique breweriana, and it offers a range of draft beers, wines, and spirits.
Friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere make every visit memorable.
🎥 Good to know:
- 3 movie screens
- Fully stocked bar with unique decor
Check out the complete article on the Colosseum Cinema here.
📍 14 Westbourne Arcade, Westbourne, Bournemouth BH4 9AY
Go Bowling With Friends At Bowl Central Bournemouth
Bowl Central Bournemouth is an exciting spot perfect for spending quality time with friends. This venue boasts six modern bowling lanes, each illuminated with vibrant neon lights.
The upbeat music in the background creates a lively atmosphere, making every game thrilling and fun.
Beyond bowling, Bowl Central offers various games and activities for everyone. The venue provides a wonderful setting for parties and gatherings of any size.
It also features an urban cocktail bar, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink between games.
Foodies will love the wide array of snacks and drinks available. Whether planning a birthday bash or a casual meet-up, Bowl Central has tailored packages to suit any event.
🎳 Good to know:
- 6 state-of-the-art bowling lanes
- A variety of food and drink options are available
- Suitable for parties, corporate events, family fun
📍 45-47 Westover Rd, Bournemouth BH1 2BZ
Step Back In Time At Highcliffe Castle
Highcliffe Castle offers an enchanting journey into the past. Built in the early 19th century, this stunning example of romantic architecture stands proudly on England’s south coast.
Visitors can admire the beautifully restored exterior, a tribute to skilled craftsmanship. The inside tells tales of days gone by, as the castle once was a lavish family home.
Set on picturesque grounds with access to sandy beaches and a nature reserve, Highcliffe Castle is perfect for family outings. Enjoy a beverage and snack at the on-site tearooms, taking in the tranquil surroundings.
🏰 Good to know:
- Assistance dogs welcome
- Wheelchair accessible
- Car Park, Gift Shop, Tearooms
Did you know Dorset has 10 Castles? Click here to know where you can find them.
📍 Rothesay Dr, Highcliffe, Christchurch BH23 4LE
Challenge Yourself At Escape Hunt Bournemouth
Step into a thrilling adventure at the Escape Hunt in Bournemouth. With five immersive escape rooms, each offering unique and exciting challenges, there’s something for everyone.
Let the adrenaline rush as you solve puzzles and crack codes within 60 minutes.
Imagine finding hidden clues in Alice in Puzzleland or searching for treasure on a pirate ship in Blackbeard’s Treasure.
Each room is filled with mystery and excitement. Other themes include Aladdin & The Magic Vault, Curse of the Pharaoh, and Escape the Wild West.
Escape Hunt offers a fun time for families, friends, and colleagues. It’s ideal for team building or an adventurous night out. Designed for 2 to 6 players, children under 16 must have adult supervision.
🔎 Good to know:
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Players: 2 – 6, ages 8+
- Price: From £21.25 – £30
Find more thrilling escape rooms in Dorset through this guide.
📍 Unit No 44, BH2 Leisure, Exeter Cres, Bournemouth BH2 5AU
Climb Indoors At RockReef Activity Centre
Located at Bournemouth Pier, RockReef Activity Centre offers an exciting indoor climbing experience for all ages. With 28 different themed climbing walls, climbers of all levels can find a challenge that suits them.
Each climb is unique and offers a fun and adventurous way to improve climbing skills.
The centre features an array of activities beyond climbing. Participants can try the Vertical Slide, take a Leap of Faith, or navigate the Highline obstacle course.
For those seeking adventure, the 65-metre Pier Cave provides an indoor caving experience.
Visitors can unwind at the RockReef Café. Enjoy a selection of hot and cold drinks and light snacks, or visit the neighbouring Key West Bar & Grill.
Whether it’s rainy or sunny, RockReef remains an ideal spot for indoor fun.
🧗🏽♂️ Good to know:
- 28 themed climbing walls
- Vertical Slide, Leap of Faith, Highline, Pier Cave
- Café & neighbouring Bar & Grill
📍 Bournemouth Pier, Bournemouth BH2 5AA
Let Your Kids Role Play At The Discovery Village
Discovery Village in Christchurch is a magical indoor play centre where children can dive into imaginative adventures.
With nine unique themed areas, young minds are encouraged to explore roles from different shops and services. It’s an enchanting mix of play, creativity, and learning.
Each session is guided by talented performers who bring stories to life with song, dance, and movement. Children not only participate actively but also make new friends along the way.
Families of all abilities are welcome to enjoy this vibrant community hub. There are cosy seating areas, Wi-Fi, and a village café offering fresh food and drinks to keep everyone happy.
🤹🏽♀️ Good to know:
- Nine role-play areas, live performances
- Village Café
- Free parking, Wi-Fi
Read the in-depth article about the Discovery Village here.
📍 Merritown Ln, Christchurch BH23 6BA
Explore Marine Life At SEA LIFE Centre Weymouth
At SEA LIFE Centre Weymouth, visitors can explore a world filled with fascinating marine creatures. The attraction is home to over 2,500 animals across 13 different zones. One highlight includes the captivating Seal Harbour.
Visitors can also see the only Fairy Penguins in Europe. These delightful birds have a special enclosure designed to get you closer than ever.
Children and adults alike will enjoy the exciting Caribbean Cove. It features a massive adventure playground, perfect for a fun-filled day.
Don’t miss the Ocean Tunnel display, where the coral reef transitions from day to night in a magical show of marine life.
🐠 Good to know:
- World’s smallest penguins
- Features the UK’s largest man-made rockpool
- 3 food outlets with a wide range of snacks, meals and drinks
- Guide dogs are permitted in the park
📍 Lodmoor Country Park, Weymouth DT4 7SX
View Fine Art At Russell Cotes Art Gallery
Located in Bournemouth, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery is a treasure trove of fine art. The gallery is housed within one of the last Victorian buildings constructed in England.
Its walls are adorned with stunning pieces from well-known international and local artists.
Visitors can explore four beautiful galleries, each offering a unique experience. The initial three galleries, created between 1916 and 1919, were made possible by Annie Russell-Cotes.
They are perfect for showcasing some of the largest works in the collection.
🎨 Good to know:
- Gift Shop
- Café serves a range of light lunches, teas, coffees, and cakes
- Lift access is available, though the upper house floor remains a challenge.
📍 East, W Cliff Promenade, Bournemouth BH1 3AA
Splash And Slide At Splashdown
Splashdown Poole is an exciting indoor waterpark that promises fun for all ages. Situated at Tower Park, this thrilling destination features a whopping 13 flume rides.
Among the rides, the Freefall is a daring drop that challenges even the bravest thrill-seekers. For a more winding journey, the Twister offers twists and turns that excite every visitor.
The waterpark is not just about adrenaline; it’s also crafted for younger visitors. Three special splash zones cater to kids under five, allowing them to play safely.
While children enjoy the water, parents can unwind in the café area, sipping drinks and watching the action.
Safety is a top priority at Splashdown, with attentive lifeguards on duty and well-maintained facilities. The indoor setting is perfect for year-round fun, regardless of the weather.
🏊🏽♂️ Good to know:
- Features 13 flume rides, kids’ splash zones
- A variety of food and drink options
- Free Parking
📍 Tower Park, Poole BH12 4NY
Unwind At Monart Spa Poundbury
Escape to Monart Spa Poundbury for a soothing experience in Dorset. This luxurious spa provides a tranquil adult-only setting, perfect for relaxing.
Guests are greeted with plush robes and slippers and begin their visit with a personalised spa tour.
The state-of-the-art thermal suite is a highlight. It features a hydrotherapy pool, complete with jets to massage your body.
Guests can also enjoy the soothing Himalayan salt grotto, invigorating saunas, and calming aroma steam room.
From facials to body wraps, expertly trained therapists offer a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate and relax. Monart Spa truly caters to anyone seeking peace and pampering.
💆🏽♂️ Good to know:
- Hydrotherapy Pool: Massages neck, shoulders, and back.
- Infrared Pro Room: Ideal for back strain relief.
- Experience Showers: Includes Highland Mist and Polynesian Rain options.
📍 Royal Pavilion, Poundbury, Dorchester DT1 3DX
Skate To The Beat At Oli’s Roller Disco
Oli’s Roller Disco at Ferndown Leisure Centre is the place to be every Sunday! Skaters of all ages can enjoy this lively event with music and lights creating a fun atmosphere.
The disco offers skate and safety equipment for hire, including skates in all sizes, from junior to adult. Helpful skate guards are available to assist and encourage skaters.
Sessions range from beginners to faster-paced, giving everyone the opportunity to go at their preferred speed and pace, learn something new or show off skills; there’s something for everyone.
🛼 Good to know:
- Sundays only
- Family-Friendly Session: 3:00-4:30 pm
- Advanced Session: 5:00-6:30 pm
- Equipment hire is available for all sizes
📍 Ferndown Leisure Centre, Cherry Grove, Ferndown BH22 9EZ
Play Indoor Golf At Mr. Mulligans
Mr Mulligans in Bournemouth is perfect for adventure seekers indoors. It features three amazing golf courses with engaging technology. Players of all ages will enjoy the challenges and laugh together.
Besides golf, visitors can enjoy electro-darts, ping pong, pool, and shuffleboard. The venue offers everything needed for a fun day out with friends or family.
Their restaurant and bar provide delicious snacks, meals, and drinks. Kids can enjoy slushies while adults savour unique cocktails.
🏌🏿♂️ Good to know:
- Cashless and 18+ after 8:45 PM
- Restaurants with diverse choices
- Activities: Golf, electro-darts, pool, ping pong
📍 Exeter Rd, Bournemouth BH2 5AF
Attend Live Shows At Weymouth Pavilion
Weymouth Pavilion offers an exciting array of live shows for everyone to enjoy. Nestled by the beach, this lively venue hosts a variety of performances, including amazing tribute acts and engaging dramas. It’s the perfect place for a memorable indoor activity in Dorset.
With its prime location at the end of the Esplanade, Weymouth Pavilion is easily accessible. Parking is free after 6pm, ensuring a stress-free visit.
Guests can also enjoy delicious meals and stunning sea views at the on-site Piano Bar.
Don’t miss the chance to experience live entertainment at one of Dorset’s top venues. From comedy to ballet, there’s something for all to enjoy!
🎙️ Good to know:
- Free parking after 6pm
- Café and Piano Bar for refreshments
- Wheelchair accessible with facilities available
📍 Weymouth Pavilion, Esplanade, Weymouth DT4 8ED
Get Creative With Pottery At All Fired Up Ceramics Café
All Fired Up Ceramics Café in Bournemouth offers a brilliant way to spark your creativity. Nestled in the town centre, this café combines the charm of a coffee shop with the fun of a pottery studio.
With a broad range of ceramics and vibrant paints, everyone can have fun getting creative.
Visitors can pick from over 150 ceramics like mugs, bowls, and charming ornaments to paint. Whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced artist, All Fired Up welcomes all ages and skill levels.
The paints are water-based and non-toxic, making them safe for everyone.
Enjoy the relaxed vibe with your family or friends, and don’t forget your furry friends—well-behaved dogs are welcome, too! Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
🫖 Good to know:
- Pet-friendly environment
- Water-based, non-toxic paints
- Street parking outside the Café
📍 35-37 Bourne Ave, Bournemouth BH2 6DT
Compete With Friends At Laser Quest Bournemouth
Laser Quest Bournemouth is an exciting indoor experience for everyone, from kids to adults. This adventure offers thrilling sci-fi action in a specially designed arena.
Players are equipped with futuristic gear to engage in a lively game of tag. The arena features castle towers, ramps, and special effects like swirling fog.
Games last about 20 minutes and involve scoring points by tagging opponents. Scores are displayed at the end, adding to the excitement.
Different game types add variety, including solo and team battles. Whether celebrating an event or just having fun, it’s an exhilarating and immersive experience.
🔫 Good to know:
- Age Limit: 6+
- Features: Castle towers, ramps, special effects
- Equipment Provided: Pack and laser gun
📍 The Old Super Bowl, Glen Fern Rd, Bournemouth BH1 2LZ
Explore Historic Treasures At Kingston Lacy Manor
Kingston Lacy Manor offers an incredible journey into a world of past splendour! This majestic home, crafted in the style of a Venetian Palace, sits in the beautiful Dorset countryside.
Visitors can admire its stunning rooms filled with intricate designs, rich fabrics, and breathtaking art. Each room unveils a piece of history, showcasing the grandeur of its time.
Inside, guests will find a collection of masterpieces by famous artists like Rubens and Van Dyck. The library is filled with old books, while the kitchen reveals traditional cooking styles.
There’s even a charming chapel reflecting the family’s spiritual life.
🏠 Good to know:
- Stables café and gift shop available
- Dogs are not allowed in the house
- House partly accessible
Looking for more to explore in Dorset? Explore these 14 Historic Stately Homes.
📍 Wimborne BH21 4EA
Discover Fossils At Dinosaurland Fossil Museum
Step into a world of ancient wonders at the Dinosaurland Fossil Museum in Lyme Regis. With over 16,000 amazing specimens, this museum showcases the beauty of Jurassic marine fossils.
From the huge Ichthyosaur to tiny microfossils, there’s something to spark everyone’s imagination.
In the Map Room, visitors learn why Lyme Regis is a treasure trove for fossil hunters. Explore the Fossil Collection on the ground floor and marvel at 200-million-year-old relics.
Upstairs, the Time Gallery lets you journey through the ages, understanding life’s evolution.
Owned by a retired palaeontologist, this museum is truly special. It’s perfect for both kids and adults who dream of dinosaurs.
🦖 Good to know:
- Features: Fossils, Time Gallery, Natural History Room
- Special Highlight: 73-kilo dinosaur dung!
- Best fossil collection on public display in SW England
Access the complete article here.
📍 Coombe St, Lyme Regis DT7 3PY
Learn Local History At Shire Hall Museum
Discover the fascinating history of justice at Shire Hall Museum in Dorchester. This 18th-century courthouse reveals stories of trials and legal proceedings that have shaped the region for two centuries.
Visitors can step back in time and explore the courtroom and prison cells, immersing themselves in the experiences of those who faced justice here.
For families, there are interactive exhibits, games, and quizzes. These features make learning fun and engaging for children and adults alike.
The museum offers an experience that is both educational and entertaining, ensuring everyone finds something enjoyable.
The museum also hosts a variety of family-friendly activities and events throughout the year. Its café and shop can be visited without a museum ticket, offering an additional reason to explore this historic location.
⛓️ Good to know:
- Interactive exhibits for all ages
- Free entry to café and shop
- Events year-round
📍 High W St, Dorchester DT1 1UY
