Interesting places to visit near Bournemouth, United Kingdom

Location: New Forest National Park, Hampshire, England, UK

Best For: Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Outdoor Adventure, Wildlife Watching, Foodies

Nestled in the heart of southern England, New Forest National Park offers an enchanting detour for travelers seeking a blend of family-friendly adventure and immersive wildlife encounters. Famous for its ancient woodlands, free-roaming ponies, and rich history dating back to medieval times, the park invites visitors to explore its diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including gentle hiking and cycling on well-marked trails, pony spotting, and guided nature walks that reveal the park's unique flora and fauna. Families will appreciate the numerous picnic spots, interactive visitor centers, and safe, accessible paths suitable for young children. History enthusiasts can delve into the area's past through local museums and historic villages dotted throughout the park.

The park is notably dog-friendly, with many trails welcoming well-behaved pets, making it ideal for travelers with furry companions. Food lovers can indulge in local produce and traditional English fare at charming village pubs and seasonal farmers' markets within the park.

Whether you're seeking a peaceful nature escape, educational family outing, or a chance to connect with England's natural and cultural heritage, New Forest National Park provides a memorable and enriching detour for all ages and interests.

Location: Dorset, England, along the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site renowned for its geological significance and stunning natural beauty.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly Travelers, and Foodies.

Why It's a Great Detour: Durdle Door offers one of England’s most iconic coastal landmarks—a natural limestone arch carved by the sea. This detour combines breathtaking scenic drives with opportunities to explore dramatic cliffs, fossil-rich beaches, and charming nearby villages. The area’s unique geology and coastal views provide memorable experiences for all ages and interests.

Key Activities: Visitors can enjoy leisurely coastal walks along the South West Coast Path, swim or paddle in the clear waters near the arch, hunt for fossils on the shingle beaches, and savor local Dorset cuisine at nearby eateries. Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration in the changing light and textures of the cliffs and sea.

Kid-Friendly Focus: The gentle walking trails and beach access make it suitable for families with young children, though supervision is advised near cliff edges. The natural environment offers educational opportunities about geology and marine life.

Dog-Friendly Notes: Dogs are welcome on the coastal paths and beaches, making it an ideal spot for travelers with pets to enjoy fresh sea air and scenic walks together.

Location: Salisbury, Wiltshire, England Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly Why it's a great detour: Nestled in the heart of Salisbury, the Cathedral and its Close offer a captivating blend of medieval architecture and serene riverside scenery. This detour invites travelers to step back in time while enjoying peaceful walks along the River Avon, making it a perfect escape from busy city routes. Key activities: Visitors can explore the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral, home to the tallest spire in the UK and one of the best-preserved Magna Carta documents. Strolling through the Cathedral Close reveals charming medieval houses and quaint shops. Riverside walks along the Avon provide tranquil spots for picnics and wildlife spotting. The area also hosts seasonal events and markets that foodies will appreciate. Kid-friendly focus: The spacious grounds and gentle riverside paths are ideal for families with young children, offering plenty of open space to explore safely. Interactive exhibits inside the Cathedral engage young minds with history and art. Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome on the riverside walks and in the Close, making it a great stop for travelers with pets. Just be mindful of keeping dogs on leads near the Cathedral grounds and busy areas.

Location: Stonehenge is located near Amesbury, in the Salisbury Plain region of Wiltshire, England. This iconic prehistoric monument is easily accessible from Salisbury and is a must-see on any Southern England itinerary. Best For: History enthusiasts, Nature lovers, Families with children, Dog-friendly travelers, Cultural explorers Why it's a great detour: Stonehenge offers a unique glimpse into ancient human ingenuity and mystery, with its massive standing stones arranged in a circle dating back over 4,000 years. The surrounding Salisbury Plain provides beautiful natural scenery, making it a captivating stop for those interested in history, archaeology, and the great outdoors. Its visitor center enriches the experience with engaging exhibitions and interactive displays. Key activities: Visitors can walk around the stone circle on a designated path, explore the informative visitor center with archaeological exhibits, and enjoy scenic walks across the surrounding plains. Seasonal events like the summer solstice celebrations provide a special cultural experience. Nearby trails offer opportunities for gentle hiking and picnicking. Kid-friendly focus: Stonehenge is suitable for families with children, especially those interested in history and nature. The visitor center offers educational activities and interactive exhibits that engage young minds. However, the stone circle itself is fenced off to protect the site, so children should be supervised during the visit. Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas around Stonehenge but are not allowed inside the visitor center. The expansive grounds and nearby walking trails make it a pleasant stop for travelers with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and waste is properly disposed of.