Things to do in Wareham
Looking for things to do during your holiday? There’s no shortage of options in Wareham, and it’s unlikely you’ll run out of ways to keep everyone entertained. From outdoor adventures to wildlife encounters and historic sites, there’s something for all ages.
Consider hiring bikes to explore the trails of Rempstone Forest, or try kayaking and paddleboarding on the River Frome for a more active day on the water. Horse riding through the surrounding countryside is another way to experience the area’s scenery at a slower pace.
Wareham serves as the starting point for numerous walking and cycling routes. You can take a gentle riverside stroll, follow paths over rolling hills, or set out across open heathland for a longer hike.
Wareham’s quiet quay gives little hint of its past as a thriving Saxon port. In those early centuries, it was a key hub for overseas trade. By the late 13th century, however, Poole’s rapid expansion diverted much of that activity, leaving Wareham focused on local commerce. The arrival of the railway in the 1800s shifted trade further still, moving goods by train and road rather than river.
That shift left behind a more peaceful landscape. Today, the quay is a place for unhurried afternoons—sitting by the water, renting a small rowing boat, or joining a seasonal cruise along the River Frome. A riverside path stretches toward Ridge and continues to the Arne Nature Reserve, an open expanse of heathland reaching to Poole Harbour.
Wareham’s town centre retains a distinct character, with independent shops replacing standard high-street chains. Saturdays bring an open-air market to the quay, adding to the atmosphere. In summer, baskets and tubs overflow with flowers, the result of local volunteers whose efforts have earned repeated recognition in the Britain in Bloom awards.
Traces of Wareham’s Saxon heritage remain visible too. The defensive walls built to withstand Viking attacks still encircle much of the town, now softened into grassy embankments with walking paths and broad views across the surrounding countryside.
Things to do in Wareham for the Family
The Tank Museum earns its reputation as “the biggest day out in history” for a reason. Housing the world’s largest collection of tanks, it showcases over a century of military history through extensive exhibitions and dynamic live-action displays—offering a full day of engaging activities and exploration.
Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park is a go-to spot for families with children under eight. Kids can feed lambs, hop on a tractor-trailer ride, and explore various play areas to burn off energy.
For a different experience, Monkey World offers the chance to see rescued apes, orangutans, and lemurs—providing an engaging day that appeals to both children and adults.
Just outside Wareham, Holme for Gardens spans 15 acres of landscaped grounds ready to explore.
Stroll through its carefully designed gardens, pause by the wildlife pond, and, if you’re hungry, stop at The Orchard Café for breakfast, lunch, or homemade cakes. A gift shop and plant centre on-site offer additional options if you’re interested in browsing or buying plants and garden-related items.
Things to do in Wareham for the Grown-Ups
The Blue Pool offers a calm setting for a quiet walk through woodland paths and a stop at the tearooms. New for 2024, visitors can add a bit of adventure by crossing the UK’s longest rope bridge.
Lulworth Castle and Park combines landscaped parkland with historic architecture. Climbing the castle tower provides wide views over the countryside and coast.
For those interested in natural history, the Museum of Jurassic Marine Life in Kimmeridge displays an extensive collection of fossils found locally, including a newly identified species discovered by Steve Etches.
To finish the day, Wareham’s Rex Cinema provides a small, traditional movie experience. It offers standard seating, wine service, and a back row designed with paired seats.