Dorset is brimming with adventure and family-friendly fun all year round. We’ve rounded up four of our favourite spots that are sure to put a smile on your face during a winter getaway at Burnbake.

Corfe Castle

A family walk through Christmas lights at Corfe Castle, Dorset

Image credit: The National Trust

Just a snowball’s throw from our magical forest lodges, Corfe Castle is perhaps the most iconic silhouette of Purbeck’s stunning landscape. The castle was destroyed during the English Civil War, but now stands as a testament to Dorset’s rich history, where the past comes alive at Christmas.

Enjoy the Lord of Misrule’s storytelling tour, with exciting games and an interactive journey through the castle ruins, or explore the Family Trail discovering the tale of the Bankes family – Corfe’s historic residents. For the ultimate Christmas ambiance, why not relax in Corfe Castle’s festive igloos or around its roaring fire pit tucking into mulled wine and toasted marshmallows?

Swanage Railway

A steam train travels through the mist, covered in multicoloured Christmas lights.

Image credit: Swanage Railway

Another relic of times-gone-by is Swanage’s enchanting railway, where steam engines and vintage Pullman carriages ferry visitors through picturesque Corfe and Swanage. Between late November and early January, hop aboard and enjoy a Christmas lunch in style, or cosy down on a Steam and Lights excursion and admire the beauty of the Purbeck countryside from the comfort of a magnificent train, decorated with dazzling, festive lights.

Portland Bill Lighthouse

Portland lighthouse, Dorset

Image credit: Trinity House

A little further afield but well worth the journey is the majestic Portland Bill Lighthouse. Take a ramble around the surroundings of the lighthouse for free throughout the year or book a tour of its visitor centre for a peek into Dorset’s fascinating maritime history. Why not pop into the nearby Lobster Pot restaurant for freshly caught fish or an indulgent afternoon tea?

Monkey World

A baby orangutan sits in the grass

Image credit: Monkey World

Open every day of the year except Christmas Day is Wareham’s world-renowned ape rescue centre. Monkey World is home to over 250 primates, rescued from captivity and illegal animal trades all over the world.

Whilst not a typical Christmas outing, a trip to Monkey World will put a ‘cheeky’ smile on the face of every member of the family! Plus, your visit helps fund the conservation and rescue of beloved wildlife species.

Keen to explore our favourite Dorset hotspots and more? Book your stay with us and enjoy a festive, cosy cabin getaway in one of our luxury lodges, in the heart of beautiful Dorset.