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Discover Dorset

Overview

As well as the fantastic Jurassic Coast that lines Dorset, there are a number of great visits where students can learn a lot about a vast array of wildlife.  This trip includes visiting a zoo, aquarium, monkey sanctuary and wildlife park where there will be lots of opportunity to gain an understanding about wildlife conservation, as well as seeing lots of different animals!

You will also get the chance to visit Beaulieu, a small village on the edge of the New Forest which is home to the world-famous British National Motor Museum, Beaulieu Abbey and Palace House.  This trip would not be complete without a trip to Paulton’s Adventure Park, home of Peppa Pig World – fantastic fun for everyone!

Our Suggested Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Depart School and travel to Dorset.

    Start your trip with an exciting visit to Marwell Zoo and get close up to the wonders of the natural world.  A 140-acre wildlife park is home to hundreds of animals, including snow leopards, white rhinos and penguins!

    Next, visit the New Forest Wildlife Park which will help students to develop first hand their understanding of wildlife conservation.

    Arrive and settle into your accommodation.

  2. Day 2

    Start your day with a visit to the Oceanarium where you can marvel at creatures from above and below the waves.  The aquarium is home to sharks, turtles, stingrays, otters, and much more!

    Spend the afternoon in Beaulieu where you can visit the National Motor Museum and see over 280 vehicles from F1 cars to early examples of motoring.  Then head to the Palace House, the Montagu family home where you will get a flavour of what it would have been like to live in Victorian times.  You may also have some time to lose yourself in the grounds & gardens of Beaulieu and see the wild nature of the Millpond Walk.

  3. Day 3

    In the morning, visit Portland Castle, one of Henry VIII’s finest coastal forts.  It was built in the early 1540s to protect against invasion from the French and Spanish.  From the gun platforms you will get stunning sea views and you can get up close to the powerful cannons.

    Then head to Monkey World for a fun-filled experience learning about rescued and endangered primates from around the world.

    In the afternoon, hop across to Brownsea Island, famous for its red squirrels!  There are a number of thriving habitats including woodland and a lagoon which create a unique haven for lots of wildlife.  Head off on one of the trails around the island to go exploring!

  4. Day 4

    Spend your last day at Paulton’s Theme Park, home of Peppa Pig’s World!  With roller coasters, rides, indoor and outdoor play areas and a great collection of birds and animals – it would make a fantastic end to your trip!

    (If you are visiting from a secondary school, this visit could be changed to an alternative visit). 

    Return to school.

School Trip Accommodation

Accommodation

In Dorset, our schools tend to stay at the YHA New Forest, we use safe and secure accommodation especially suited to schools.  Our accommodation is usually 2* or youth hostel standard and provides a perfect base for enjoying your tour.  All accommodation we use is audited, and our auditing regime is verified by independent experts.