School Trips and Visits in Dorset

inspiration and ideas



Where to visit on a school trip in Dorset?

Dorset offers a good selection of engaging and educational school trips and workshops. Learn outside the classroom with a variety of fascinating interactive adventures. Bring your classroom topics to life at one of the following venues.

Explore the wonders of marine life at the Sea Life Centre in Weymouth, where your students can get close to everything from tropical fish to sharks and big sea turtles! For outdoor adventures and team-building, the Andrew Simpson Centre in Portland offers beginner sailing courses, and a whole host of other fun watersports. Along the world famous Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, pupils can learn about millions of years of the Earth's history as they hunt for fossils, and discover geology and palaeontology activities. Cumulus Outdoors runs lots of activity based trips in the Dorset countryside, covering bushcraft skills, orienteering challenges, and overnight camps that will build children's resilience in the outdoors.

From science and geography to history and physical education, Dorset's many school trip venues offer experiences for every class. Take a look below or let us know what you are looking for.

Want to know where to take your school group in Dorset? Here are some fun educational trips from venues such as Your Dorset Adventure Awaits!, Dorset - The Jurassic Coast, Land & Wave Adventure School Trips in Dorset, Portland Outdoor Centre, Outdoor & Adventure School Residential Trips, and more.

Able to travel to other counties in South West, have a look at our trip pages for: Cornwall, Devon, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, for more school trip ideas.

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Find school trips near Dorset for your group






Popular Dorset school trip May 2026 !

Land & Wave Adventure School Trips in Dorset

location icon South West
apple iconBushcraft, Careers, Geography, Human Geography, Watersports, SEN, Outdoor Learning


We provide exciting adventure school trips, DofE and outdoor training courses. We specialise in authentic adventure, using incredible natural landscapes as the backdrop to our activities: Coasteering, Bushcraft, Beach Kayaking, Climbing, Archery etc

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jurassic coast beach during a school visit
Discover the Jurassic Coast for Primary and Middle Schools - Curriculum Travel
map pin Dorset

The Jurassic Coast spans between East Devon and Purbeck with amazing places to visit including Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, Weymouth, Portland, Lyme Regis, Chesil Beach, Charmouth and Sidmouth.
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Image for outdoor education trip residential KS2 KS3 KS4
Cumulus Outdoors Curriculum Day Trips
map pin Swanage BH19 2PX
Dorset

We run exciting and fun filled Adventure Activity Days on the Jurassic Coast for schools and youth groups. These outdoor activities are designed to improve self esteem, confidence and support learning outside the classroom.
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view of shepton mallet prison
Shepton Mallet Prison - Education Behind Bars
map pin Shepton Mallet BA4 5FQ
Somerset

Shepton Mallet Prison puts 'Education Behind Bars' with the launch of a newly created National Education Programme for Schools, Colleges, and Universities, ensuring educational visits are truly educational and a reach beyond the traditional.
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Old Sarum
Old Sarum
map pin Salisbury SP1 3SD
Wiltshire

Book a free school trip to Old Sarum, and explore this mighty Iron Age hill fort, a unique location where Iron Age people, the Romans, Saxons and Normans have all left their mark on an impressive landscape.
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Glastonbury Abbey
Glastonbury Abbey
map pin Somerset

Welcome to Glastonbury Abbesy, once the grandest and richest Abbey in England. A great Glastonbury experience awaits you here!
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school group trip at Stonehenge
Stonehenge
map pin Salisbury SP4 7DE
Wiltshire

The most outstanding prehistoric monument in the British Isles, Stonehenge is an internationally renowned World Heritage Site and one of the richest archaeological landscapes in Europe.
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school group visiting Farleigh Hungerford Castle
Farleigh Hungerford Castle
map pin Bath BA2 7RS
Somerset

Book a free school trip to Farleigh Hungerford Castle, and explore the ruins, the chapel and the burial vault to learn about the history of the site and the people who lived there. Enhance your learning with a hands-on workshop led by site experts.
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Cheddar Gorge
Cheddar Gorge
map pin Cheddar BS27 3QF
Somerset

Explore Cheddar Gorge, a National Nature Reserve and world famous beauty spot where pupils can learn about its Ice Age creation, Stone Age occupation and Victorian exploration
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Rock climbing demonstration
Rock Up Weston super-Mare
map pin Weston-super-Mare BS23 1FF
Bristol

Looking for the perfect venue for school trips, PE lessons or enrichment days? Rock Up delivers exciting climbing experiences that support curriculum PE goals while building teamwork, confidence, trust and ultimately having fun.
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school child in medieval costume at Carisbrooke Castle
Carisbrooke Castle
map pin Newport PO30 1XY
Hampshire

Carisbrooke Castle has experienced sieges, imprisoned a king, seen off the Spanish Armada and its history spans over 1000 years. What better way to bring the curriculum to life than to stand at the spot where history happened?
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children dressed in period costume at Osborne house
Osborne
map pin East Cowes PO32 6JX
Hampshire

Unique among Royal Residences, Osborne offers a real insight into the private lives of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and their children. Their home can teach many aspects of the curriculum across numerous subjects and inspire your students.
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At-Bristol
At-Bristol
map pin Bristol

At-Bristol is one of the UK's biggest and most exciting interactive science centres. We can engage your pupils using our workshops, theatre shows and theme days all of which support the national curriculum
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school child rock climbing at Whiteley
Rock Up Whiteley
map pin Fareham PO15 7PD
Hampshire

Looking for the perfect venue for school trips, PE lessons or enrichment days? Rock Up delivers exciting climbing experiences that support curriculum PE goals while building teamwork, confidence, trust and ultimately having fun.
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Residential Trips Dorset

Planning an overnight trip for your school or looking for a tailored educational residential programme? Your students can benefit from an activity week in Dorset or its neighbouring counties. Discover exciting school residential learning experiences that promote teamwork, and outdoor education.

children on jacobs ladder
Outdoor & Adventure School Residential Trips
map pin Poole BH15 4RW
Dorset

Our Buddens Activity Centre trips benefit from 96 acres of adventure playground and over 32 activities to choose from. Our activities include both land and water based experiences for your pupils to engage with.
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View of Durdle Door in Dorset
Dorset - The Jurassic Coast
map pin Ventnor PO38 3LT
Dorset

Discover the Jurassic Coast: an outdoor classroom brimming with adventure! Uncover millions of years of history, explore stunning cliffs, and engage in hands-on learning. Inspire your students with unforgettable experiences and create lasting memorie
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aerial view of beach with lots of sailing boats
Watersports Residential Trips
map pin Poole BH15 4RW
Dorset

With 50 years of experience delivering high quality watersports trips, Rockley offers children a safe space to enjoy being on the water. Activities include raft building, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and much more!
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Child on a stand up paddle board in Dorset
Your Dorset Adventure Awaits!
map pin Ventnor PO38 3LT
Dorset

We arrange 100% bespoke adventure-based residentials to Dorset and the Jurassic Coast. We can include transport, accommodation, activities, risk assessments and much more, saving you time and stress! Leave the work to us so you can focus on teaching!
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Image for a residential school trip in Dorset KS2 KS3 KS4
Cumulus Outdoors Tented Village - Corfe Castle
map pin Corfe Castle BH19 2PX
Dorset

Our exciting range of land and water based outdoor adventure activities take place at some of Dorset's most iconic coastal locations and offer the unique opportunity to explore the stunning Jurassic Coastline whilst trying something new.
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group of school children in the sea at portland outdoor centre
Portland Outdoor Centre
map pin Portland DT5 1HB
Dorset

A stunning coastal playground, comfortable accommodation and great food. All the ingredients for a great trip! The Isle of Portland, part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site makes us perfect for adventurous and educational residential trips.
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school group in wet suits with body boards by the sea in Dorset
Land & Wave Adventure School Trips in Dorset
map pin Portland DT5 1HB
Dorset

We provide exciting adventure school trips, DofE and outdoor training courses. We specialise in authentic adventure, using incredible natural landscapes as the backdrop to our activities: Coasteering, Bushcraft, Beach Kayaking, Climbing, Archery etc
> read

accommodation at cumulus outdoors
Cumulus Outdoors Residential Centre - Swanage
map pin Swanage BH19 2PX
Dorset

Tailored adventure residentials on the Dorset coast at our residential centre in Swanage, can include activities such as Coasteering, Climbing, Mackerel Fishing, Field Studies, and Bushcraft, delivered by our highly qualified instructors.
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Image showing Archery at a residential school trip to Tile Barn Outdoor Centre KS2 KS3
Tile Barn Outdoor Centre
map pin Brockenhurst SO42 7UB
Hampshire

Our 14 acre site located in the heart of the New Forest National Park offers cost-effective residential trips with a variety of accommodation options (including camping for up to 300!). A range of adventurous activities are on-site too.
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Image for a residential school trip at New Forest Activities Outdoor Activity centre in Hampshire KS2 KS3
New Forest Activities
map pin Lyndhurst SO43 7HF
Hampshire

Set in the New Forest, their day or multi-day options, with catered camping, provide a unique setting for self-discovery, skill development and the broadening of horizons. Woodland, water and land-based adventures take learning beyond the classroom.
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school children in a line during an activity at braeside adventure centre
Braeside Residential Adventure Centre
map pin Devizes SN10 2AP
Wiltshire

Discover an amazing outdoor adventure centre nestled on the edge of the Marlborough Downs in Wiltshire. Perfect for young adventurers seeking thrilling tailor-made educational programmes designed to challenge - in a warm, friendly homely environment.
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group canoeing with one child running across the front of each boat
Mendip Activity Centre
map pin Cheddar BS27 3LF
Somerset

School Activity Trips and Residential School Camps with Mendip Activity Centre, an outdoor activity provider setting the gold standard in adventure. With availability for 30 to 300 students, it's time for adventure!
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Image for a residential school trip at Calshot Activities Outdoor Activity centre in Hampshire KS2 KS3
Calshot Activities Centre, Hampshire
map pin Calshot SO45 1BR
Hampshire

Located on the edge of the Solent - we provide an awe-inspiring setting to take part in some fantastic activities; including indoor skiing, climbing, velodrome cycling and water-sports on the sea! We're great for field studies too.
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UKSA
UKSA
map pin Cowes PO31 7PQ
Isle of Wight

With 35+ years of experience, UK Sailing Academy (UKSA) offers young people a fun and safe outdoor environment in which to learn important life skills. Packages in sailing, watersports, and teambuilding include accommodation, food, kit, and tuition.
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steam train
Isle of Wight for Primary & Middle Schools-Curriculum Travel
map pin Isle of Wight
Isle of Wight

At Curriculum Travel, we focus on younger learners, offering age-suitable tours, including trips to the Isle of Wight. This destination provides an almost foreign experience without leaving the country, ideal for primary and middle school students.
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Isle of Wight - The Island Classroom STEM Trips with Education Destination
Isle of Wight - The Island Classroom STEM Trips with Education Destination
map pin Freshwater PO40 9GQ
Isle of Wight

Do you like the idea of teaching your curriculum while your students' minds are wide open? When better for them to learn than during the fun of your school trip? We are the Island Classroom, where you can combine fun with education in a unique way.
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Isle of Wight - The Island Classroom Residential Trips at Education Destination
Isle of Wight - The Island Classroom Residential Trips at Education Destination
map pin Freshwater PO40 9GQ
Isle of Wight

Do you like the idea of teaching your curriculum while your students' minds are wide open? When better for them to learn than during the fun of your school trip? We are the Island Classroom, where you can combine fun with education in a unique way.
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Isle of Wight - The Island Classroom Geography and Environmental Science Trips
Isle of Wight - The Island Classroom Geography and Environmental Science Trips
map pin Freshwater PO40 9GQ
Isle of Wight

Do you like the idea of teaching your curriculum while your students' minds are wide open? When better for them to learn than during the fun of your school trip? We are the Island Classroom, where you can combine fun with education in a unique way.
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Isle of Wight - The Island Classroom History Trips with Education Destination
Isle of Wight - The Island Classroom History Trips with Education Destination
map pin Freshwater PO40 9GQ
Isle of Wight

Do you like the idea of teaching your curriculum while your students' minds are wide open? When better for them to learn than during the fun of your school trip? We are the Island Classroom, where you can combine fun with education in a unique way.
> read

logo for education destination
Isle of Wight - The Island Classroom with Education Destination
map pin Freshwater PO40 9GQ
Isle of Wight

Do you like the idea of teaching your curriculum while your students' minds are wide open? When better for them to learn than during the fun of your school trip? We are the Island Classroom, where you can combine fun with education in a unique way.
> read

raft building at YMCA Fairthorne Manor
YMCA Fairthorne Manor
map pin Southampton, SO30 2GH
Hampshire

YMCA Fairthorne Manor offers memorable day trips and residential experiences at its 95-acre activity site in Hampshire, nestled beside the River Hamble. We offer children the chance to step out of their comfort zone, work as a team, and have fun!
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Image for a SEND residential school trip to the Isle of Wight KS2 KS3
SEND Inclusive Isle of Wight Residentials with Education Destination
map pin Ventnor PO38 3LT
Isle of Wight

Education Destination is committed to helping teachers and SENCOs provide inclusive trips for groups containing students with special requirements. We have exclusively partnered with Victoria Lodge to offer specialist SEND-friendly accommodation.
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children with safety ropes climbing a tree
Your Isle of Wight Adventure Awaits! with Education Destination
map pin Ventnor PO38 3LT
Isle of Wight

We offer 100% bespoke adventure based residentials to the Isle of Wight. We can include transport, accommodation, activities, risk assessments and much more, saving you time and stress! Leave the work to us so you can focus on teaching!
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camping tents on the isle of wight
Low Cost Isle of Wight Accommodation with Education Destination
map pin Ventnor PO38 3LT
Isle of Wight

Education Destination welcomes thousands of students of all ages to the Isle of Wight and Dorset each year. We can offer your group accommodation at all budget levels, from low-cost camping & dormitories to luxury resort hotels.
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view of grittleton manor house
Grittleton Manor House
map pin Grittleton SN14 6AP
Wiltshire

Grittleton House Adventure Centre is ideal for school groups wanting secure residential accommodation, set in acres of parkland and playing fields, on the edge of the Cotswold National Park. Access to Bath and Bristol is just half an hour away!
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three children learning to use a compass during duke of edinburgh training
Bike, Hike & Paddle Ltd
map pin

Bike Hike and Paddle was founded with a simple but powerful goal: to get people outdoors and push the boundaries of what they think is possible. We empower participants to complete their Duke of Edinburgh's Award Expeditions.
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big school camp trailer and camping equipment
Big School Camp South
map pin

We offer a range of unique and innovative outdoor activities with a residential experience delivered on your school's premises. Our camps help you deliver a full outdoor learning experience with 100% participation for all and at a very low costs
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Dorset School Workshops

Is your school located in Dorset? A huge range of workshop providers can bring the learning experience to you! Allow your students to benefit from specialist knowledge about your class subject or topic..

Irish dance workshops
map pin In-school Workshop

Looking to learn some traditional Irish dance moves? Look no further! Our Irish dance workshops are designed for dancers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Our experienced 'Vivian Gayle' will guide you through the Irish traditional steps.
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Victorian Drama and Dance workshops for schools
map pin In-school Workshop

Victorian drama and dance workshop schools offer students dynamic training in classical and contemporary performance arts. Focusing on creativity, expression, and technique, these schools nurture talent through engaging workshops.
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GCSE Astronomy
map pin In-school Workshop

A fact-filled planetarium show, virtual or in-person, for anyone studying GCSE Physics, Astronomy or Triple Science.
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Cosmic Chemistry
map pin In-school Workshop

Suitable for Upper KS2 and above, this show delves into natural chemistry and its origins
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In School Workshops

Discover lots more school workshops in Dorset who can provide a tailored experience for your pupils.

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Online Workshops

We can offer a wide selection of workshops that can be delivered to your school entirely online.

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