Dorset Nature and Wildlife Attractions
Along with the attractions listed on this page you may also find places of interest on the Dorset Attractions and Heritage pages. We suggest that you also visit the pages for the neighbouring counties to see what else there is in the area.
We support ‘Accessible Countryside for Everyone’ in providing a brief guide as to the access / facilities for the sites listed, where we have them.
Abbotsbury Swannery - Abbotsbury Swannery in Dorset is unique. This is the only place in the world where you are able to walk through the heart of a colony of nesting Mute Swans - 2 wheelchairs available, "The paths at the Swannery are flat and access to all areas in a wheelchair is possible except to the telescope platform", accessible toilets - please see their website
www.abbotsbury-tourism.co.uk
Arne Reserve (RSPB) - nr Wareham - has a vast expanse of open heathland and old oak woodland, salt marsh and pools, walks, bird watching (two hides), rare birds often recorded, visitor centre, shop, cafe - has disabled parking spaces, ground is flat and firm, accessible trail (2.5km), accessible toilets, baby changing facilities - Tramper available for hire
www.rspb.org.uk/.../arne
Badger Watch Dorset - thrill at the sight of badgers emerging from their setts and foraging for food. The area is floodlit for perfect vision and visits from other wildlife such as owls, foxes, rabbits and bats add to the spectacle - we have no disabled access info for this site
www.badgerwatchdorset.co.uk
Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium "brimming with local sea creatures, interesting presentations and historical exhibits" - "The aquarium is all on one level and suitable for people in a wheelchair" Unfortunately we have no other accessibility information for this site
www.lymeregismarineaquarium.co.uk
Monkey World - Wareham - 65 acre park with over 250 primates, 20 different species, most of them have been rescued (mainly used for the illegal pet trade or have suffered abuse or neglect), personal talks and guided tours available"All of Monkey World is accessible for our disabled visitors except for the Woodland Walk.There are no primate enclosures along the Woodland Walk...We have a selection of 17 motorised scooters, or either dual-controlled, or manual wheelchairs", wheelchair swing in the play area, accessible toilets, baby changing facilities
www.monkeyworld.org
Oceanarium - Bournemouth - sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, dwarf crocodiles, jellyfish, clownfish, penguins, otters, cafe, shop "Wide passageways are throughout the displays for ease of access. There are some steps within the Oceanarium but all of these are clearly marked and alternative routes are available",(no pushchairs ), accessible toilets, baby changing facilities
www.oceanarium.co.uk
SEA LIFE - Weymouth - Talks and feeding time viewing, sharks, clownfish, otters, penguins, sea turtles, common octopus, stingrays and more, various Creature Zones, Splash Zone and Pool, Adventure Island rides and arcades, "The Jurassic Skyline has full disabled access and has the capacity for one wheelchair per flight...The SEA LIFE Express can accommodate 1 wheelchair per journey", sensory garden, accessible toilets, baby changing facilities
www.visitsealife.com/Weymouth