Abbotsbury Swannery and Subtropical Gardens (30 miles/48.5 km)
Voted ‘Best Family Attraction in Dorset', Abbotsbury Swannery is an ancient and special site providing protection for hundreds of nesting swans and their broods. The nearby Subtropical Gardens are sheltered from the northerly winds and the temperate climate created by the nearby sea makes it ideal for the flowers and shrubs that grow there.
www.abbotsbury-tourism.co.uk
Longleat (25 miles/40.0 km)
Longleat House is regarded as one of the finest examples of Elizabethan architecture in Britain, while the safari park is one of the UK's most popular family attractions. Be sure to visit the maze!
www.longleat.co.uk
Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre
Set amongst the woodland of Dorset lies 65 acres of sanctuary for over 240 primates. Monkey World was set up in 1987 by Jim Cronin to provide abused Spanish beach chimps with a permanent, stable home. Today Monkey World works in conjunction with foreign governments from all over the world to stop the illegal smuggling of apes out of Africa and Asia. At the park visitors can see more than 240 primates of 15 different species.
www.monkeyworld.co.uk
Cheddar Gorge and Wookeyhole Caves (36 miles/58.0 km)
Apart from the Gorge, Cheddar also has a spectacular cave system - and of course the village is home to the original, world-famous cheese! At nearby Wookey Hole, there are also mysterious caves where you can see the petrified remains of the infamous Witch of Wookey. Also featured is a 19th century paper mill and various children's entertainments.
www.cheddarsomerset.co.uk
Fleet Air Arm Museum (14 miles/22.5 km)
This is an outstanding military aviation museum, exhibiting aircraft used throughout the Navy's flying history. There are also many other interesting things to see including Concorde.
www.fleetairarm.com
Haynes Motor Museum (8 miles/13.0 km)
This excellent museum features over 300 historic cars and motorcycles, including a $1.5million Duesenberg and an entire hall of red cars!
www.haynesmotormuseum.com