With so many things to see and do, both in and outdoors, the southwest is one of the best places to enjoy a summer break as a family. And this summer, kids eat free when you stay in a suite at Captain’s Club, so you don’t need to waste time planning and budgeting. Instead, you can focus on enjoying the sun with your loved ones. So take a look at our top things to do this summer with the whole crew.
Meet baby crocs and turtles
5 miles from Captain’s Club
Oceanarium has just welcomed some new additions to their ever-growing aquatic family: adorable baby loggerhead turtles and a snappy pair of crocodiles. You can watch the mischievous family of Oriental small-clawed otters as well as getting involved with special family activities that include free face painting, interactive creature sessions, and feeding presentations. There are also a lot of vouchers floating around for free child entry with a paying adult.
See www.oceanarium.co.uk for more details.
Explore Southbourne Beach
2 miles from Captain’s Club
Our nearest beach, Southbourne is only a 25-minute walk from our door and is popular with both local families and surfers. This part-sand, part-shingle beach is large, safe, and quiet, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing summer’s afternoon with the family. Facilities include toilets with access for disabled visitors, first aid posts, lost children centres, information offices, and a selection of pubs, cafes, and kiosks serving food and drink. There is roadside parking available on the overcliff drive as well as multiple pay and display carparks in the area.
You can find out more information about Southbourne Beach here.
Adventure Wonderland
5 miles from Captain’s Club
For children up to the age of 12, Adventure Wonderland is a theme park in Hurn that offers a wide range of rides and attractions. From getting lost in the Alice in Wonderland maze, to meeting Adventure Wonderland characters on their events days, there is plenty of magic to be seen at this fabulous family-friendly attraction.
Enjoy a family climbing course
11 miles from Captain’s Club
The Project offers a family course on climbing so that the whole crew can learn a new activity that can be enjoyed together, regardless of age and ability. The course is designed to help adults gain the key skills they need to safely encourage their children to climb, while enabling children to understand their role in keeping everyone safe. Each course is an hour and a half long and you can find more information on sessions and prices at www.theprojectclimbingcentre.co.uk.
Swanage Regatta and Carnival
30 miles from Captain’s Club
For one week at the end of July and the beginning of August, Swanage will be radiating to the sound, fun and excitement of the regatta and carnival. There will be about 100 events going on during the week including a two-mile procession, live bands, and three firework displays. You can find more information on the Visit Dorset website.
Ride the steam train
30 miles from Captain’s Club
And while you’re in Swanage, you can hop aboard the Swanage Railway and enjoy a relaxing train journey through the beautiful Devonshire countryside. We’d recommend stopping off at Corfe Castle and exploring the fascinating 1,000-year-old ruins which are guaranteed to spark the imagination of children and adults alike.
Make a splash at the waterpark
11 miles from Captain’s Club
What could be better than spending a summer’s day in a waterpark with your nearest and dearest? Splashdown Poole offers 13 thrilling indoor and outdoor flume rides, and three splash zones for under 5s. Plus, with Splashdown being located only 30 minutes away, you can easily enjoy an afternoon session and head back to Club Restaurant for dinner!
You can explore the park here.
Still yet to book your summer stay with us? Browse through our range of family-friendly accommodation and start planning your perfect staycation.