When you’re planning a holiday in Dorset, location matters just as much as the accommodation itself. At our Dorset holiday park, guests often ask: “How far are we from the beach? Are there local walks nearby? What attractions can we visit without long drives?” The good news is that our countryside setting gives you the best of both worlds – peace and tranquillity, with Dorset’s top attractions just minutes away.
Whether you’re booking a glamping pod, caravan pitch, or motorhome space, here’s exactly what you need to know about distances, travel times, and things to see and do around our holiday park.
Our Dorset holiday park is set in 52 acres of meadows and woodland near Wimborne, making it an ideal countryside retreat. With a mix of glamping pods, caravan pitches, and off-grid camping spots, it’s perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to escape the city. The site is dog-friendly, has dedicated family areas, and caters to those who want a slower pace surrounded by nature.
Despite the peaceful setting, you’re never far from Dorset’s famous coastline, the Jurassic Coast, or the wide open spaces of the New Forest National Park. That balance makes us one of the most accessible yet tranquil holiday destinations in the region.
How Far Are We From Major Attractions?
One of the best things about staying here is that you can reach Dorset’s highlights quickly by car:
- Bournemouth town and beach – 20 minutes
- New Forest National Park (Burley entrance) – 20 minutes
- Southbourne, Avon and Highcliffe beaches – 35 minutes
- Paultons Park, Home of Peppa Pig World – 35 minutes
- Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve – 35 minutes
- National Motor Museum, Beaulieu – 45 minutes
Cultural attractions such as Kingston Lacy House and Gardens (20 minutes) and Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum (around 10 miles) are also close by. Families will love Moors Valley Country Park (10 minutes) and the Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park (15 minutes).
In short, you can enjoy the quiet of the countryside in the evening and still fill your days with Dorset’s best-known sites.
Scenic Spots Nearby
If you love walking, there’s no shortage of local trails:
- Horton Tower: An iconic Dorset landmark just a short stroll away.
- Holt Heath: One of Dorset’s largest areas of heathland, rich in wildlife.
- Knowlton Church & Earthworks: Fascinating ruins with a mystical atmosphere.
- Witchampton: A picturesque local village.
Further afield, you can head into the New Forest for woodland walks among roaming ponies and cattle. Popular routes include Rockford Common, Linwood, and the Tall Trees trail at Brockenhurst. If you prefer coastal scenery, try the Alum Chine to Bournemouth beach walk or the Hengistbury Head to Mudeford route, both offering sea views and family-friendly paths.
Beaches & Coast
No Dorset holiday is complete without a day at the beach, and our park gives you great access to some of the county’s best stretches of coast.
- Mudeford – A favourite with families; take the ferry from the quay across to the sandbank.
- Alum Chine – Quieter than central Bournemouth but still sandy and lively.
- Sandbanks – Famous for its golden sands and luxury backdrop.
- Kimmeridge Bay – Brilliant for fossil hunting rather than sunbathing.
- Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door – World-famous natural wonders of the Jurassic Coast.
- Charmouth & Lyme Regis – Perfect for families who love fossil hunting and rockpooling.
Most of these beaches are between 20 and 40 minutes’ drive from our holiday park, making them ideal for day trips.
Local Towns & Food
Sometimes, a holiday is about a relaxed wander through local towns and a good meal at the end of the day. Within easy reach you’ll find:
- Wimborne: A market town with a Minster, boutique shops, and great cafés.
- Ringwood: Lively with pubs and riverside walks.
- Burley: A charming New Forest village known for its quirky shops and ponies wandering the streets.
When it comes to dining, you’re spoiled for choice.
Cosy pubs nearby include:
- Drusilla’s Inn – practically on your doorstep with sunset views of Horton Tower.
- The Old Inn, Holt – great food and farmland views from the terrace.
- Alice Lisle, Rockford – the perfect stop after a country walk.
For something fancier, try:
- Shell Bay, Studland – fresh seafood with stunning bay views (via the Sandbanks ferry).
- Pig on the Beach, Studland – famous for its idyllic setting and beautiful grounds.
- Nusara, Wimborne – excellent Thai food in a stylish space.
- Limewood, Lyndhurst – sublime cocktails and Italian-inspired dining.
Transport & Accessibility
We’re easy to reach whether you’re travelling by car, train, or even plane.
- Bournemouth International Airport – 7.4 miles
- Southampton Airport – 25.8 miles
- Nearest rail stations Branksome – (9.4 miles), Parkstone (9.7 miles), Bournemouth (9.8 miles)
- Coach stops – Meeting House Lane (6.3 miles), Bournemouth University (8.4 miles)
- Ferry terminals Poole Quay – (10.7 miles), Poole Ferry Terminal (10.9 miles)
The park also has ample parking for caravans and motorhomes, with good road links via the A31.
Amenities & What’s Provided
Guests can choose from a range of accommodation options:
- Glamping pods – sleeping up to 3, insulated, with WiFi access.
- Touring Dorset Holiday Parkaravan & motorhome pitches – with electric hook-up available.
- Off-grid camping pitches – for a more rustic experience.
- Static caravans & lodges – for longer stays.
Facilities on site include:
- Fishing lake (permit required)
- children’s play area
- Landscaped lake
- Stunning night time ambiance with minimal light pollution
- Toilet and shower blocks
- Shower available
- Washing-up area
- Shepherd’s huts
- camping, touring and motorhomes
- Barbecues allowed
- Free WiFi
- Free Parking
We’re a dog-friendly park, though some restrictions apply, and our quiet setting makes it ideal for families and couples.
Final Thought
Meadow View Country park combines the tranquillity of a countryside retreat with the convenience of being close to Dorset’s top attractions. From Jurassic Coast beaches and New Forest walks to charming towns and family-friendly days out, you’ll never run out of things to do. With excellent transport links and a range of accommodation options, it’s the perfect base for exploring this beautiful part of the UK.
So, if you’ve been wondering How far is Meadow View Country Park Dorset from major attractions? the answer is: never too far, and always close enough for a great day out.
FAQs
What should I bring?
Bring towels, toiletries, and bedding if you’re staying in a pod. Walking boots and layers are recommended for countryside and coastal walks.
When is the best time to visit?
Summer is ideal for beaches, but spring and autumn are quieter and perfect for walking. Pods are heated, so winter stays are possible too.
How do check-in and bookings work?
Arrivals are usually before 3 PM (please inform staff if later). Bookings can be made online, with minimum stay requirements at peak times.
Is the park dog-friendly?
Yes, but only certain breeds are permitted, and dogs must be microchipped.
Can I get around without a car?
Yes – local bus and coach services connect to Bournemouth, while trains run from Bournemouth station to London, Southampton, and beyond.