Budget-friendly days out in Dorset
Posted on: 7th March 2023
Posted on: 7th March 2023
We are all feeling the pinch at the moment with rising energy costs and the cost of living crisis. There are however some great budget-friendly days out that you can do within an easy reach of our campsite. Take your pick and start planning your adventures…
Upton Country Park is very close to our campsite, in fact, you can even cycle there from here. Admission is free (parking charges apply). There’s plenty to do there including some beautiful walks and cycle routes around the 160 acres of park and woodland.
Young visitors will love the Spurrier’s Play Park or kicking a ball around and look out for events which take place throughout the year including Parkruns, children’s events and much more.
During the spring and summer months, we’d also recommend taking a look around the Walled Garden – it’s a great spot for a picnic!
Photo credit: Flickr Julia Livesey
We love walking around the picturesque village of Corfe, famous for its castle. Look out for chocolate-box cottages and see if you can spot the Swanage Railway steam trains passing through the valley.
There is a charge for visiting Corfe Castle, although if you are a National Trust member you can enter it for free.
Plus, don’t forget that you can catch the bus from directly outside our campsite to Corfe so there’s no need to uproot your motorhome or campervan.
Photo credits: Richard Murgatroyd and Visit Dorset
There’s plenty to do for free or low cost in nearby Bournemouth. Stroll along the beaches or pick a spot to sunbathe on those warmer days.
Lookout for free events such as firework displays and not forgetting the ever-popular Bournemouth International Air Festival which takes place for a few days each summer.
The RSPB reserve of Arne is one of our highlights. From here, you can expect stunning views across Poole Harbour and not to mention plenty of opportunities to bird watch and see other nature.
Check out the various bird hides across the reserve and follow the different walking routes including one that’s dog-friendly.
A small admission charge applies, with RSPB members going free.
Photo credits: Visit Dorset
Pick up supplies and local artisan produce at some of our nearby market towns.
Wareham is one of our closest markets, it runs at Wareham Quay on a Saturday.
Slightly further afield is Blandford Forum, a Georgian town which oozes charm. Here, markets are held on a Thursday and Saturday.
Bring your own bikes or hire some from just outside our Reception.
From our Park, you can access a number of trails, which are suitable for children as well as experienced riders. Take a look at our cycle hire page for more information on cycle routes you can do directly from our park.
South Lytchett Manor is a multi-award-winning holiday park on the outskirts of Poole. We’re ideally positioned for exploring Dorset and visiting points of interest and attractions nearby.
We have a range of accommodation to choose from including camping and touring pitches, glamping pods, shepherds’ huts and Romany caravans. Facilities include clean and modern amenities, blocks, outdoor play area and cycle hire.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Dorset caravan and camping park soon. Search availability and book online or call reception to speak with one of our friendly team.
You’ve converted me to camping! (Or glamping in my case!).
I just wanted to thank you for such a lovely stay.... 
Sophie, Apr 2024
Thank you for making our stay so fantastic.
For your complete commitment to us during our stay - thank you.... Mark and Stella , Mar 2024
What a fabulous place! Our first outing in our new campervan to try it out, the campsite and facilities are... thewardrobem, Nov 2023
