Moors Valley Country Park

Moors Valley Country Park is a favourite attraction for families visiting South Lytchett Manor. Situated in Ringwood, just 30 minutes drives from our Dorset caravan and camping park, this must visit destination offers a wide variety of outdoor attractions to enjoy throughout the year.

The country park is spread over an 1,000 acre site and comprises of a mix of forest and parkland. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful walk or an action-packed day out.

Adventure activities

There are a wide selection of marked walking trails to choose from, which take you through the forest and the on-site lake. Visitors can enjoy cycling trails, hawk walks, fishing, golf or a ride on the Moors Valley railway. The Rangers Den gives an insight into the different types of wildlife that can be found around the park. There’s hawk walks and guided Segway tours.

Children’s play areas

Close to the visitor centre you’ll find two adventure play parks – one for toddlers and the other aimed at older children. In the forest there’s a children’s play trail offering hours of fun for younger members of the family. Little ones can let their imaginations run wild as they explore a variety of climbing frames dotted around the forest. The wooden climbing frames have been designed to resemble creatures, including snakes and crocodiles. The trail should take around an hour to complete and is suitable for push chairs.

There’s also Gruffalo sculptures hidden around the forest. Set the kids a challenge to find them all!

Go Ape high ropes course

If you’re feeling adventurous, the Go Ape high ropes course is an excellent way to spend an afternoon. With 15 challenging obstacles suspended from the trees, you’ll need nerves of steel to make it to the end. From the various platforms and zip lines you’ll enjoy a wonderful view from beneath the canopies.

Tree Top Trail

If you’d like to admire the views but haven’t got time to complete the Go Ape course, the Tree Top Trail is a perfect option. Situated in the forest, midway along the children’s play trail, this 200m long elevated walkway, is a great way to try and spot birds and other types of wildlife often found within the park.

Eat and drink

We think Moors Valley is a great place for a picnic, but there is on site catering should you choose to eat out. Seasons Restaurant a varied menu and is open between 9 and 4pm each day. There’s also a takeaway kiosk outside.

Important information

Moors Valley Country Park is open year-round and a fantastic attraction in all seasons. It is free to enter although there is a charge to park your vehicle. Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on lead in busy areas of the park.

Header image credits: Moors Valley Country Park

Directions

Follow signs to Poole and then signs to Ringwood