100 Dorset hen party ideas: coastal activities, spa days, dining & outdoor adventures. Filter by difficulty, budget & impact for your weekend.
Welcome to your ultimate guide for planning a luxurious and memorable hen party in the stunning rural landscapes and dramatic coastline of Dorset! Designed for discerning groups of 8-16 women, aged 28-45, who prioritise privacy, elegant large house rentals, and the serene beauty of the countryside, this guide offers an array of bespoke activities.
From indulgent spa experiences to thrilling outdoor adventures along the iconic Jurassic Coast, we've curated over 100 ideas to ensure your Dorset hen party is nothing short of spectacular.
Embrace the charm of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, knowing that while rural properties offer unparalleled seclusion, pre-booking all activities and arranging group transport are key for a seamless celebration.
Prepare for a truly special retreat where luxury meets the wild beauty of Dorset.
Showing 92 ideas
Mobile spa is the natural model here — Dorset's best accommodation is in rural cottages and country houses where an in-house therapist works better than driving to a spa. Summer Lodge is the exception, a proper country house spa worth a dedicated visit, but the mobile option is genuinely practical and well-served by local therapists.
Indulge in bespoke massages, facials, and manicures brought directly to your large Dorset rental property. Enjoy professional spa treatments in the comfort and privacy of your accommodation, perfect for a relaxing group pamper.
HH tip
Enquire with 'Mobile Spa Dorset' or 'Dorset Pamper Parties' for bespoke packages.
Discover Dorset's breathtaking natural swimming spots, from tranquil freshwater lakes to secluded coastal coves along the Jurassic Coast, under the guidance of a local expert. Experience the invigorating rush of the open water.
HH tip
Contact 'Dorset Wild Swimming' or 'Jurassic Coast Activities' for safe, guided sessions.
Kickstart your day with a private yoga or Pilates session in the gardens of your Dorset retreat. Tailored to all abilities, a certified instructor will guide your group through a revitalising practice.
HH tip
Find local instructors via 'Dorset Yoga & Pilates' online directories or 'Move with Monica'.
Learn the art of aromatherapy and create your own personalised essential oil blends, lotions, or bath salts. A relaxing and creative session perfect for unwinding in your rural Dorset setting.
HH tip
Search for 'Dorset Aromatherapy Workshops' or contact 'The Pamper Pod'.
Indulge in a full day of pampering at the exquisite Summer Lodge Country House Hotel & Restaurant Spa in Evershot. Enjoy access to their facilities, including pool and treatment rooms, with gourmet lunch options.
HH tip
Book directly with 'Summer Lodge Country House Hotel & Restaurant Spa'.
Elevate your rural retreat with private hot tub and sauna hire, delivered and installed at your Dorset property. Perfect for evening relaxation under the stars, adding a touch of luxury.
HH tip
Contact 'Dorset Hot Tub Hire' or 'Southern Spa Hire' well in advance.
Reconnect with nature on a guided 'forest bathing' walk through Dorset's ancient woodlands or AONB certified trails. A mindful experience focused on sensory immersion and relaxation, led by a certified guide.
HH tip
Look for 'Dorset Forest Bathing' guides through Visit Dorset or 'The Forest Bathing Institute'.
Experience deep relaxation with a private sound bath session at your accommodation. The soothing vibrations of gongs and singing bowls will create a truly unique and meditative group experience.
HH tip
Search for 'Dorset Sound Healing' practitioners or 'Crystal Cave Sound Baths'.
Greet the morning with an invigorating yoga session on the golden sands of Sandbanks beach, overlooking Poole Harbour. A refreshing way to connect with nature and calm the mind.
HH tip
Contact 'Yoga in Poole' or local instructors for licensed beach sessions.
Unleash your inner perfumer and craft a signature scent to remember your Dorset hen party. A unique, luxurious workshop guided by an expert, using natural essences.
HH tip
Enquire with 'The Perfume Studio' for mobile workshops in Dorset.
Treat your group to mini-reflexology and Indian head massage sessions. A mobile therapist provides relaxing treatments, perfect for de-stressing after travel or before a big night out.
HH tip
Book a mobile therapist through 'Dorset Wellbeing Therapies' or 'Holistic Healing Dorset'.
A guided meditation and mindfulness session designed to promote relaxation and inner peace. An instructor can lead this at your property, offering a tranquil break from the festivities.
HH tip
Contact 'Dorset Mindfulness Centre' or local meditation coaches.
Pamper your hands and feet with a professional mobile manicure and pedicure party at your hen house. Perfect for pre-dinner glam or simply for a relaxing treat.
HH tip
Search for 'Mobile Nail Technicians Dorset' or 'Beauty by the Beach Mobile'.
Enjoy a private Pilates or Barre class tailored to your group's fitness level, either at your accommodation or a local studio in a Dorset town like Bridport or Dorchester.
HH tip
Contact studios like 'Bridport Pilates' or independent instructors via 'Dorset Fitness'.
A fun and informative workshop focused on holistic wellness, healthy eating, or creating natural beauty products, led by a local Dorset nutritionist or wellness coach.
HH tip
Enquire with 'Dorset Nutritionist Collective' or 'Wellness with Willow'.
Learn professional skincare techniques and enjoy a mini-facial with a local beauty expert who brings the spa experience to your door. A fantastic bonding experience for a pamper night.
HH tip
Contact 'Dorset Beauty Collective' or 'The Skincare Coach Dorset'.
Experience the gentle art of Reiki healing with a qualified practitioner. Individual or group taster sessions can be arranged at your accommodation for deep relaxation and energy balancing.
HH tip
Find practitioners via 'Dorset Holistic Health' or 'Spirit & Soul Therapies'.
Enjoy a luxurious afternoon at The Pig on the Beach near Studland, offering treatments in their Potting Shed treatment rooms and access to their beautiful grounds and stunning views.
HH tip
Book treatments and any dining reservations well in advance directly with 'The Pig on the Beach'.
Fossil hunting at Charmouth is one of the few activities in any UK hen destination that feels genuinely unique — easy, free on the beach, and almost always produces something. Pair it with the Conker gin distillery for an afternoon that covers both ends of the group's interests.
Embark on an exciting guided fossil hunting adventure along the famous Jurassic Coast at Charmouth. A licensed expert will teach you how to spot ammonites and belemnites, a truly unique Dorset experience.
HH tip
Book a guided walk through the 'Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre' to ensure a licensed guide.
Get creative and craft beautiful flower crowns using a selection of fresh, seasonal blooms. A mobile workshop can be held at your Dorset accommodation, adding a whimsical touch to your celebrations.
HH tip
Contact 'Dorset Flower Workshops' or 'The Dorset Flower Co.' for mobile classes.
Visit a local Dorset gin distillery like Conker Spirit in Bournemouth or Fordington Gin and discover the art of gin making. Includes a guided tour and generous tasting of their award-winning spirits.
HH tip
Book a tour directly with 'Conker Spirit Distillery' or 'Fordington Gin'.
Indulge in a decadent afternoon tea at a charming Dorset venue. Options include elegant hotels like 'The Priory' in Wareham or 'Summer Lodge' for a truly sophisticated treat.
HH tip
Reserve tables well in advance with 'The Priory Hotel' or 'Summer Lodge'.
Unleash your artistic side with a pottery painting session. Choose from various ceramic pieces to decorate, creating a unique souvenir from your Dorset hen party. Some studios offer mobile services.
HH tip
Visit 'Purbeck Pottery' near Corfe Castle or search for mobile pottery workshops.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through picturesque Dorset countryside, leading your own gentle alpaca. A delightful and memorable experience, perfect for animal lovers.
HH tip
Book directly with 'Dorset Alpacas' near Dorchester or 'Little Orchard Alpacas'.
Craft beautiful, personalised pieces of jewellery under expert guidance. From silver clay charms to beaded necklaces, create a lasting memento of your Dorset celebration.
HH tip
Enquire with 'The Silver Clay School' in Dorset or 'Dorset Jewellery Workshops'.
Learn the traditional techniques of artisan bread making with a local Dorset baker. Enjoy kneading, shaping, and baking delicious loaves to take back to your accommodation.
HH tip
Search for 'Dorset Cookery Schools' or 'The Langton Arms Cookery School'.
Explore one of Dorset's award-winning vineyards, such as Langham Wine Estate. Discover the winemaking process and enjoy a guided tasting of their sparkling and still wines.
HH tip
Book tours and tastings directly with 'Langham Wine Estate' in Dorchester.
Indulge your sweet tooth by creating your own gourmet chocolates. A fun, interactive workshop where you'll learn tempering, moulding, and decorating techniques.
HH tip
Contact 'Chococo' for potential workshops or 'Dorset Chocolate Co.'
Discover the edible treasures of the Dorset countryside with a local foraging expert. Learn to identify wild plants, mushrooms, and berries in the Purbeck Hills or along the coast.
HH tip
Book with 'Hedgerow Harvest Dorset' or 'Wild Food UK' for Dorset-specific guides.
Charter a vintage bus for a unique tour of the iconic Jurassic Coast, taking in landmarks like Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, and Corfe Castle. A stylish and comfortable way to explore.
HH tip
Enquire with 'Southdown Motor Services' or 'Swanage Railway' for vintage hire options.
Learn the elegant art of modern calligraphy. A mobile instructor can teach your group the basics of beautiful lettering, perfect for creating personalised gifts or invitations.
HH tip
Search for 'Dorset Calligraphy Workshops' or 'The Dorset Calligrapher'.
Capture the breathtaking beauty of the Dorset coast with an outdoor watercolour painting session. A local artist will guide your group, no experience necessary, overlooking vistas like West Bay or Kimmeridge.
HH tip
Contact 'Dorset Art Weeks' or local artists in Lyme Regis/Swanage for workshops.
Enjoy a gourmet picnic spread curated by a local Dorset caterer, delivered to a scenic coastal spot like Studland Bay or Kimmeridge. Complete with blankets, cushions, and stunning views.
HH tip
Order from 'The Dorset Picnic Company' or 'The Fine Food Box Dorset'.
Visit a local cider farm, such as Liberty Fields near Blandford Forum, for a tour of the orchards and pressing facilities, followed by a tasting of their authentic Dorset ciders and perries.
HH tip
Book directly with 'Liberty Fields' or 'Dorset Nectar Cider Farm'.
Explore the charming village of Corfe Castle and its iconic ruins on a fun photography scavenger hunt. Teams compete to capture creative photos of specific landmarks and items.
HH tip
Organise yourselves, or hire a local guide for an extra challenge via 'Visit Dorset'.
Learn to create beautiful, natural soaps using local Dorset botanicals and essential oils. A fragrant and creative workshop that results in lovely take-home gifts.
HH tip
Search 'Dorset Soap Making Workshops' or 'The Little Soap Company'.
Private chef dinner at the rental property is the dominant evening format in Dorset — the county's rural geography and excellent local produce make it a genuinely good choice rather than a fallback. The Pig on the Beach in Studland is worth a long lunch or early dinner if the group is nearby; booking opens 6 months ahead.
Indulge in a bespoke gourmet dining experience with a private chef catering exclusively for your group at your Dorset accommodation. Enjoy a multi-course meal prepared with local Dorset produce.
HH tip
Contact 'Dorset Private Chef' or 'The Dorset Chef' well in advance.
A professional mixologist will bring a full bar setup to your rural retreat, teaching your group how to shake, muddle, and stir classic and bespoke cocktails, using local Dorset spirits where possible.
HH tip
Book with 'Dorset Mobile Bar' or 'The Cocktail Service' for a fun, interactive session.
Transform your property's grounds into a magical outdoor cinema. Hire a projector, screen, and sound system for a cosy movie night under the Dorset stars, complete with blankets and popcorn.
HH tip
Enquire with 'Pop Up Screens Dorset' or 'Outdoor Cinema Hire Dorset'.
Host an entertaining murder mystery evening at your hen party house. Choose from various themes, with professional actors or a kit to guide your group through an evening of intrigue and fun.
HH tip
Search for 'Dorset Murder Mystery' or 'Red Herring Games' for party kits.
As part of the Cranborne Chase International Dark Sky Reserve, Dorset offers incredible stargazing. A local astronomer can guide your group through constellations and cosmic wonders.
HH tip
Contact the 'Cranborne Chase AONB' website for recommended astronomers or events.
Experience an exquisite farm-to-table dinner at The Pig on the Beach near Studland, known for its superb food, charming ambiance, and stunning coastal views.
HH tip
Book tables for large groups months in advance directly with 'The Pig on the Beach'.
Hire a talented local Dorset acoustic musician or duo to perform live music at your property, creating a relaxed and intimate atmosphere for your evening celebrations.
HH tip
Browse 'Alive Network' or 'Encore Musicians' for local Dorset artists.
Work with a local event planner or caterer to create a fabulous themed dinner party at your house, complete with decorations, bespoke menus, and perhaps even costumed servers.
HH tip
Contact 'Dorset Party Planners' or 'Fosters Catering' for full event management.
If your large property allows, organise a rustic bonfire night in the grounds, complete with s'mores, hot drinks, and cosy blankets for a memorable evening under the Dorset sky.
HH tip
Confirm fire pit use with your accommodation provider; source firewood from local farm shops.
Hire a mobile wood-fired pizza oven and a pizzaiolo to cook delicious, fresh pizzas for your group right at your accommodation. A relaxed and fun catering option.
HH tip
Search for 'Dorset Pizza Oven Hire' or 'The Dorset Pizza Company'.
A guided tasting of premium gins, including local Dorset varieties, paired with artisan tonics and garnishes. A mobile sommelier or gin expert can lead this at your property.
HH tip
Contact 'Conker Spirit' for tasting events or 'Dorset Wine Company' for mobile sommeliers.
Bring the party indoors with professional karaoke and disco equipment hire, delivered and set up at your rural retreat for a night of singing and dancing fun.
HH tip
Enquire with 'Dorset Sound & Light Hire' or 'Bournemouth Disco & Karaoke'.
Discover the perfect pairings of artisanal cheeses and fine wines, guided by a knowledgeable expert. Focus on local Dorset cheeses and English wines for an authentic flavour.
HH tip
Contact 'The Dorset Wine Company' or 'The Cheese Cellar Dorset' for tasting events.
Explore the historic, often spooky, streets of Dorchester on a guided ghost walk. Hear tales of local legends, spectral sightings, and historical mysteries.
HH tip
Check 'Dorchester Tourist Information Centre' for guided ghost walk schedules.
Head to a charming, historic Dorset pub for a lively evening pub quiz. Many rural pubs offer great atmosphere, local ales, and a chance to mingle with locals. (Requires transport)
HH tip
Check 'The Square and Compass' in Worth Matravers or 'The Smugglers Inn' near Osmington for quiz nights.
Enjoy a luxurious barbecue feast prepared by a professional chef, utilising the finest Dorset meats, seafood, and seasonal produce, served in the grounds of your rental.
HH tip
Contact 'Dorset BBQ Catering' or 'The Catering Co.' for professional BBQ services.
Hire a professional close-up table magician to entertain your group during dinner or drinks, adding a touch of wonder and mystery to your evening.
HH tip
Search for 'Dorset Magicians' or 'Magic by Simon' for professional bookings.
Invite a local psychic or tarot card reader to your property for individual or group readings, adding a mystical and intriguing element to your hen party.
HH tip
Find reputable readers via 'Dorset Spiritualist' directories or local holistic centres.
Dorset's food identity is strong — local gin, Jurassic Coast seafood, artisan producers. A properly curated grazing board from local suppliers works better as a group food experience than a formal restaurant in this setting. The Langham wine estate does good group visits if you're in the east of the county.
Learn to cook with the finest local Dorset ingredients in a hands-on cooking class. Create a delicious meal using seasonal produce, often sourced directly from local farms.
HH tip
Enquire with 'White Pepper Cookery School' or 'The Langton Arms Cookery School'.
Savour a selection of Dorset's finest artisan cheeses, paired with local chutneys and crackers. A mobile expert can host this at your property, offering insights into each cheese.
HH tip
Contact 'The Dorset Cheese Company' or 'Ford Farm Cheeses' for tasting kits/sessions.
Experience fresh Dorset oysters straight from the sea. A local oyster farmer can demonstrate shucking techniques and offer tastings, perhaps overlooking Poole Harbour or Portland.
HH tip
Contact 'Portland Shellfish' or 'Brownsea Island Oysters' for direct bookings.
Have a beautifully prepared gourmet picnic hamper delivered to your chosen scenic spot along the Jurassic Coast or in the Dorset countryside. Perfect for a leisurely lunch al fresco.
HH tip
Order from 'The Dorset Picnic Company' or 'The Fine Food Box Dorset'.
Embark on a guided food tour through a charming Dorset town like Bridport or Lyme Regis, sampling local delicacies, meeting artisan producers, and discovering hidden culinary gems.
HH tip
Search for 'Dorset Food Tours' or 'Lyme Regis Food Adventures' for guided experiences.
Enjoy a comprehensive tour and tasting at Langham Wine Estate, one of England's premier sparkling wine producers. Learn about viticulture and savour their award-winning English sparkling wines.
HH tip
Book directly with 'Langham Wine Estate' near Dorchester.
Indulge in a classic afternoon tea experience at a quaint tearoom in a Dorset village or a luxury hotel, complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and exquisite pastries.
HH tip
Consider 'The Priory Hotel' in Wareham or 'Morton's House Hotel' in Corfe Castle.
Enjoy freshly caught, gourmet fish and chips from a renowned chippy in a coastal town like Lyme Regis or West Bay, savoured with stunning sea views.
HH tip
Visit 'Herbie's Fish & Chips' in Lyme Regis or 'Longs Fish & Chips' in West Bay.
Discover Dorset's thriving craft beer scene with a tasting of local ales and lagers. Visit a brewery like Hall & Woodhouse or arrange a mobile tasting at your accommodation.
HH tip
Contact 'Hall & Woodhouse Brewery' for tours or 'Dorset Beer Company' for mobile tastings.
Get creative with a fun and delicious cake decorating workshop. Learn piping, fondant work, and other techniques to create stunning edible masterpieces.
HH tip
Search for 'Dorset Cake Decorating Classes' or 'Fiona's Cake Studio'.
Learn the secrets to crafting authentic Italian gelato from scratch. A fun and tasty workshop that's perfect for a sunny Dorset afternoon.
HH tip
Contact 'Baboo Gelato' in Lyme Regis or 'Purbeck Ice Cream' for workshop availability.
Visit a local Dorset farm shop or deli to hand-pick ingredients and assemble personalised gourmet hampers for each hen, filled with local cheeses, chutneys, and artisan treats.
HH tip
Visit 'Steeptonbill Farm Shop' or 'Washingpool Farm Shop' for a vast selection.
Host a sophisticated cocktail and canapés reception at your venue, with a local caterer providing exquisite bite-sized delights and a selection of refreshing drinks.
HH tip
Engage 'Crab Apple Catering' or 'Fosters Catering' for high-end canapé services.
Have a delightful cream tea delivered directly to your door, complete with fresh scones, clotted cream, and local strawberry jam. A quintessential Dorset treat.
HH tip
Order from 'The Dorset Tea Company' or local bakeries with delivery services.
For health-conscious groups, a cooking class focused on creating delicious and vibrant vegan or vegetarian dishes using Dorset's fresh plant-based ingredients.
HH tip
Check with 'White Pepper Cookery School' or 'Veggie Dorset' for specialist chefs.
A fun and sweet workshop where your group can decorate gourmet doughnuts with various glazes, toppings, and sprinkles, creating edible works of art.
HH tip
Contact 'Dorset Doughnut Co.' for workshops or pre-made doughnuts.
Combine a guided foraging walk with a hands-on cooking session, preparing a meal using the wild ingredients gathered from the Dorset landscape.
HH tip
Book through 'Hedgerow Harvest Dorset' or 'Wild Food UK' combined experiences.
Discover the intricate world of coffee with a local Dorset coffee roaster. Learn about bean origins, roasting techniques, and enjoy a guided tasting session.
HH tip
Contact 'Finca Coffee' or 'The Coffee Bean' for roasting experience availability.
Wild swimming on the Jurassic Coast is the headline activity — Lulworth Cove, Dancing Ledge and Durdle Door all offer genuinely impressive spots. Coasteering is also well-established along this section of coast; multiple operators run half-day sessions that work for groups with no prior experience.
Experience the thrill of coasteering – traversing the intertidal zone of the Jurassic Coast by climbing, jumping, and swimming. Led by licensed instructors, it's an adrenaline-pumping way to explore the coastline near Lulworth Cove.
HH tip
Book with 'Jurassic Coast Activities' or 'Cumulus Outdoors' for licensed guides and equipment.
Explore the iconic Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove from the water with a guided stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking tour. Take in the stunning geology and crystal-clear waters.
HH tip
Rent from 'Lulworth Outdoor Activities' or 'Portland Outdoors' with certified instructors.
Fulfil a dream with a breathtaking horse ride along the golden sands of Studland Beach, offering panoramic views of Old Harry Rocks. Suitable for all abilities with experienced guides.
HH tip
Book directly with 'Studland Stables' for beach rides.
Discover the dramatic beauty of Dorset's AONB with a guided hike along a section of the South West Coast Path. Options include paths around Golden Cap or the Purbeck Hills, with stunning vistas.
HH tip
Find AONB certified guides via 'National Trust Dorset' or 'Visit Dorset' walking itineraries.
Unleash your inner warrior with a fun and competitive axe throwing session at an outdoor activity centre. A surprisingly addictive and empowering experience.
HH tip
Book with 'Dorset Adventure Park' near Corfe Castle or 'The Tank Museum' for their events.
Experience the thrill of clay pigeon shooting under expert instruction. A challenging and exhilarating activity in the beautiful Dorset countryside, perfect for group competition.
HH tip
Book a session at 'Purbeck Shooting School' or 'Southern Counties Shooting Ground'.
Blast across Poole Harbour and out into Studland Bay on a high-speed Rib Ride. An exhilarating way to see the coastline, Old Harry Rocks, and even spot some local wildlife.
HH tip
Book with 'Piers & Harbours' or 'Poole Sea Safari' for scheduled rides.
Learn essential outdoor survival skills like fire lighting, shelter building, and foraging in a bushcraft workshop set in Dorset's ancient woodlands. A unique and empowering experience.
HH tip
Contact 'Woodland Ways Bushcraft' or 'Dorset Forest School' for group bookings.
Explore the rolling Purbeck Hills and charming villages on a guided electric bike tour. Suitable for all fitness levels, offering stunning views without the arduous climbs.
HH tip
Rent e-bikes and find guides at 'Cyclexperience' in Wareham or 'Purbeck Cycle Hire'.
Charter a private yacht or sailing boat from Poole Harbour for a luxurious day on the water. Explore the harbour, anchor in secluded coves, and enjoy the coastal scenery.
HH tip
Enquire with 'Charter a Yacht UK' or 'Mojo Active' for private charters.
Test your aim with an archery session, often combined with other target sports like crossbows or air rifles, at a dedicated outdoor activity centre in the Dorset countryside.
HH tip
Book with 'Dorset Adventure Park' or 'Gorcombe Farm Activities'.
Navigate a thrilling high ropes course through the treetops, featuring zip lines, wobbly bridges, and challenging obstacles. A great team-building and confidence-boosting activity.
HH tip
Visit 'Go Ape Moors Valley' (on Dorset border) or 'Adventure Wonderland' for their parks.
Combine the tranquillity of yoga with the challenge of paddleboarding. A unique and fun outdoor fitness class on calm waters like Poole Harbour or a sheltered lake.
HH tip
Contact 'Easy Riders' in Poole or 'SUP Dorset' for guided SUP yoga sessions.
Embark on a high-tech treasure hunt using GPS coordinates to find hidden caches in Wareham Forest. A fun and engaging way to explore Dorset's natural landscapes.
HH tip
Download the 'Geocaching' app and explore the mapped trails in 'Wareham Forest'.
Experience an exhilarating quad biking safari through challenging off-road terrain in the Dorset countryside. Perfect for groups seeking an adrenaline rush.
HH tip
Book with 'Gorcombe Farm Activities' or 'Dorset Adventures' for guided tours.
Organise a series of fun and competitive beach games and challenges on one of Dorset's beautiful beaches (e.g., Sandbanks, Weymouth). Can be self-organised or with a facilitator.
HH tip
Check 'Visit Dorset' for beach access and permit info; hire facilitators from 'Outdoor Events Dorset'.
Try rock climbing or abseiling with qualified instructors on one of Dorset's natural rock formations, such as Portland's famous cliffs, offering stunning views and a thrilling challenge.
HH tip
Book with 'Portland Outdoors' or 'Adventure 4 All' for safe, instructed sessions.
Enjoy a unique and leisurely stroll through the Dorset countryside, accompanied by a friendly llama. A charming and quirky alternative to alpaca trekking.
HH tip
Contact 'Dorset Llama Experience' for availability and bookings.
Take a boat trip to Brownsea Island in Poole Harbour, a National Trust nature reserve. Explore its red squirrel population, peacocks, and diverse birdlife on a guided or self-guided walk.
HH tip
Book ferry tickets and check opening times with 'National Trust Brownsea Island'.
Enjoy a leisurely cruise from Poole Harbour along the Jurassic Coast, past Old Harry Rocks, and into Swanage Bay, offering spectacular views of the dramatic coastline.
HH tip
Book tickets with 'City Cruises Poole' or 'Greenslade Pleasure Boats'.
Once the plan is starting to come together, get the house locked in. These live listings keep the weekend rooted in Dorset and give the group something concrete to react to.
Quick links for the practical stuff.
Ideas, activities, and places to book in Dorset.
See ideasA simple checklist to keep the weekend on track.
Open checklistWork out costs per person before you book.
Use calculatorMap out the weekend plan in one place.
Open itineraryBook large self-catering properties and popular activities at least 12+ months in advance, especially for summer dates, as luxury rural retreats in Dorset get reserved quickly.
Given patchy mobile signal in remote areas, print out directions, activity confirmations, and emergency contacts. Consider a walkie-talkie app for group communication if relying on phone signal.
Organise car hire or a private mini-bus for the entire group for the duration of your stay. Rural Dorset properties often require transport for even short distances to villages or activity providers.
Leverage the expertise of local DMCs (Destination Management Companies) or hen party planners who specialise in Dorset. They can streamline bookings, manage logistics, and often have access to exclusive suppliers.
Prioritise licensed and AONB-certified operators for outdoor activities, especially along the Jurassic Coast, to ensure safety, quality, and adherence to environmental guidelines. Check reviews and references.
Written by the Hen Hideaways team · Last updated March 2026
