DORSET is a favourite with families – there’s plenty to do such as enjoying the beach at Weymouth to fossil hunting at Lyme Regis plus an awful lot more.

Adventure Wonderland near Christchurch is an all-inclusive park which combines the timeless fun and games of the Alice in Wonderland story with the thrilling outdoor adventure rides.

With 28 rides and attractions and an all important weather-proof fun, you can see why this unique park has been such a regular award winner.

At Moors Valley Country Park near Ringwood you can enjoy a peaceful walk or cycle ride through the forest, experience a ride on an authentic narrow-gauge steam train or even go on a high-wire adventure swinging through the tree tops.

Wimborn Model Town and Gardens re-creates the historic market town of Wimborne Minster exactly as it was during the 1950s. You can get really close up and even touch the buildings, checking out every minute detail of more than 100 shop windows.

Brownsea Island is worth the short boat trip across to this wonderfully atmospheric island of heath and woodland.

It boasts a rich variety of wildlife, including red squirrels. Follow the waymarked trails and spot the wildlife and enjoy a picnic on the way.

You could enjoy a trip on Dorset’s award-winning steam railway at Swanage which is run mainly by volunteers. It offers a step back in time with the station presented as if it were in times gone by. The train leaves from near Corfe Castle and arrives in the heart of Swanage.

The Tank Museum at Bovington houses are the world’s finest international collection of armoured fighting vehicles with more than 300 vehicles on display undercover, detailing the complete evolution of armoured vehicles. Tanks in action displays and tank rides are available on certain days but there are plenty of interactive displays for children and adults alike.

Dorset also plays host to all sorts of festivals throughout the year.

In May, for example, you can enjoy the Dorset Knob Throwing Festival, billed as a “world-famous quirky festival” or the Sherborne Abbey Music Festival or the Lyme Regis Fossil Festival.

For more on what’s going on in Dorset in 2014 visit www.visit-dorset.com