Best History Museum in Sandbanks

"One of the best places to learn about local history is the Dorset County Museum. It is due to reopen sometime in 2021 following a two-year redevelopment. So you can expect a brand-new experience with top-of-the-range facilities."

"For a nautical theme and a sense of the history of Poole from prehistoric times up to modern day, drop by the Poole Museum to see their displays of archaeological artifacts from the Roman period to medieval times. As you walk in, there is a massive viking longboat at the entrance, a great attraction to entice you in further to learn more about Stone, Bronze and Iron ages. While you’re there, you can also visit the other buildings housed under the museum: Oakley’s Mill, a Victorian grain warehouse, Town Cellars and Scaplen’s Court."

"Eling Tide Mill is a water mill that harnesses the power of the tide to grind wheat into wholemeal flour. Situated on the edge of Southampton Water beside the renowned New Forest, there has been a mill on the site for over 900 years. Closed in the 1940s, it had the good fortune to survive until it was restored between 1975 and 1980, at which time it re-opened as both a working mill, and a museum."

"A 900 year old mechanism still kept intact, The Eling Tide Mill is one of the only two remaining operating mills, the other one being in Suffolk. Running for at least 5 to 7 hours daily the mill has two independent waterwheels. While one is used for the production of flour the other one is used only for exhibitory purposes."

"Built from white Portland stone, Shire Hall (1797) is Dorchester’s solemn Neoclassical former courthouse. This Grade I-listed building has some serious history. For instance, Thomas Hardy was a magistrate here for decades, and the infamous trial of the Tolpuddle Martyrs took place at Shire Hall in 1834."

"Redhill Park has a large field, perfect for ball games, plus paths, a playground, tennis courts, bowling greens and a seasonal paddling pool for hot summer days."

"Unlike standard pubs, you’ll pay an entry fee to the slick 1920s themed establishment. Bring a bottle or two of spirits - the idea is to emulate the sneak and sip of the prohibition era - and the mixologists will create an exciting bespoke cocktail just for you. All mixers are included in the entry price with plenty of exotic and homemade combinations on offer."

"A different cocktail bar, where patrons are allowed to bring their spirits of choice along to let themselves be surprised by resident mixologists' creations. Guests hand the alcohol over to the barman, and receive artisan drinks with juices, syrup infusions, herbs and spices."

"While just spotting the famous ponies is a thrill, it’s even better to explore the best places in the New Forest on horseback. For those of us who aren’t lucky enough to have a trusty pony in the garden, there’s a great riding school that specialises in rides through the forest. Burley Villa Riding School is the place to go to enjoy the ultimate New Forest riding experience."

"There are tailored lessons for children over 4 years old and for those over 7 years old. Enjoy riding through the stunning trails of the New Forest National Park."