Planning a day trips in Dorset for your elderly relative or loved one? Weymouth is a fantastic option, offering a welcoming and accessible environment with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re after a peaceful stroll, a scenic spot to relax, or engaging local attractions, there’s something to suit every interest and pace. To help you plan the perfect trip, we’ve put together a list of our favourite day trips in Weymouth for the elderly.
Many of these ideas are featured in our own activity and outing schedule here at Friary Care.
Radipole Lake
This little gem jumps straight to the top of our list, partly because we’re lucky enough to have this stunning landscape right on our doorstep. Radipole Lake Nature Reserve is a wildlife haven managed by the RSPB, home to an array of species including Bearded Tits, Kingfishers, Otters, and Water Voles. Spanning over 83 hectares, the reserve offers lots of opportunities to explore, making it perfect for leisurely stroll with your loved one.
Access information: The site is wheelchair accessible with a Blue Badge holder space next to the visitor centre. There are two signposted trails which are firm and generally flat, and surfaced with concrete or crushed stone, with a wheelchair-accessible gate to access the main road.
Weymouth Beach
Weymouth Beach is a favourite day-trip destination for both locals and visitors of all ages. It proudly claimed 2nd place in the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards and was named the top beach in The Times’ 2023 Great British Beach Guide. It’s a lovely place to take in the sea breeze and stroll along the grand Georgian seafront and large esplanade. Number two in our favourite day trips in Weymouth for the elderly.
While you’re here, don’t miss the delightful summer puppet show, and be sure to stop by one of the many seaside cafés for a sweet treat. Or enjoy a classic scoop of traditional ice cream as you soak up the breathtaking coastal views.
PS – One of our favourites is Rossi’s ice cream – Rossi’s is a much-loved, family-run ice cream parlour that has been serving generations of locals and visitors on Weymouth’s seafront since 1937. Famous for its traditional Italian-style vanilla ice cream, Rossi’s continues to use the original, closely guarded family recipe brought over from Italy. With its nostalgic charm, friendly service, and unbeatable location near the beach, it remains a cherished stop for anyone visiting the Dorset coast.
Access information: There are many Blue Badge holder spaces dotted along the seafront with access to beach-friendly wheelchairs during the summer season.
Weymouth Harbour & Marina
Follow the esplanade along the Weymouth beachfront and find yourself exploring Weymouth harbour and marina. Here, you will find an array of gorgeous boats and the famous Weymouth lifting bridge that rises regularly to let boats flow in and out of the marina. While you’re here, enjoy a delicious portion of fish and chips from many of the award-winning fish and chip shops along the harbour.
- Bennett’s (Harbourside) – 14 Trinity Rd
- Marlboro Fish & Chips – 46 St. Thomas Street
- The Old Harbour Fish And Chips – 16 St Edmund Street
Access information: There are many car parks and on-street bays around the harbour that provide disabled spaces for blue badge holders. Nearby car parks include The Pavilion car park and Harbourside car park.
Weymouth Pavilion
Ready for some seaside entertainment? Head to the Weymouth Pavilion and see what’s on. This lovely venue hosts a diverse lineup of UK touring shows, from films and live performances to fun game nights like bingo, as well as concerts, tribute acts and plays.
Access information: Weymouth Pavilion has a large car park with blue badge holder spaces both in front and behind the pavilion. The Pavilion is wheelchair friendly with ramps and lifts located throughout the building.
Sealife Centre
Another one of our favourite day trips in Weymouth for the elderly…. Your elderly loved one can enjoy a trip to see the penguins, seals and a whole array of seaside wildlife at the Sealife Centre in Lodmoor. This attraction is the perfect day out, no matter the weather, as it offers both indoor and outdoor viewing of the sea creatures. Take the day at your own pace and take in the calming effects of the tranquil underwater world.
Access information: Located next to the Sealife Centre is a large car park that offers disabled parking. The Sealife Centre is also wheelchair-friendly, offering ramps and disabled access to all attractions within the park.
Lodmoor Country Park
Lodmoor Park is the perfect spot for a gentle stroll along the many footpaths, surrounded by parkland. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you explore the park, and why not finish your visit with a relaxing picnic? Just a short walk away, you’ll also find the RSPB nature reserve, offering even more stunning views and opportunities to connect with nature.
Access information: Flat and accessible paths run throughout the park with informal tarmac pathways. The park offers plenty of seating areas to take in the fresh air and stunning views. There is a pay and display car park close by with designated bays for the disabled.
RSPB Nature Reserve Lodmoor
The RSPB is a nature reserve that is located just opposite the Lodmoor Country Park. The park offers many observation hides and spots to watch the wildlife that calls the reserve their home. The park has a wide array of lush nature, including large reedbeds, open water, salt marsh, wet grassland and bushes. These habitats attract a variety of different wildlife, including Bearded Tits and Cetti’s Warblers, Kingfishers and winter waders.
Access information: The nature reserve has a 2.5 km walking route which circles the wildlife area. This path is suitable for wheelchair users. There isn’t a specific car park for the nature reserve, but there are car parks located nearby, with Lodmoor Country Park and Overcombe car park being the closest. Both car parks offer disabled parking.
Weymouth Peace Garden
Number eight on our list of favourite day trips in Weymouth for the elderly. Tucked away on the south side of Weymouth Harbour is a beautiful community garden, a peaceful haven that is perfect for a short, relaxing stroll. With plenty of seating throughout, it’s easy to take your time and enjoy the serene surroundings. The well-maintained gardens are lovingly cared for by dedicated volunteers, who continue to honour the site’s tranquil spirit. Once an old burial ground owned by the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), the garden now stands as a symbol of peace and community.
Access information: The gardens feature flat, wheelchair-accessible paths that make it easy for everyone to explore and enjoy the space. Nothe Car Park is located close by with access to disabled bays.
Sandworld
Sandworld is a must-visit with your elderly loved one. This attraction showcases extraordinary sand sculptures, crafted by talented artists from across the UK using nothing but sand and water. These larger-than-life creations turn simple materials into breathtaking works of art. Enjoy a leisurely visit, taking your time to admire the intricate details and creativity on display in this fun and inspiring day out.
Access information: Lodmoor County Carpark is located close by to the Sandworld attraction, which offers many disabled parking bays. The attraction itself is wheelchair friendly with disabled access to all facilities.
Bennetts Water Gardens
Bennett’s Water Gardens is home to an impressive collection of over 300 varieties of water lilies, and the gardens stretch out across a beautiful lake, creating a truly picturesque setting. It is a lovely spot to sit, unwind, and enjoy the tranquil views while listening to birdsong all around you. While you’re here, don’t forget to visit the on-site museum, where you can explore over 150 years of fascinating local history.
Access information: Many areas of the gardens are wheelchair accessible, with disabled parking and facilities available on-site. However, during wet weather, access for wheelchair users may be closed, as certain paths can become unsuitable. If you’re unsure about the conditions, it’s best to call ahead to confirm accessibility before your visit.
Sandsfoot Castle
Last, but no means by least on our favourite day trips in Weymouth for the elderly is Sandsfoot Castle. Set against the backdrop of beautiful gardens and sweeping sea views over Portland Harbour, Sandsfoot Gardens is a peaceful spot to spend a couple of relaxing hours outdoors. The park is also home to the historic ruins of Sandsfoot Castle, built in 1539 by order of Henry VIII. Perched on the cliff edge, the castle adds a fascinating historical element to your visit and offers a glimpse into the area’s rich past.
Ideal coffee or ice cream stop from the kiosk just inside the gardens.
Access information: The gardens are wheelchair accessible, with flat paths throughout the park. There is plenty of roadside parking close by.
Explore Weymouth in Dorset With The Elderly
As you can see, Weymouth is full of wonderful places to explore, making it the perfect destination for a memorable day trip in Weymouth with your elderly loved one.
At Friary Care, we offer visits to many of these locations as part of our day trip experiences for both residents and guests. If you are looking for respite care and want your loved one to enjoy a safe and enjoyable outing, our friendly care team is here to help.
Please get in touch with our care team, and we would be happy to help plan your loved one’s next day out in beautiful Weymouth.
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