Direct Holiday Homes

About the Area

There is so much to do at Rockley Park and this area of Dorset has so much to offer. Have a look in the folder provided in the caravan for inspiration. There is a nature reserve less than a 5 minute walk away, which is ideal for walking the dog or a stroll with kids, and gives direct access to the beach.

On site you will need to purchase your own fun passes, which you can book by calling the park direct or online. You will need one for each guest.


Facilities on Rockley Park include a mini market with bakery and off licence; a launderette (close to caravan and takes tokens available from the shop); an indoor swimming pool with flumes and splash zone; an outdoor swimming pool (an adult must be present with children under 8 years of age).

There are a couple of on-site restaurants and although they do get very busy during peak times, it is worth the wait. Takeaways include Papa John’s pizza and fish and chips (always a favourite).

During peak season the Live Lounge has some great entertainment for all the family; there is something for everyone.

Rockley Park has its own beach, where you can do as much or as little as you want (please be aware of the tide and keep your eye on children at all times). There are paddle boards to hire or why not try kayaking. There is even a little café selling drinks and snacks (I always take a picnic).

Just along the road from Rockley Park is a little known beach used mainly by the locals and there is also Hamworthy Park within walking distance (parking is almost impossible, its about a 20 minute walk and you have to pass a pub too - great for a drink on the way back!) which has a splash pool for younger children and a play area with direct access to a shallow beach.
A nature reserve is just across the road - great for stretching your legs and it has some fabulous views across the harbour too (also ideal for walking your dog).

During August there is a free firework display every Thursday night on Poole Quay - well worth a visit. Or why not book for the air festival held every year in Bournemouth. This year (2025) there is no air show. There is a regular bus service from Rockley Park to Poole.

A twenty minute drive away is the renowned ‘Millionaires’ Row’ commonly know as Sandbanks. It has a lovely beach there but the car park gets crowded in the Summer. On Poole Quay you can take a boat trip around the harbour or visit Brownsea Island (which is owned by the National Trust - fees payable for non members)..

Peppa Pig world is about a 40 minute drive away; a good day out for younger children. Monkey World and Bovington Tank Museum are 30 minutes drive away.

Take a look through my Welcome Pack when you arrive to see other places you and your family or friends might like to visit. I am sure you will leave Shirley Valentine with some amazing memories that you will be talking about for many years.

At-a-Glance Tick List