Monkey World; Ape Rescue Centre - Dorset

Monkey World; Ape Rescue Centre 

The smiles say it all! We were thrilled to have adopted our very own primate and we couldn't wait to spot them at Monkey World.

Spirits were high as we headed to Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre, a 65-acre park and sanctuary made famous by the TV shows Monkey Life and Monkey Business. Founded in 1987 by the late Jim Cronin, Monkey World began as a response to the illegal trade in primates. Today, it's home to over 250 primates from more than 20 species. We were moved by the stories shared during the keeper talks, learning how many of these animals overcame horrific conditions to thrive here. Monkey World isn’t just a sanctuary—it’s a place of healing, compassion, and hope. We spent the entire day exploring, watching the primates, and enjoying their antics which kept us amused for hours! 

We spent our 2 days being entertained with the stars of the show being the orangutans who were so funny and definitely played to the audience. They were putting blankets over their heads and playing peek-a-boo! 

A super time was had at SandWorld in Weymouth—a truly spectacular exhibit of massive, detailed sand sculptures including Avatar, Dumbo, and Disney classics. The talent and time involved in these works were astonishing. 

We set out for a scenic drive along the Jurassic Coast, marvelling at the dramatic landscapes. Our first port of call was Portland Island. Portland is the southernmost point of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic cliffs, fossil-rich beaches, and ancient secrets. The scenery was breathtaking. We took a stroll to Portland Memory Stones; they looked like a mini version of Stonehenge. These stones aren’t ancient relics, but a modern art installation with a deep emotional resonance. We then drove to Portland Bill, where the land meets the sea at the southern tip of the island. We had a late lunch and spotted several seals bobbing around in the sea. We then headed to Portland Bill Lighthouse which has been standing tall since 1906, this iconic red-and-white lighthouse has guided vessels through the treacherous waters of the English Channel.

One afternoon we explored the Jurassic Marine Life Museum, where we dove deep (figuratively!) into the prehistoric oceans. Long before humans walked the Earth, and even before many of the land dinosaurs we know today existed, the Jurassic seas teemed with life. These were not your average fish and sharks. We’re talking about ichthyosaurs, streamlined like dolphins but with jaws full of razor-sharp teeth; plesiosaurs, with their eerie long necks and flippered limbs; and the fearsome Pliosaurus, apex predators of their time with skulls bigger than a grand piano. The museum brought this lost world to life with stunning fossil displays, immersive 3D reconstructions, and interactive exhibits that let us explore an ocean from 150 million years ago. 

Our group caught the passenger ferry to Brownsea Island, owned by the National Trust,  and is famously known as the birthplace of the Scouting movement. The boat ride offered stunning coastal views and a peaceful conclusion to our adventure. 

We embarked on an underwater adventure at Sea life Centre. Established in 1983, this expansive 5-acre attraction is home to over 2,500 creatures. It boasts 13 distinct zones, each meticulously designed to showcase different marine environments. Highlights included the magical Day and Night Experience, Fairy Penguin Island which is home to Europe’s only colony of Fairy Penguin. At Seal Harbour we met the friendly common harbour seals and learned about their behaviours and habitats. Lastly, we got hands-on in the Rockpool Zone where we could touch starfish and other sea life.