Senior-Friendly Outdoor Activities in Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport
Discover gentle, senior-friendly outdoor activities in Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport this summer.
As July unfolds with longer days and warmer weather, now is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors, especially for older adults who benefit from home care. So, how can we make time outside both enjoyable and accessible for older adults in Yeovil, Sherborne, and Bridport? Often, it’s the simplest moments that make the biggest difference: a picnic in the park, painting wildflowers in the garden, or sharing lunch with a Care Professional beside the sea. These experiences provide connection, calm, and joy, and they don’t have to be physically active to be meaningful.
Gentle Outdoor Experiences, Tailored to You
At Home Instead Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport, we believe that time outdoors should feel easy, enjoyable, and personal. This blog brings together a range of local outdoor ideas, from creative garden activities to al fresco dining and relaxing walks, designed with older adults and their companions in mind.
A Story of Growth, Care and Connection
SK, one of our amazing clients has found so much joy in her garden this season. The seeds she planted with her care professional have flourished, and she’s taken such pride in caring for them. Every day, she checks on their progress, waters them with care, and gently ties up the stems as they reach for the sun.
Later, she and her care professional sat down together to watch the Chelsea Flower Show. SK was absolutely absorbed.
Afterwards, they spent time leafing through her beloved plant book, identifying flowers from the show, some the carer had brought in from the garden, and others SK had received as gifts.
It sparked a rich and heartfelt conversation — not just about flowers, but about memories, favourite gardens, and the joy of watching something bloom.
Why Outdoor Activities Matter
Fresh air, gentle movement, and social interaction all play a valuable role in wellbeing, particularly for older adults. Whether it’s walking along a trail, enjoying a cup of tea outdoors, or joining a creative workshop, these activities support confidence, mental focus, and mood.
In our community, being outside doesn’t have to mean being alone. From picnic tables to public art sessions, the local area provides countless ways to enjoy meaningful moments in the open air.
Picnic Spots, BBQs and Al Fresco Dining
Eating outdoors can turn an everyday moment into something more memorable. These local venues offer comfortable settings with space for wheelchairs, walking aids, and carers:
Ninesprings Café and Yeovil Country Park
Located right in the centre of Yeovil, this well-maintained park is ideal for picnics and relaxed afternoons. Ninesprings Café has accessible toilets, shaded outdoor seating, and free Wi-Fi, making it a practical meeting point. Bring a blanket for the grass or enjoy lunch at one of the many benches throughout the park.
Hive Beach, Burton Bradstock
One of the area’s most beautiful coastal spots, Hive Beach is a senior-friendly choice for those who enjoy sea views and fresh salty air. The Hive Beach Café offers outdoor seating with impressive views of the English Channel and a range of food options. A nearby National Trust car park and flat coastal paths make access manageable.
West Bay Esplanade
The Tiki Bar in West Bay is known for its crab sandwiches and friendly atmosphere. Tables by the sea and level walking routes mean you can enjoy a meal while watching the waves or even spotting the “Stampede by the Sea” elephant sculptures.
Gentle Walks with a View
Whether you prefer a short stroll or a longer loop, here are some scenic and manageable routes that are welcoming to those with mobility aids or care support:
Summerhouse Hill and Wyndham Hill (Yeovil)
These open green spaces are peaceful and easily reachable, offering panoramic views of Yeovil. Wide grassy paths and clear signage make it simple to tailor your walk to your energy levels. Pack a flask and enjoy a seat overlooking the countryside.
Coney’s Castle (Near Bridport)
This National Trust-managed woodland walk offers a quiet escape and a manageable trail. There are no entry fees and it’s a great place to spot butterflies or hear birdsong. Flat paths through ancient trees make it suitable for light walking with support.
West Bay Canoes and River Trips
If walking isn’t suitable, consider a calm outing on the water. West Bay Canoes offer guided routes along peaceful waterways, and there are also beginner-friendly fishing trips for those who prefer something hands-on.
Art, Nature and Outdoor Creativity
Painting, sketching or simply appreciating the natural beauty of the area can be a rewarding way to spend time outdoors, especially for those who appreciate peaceful, creative time outdoors.
Landscape Painting in The Paddock Project, Sherborne
Sherborne’s Paddock Project supports inclusive creativity and regularly hosts outdoor workshops and exhibitions. Painting sessions are often aimed at older adults, and Care Professionals are welcome to attend alongside clients. The relaxed environment encourages calm conversation and meaningful connection.
Bird Box Painting and Garden Craft
Home Instead’s Care Professionals often support small group sessions involving bird box painting or pot planting. These can take place in gardens, parks or at community venues, and are ideal for people who enjoy crafting but may prefer a little support to take part with ease.
Social Walking and Community Cafés
Even light walking can be more enjoyable when done with company. These initiatives focus on encouraging gentle movement and friendly conversation:
Walk and Talk with Age UK Somerset
This local programme pairs older adults with volunteer walking companions. Walks are adapted to suit individual needs and supported by trained volunteers, helping people rebuild confidence or simply enjoy time outside.
Friendship and Craft Cafés
- Forget Me Not Café (Curry Rivel): Especially welcoming for those experiencing memory changes or seeking connection.
- Castle Cary Community Café: A social drop-in with accessible facilities and local volunteers on hand.
- Craft & Coffee (Various Locations): Combines simple creative tasks with friendly company, with many sessions hosted outdoors in warmer months.
Sherborne U3A and Coffee, Cake & Company
Sherborne’s U3A group and the weekly “Coffee, Cake & Company” sessions at Digby Memorial Hall are ideal for seniors looking for conversation, learning, and companionship. Many events involve outdoor meetups, small garden walks, or seasonal celebrations that make use of local parks and courtyards.
Connecting With Wildlife and the Natural World
Yeovil Country Park isn’t just a great picnic spot, it’s also a habitat for otters, kingfishers and wild bees. The Penn Hill Wildlife Garden and Dodham Brook Restoration projects are volunteer-friendly, and there are regular events focused on local nature. For those with an interest in birds, butterflies or plants, these events offer a calm way to connect with the environment.
July Outdoor Dining & Creative Opportunities
Our popular ‘What’s on Where’ guide is a collection of local events and activities for elderly people, including those living with dementia, their families and caregivers– to help you discover new events, meet new people, and make the most of what’s happening in and around Yeovil, Sherborne and wider Somerset this summer. If you would like to find out more, you can download the free PDF or pop into our office in the Yeovil Innovation Centre for a copy.
How Home Instead Can Support You
At Home Instead Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport, our Care Professionals don’t just support daily living, they’re also there to share in the moments that make life enjoyable. Whether it’s helping someone get to a community picnic, setting up a garden painting session, or simply enjoying a walk and chat, we are here to support meaningful outdoor time.
Our team also offers a What’s on Where (WOW) Guide to help you stay informed about inclusive events across the region. If you or someone you know would benefit from companionship and outdoor support, just give us a call.
Let this summer be the one where you try something new, reconnect with nature, or simply enjoy good food in good company. There’s something for everyone, whatever your pace, and whatever your story.
Areas we cover
Yeovil, Bridport, Sherborne, Crewkerne, Weston, Martock, Somerton, Langport, Eastfield, Castle Cary, Bruton, South Petherton, Beaminster, Milborne Port and surrounding areas.
DT6 3, TA18 7, TA12 6, BA22 9, TA14 6, DT6 6, TA11 7, TA11 6, BA21 3, DT9 6, DT6 5, TA10 0, BA22 8, BA7 7, DT9 5, DT6 4, DT2 0, BA21 4, TA17 8, DT8 3, BA22 7, TA10 9, TA13 5, BA10 0, BA9 8, TA15 6, DT9 3, BA20 2, BA21 5, BA20 1, TA16 5, DT9 4, TA18 8
Office Address: Somerset Yeovil Innovation Centre, Barracks Close,
Copse Road, Yeovil,
Somerset – BA22 8RN
Phone: 01935 577030