Events and what's on in Dorset
There's never a dull moment here! With a huge choice of events in Dorset taking place throughout the year, you'll be entertained no matter when you visit.
You'll find tasty food festivals like the award-winning Nyetimber Dorset Seafood Festival, red arrows and other spectacular flying displays at the Bournemouth Air Festival, fireworks aplenty, the world-famous Great Dorset Steam Fair, music festivals such as the Wessex Folk Festival, some fantastic theatre productions, comedy shows and of course some slightly quirkier events to enjoy (Bridport Hat Festival we're looking at you!)
Dorset County Show and Melplash Show are just two of many events giving you the chance to discover rural life in Dorset, and don't miss Dorset Moon - a programme of lunar-inspired events which take place in Bournemouth, Sherborne and Weymouth in 2019.
Whatever your interests, you'll find details of what's on in Dorset on this page. Use the tabs to browse events today, this weekend, this week or next week - or just use the calendar to find out what's on when you're visiting.
Have an eventful visit!
View Dorset Events by Date:
The next 60 events in Dorset appear below.
20 November 2019
Mike Denham SpeakEasy with Ben Cummings
Dorchester, Dorset
Mike Denham returns for the latest of his popular SpeakEasy nights, this time accompanied by trumpeter Ben Cummings. The theme: Jazz Age Chicago. Often described as a demon horn player, Ben has established a formidable reputation as one of Britain’s finest trumpet players. He has played and recorded at the highest level in every genre – from New Orleans, vintage, swing and modern jazz, to funk, soul, pop and salsa. He’s currently touring with Caro Emerald, and makes occasional appearances ...
21 November 2019
Purbeck Winter Task Taster Day
Wareham, Dorset
Come and try your hand at a range of winter tasks on beautiful nature reserves around Purbeck. Be active - help nature - meet people.
Purbeck task taster days offer tasks on reserves with a range of friendly teams. Varied tasks for all abilities, do as much or as little as you wish, you will be shown how to use tools. Booking essential (to get details of the day) bring sturdy footwear or wellies, waterproofs, water and a packed lunch.
Location: Tadnoll & Winfrith Heath, East Knighton ...
22 November 2019
Music: The Simmertones
Lyme Regis, Dorset
One of the UK’s leading authentic ska and reggae bands: ‘This Simmertones album is so uplifting! Hypnotic, thirst inducing tunes.’ Lee Thompson, Madness. Support from DJ Ska Au Go Go.
Over the past decade these nine South West musicians have established themselves as one of the UK’s leading authentic ska and reggae bands with their exciting and infectious live sound.
Venue: Marine Theatre
22 November 2019
The Blues Band
Wimborne, Dorset
Paul Jones, Dave Kelly, Tom McGuinness, Rob Townsend and Gary Fletcher.
Many of the Blues Band’s 21st century fans weren’t even born when these five virtuosos, already music industry veterans, decided to fly in the face of musical fashion in 1979 and form a band ‘just to play the blues’. No one could have predicted that, 40 years on, they’d still be dazzling audiences with their showmanship and virtuosity. About 20 albums and thousands of gigs later, they’ve earned a reputation around the ...
22 November 2019
Theatre: Enter the Dragons
Dorchester, Dorset
A riotous, surreal odyssey which explodes the myths about getting older. Dooley and Edwards present a comedic call to arms, marrying a wry exploration of the trials and tribulations of ageing with a delightfully dark surrealism as our protagonist embarks on a quest to halt the ageing process - or at least re-brand it. A knock-out combination of joy and dissent for anyone considering ageing.
An A&E Theatre production at the Corn Exchange.
23 November 2019
A Century of Song
Poole, Dorset
Celebrate 100 years of Poole & Parkstone Productions as we recreate our most memorable moments. Chosen by our audiences, friends and members past & present, join us as we reprise and reimagine iconic numbers and sensational showstoppers from the last century. From Gilbert & Sullivan classics to modern-day musicals, join us as we Step in Time to the magic of Mary Poppins, sweep through the plains of Oklahoma, storm the barricades in Paris and with a spectacular new finale, this will indeed be ...
23 November 2019
Sound of Soul
Wimborne, Dorset
‘Sound of Soul’ is one of the South’s leading pop, soul, R&B, gospel and world music groups.
Book your tickets for an evening of incredible music and fun, all in aid of Lewis-Manning Hospice.
Tickets are £10 per person, purchase them through the website below.
Venue: Wimborne Minster Church
21 Nov 2019 to 23 Nov 2019
The WOW Show
Weymouth, Dorset
Join WOW Youth Musical Theatre this November for a showcase of song and dance from stage and screen. If you are new to watching WOW, then prepare to be amazed by the talent of these young performers in a highly entertaining mix of musical numbers. WOW is renowned for its high-quality productions and won the 2017 National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) Award for Best Compilation Show in the whole of the South West Region.
From the Roaring Twenties to the 21st Century Stage ...
24 November 2019
15-Mile Festival
Highcliffe Castle,
Christchurch, Dorset
Food and drink, art and textiles, gifts & treats. Come and buy local!
Festive music.
Venue: Highcliffe Castle 10.30am to 4pm.
23 Nov 2019 to 24 Nov 2019
Canford Christmas Fair
Wimborne, Dorset
For the weekend of 23rd and 24th Wessex Food Festival is taking over Canford School once more to bring you a new Christmas Fair.
We'll have fantastic selection of Local Crafts, Gourmet Food Produce, Street Food and Drinks. The Fair will be inside the School's buildings so it'll be great whatever the weather.
23 Nov 2019 to 24 Nov 2019
Christmas Arts & Craft Fair
Poole, Dorset
Browse a lovely range of festive arts & crafts from local Dorset artisans whilst enjoying musical performances in the grand setting of Upton House.
Don't miss out on this great opportunity to pick up some unique Christmas gifts, or treats for yourself!
Admission: £1.50 per adult. Under 16s go free. 10am to 4pm at Upton House, Upton Country Park.
23 Nov 2019 to 24 Nov 2019
Dorset Food & Drink Christmas Fair
Dorchester, Dorset
Join us for our annual festive foodie event with over 50 amazing producers selling distinctively Dorset & seasonal produce set in the lovely grounds of Athelhampton House and Gardens.
10am – 4pm Saturday 23rd November & Sunday 24th November.
£3.50 per adult, children free and includes the Food Fair and entry to Gardens and House
Back again for 2019! SUNDAY ONLY – Meet Santa
Just to add to the festivities we’ll have plenty of local choirs and performers throughout the weekend, ...
24 November 2019
Lights, Camera, Action
Bournemouth, Dorset
Western Association of Ballet Schools are delighted to return to Bournemouth Pavilion, with 280 talented young dancers from eight affiliated local dance schools performing in Lights, Camera, Action.
Each school will bring to life a tribute to their favourite BAFTA winners with a dazzling display of dance and costume.
24 November 2019
Sparkle in the Park
Weymouth, Dorset
Starting at 3.30pm, help make decorations before enjoying a candlelit walk around the woodland area of Lodmoor Country Park.
28 November 2019
Chocolate Making Workshop
Dorchester, Dorset
John Tyldesley of Chocolate Arthouse, will show you how to temper chocolate, make fillings and decorate moulds for exciting and unique hand-painted chocolates. You’ll be able to take your chocolates home all boxed up and tied with ribbon, along with three artisan bars. No experience needed, just bring your imagination! Price
£68 per person.
10am to 4pm at The Kingcombe Centre, Toller Porcorum, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 0EQ
28 November 2019
Poundbury Pop-up Christmas Fair
Dorchester, Dorset
A beautiful Pop Up Christmas Fair showcasing some of the best independent crafters and traders Dorset has to offer.
Being held at The Duchess of Cornwall Inn from 6pm to 10pm.
28 November 2019
Royal Marines Christmas Spectacular
Bournemouth, Dorset
The world-famous Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines will end the year with a military music spectacular featuring festive music, military marches, big band hits and popular showstoppers.
Venue: Pavilion Theatre
29 November 2019
Boho Classic Frozen Cocktails
Boho Gelato,
Weymouth, Dorset
The second of our Gelato and Sorbet cocktail evenings in Weymouth! - This time we will making Boho Classics such as Strawberry, Basil & Black Pepper Slush, Star Road Martini and After Dinner Mint! No booking required - cocktails £7 each (50p given to charity)
29 November 2019
Comedy: Jonathan Pie
Bournemouth, Dorset
If no news is good news then good news is fake news. Jonathan Pie returns to the road once more to berate the people in power - and the journalists apparently holding them to account.
Jonathan Pie is the exasperated news reporter whose videos have been seen across the world. His previous two tours have taken in venues such as the Hammersmith Apollo and the London Palladium and performances across the US and Australia.
Jonathan Pie has been described as ‘brilliant, brave, raw and ...
30 November 2019
5 Six 7 8
Weymouth, Dorset
Weymouth Dance Studio presents their bi-annual show, showing their dancers in a variety of styles of song and dance.
Come and see if you can spot the future stars of tomorrow! All England finalists and Dance World Cup performers. Don’t miss out on an entertaining show
Performances at 2.30pm and 7pm. Weymouth Pavilion.
Children under 2 are free. Ticket still must be obtained from the Box Office
28 Nov 2019 to 30 Nov 2019
A Vicar of Dibley Christmas: The Second Coming
Swanage, Dorset
Swanage Drama Company are pleased to announce they will be performing “A Vicar of Dibley Christmas – The Second Coming” on 28th, 29th and 30th November.
After a very successful run of the first Vicar of Dibley production in 2013 we have gathered together the original cast to bring you this hilarious sequel. It features those iconic sequences such as “Radio Dibley”, the quiz “Brain of Dibley” and of course the Nativity lovingly played out in Owen’s dirty old barn.
Venue: Mowlem Theatre
30 November 2019
Christmas Lights Illumination
Dorchester, Dorset
Christmas returns to Brewery Square this November!
Our annual lights illumination and the return of Skating In The Square Dorchester is being held on Saturday 30 November from 4pm!
We have an exciting line up as part of the annual celebrations held here at Brewery Square -
4.00pm – 5.00pm Weymouth Concert Brass
5.00pm – 5.30pm Hoops and fire performance by Ethereal Performance and Dance show by The Breathing Space
5:30pm LIGHTS ON
5.30pm – 6.15pm ...
30 November 2019
Durlston at Christmas
Swanage, Dorset
Local produce and gifts for Christmas! Visit Seventhwave and enjoy mulled wine and mince pies - the perfect excuse for last minute shopping. Fine Foundation Gallery.
Location: Durlston Country Park and National Nature Reserve, Lighthouse Rd, Swanage.
30 November 2019
Love Actually in Concert
Poole, Dorset
Love Actually will once again be screened live with a full orchestra performing its enchanting score – just in time for Christmas! Directed by Richard Curtis the film tells ten separate yet interweaving stories of love around Christmas time.
A full, live orchestra will perform Craig Armstrong’s evocative score with the film being projected onto a huge screen. Armstrong is one of the UK’s most recognised film composers, with his work being awarded a BAFTA for his Achievement in Film ...
30 November 2019
Moonbeam on a Cat's Ear
Lyme Regis, Dorset
Based on the book by author and illustrator Marie-Louise Gay, Moonbeam on a Cat's Ear (Voyage au Clair de Lune) is a visual journey into an exciting world of dreams and imagination. This is a visual adventure with puppetry, movement, and music for children aged 3 and over.
In the middle of the night Rosie, Toby Toby, the cat and the mouse sneak out to play in the shadow of the apple tree. When Toby Toby steals the moon from the sky they go on an adventure across the stars and the ...
30 Nov 2019 to 01 Dec 2019
Artisans on the Beach
Swanage, Dorset
Set on Swanage seafront over the Christmas season, the beach-huts are taken over by local crafters and tradespeople all looking to sell the ideal creative gifts for you and your loved ones.
From collages, photography and paintings, to vintage and retro cushions, coasters and felt goods, there's no shortage of items on offer. So come on down and see what you can find, located within the beach-huts on Swanage Shore Road beside the Tourist Information Centre right up to the clock ...
01 December 2019
Christmas at Hardy's Cottage
Dorchester, Dorset
This December, Hardy’s Cottage will be decked with natural decorations of evergreen collected from the cottage garden and surrounding woodlands. Come and warm your toes by the warmth of the fire and get into the festive spirit.
There will be delicious treats for you to sample, prepared by our volunteers using traditional recipes.
Time: 11am to 4pm
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
29 Nov 2019 to 01 Dec 2019
Garden of Delights
Shaftesbury, Dorset
There is free admission to this year’s Garden of Delights at Springhead – a chance to escape the High Street and do some local Christmas shopping in beautiful surroundings.
Stalls will be set up in the Mill House, where local craftspeople and artists will be selling a wide range of goods from jewellery and ceramics to framed garden ornaments, cards, glassware and prints. Once you’ve browsed the stalls for Christmas gifts you will also have the chance to enjoy refreshments, cakes and light ...
01 December 2019
Lewis-Manning Santa Dash
Poole, Dorset
A fun new Christmas charity event for all the family to enjoy! The Lewis-Manning Hospice Santa Dash involves participants dressing up as Santa and running a 2km course around Upton Country Park whilst raising money for a worthy cause.
Registration at 10.30am.
Adult tickets £10, children £5. Family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) £25.
Dogs go free - there will be a prize for the best-dressed dog!
30 Nov 2019 to 01 Dec 2019
Santa Express
Swanage, Dorset
Meet Santa on his special Swanage Railway train.
During your one-hour return journey each child will receive a wrapped present from Santa, complimentary soft drink and biscuit. Mince Pie and seasonal drink for adults.
There will be balloon modelling during your visit.
Santa Express trains start and finish in Swanage. You cannot board or alight at any other station.
01 December 2019
Sherborne Festive Shopping Day
Sherborne, Dorset
The historic town of Sherborne will once again light up for Christmas with a free-entry ‘Love a Local Christmas’ Festive Shopping Day on Sunday 1st December from 10am–4pm.
Organised by volunteers from Sherborne Chamber of Trade & Commerce, the event offers a great family day out, while raising awareness for many local charities.
Sherborne’s Festive Shopping Day is always well supported as the town puts on a whole host of different musical, fun and entertaining activities. The main ...
01 December 2019
Stargazing at Durlston Country Park
Swanage, Dorset
Moon, galaxies, Orion Nebula, Autumn and Winter Constellations. 7pm to 8.30pm.
Weather dependent, call 01929 424443 on day to confirm. £3. Learning Centre.
Location: Durlston Country Park and National Nature Reserve, Lighthouse Rd, Swanage
01 December 2019
The Snow Queen
Highcliffe Castle,
Christchurch, Dorset
Quantum Theatre bring a second performance of their stunning production of The Snow Queen to Highcliffe Castle on December 1st at 5pm.
Michael Whitmore’s delightful adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s magical tale conjures up a captivating mix of fantasy, fable and love triumphing over evil in this ever popular Christmas favourite.
Quantum will bring their lively brand of comedy, music and magic to this timeless classic. The production follows the story of a young girl called Gerda ...
03 December 2019
Wreath of Festive Frights
Highcliffe Castle,
Christchurch, Dorset
A Wreath of Festive Frights is the follow-up to our hugely successful show, Ghost Stories for Christmas. Join resting actor Alfred St John Merrimoon once again, as he regales his audience with more unsettling tales of seasonal spooks, winter wraiths and Christmastime horrors. Huddle closer to the fireplace and keep away from the shadows, for who knows what might be lurking just out of sight? An amusingly chilling way to see in this special time of year!
Jonathan Goodwin writes and ...
04 December 2019
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra's Tchaikovsky Magic
Poole, Dorset
Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker has charmed Christmas audiences over the years with its range of gorgeous music and romantic imagery. There is a wonderfully vivid, pictorial quality to his colourful music. From the elegant Waltz of the Flowers to the witty Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Dance of the Reed Flutes, the score is a feast of wonderful melodies. Then there is the Battle of the Mice and the lively dances – Spanish, Chinese, Arabian and Russian. The music tinkles in the memory ...
04 December 2019
Bridport Christmas Cheer
Bridport, Dorset
A FREE community event for all the family to enjoy. With lots of festive entertainment, it’s a time to get in the Christmas mood, find that special Christmas gift and join in the merriment!
04 December 2019
Poole Carols by Candlelight
Poole, Dorset
Join us at St James' Church in Poole on Wednesday 4th December for a magical candlelit evening featuring all your festive favourites.
Carols by Candlelight is now a firm favourite in the Julia's House events calendar, well known for a lively mix of celebrity and family readers, music and traditional carols. Our 2019 special guests will be confirmed later in the year - previous readers have included Martin Clunes, Julian Fellowes and Holby City actor Guy Henry.
You will be treated to ...
03 Dec 2019 to 04 Dec 2019
Russian State Ballet
Weymouth Pavilion,
Weymouth, Dorset
3rd December - The Nutcracker
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a trip to your local theatre for a dazzling production of the most famous Ballet in the world – Nutcracker.
Traditionally, Russian State Ballet and Opera House is back for their annual UK tour with the vibrant, and enchanting full touring ballet production.
The Nutcracker is an eternal seasonal favourite directed and choreographed by the former award winning Bolshoi Ballet Soloist, Konstantin Uralsky.
Snow ...
05 December 2019
Dickens by Candlelight
Highcliffe Castle,
Christchurch, Dorset
A light-hearted look at Victorian society as seen through the eyes of Charles Dickens and recreated by Barry North in a spellbinding performance.
Performed in Highcliffe Castle's majestic Great Hall, surrounded by beautiful candelabras, this is not one to miss!
Time: 7.30pm
05 December 2019
Dorchester's Christmas Cracker
Dorchester, Dorset
The date has been set, Santa’s been told and we’re busy making sure the magic will happen again this year. We will be updating our website regularly with information and news as it becomes available so keep an eye out and don’t forget to find and Like us on Facebook.
We hope you will all join us for late night Xmas shopping, seasonal entertainment and other delights.
06 December 2019
A Christmas Carol
Bridport, Dorset
Charles Dickens’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL is one of the most beloved books in the English language and has become a classic Christmas tale for generations of grown-ups and children alike.
It is brought to life in an astounding one-man performance by actor and writer Nick Wilkes.
For over two decades Nick Wilkes has appeared in countless productions, both in the UK and overseas working in classical and contemporary drama, musical, pantomime and weekly rep, working alongside names as diverse as ...
06 December 2019
Marty Wilde and The Wildcats
Wimborne, Dorset
The one and only MARTY WILDE returns to the Tivoli in 2019!
A chance to see live on stage, one of the only performing Rock’n’Roll pioneers in the world today.
Marty began his career in 1957 and was one of the first British singers to play a leading part in those early formative, and groundbreaking Rock’n’Roll years.
With his many hits and a host of wonderful songs from that era, Marty and his fabulous band the Wildcats take you back through some of the most exciting musical times this ...
06 December 2019
Music: Wille & The Bandits
Dorchester, Dorset
Wille and the Bandits are an energetic and soulful three piece in the vein of Cream or The Jimi Hendrix experience, yet take their sound beyond what is expected of a traditional blues rock line up. Rock legends such as Ian Paice, Joe Bonamassa and Francis Rossi have praised the band’s musicianship and their unique edge to Rock and Blues and they leave an equally astounding impression on audiences of all ages and musical backgrounds.
The band are praised in the press for their albums; ...
04 Dec 2019 to 07 Dec 2019
Jingle Bell Rockout Christmas Show
Weymouth, Dorset
This is Wessex Musical Theatre's first Christmas show and features songs from 'The Lion King', 'A Star is Born' and a medley of hits from the golden age of disco.
Alongside this, you will hear favourite Christmas songs and carols. Boogie on down to Jingle Bell Rockout for plenty of song and dance in the beautiful location of Weymouth Harbour.
Location: Hope Church, Trinity St, Weymouth DT4 8TW
Tickets:
Adults £10 for all evening performances (starting at 7.30 pm). £8 for Saturday ...
07 December 2019
Buttermarket Christmas Market, Poundbury
Dorchester, Dorset
Poundbury’s Christmas Market
Now in its 4th year we are delighted to tell you that this year the Christmas Market will be on Saturday 7th December.
It’s small business Saturday on 7th December so it’s the perfect time to come out and support your local community.
07 December 2019
Cerne Abbas Christmas Street Fair
Dorchester, Dorset
Some 40+ stalls selling a variety of local crafts and unique gifts to purchase. Free entry. All stalls lit up with festoon lighting, music from “Sing for Joy”.
The children of Cerne Abbas First School open the Fayre with carols as we light the Church Christmas Tree. Santas Grotto with age related presents. Plus food and refreshments available to purchase. A really lovely way to kick-start Christmas.
Cerne Abbas village is located some 7 miles north of Dorchester.
07 December 2019
Play: Are You Going To The Marine?
Lyme Regis, Dorset
Join us as we celebrate one hundred and twenty five years of the Marine Theatre, in this special community play written by Andrew Rattenbury.
With the help of the thriving local theatre, music, and drama groups, who have all performed here over the past century or so, we’ll be looking back at our rich history as seen through the eyes of two young lovers.
Born in Lyme, Andrew Rattenbury is the acclaimed screenwriter and former head boy of Woodroffe School!
Andy trained as an actor at ...
06 Dec 2019 to 08 Dec 2019
Artisans on the Beach
Swanage, Dorset
Set on Swanage seafront over the Christmas season, the beach-huts are taken over by local crafters and tradespeople all looking to sell the ideal creative gifts for you and your loved ones.
From collages, photography and paintings, to vintage and retro cushions, coasters and felt goods, there's no shortage of items on offer. So come on down and see what you can find, located within the beach-huts on Swanage Shore Road beside the Tourist Information Centre right up to the clock ...
08 December 2019
Christmas Carols in the Castle
Corfe Castle, Dorset
Create a new family tradition with some carol singing in the castle this Christmas. Step inside the ruins and get into the festive spirit. Join local choirs and sing your heart out to Christmas carols old and new.
With their origins in the fifteenth century, carol singing is an important part of the festive season.
This will be an atmospheric evening, with a concert in the castle from a local choir. The castle lights will be lit throughout the event and the tea-room and shop will be ...
08 December 2019
Christmas Singing in Greenhill Gardens
Weymouth, Dorset
Christmas Singing at the Bandstand in the Gardens at 3pm.
FREE Hot Drinks and Mince Pies.Come and join in the Christmas Carols and songs in the Gardens.
ALL WELCOME
04 Dec 2019 to 08 Dec 2019
Illuminated Garden at Kingston Lacy
Wimborne, Dorset
Enjoy the chance to experience Kingston Lacy after dark during late night openings Wednesdays - Sundays, with a new illuminated experience transforming the Formal Garden as darkness falls.
From 4pm onwards, wander the illuminated trail around the Formal Garden and see the house and garden transformed with lights.
Normal property admission applies, members receive free entry. Last admission time 6.30pm.
Illuminated trail approximately 30 minute walk (1.5 miles). No dogs are allowed ...
07 Dec 2019 to 08 Dec 2019
Santa Express
Swanage Railway,
Swanage, Dorset
Meet Santa on his special Swanage Railway train.
During your one-hour return journey each child will receive a wrapped present from Santa, complimentary soft drink and biscuit. Mince Pie and seasonal drink for adults.
There will be balloon modelling during your visit.
Santa Express trains start and finish in Swanage. You cannot board or alight at any other station.
07 Dec 2019 to 08 Dec 2019
Santa's Woodland Grotto
Poole, Dorset
Santa is returning to Upton House in December with some new friends and things to see and tickets are available now so you have plenty of time to plan your visit.
This year Santa is joined in his Woodland Grotto by some friendly new elves, owls and donkeys (his reindeer are staying at home). Also new this year is a covered Light Tunnel to enjoy!
Pre-booking is highly recommended. Same-day walk-in tickets can be purchased at our ticket booth, but there are likely to be queues especially ...
09 Nov 2019 to 08 Dec 2019
Underwater Superheroes
Weymouth, Dorset
CHALLENGE THE UNDERWATER SUPERHEROES AT SEA LIFE WEYMOUTH THIS HALF TERM
Not all superheroes wear capes, some have fins or eight legs
SEA LIFE Weymouth is inviting guests to unveil their inner superhero in the brand-new interactive adventure, Underwater Superheroes.
Families will be challenged by SEA LIFE’s Super 5 subaquatic superheroes to see if they have the strength of a starfish or speed of a shark, amongst other surprising superpowers.
Guests will face interactive ...
07 Dec 2019 to 08 Dec 2019
Victorian Christmas at Beaulieu
New Forest, Dorset
Travel back in time and visit the Victorian Montagu family home this festive season.
Visit us on 7 &8 December, 14 & 15 December and 21 December - 1 January* to see what the Montagu family members would have been doing during the festive season of 1889.
Sip a glass of warming mulled punch while you soak in the festive atmosphere of Palace House, with stunning decorations, welcoming log fires and a Christmas tree in each room - including a 22ft tree at the foot of the main ...
11 December 2019
Blandford Yuletide Festival
Blandford, Dorset
The Blandford Yuletide Festival has become an established part of the Christmas Calendar. 2019 is our ninth festival and is planned to be the biggest so far.
PROGRAMME*
4.00pm – Road Closures Begin
5.00pm – Festival Starts – Stalls and Shops Open.
5.30pm – Rendezvous of Primary Schools Lantern Parade at Langton Road Car Park.
6.00pm – Lantern Parade Begins
Led by Father Christmas and will include The Blandford Stour Valley Band. The parade will travel from Langton Road Car ...
11 December 2019
Carols at Hardy's Cottage
Dorchester, Dorset
Visit nineteenth-century Dorset with traditional West Gallery Christmas carols in Hardy's Cottage. Members of the Ridgeway Singers will be returning to Hardy's Cottage to revive the old carols sung in Hardy's childhood, as immortalized in 'Under the Greenwood Tree.
Time: 1pm to 4pm.
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
11 December 2019
Shaftesbury Carols by Candlelight
Shaftesbury, Dorset
Join us at St James' Church in Shaftesbury on Wednesday 11th December at 7pm for a magical candlelit evening featuring all your festive favourites.
Following the success of our inaugural carols in Shaftesbury last year, we're delighted to be returning to this beautiful town. Carols by Candlelight is already a firm favourite in the Julia's House events calendar in other areas, well known for a lively mix of celebrity and family readers, music and traditional carols. Last year's special ...
10 Dec 2019 to 12 Dec 2019
Swing Unlimited Big Band
Christchurch, Dorset
The Swing Unlimited Christmas concerts in the Great Hall of Highcliffe Castle have been such a sell-out success we have extended to three nights!
Featuring Swing Unlimited’s own great arrangements of songs and tune for the season.
12 December 2019
Vienna Festival Ballet: The Nutcracker
Wimborne, Dorset
Be swept away on a magical adventure in one of the most famous classical ballets of all time – The Nutcracker. With its combination of enchanting choreography and unforgettable music, this fabulous ballet is a Christmas treat like no other.
Set to Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous score, the traditional tale of The Nutcracker tells the story of Clara and her enchanted nutcracker doll. Their adventures see Clara and the Nutcracker combat the Mouse King, and join the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier ...
Attractions
Activities
Pubs & Restaurants
Holiday Parks
Shops & Services
Vouchers & OffersLatest Dorset Features
The latest Dorset articles from Resort Dorset are previewed below.
11 Nov 2019
Sometimes, us grown-ups just need a little time out, and nothing beats giving someone, or yourself, the gift of a day, evening, or night of freedom. From romantic getaways and fun-packed activities to shopping trips and places to eat and drink until your heart’s content, here in Dorset there’s plenty to make the most of any leisure time you may get. Across the county, there’s lots to discover that’ll really hit the sweet spot for any ... Read more...
8 Nov 2019
‘Tis the season to be jolly, and you will be when you discover the fantastic selection of Christmas markets and festive fairs that are set to be held around Dorset in the coming weeks.
If you’re getting organised with your shopping, these events are a great way to find those perfect gifts; if delicious food and drink is on your wish list, then you’ll love the tasty selection available from local producers; or maybe you’d like a day out to get you in the ... Read more...
1 Nov 2019
Celebrate with a bang this weekend as Dorset plays host to a wide range of firework displays and bonfire events. A selection of fireworks / bonfire events can be found below:
Read more...
22 Oct 2019
Cranborne Chase is a designated AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) that covers 380sq miles of land across Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and Hampshire, with Cranborne bordering the South perimeter. Cranborne Chase has recently been awarded its status as an International Dark Sky Reserve in October 2019, becoming the 14th Dark Sky Reserve in the world.
A Dark Sky Reserve is a status that is given to an area of either public or private land that optimises levels of light ... Read more...
9 Oct 2019
Over the years, seafood in Dorset, just as it has across the world, has become a prized commodity within our lives. Seafood comes in many varieties, and along with being tasty and nutritious, its high demand and elegant associations define the quality of today’s seafood.
Seafood is one of the best sources of protein within the food market which, as we know, has an array of health benefits such as aiding muscle recovery and brain function. Although seafood is relatively low ... Read more...