What's New Summer 2025

Fresh Faces on the Local Scene

Dorset is buzzing with new beginnings. From foodie spots to attractions and summer events, the county is welcoming a wave of fresh ventures. Whether you're a local looking for your next favourite spot or a visitor curious about Dorset, here’s a round-up of the latest businesses making their mark, each bringing something unique to the table.

Back in March, The Quay Inn on Poole Quay, formerly a JD Wetherspoon pub- closed its doors. Never ones to miss an opportunity, local brewers Hall & Woodhouse jumped at the chance to take on this prime waterfront venue. Over the spring, they’ve been hard at work refurbishing the pub inside and out, and the results are stunning. Opening this month, The Quay is unveiling a first for Hall & Woodhouse: a brand new Games Room, where guests can enjoy shuffleboard, digital darts, and table football, all while relaxing with food and drink. It's the perfect space to bring together friends, family, and colleagues.

Expect to find your favourite Outland and Badger beers, plus a brand-new menu designed to pair perfectly with games, alongside the classic Hall & Woodhouse dishes you know and love. We can’t wait to check it out this summer!

Fish'n'Fritz 

Reopening at the end of June, under new management, one of Weymouth's much-loved fish and chip shops will be in safe hands with seasoned professionals at the helm. Fish'n'Fritz promises to bring all that was good about the previous shop, and more. So expect great gluten-free options, delicious fish and chips, plus some new twists to the menu. Becky & Dan will be bringing the whole family on board, even Becky's parents, Karen & John, who thought they’d hung up their aprons for good, are joining the crew!

Whether you're a long-time fan or a first-timer get ready for a warm welcome, great food, and a place you'll want to go back to time and again. Fish'n'Fritz is coming back - and it's going to be batter than ever! 

The Weymouth Big Wheel is a bold new addition to Weymouth Beach. Standing 33 metres tall and located beside the Sand Sculpture Pod, this observation wheel offers sweeping views of the beautiful coastline.

Tickets are priced at £6 for adults, £5 for children and OAPs, and £20 for a family (2 adults, 2 children). The attraction is wheelchair accessible, with one specially adapted pod to ensure everyone can enjoy the ride. A fantastic way to see Weymouth from new heights!

Big Wheel photo credits - Loving Weymouth & Portland 

Santos + Co: Where Portugal Meets Britain

Now open in Brewery Square, Dorchester, Santos + Co offers an unforgettable dining experience. Founded by two friends and inspired by the Quinta Dos Santos family’s beloved Algarve vineyard, brewery, and restaurant, this vibrant venue fuses bold Portuguese flavours with quality British ingredients.

Burger lovers will get serious satisfaction from double beef patties, whilst fans of spice should'nt miss the fiery piri-piri chicken, packed with flavour and already a hit with heat seekers! With their own range of wines and craft beers, Santos + Co delivers something truly unique to Dorchester’s dining scene. We think it sounds perfect, now we just need someone to take us!

Portland Rocks

For the first time ever, the Portland Market Ground is to host a brand-new music and family festival Portland Rocks. Organised by a local family business, this event brings the community together for a weekend to remember. Expect to find magicians, fire artists, and funfair rides. Try your hand at axe throwing, meet the Portland Mermaids, and don't miss the circus workshop. The music line-up features some of the most popular local bands, and, dare we say the best line-up Portland has ever seen, with The Leggomen, That Brit Pop Band, The Hooked, The Dolmen, Sugar Rush, Milk & Two and The Shakespearos to name but a few... Tickets are affordably priced, and you can include the option to camp. We’ve already got ours, don’t miss out!

Langham & The Sea

From the award-winning team behind the Dorset Seafood Festival, comes a new luxury event, Langham & The Sea, held at the stunning Langham Vineyard. Set for 13th–14th September, this event invites you to wander through the vines, savour Dorset’s finest oysters, sip English sparkling wine, and enjoy artisan seafood bites from handpicked vendors. Expect live chef demos, great food, and live music from The Leggomen. Tickets are limited—book early to avoid disappointment! And don’t forget to enter the prize draw for your chance to win a pair of adult tickets.