Dorset Events
What's On In Dorset
August events by date
22 Avon Avenue - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 12 Jul, Sun 9 Aug
22 Avon Avenue, Ringwood BH24 2BH
Japanese themed water garden featuring granite sculptures, ponds, waterfalls, azaleas, rhododendrons, cloud topiary and a collection of goldfish and...
Manor Farm, Hampreston - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 12 Jul, Sun 2 Aug
Manor Farm, Hampreston, Wimborne BH21 7LX
Traditional farmhouse garden designed and cared for by 3 generations of the Trehane family for over a 100 years...
Broomhill - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 19 Jul, Thu 6 Aug
Broomhill, Dorchester DT2 0PT
A former farmyard transformed into a delightful, tranquil garden set in 2 acres. Clipped box, island beds and borders planted with shrubs, roses,...
Mushroom Magic at Happy River: A Family fungi growing lab
Wed 22 Jul, Wed 5 Aug
Happy River Retreat, Bere Road BH20 7PA
Family mushroom growing lab
A fun and fascinating morning exploring the wonderful world of fungi and how to grow your very own!...
An evening of live soul and Motown music on Brownsea
Wed 22 Jul, Wed 29 Jul, Wed 5 Aug
Brownsea Island
Poole Harbour
Poole BH13 7EE
Join us for a memorable evening of soul and Motown music on Brownsea Island. Begin your night with a scenic harbour cruise aboard the Dorset Queen...
Summer of Play Activity Trail
Sat 25 Jul to Sun 6 Sep
Brownsea Island
Poole Harbour
Poole BH13 7EE
Join us for a fun filled Summer of Play on Brownsea Island. Discover a world of adventure with activities for kids big and small...
Annalal's Gallery - Open Garden for NGS
Mon 27 Jul, Sun 23 Aug, Sun 13 Sep
Annalal's Gallery, Christchurch BH23 1DN
Enchanting 180 yr old cottage, home of two Royal Academy artists. 32ft x 12½ft garden on 3 patio levels...
Manor Farm - Open Garden for NGS
Sat 1 Aug and Sun 2 Aug
Manor Farm, Gillingham SP8 5SA
The garden has been created on a site that surrounds the C15 farmhouse. The planting consists of deep herbaceous borders, set against the old stone...
Night Wildlife and Nightjar Guided Walk with Supper at RSPB Arne
Sat 1 Aug
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
Experience RSPB Arne in the evening as the sun sets and twilight takes over.
An exclusive opportunity to see and listen for the iconic...
Great Dorset Chilli Festival
Sat 1 Aug and Sun 2 Aug
Stock Gaylard Deer Park, between Sherborne and Stur DT10 2BG
Hot Sauce Heaven!
Back at the stunning Stock Gaylard Deer Park, near Sturminster Newton, with around 130 tradestands, the Great Dorset Chilli...
Exclusive Lagoon Walk & New Viewing Screen at RSPB Arne
Sat 1 Aug
RSPB Arne
Arne Road
Wareham BH20 5BJ
This is an exclusive opportunity to visit our new seasonal trail and viewing screen on a part of the reserve that is usually accessible only to...
Church Knowle Fete
Sat 1 Aug
The Old Rectory, Church Knowle, Corfe Castle BH20 5NG
A truly traditional village fete in the lovely grounds of The Old Rectory, Church Knowle, near Corfe Castle, BH20 5NG...
The Old Rectory, Pulham - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 2 Aug, Thu 6 Aug
The Old Rectory, Pulham, Dorchester DT2 7EA
4 acres of formal and informal gardens surrounding C18 rectory with splendid views. Yew pyramid alles and hedges, circular herbaceous borders with...
Exclusive Lagoon Walk & New Viewing Screen at RSPB Arne
Sun 2 Aug
RSPB Arne
Arne Road
Wareham BH20 5BJ
This is an exclusive opportunity to visit our new seasonal trail and viewing screen on a part of the reserve that is usually accessible only to...
eat:Shaftesbury
Sun 2 Aug
Park Walk, Shaftesbury SP7 8JR
eat:Shaftesbury food festival Sunday 02 August from 10-4pm along Park Walk. Free to attend, family-friendly and accessible to all … Expect a...
Exclusive Lagoon Walk & New Viewing Screen at RSPB Arne
Mon 3 Aug
RSPB Arne
Arne Road
Wareham BH20 5BJ
This is an exclusive opportunity to visit our new seasonal trail and viewing screen on a part of the reserve that is usually accessible only to...
Osprey & Heathland Bird Guided Walk at RSPB Arne
Tue 4 Aug
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
Explore the heathland and see stunning reserve views, while spotting Osprey, shore birds and heathland birds with our expert guides...
Nature at Night - Family Sunset Walk at RSPB Arne
Fri 7 Aug
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
An amazing opportunity for families to experience the reserve during the spectacle of a summer sunset and connect with our nocturnal nature...
Osprey & Heathland Bird guided Walk at RSPB Arne
Sat 8 Aug
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
Explore the heathland and see stunning reserve views, while spotting Osprey, shore birds and heathland birds with our expert guides...
Dorset Dollhouse and Miniature Fair 9th August 2026
Sun 9 Aug
Charminster Community Hall,
Weir View,
Charminster,
Dorset DT2 9QY
Dollhouse and Miniature Fair at
Charminster Community Hall, Weir View, Charminster, Dorset, DT2 9QY
Our fairs specialise in traders selling a...
Charles Chesshire Garden & Nursery - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 9 Aug
Charles Chesshire Garden & Nursery, Bridport DT6 6HH
Set in heavenly Dorset countryside, the ½ acre garden is composed of an intricate web of gravel paths weaving between deep and colourful borders to...
Treehouse Theatre Panto
Tue 11 Aug
The Treehouse, Merritown Lane, Christchurch BH23 6DT
Treehouse Theatre Group is bringing its colourful, interactive, and family-friendly panto to The Treehouse!...
Osprey & Heathland Bird guided Walk at RSPB Arne
Tue 11 Aug
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
Explore the heathland and see stunning reserve views, while spotting Osprey, shore birds and heathland birds with our expert guides...
Circus Cortex at Poundbury, Dorset13-17 August 2026
Thu 13 Aug to Mon 17 Aug
The Great Field, Peverell Avenue East, Poundbury, Dorchester/Dorset. DT1 3RH
Circus Cortex: BizZZar – Poundbury, Dorchester, Dorset
Experience the spectacular Circus Cortex: BizZZar under the Big Top at The Great Field,...
Five Senses Fun Day
Fri 14 Aug
The Treehouse, Merritown Lane, Christchurch BH23 6DT
Explore your senses at our Five Senses Fun Day this summer.
On arrival you’ll get a passport of activities to complete during your session - all...
1C Rectory Road - Open Garden for NGS
Sat 15 Aug and Sun 16 Aug
1C Rectory Road, Poole BH15 3BH
An unusual character house and garden. With a passion for maximalist design the house and garden has been designed and built by the owner over the...
Sip & Paint
Tue 18 Aug
The Four Horsemen, 77-79 Commercial Road, Bournemouth BH2 5RT
Whether you are a beginner or a pro, you will have a relaxing fun evening of painting - and sipping!
We’ll be joined by Eleanor Indigo Art who is...
Osprey & Heathland Bird guided Walk at RSPB Arne
Tue 18 Aug
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
Explore the heathland and see stunning reserve views, while spotting Osprey, shore birds and heathland birds with our expert guides...
Playtime!
Thu 20 Aug
The Treehouse, Merritown Lane, Christchurch BH23 6DT
Come along to The Treehouse for an afternoon where our giant soft play is open to everyone!
Most suitable for ages 3 - 9, our soft play has...
Farrs - Open Garden for NGS
Thu 20 Aug
Farrs, Beaminster DT8 3NB
Enjoy several distinctive walled gardens, rolling lawns, sculpture and giant topiary around one of Beaminster's historic town houses...
Nature at Night - Family Sunset Walk at RSPB Arne
Fri 21 Aug
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
An amazing opportunity for families to experience the reserve during the spectacle of a summer sunset and connect with our nocturnal nature...
Dorchester Mediumship Evening with Nikki Kitt
Fri 21 Aug
Dorchester Corn Exchange
High East Street Dorchester DT1 1HF
Evening of Mediumship with Psychic Medium Nikki Kitt
Psychic Medium Nikki Kitt is a Spiritualist Medium who is currently touring the UK with her...
Osprey & Heathland Bird guided Walk at RSPB Arne
Sat 22 Aug
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
Explore the heathland and see stunning reserve views, while spotting Osprey, shore birds and heathland birds with our expert guides...
Staddlestones - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 23 Aug
Staddlestones, Wimborne BH21 5DE
A beautiful setting for a cottage garden with colour themed borders, pleached limes and hidden gems, leading over a chalk stream to a shady area...
Holme Bush Inn Summer Fair
Sun 23 Aug
Holme Bush Inn
35 Waterloo Road
Corfe Mullen
Wimborne
Dorset BH21 3QD
A family-friendly summer fair packed with over 60 stalls, live music, delicious BBQ food, a bouncy castle, climbing wall, and a full dog show run by...
Playtime!
Wed 26 Aug
The Treehouse, Merritown Lane, Christchurch BH23 6DT
Come along to The Treehouse for an afternoon where our giant soft play is open to everyone!
Most suitable for ages 3 - 9, our soft play has...
Handlebards open-air theatre - Macbeth
Thu 27 Aug to Sat 29 Aug
Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour, Poole BH13 7EE
Experience Shakespeare's classic, 'Macbeth' with the HandleBards' signature blend of energy, humour, and creativity...
Fireworks Cruise
Thu 27 Aug
Coastal Cruises Fortuna
The Quay, Poole BH15 1HJ
Join us for an evening on the seas of Poole Harbour, treat yourself to a chip supper, and enjoy the spectacular fireworks...
Ardhurst - Open Garden for NGS
Sat 29 Aug and Sun 30 Aug
Ardhurst, Sturminster Newton DT10 1JZ
This garden is organic and has been 10 yrs in the making. A plantsmans garden with deep perennial borders, large netted vegetable area, water...
Osprey & Heathland Bird guided Walk at RSPB Arne
Sat 29 Aug
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
Explore the heathland and see stunning reserve views, while spotting Osprey, shore birds and heathland birds with our expert guides...
Sunrise Guided Walk at RSPB Arne - 30th August
Sun 30 Aug
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
Immerse yourself in the peace and quiet of beautiful RSPB Arne, while watching the breath-taking spectacle of sunrise over Poole Harbour...
3 Willow Hamlet - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 30 Aug
3 Willow Hamlet, Christchurch BH23 7PA
A vibrant garden with rich seasonal colour, extensive range of plants to cascading hanging baskets. Paths weave through borders to a pergola framed...
Things to do around Dorset
Here's an extended summary of delightful activities for a day out in Dorset:
1. Eat Around Shaftesbury:
- Shaftesbury, a historic working town with roots dating back to Saxon times, offers a charming day out. Don't miss the iconic Gold Hill, made famous by an advertisement for 'Hovis' bread. Enjoy spectacular views over Blackmore Vale. Explore the town's markets – Thursdays for the charter market, regular farmer's markets, flea markets, and book fairs. Take a leisurely stroll along Park Walk for panoramic vistas. For wine enthusiasts, visit Melbury Vine Vineyard, where you can learn about English wines and their growing prominence.
2. Visit Castles & Coast on the Isle of Purbeck:
- Hop on the steam train to Corfe Castle, an iconic defensive fortress with a rich history. Explore the castle ruins and the historic village below. Guided walks and story trails are perfect for families. Venture further into the Isle of Purbeck, where cycling allows you to appreciate the stunning landscape sustainably. Don't forget to take the scenic Breezer Bus.
3. Learn the History of Dorchester:
- Dorchester, the county town of Dorset, is steeped in history. Visit the Dorset County Museum to delve into local heritage, including the famous Dorset Giant, Thomas Hardy, and Roman artifacts. Explore the charming streets, perhaps stopping for a traditional cream tea or browsing independent shops.
4. Hive Beach to Lyme Regis Coastal Walk:
- Embark on a coastal adventure from Hive Beach to Lyme Regis. The scenic walk offers breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast, fossil-rich cliffs, and the dramatic coastline. Explore the charming town of Lyme Regis, known for its beaches, fossils, and literary connections (think Jane Austen and Mary Anning).
5. Sherborne Castles & Abbey:
- Discover the historic town of Sherborne. Visit the magnificent Sherborne Castle, built by Sir Walter Raleigh, and explore its beautiful gardens. Don't miss Sherborne Abbey, a stunning medieval church with intricate architecture. Wander through the town's quaint streets and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery.
6. Relax at a Day Spa in Dorset:
- Treat yourself to relaxation and rejuvenation at one of Dorset's day spas. Unwind with massages, facials, and soothing treatments amidst tranquil surroundings. Whether it's a coastal spa or a countryside retreat, pamper yourself and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Remember, Dorset offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and coastal charm – perfect for a memorable day out! 🌿🏰🌊¹³.
:
1. Eat Around Shaftesbury:
- Shaftesbury, a historic working town with roots dating back to Saxon times, offers a charming day out. Don't miss the iconic Gold Hill, made famous by an advertisement for 'Hovis' bread. Enjoy spectacular views over Blackmore Vale. Explore the town's markets – Thursdays for the charter market, regular farmer's markets, flea markets, and book fairs. Take a leisurely stroll along Park Walk for panoramic vistas. For wine enthusiasts, visit Melbury Vine Vineyard, where you can learn about English wines and their growing prominence.
2. Visit Castles & Coast on the Isle of Purbeck:
- Hop on the steam train to Corfe Castle, an iconic defensive fortress with a rich history. Explore the castle ruins and the historic village below. Guided walks and story trails are perfect for families. Venture further into the Isle of Purbeck, where cycling allows you to appreciate the stunning landscape sustainably. Don't forget to take the scenic Breezer Bus.
3. Learn the History of Dorchester:
- Dorchester, the county town of Dorset, is steeped in history. Visit the Dorset County Museum to delve into local heritage, including the famous Dorset Giant, Thomas Hardy, and Roman artifacts. Explore the charming streets, perhaps stopping for a traditional cream tea or browsing independent shops.
4. Hive Beach to Lyme Regis Coastal Walk:
- Embark on a coastal adventure from Hive Beach to Lyme Regis. The scenic walk offers breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast, fossil-rich cliffs, and the dramatic coastline. Explore the charming town of Lyme Regis, known for its beaches, fossils, and literary connections (think Jane Austen and Mary Anning).
5. Sherborne Castles & Abbey:
- Discover the historic town of Sherborne. Visit the magnificent Sherborne Castle, built by Sir Walter Raleigh, and explore its beautiful gardens. Don't miss Sherborne Abbey, a stunning medieval church with intricate architecture. Wander through the town's quaint streets and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery.
6. Relax at a Day Spa in Dorset:
- Treat yourself to relaxation and rejuvenation at one of Dorset's day spas. Unwind with massages, facials, and soothing treatments amidst tranquil surroundings. Whether it's a coastal spa or a countryside retreat, pamper yourself and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Remember, Dorset offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and coastal charm – perfect for a memorable day out! 🌿🏰🌊¹³.