5) What’s on in May in Dorset

The Art & Makers Market Bournemouth is located in Westover Gardens, next to the new Aviary. The market was established over 60 years ago and is one of the largest, and longest running, open air art displays in the country. This is a free attraction run as not for profit by local artists & creatives.

The Dorset Blind Association Motor Show 2027 is expected to return to Lulworth Castle in May, bringing together an impressive display of classic cars, supercars and family entertainment in support of a fantastic local charity. While the 2027 date and programme are yet to be confirmed, visitors can look forward to one of Dorset's favourite motoring events. This page will be updated as soon as official details are released.

The Dorset Spring Show 2027 is expected to return to Puddletown near Dorchester in early May, celebrating the very best of Dorset's farming, food and countryside. While official dates and ticket details are yet to be announced, visitors can look forward to livestock displays, family entertainment, local food, rural demonstrations and much more. This page will be updated as soon as organisers release further information.

Every year, Poole hosts the two-day Magic of Thailand Festival, which introduces the lively customs and culture of Thailand to Dorset's Harbourside Park. Over the course of the weekend, guests can savour real Thai food, peruse a vibrant Thai market with produce, arts, and crafts, and take in cultural activities like Muay Thai boxing demonstrations and traditional performance. Traditional Thai massages are offered for relaxation, and family-friendly entertainment is guaranteed in the dedicated children's play area.

Bike Nights on Poole Quay 2026 takes place every Tuesday from 7 April to 29 September, bringing hundreds of motorcycles and thousands of visitors to Poole's historic waterfront. From classic and custom bikes to modern superbikes, this free weekly event is one of Dorset's best-loved motoring attractions, offering a fantastic atmosphere alongside the many pubs, restaurants and cafés that line Poole Quay.

Park Yoga Poole 2026 takes place every Sunday from 3 May to 13 September, offering free outdoor yoga sessions in the beautiful surroundings of Poole Park. Open to all ages and abilities, the friendly one-hour classes are ideal for beginners and experienced participants alike. No booking is required, so simply bring a mat or towel, some water and enjoy a relaxed morning of movement, mindfulness and community wellbeing.

On Sunday, 17 May 2026, The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride will occur in cities worldwide, uniting riders to support Movember’s efforts in raising funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health. The Bournemouth-Poole ride, one of the largest globally and the biggest in the UK, attracts approximately 1,000 riders and ranks among the top fundraisers.

Sherborne Abbey Festival 2027 is expected to return to Sherborne from Thu 29th Apr to Thu 6th May 2027, celebrating world-class music in the beautiful surroundings of Sherborne Abbey and venues across the town. While the 2027 programme is yet to be announced, visitors can look forward to a week of classical, choral, opera and jazz performances. This page will be updated as soon as official festival details are released.

The Shaftesbury Food Festival 2027 returns on Sunday 2 May 2027, celebrating the very best of Dorset food and drink in the heart of historic Shaftesbury. Expect artisan food stalls, local producers, live chef demonstrations, family entertainment and the famous Gold Hill Cheese Race. The full programme is still to be announced, and this page will be updated as soon as organisers release further information.