Find details of Tourist Attractions - Dorset, England.
Including Theme Parks, Water Parks and popular places to visit.
Discover Poole Museum & Scaplen's Court, one of Dorset's most fascinating cultural attractions, where centuries of local history come to life in beautifully restored historic buildings. Explore engaging exhibitions, medieval architecture, the tranquil walled garden and the remarkable maritime story of Poole, all just moments from Poole Quay and Europe's largest natural harbour. Perfect for families, history lovers and anyone looking to uncover one of Dorset's best hidden gems.
Experience Jurassic Fields Festival 2026 from 14–16 August at West Bay Fields near Bridport. One of Dorset's favourite family-friendly music festivals, Jurassic Fields features headline live music, DJs, tribute acts, camping, children's entertainment, street food and a fantastic atmosphere close to the Jurassic Coast. Find event dates, ticket information, camping options and everything you need to plan your visit.
Plan your visit to Nothe Fort, one of Weymouth's most unique historic attractions. Explore underground tunnels, a secret Cold War bunker, Victorian gun emplacements and breathtaking views across Weymouth Bay, Portland Harbour and the Jurassic Coast. Discover opening times, ticket information, accessibility, facilities and everything you need to enjoy an unforgettable family day out in Dorset.
Celebrate the beginning of 2027 with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s New Year’s Day Viennese Gala at Lighthouse, Poole. Taking place on Friday 1 January, this uplifting afternoon concert features sweeping Strauss waltzes, lively polkas, orchestral favourites and vocal performances from soprano Claudia Boyle. Expect famous pieces including The Blue Danube, Emperor Waltz and Offenbach’s Can-Can during an elegant musical celebration inspired by Vienna’s traditional New Year concerts.
Plan your visit to Corfe Castle, one of Dorset's most iconic National Trust attractions. Discover the dramatic thousand-year-old castle ruins, breathtaking views across the Purbeck Hills, fascinating royal history and family-friendly activities. From ticket prices and opening times to facilities, accessibility and nearby attractions, this guide includes everything you need to enjoy one of the best historic days out in Dorset.
Discover why Moors Valley Country Park & Forest is one of the best family attractions in Dorset. Explore over 1,000 acres of beautiful woodland, enjoy scenic walking and cycling trails, tackle the famous Play Trail, ride the miniature steam railway, take on Go Ape adventures and experience seasonal events throughout the year. Whether you're planning an active family day out or a relaxing escape into nature, Moors Valley offers unforgettable outdoor adventures for visitors of all ages.
The Bridport Literary Festival 2026 takes place from 7-14 November, bringing a week of inspiring author talks, workshops and literary events to venues across Bridport. Featuring fiction, history, poetry, politics, nature writing and more, BridLit is one of Dorset's leading cultural festivals, welcoming readers of all ages to celebrate books, ideas and creativity.
Experience the Swanage Folk Festival 2026 from 11–13 September, when the Dorset seaside town comes alive with folk music, Morris dancing, workshops and family entertainment. With free street performances, ticketed concerts, a lively ceilidh and a bustling craft fair, it's one of Dorset's most popular annual music festivals and a fantastic weekend for visitors of all ages.
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.
Discover why Dorset Adventure Park is one of the most exciting family attractions in Dorset. Take on the giant inflatable waterpark across two lakes, conquer the muddy obstacle trail and enjoy an action-packed day beneath the stunning backdrop of Corfe Castle. Whether you're visiting with family, friends or celebrating a special occasion, it's a fun-filled outdoor adventure packed with laughs, splashes and unforgettable memories.
Experience We Out Here Festival at the stunning St Giles House Estate near Wimborne St Giles. One of the UK's leading music festivals, We Out Here combines world-class jazz, soul, hip-hop, house and electronic music with arts, wellness, family activities and camping in the heart of the Dorset countryside. Find event dates, ticket information, camping options and everything you need to plan your visit.
Plan your visit to Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre, one of Dorset's most popular family attractions. Home to more than 250 rescued monkeys and apes across 65 acres of woodland, Monkey World offers unforgettable wildlife encounters, daily keeper talks, adventure play areas and inspiring conservation work. Discover ticket prices, opening times, facilities, accessibility and everything you need to enjoy one of the best days out near Wareham and the Jurassic Coast.
DorsetFest 2027 takes place on 18-19 June 2027 at Warren Farm, Bulbarrow, bringing a weekend of live music, camping and family entertainment to the heart of Dorset. With performances, children's activities, food stalls and local traders, this volunteer-run festival raises money for local charities and community projects. The full 2027 line-up and ticket details will be added as soon as organisers release further information.
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.
Planning a family day out in Dorset? Discover everything you need to know about Farmer Palmer's Farm Park near Poole and Wareham. Designed especially for children aged 0-8, this award-winning attraction offers friendly farm animals, daily animal activities, tractor rides, indoor soft play, outdoor adventures and seasonal events. Find ticket prices, opening times, facilities, accessibility and visitor tips to help you make the most of one of Dorset's favourite family attractions.
Visit the Cattistock Countryside Show 2026 on Sunday 19 July for one of Dorset's best-loved agricultural events. Enjoy livestock competitions, equestrian displays, the famous Dorset Knob Throwing Championship, vintage vehicles, local food, shopping and family entertainment in the heart of the Dorset countryside. Advance tickets are available, making this a fantastic summer day out for all ages.
Discover why Moors Valley Country Park & Forest is one of Dorset's best family days out. From beautiful woodland walks and the famous Play Trail to steam train rides, Go Ape adventures, cycling and huge outdoor play areas, it's a place where every visit feels different. Whether you're looking for adventure, fresh air or a relaxing escape into nature, Moors Valley is a destination you'll want to return to again and again.
Illuminate 2027 is expected to return to The Blue Pool near Wareham, bringing one of Dorset's most enchanting winter light trails back to the county. While official dates and ticket details are yet to be announced, visitors can look forward to illuminated woodland walks, colourful light displays and a magical evening experience. This page will be updated as soon as the organisers release further information for Illuminate 2027.
The Tolpuddle Martyrs' Festival returns to Dorset in July 2027, bringing together history, live music, inspiring speakers and family-friendly entertainment in the historic village of Tolpuddle. With a packed programme of talks, workshops, camping and the iconic Sunday march and rally, it's one of Dorset's most unique summer festivals celebrating the legacy of the Tolpuddle Martyrs.
Plan your visit to The Tank Museum, one of Dorset's top-rated family attractions near Wareham. Home to the world's finest collection of almost 300 historic tanks, the museum offers interactive exhibitions, live tank displays, family activities and inspiring wartime stories. Discover ticket prices, opening times, accessibility, facilities, annual passes and everything you need to enjoy one of the best indoor days out in Dorset.
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.
Experience the Bournemouth Reggae Weekender 2027 at King's Park. One of Dorset's biggest summer music festivals, the event features live reggae, ska and dancehall performances, Caribbean food, family entertainment and a vibrant festival atmosphere. Find event dates, ticket information, opening times, venue details and everything you need to plan your visit to this popular Bournemouth festival.
Visit the Mudeford Arts Festival in July 2027 at Mudeford Quay, Christchurch. This free Dorset arts festival celebrates local creativity with artists, handmade crafts, live music, demonstrations, food and family-friendly entertainment in a beautiful harbourside setting. It's one of Christchurch's most popular summer events and a wonderful weekend for visitors of all ages.
Discover Poole Harbour, one of Dorset's most iconic natural attractions and the largest natural harbour in Europe. From scenic waterfront walks and unforgettable boat trips to watersports, wildlife and stunning views across Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour offers something for every visitor. Whether you're planning a family day out, a coastal adventure or simply looking to relax by the water, this guide includes everything you need to plan your visit.
Turn up the heat at the Great Dorset Chilli Festival 2026, taking place on 1-2 August at the beautiful Stock Gaylard Estate near Sturminster Newton. One of Dorset's favourite food festivals, the event features chilli eating competitions, over 125 artisan traders, cooking demonstrations, live music, family entertainment and delicious street food. Find event dates, ticket prices and everything you need to plan your visit.
Plan your visit to Upton Country Park in Poole, one of Dorset's most popular free attractions. Explore 160 acres of award-winning gardens, woodland trails, Poole Harbour views and the historic Upton House. With family-friendly play areas, dog-friendly walks, seasonal events, accessible facilities and a welcoming café, it's the perfect destination for a relaxing day out near Poole and Bournemouth.
Visit the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival 2026 on 12-13 September for one of Dorset's favourite food festivals. Discover artisan cheeses, local food and drink, craft stalls, live music and family entertainment in the heart of the Blackmore Vale. Celebrating the area's rich dairy heritage, it's a must-visit event for food lovers and one of the tastiest weekends on the Dorset events calendar.
Celebrate summer at the Christchurch Music Festival, one of Dorset's biggest live music weekends. Taking place in July at the beautiful Christchurch Quay, the festival features live music, tribute acts, chart-topping performers, street food, bars and family-friendly entertainment. Find event dates, ticket information, opening times, venue details and everything you need to plan your visit to this popular Dorset music festival.
The Lyme Regis Fossil and Earth Science Festival 2027 returns on 12–13 June 2027, bringing two days of fossils, science and family fun to Dorset's Jurassic Coast. Enjoy expert talks, guided fossil walks, interactive exhibits, live entertainment and hands-on activities in the home of Mary Anning. With free entry and events for all ages, it's one of Dorset's most fascinating annual festivals.
The Dorset Seafood Festival 2027 is expected to return to Weymouth Harbour in early July, celebrating the very best of Dorset's seafood, local food and coastal culture. While the 2027 dates and programme are yet to be confirmed, visitors can look forward to fresh seafood, chef demonstrations, artisan stalls and live entertainment at one of Dorset's most popular free festivals. This page will be updated as soon as organisers release further information.
Join the Dorset WALX Festival 2026 from 17-20 September for four days of guided walks, workshops and outdoor adventures across the Jurassic Coast and Purbeck. Discover iconic Dorset locations including Old Harry Rocks, Corfe Castle and Dancing Ledge, with walks for all abilities, wellbeing sessions and a friendly festival atmosphere. Advance booking is required with festival passes available online.
Plan your visit to The Blue Pool Nature Reserve, one of Dorset's most enchanting attractions near Wareham. Famous for its extraordinary colour-changing lake, peaceful woodland walks and beautiful Art Deco Tearooms, The Blue Pool is a perfect day out for families, couples, dog walkers and nature lovers. Find opening times, ticket prices, accessibility, facilities and everything you need to enjoy this unique Isle of Purbeck beauty spot.
Visit Melplash Show 2026 on Thursday 27 August at West Bay Showground near Bridport. One of Dorset's biggest agricultural events, the show features livestock and equestrian competitions, over 400 trade stands, local food and drink, countryside demonstrations, family activities and the popular Discover Farming marquee. Find event dates, ticket prices and everything you need to plan your visit to this much-loved West Dorset tradition.
Plan your visit to Brownsea Island, one of Dorset's most extraordinary National Trust destinations. Discover peaceful woodland walks, rare red squirrels, spectacular wildlife, family-friendly adventures and breathtaking views across Poole Harbour. From ferry information and opening times to facilities, accessibility and visitor tips, this guide has everything you need to enjoy an unforgettable day on one of Dorset's most iconic islands.
Celebrate Bourne Free Pride Festival 2027 in Bournemouth, with three days of live entertainment, community celebrations and family-friendly activities at Meyrick Park. Featuring the annual Pride Parade, live music, market stalls and a free Family Fun Day, it's one of Dorset's biggest and most colourful summer festivals.
Plan your visit to Poole Museum & Scaplen's Court, one of Dorset's most fascinating heritage attractions. Explore interactive exhibitions, beautifully restored medieval buildings, peaceful historic gardens and the rich maritime story of Poole, all just moments from Poole Quay. Whether you're interested in local history, architecture or looking for a free family-friendly attraction, this visitor guide includes everything you need to plan an unforgettable visit.
Visit Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, one of Dorset's most beautiful attractions near Weymouth and the Jurassic Coast. Explore over 30 acres of exotic planting, rare species, woodland walks, tranquil ponds and spectacular seasonal displays within a unique subtropical microclimate. Perfect for garden lovers, photographers, families and anyone looking for an unforgettable day out in Dorset.
The B Sharp Busking Festival 2027 is expected to return to Lyme Regis in late June, bringing a day of free live music, street performances and family-friendly entertainment to Dorset's Jurassic Coast. While the 2027 date and programme are yet to be confirmed, visitors can look forward to talented young musicians, interactive workshops and a vibrant festival atmosphere. This page will be updated as soon as organisers release further details.
Enjoy Stompin' on the Quomps 2026, Christchurch's much-loved free smooth jazz festival, taking place on Saturday 1 August at The Quomps. Celebrate 30 years of live music with talented jazz performers, delicious food and drink, a welcoming family atmosphere and stunning riverside views. Find event dates, admission details, opening times and everything you need to plan your visit to one of Dorset's most relaxing summer music events.
The Bournemouth Writing Festival 2027 is set to return to Bournemouth from 23-25 April 2027, bringing together writers, authors and publishing professionals for a weekend of talks, workshops and networking events. While the full programme is still to be announced, visitors can expect over 100 free and ticketed activities across Bournemouth town centre. This page will be updated as soon as organisers release further details.
Discover Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park, one of Dorset's top family attractions. Meet sharks, seals, rescued sea turtles and Europe's only colony of Fairy Penguins, explore immersive marine exhibits and enjoy a fun-filled day out near Weymouth Beach and Lodmoor Country Park.
Discover the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show 2026, taking place on 19–20 August at the Turnpike Showground near Shaftesbury. One of Dorset's biggest agricultural shows, the event features champion livestock, equestrian competitions, medieval jousting, countryside demonstrations, over 350 trade stands, local food and drink, family entertainment and hands-on farming activities. Find event dates, ticket information and everything you need to plan your visit to this much-loved Dorset rural event.
Discover Kingston Lacy in Dorset, a stunning National Trust estate near Wimborne featuring a grand Venetian-style mansion, Egyptian artefacts, formal gardens and 8,500 acres of parkland. Explore woodland walks, Japanese gardens, family trails and historic interiors on one of Dorset’s top days out near Bournemouth and Poole.
Experience Dorset Coastal Cruises from Weymouth and discover the breathtaking Jurassic Coast from the sea. Departing from Weymouth Harbour, enjoy scenic boat trips, sunset cruises, live music events and family-friendly adventures aboard one of Dorset's newest coastal attractions.
Experience Dorset County Show at Dorchester Showground on the first weekend of September. One of the county's biggest annual events, the show celebrates Dorset's farming, food and countryside with livestock competitions, equestrian displays, local food and drink, family entertainment, shopping, rural demonstrations and over 450 trade stands. Find event dates, ticket information and everything you need to plan your visit to this much-loved Dorset tradition.
Looking for the best campsites in Dorset? We have rounded up some of our favourite places for camping across the county, from coastal campsites near Weymouth, Bridport and the Jurassic Coast to countryside sites close to Corfe Castle, Poole and Purbeck. Discover family-friendly holiday parks, traditional tent camping, dog-friendly stays and campsites within walking distance of some of Dorset's most famous beaches and attractions.
Dancing Terraces returns to Pavilion Dance South West for summer 2026, bringing free outdoor dance sessions to the Garden Terrace beside Bournemouth’s seafront. Every Friday and Saturday evening in August, visitors can join professional dancers, musicians and DJs for styles ranging from Commercial and African dance to Bollywood, Vintage Jazz, Hip Hop, Ceilidh and Salsa. No booking or previous dance experience is required, making this a relaxed, family-friendly way to enjoy a summer evening in Bournemouth.
Celebrate Bridport Hat Festival 2026 on Saturday 5 September, one of Dorset's most colourful and quirky free events. Expect creative hats, live music, family entertainment, fun competitions, the famous mass hat photo, delicious food and a fantastic community atmosphere throughout Bridport. Find event dates, visitor information and everything you need to enjoy one of the county's most unique annual festivals.
Discover Purbeck Valley Folk Festival 2026, taking place from 20–23 August at Purbeck Valley Farm near Corfe Castle. This award-winning Dorset festival brings together outstanding folk, roots and world music with family entertainment, creative workshops, camping and spectacular countryside views. Find event dates, ticket information, camping options and everything you need to plan your visit to one of Dorset's most welcoming summer festivals.
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.
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