Discover seven brilliant things to do in Dorset this September, from food festivals and country shows to coastal walks, live music and arts events.
24th August 2026
Photo: Unsplash
September might just be one of Dorset’s loveliest months. The beaches are quieter, the countryside is beginning to take on its autumn colours and there’s still every chance of a warm afternoon beside the sea. Add food festivals, live music, country shows and some fascinating opportunities to explore Dorset’s heritage, and there is plenty to tempt us out.
Here are seven of our favourite ways to enjoy Dorset this September.
Dorset County Show returns near Dorchester on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, bringing together the very best of the county’s farming, food and rural traditions.
Expect livestock competitions, heavy horses, countryside demonstrations, local producers and plenty of entertainment in the show rings. This year’s highlights include monster trucks, equestrian displays and live music from The Wurzels on Saturday. It’s big, lively and brilliantly Dorset.
Hidden among the peacocks, gardens and woodland of Larmer Tree Gardens, End of the Road is one of Dorset’s most distinctive music festivals.
Taking place from 3 to 6 September, the 2026 festival is headlined by Pulp, CMAT and Mac DeMarco, alongside an eclectic mix of music, comedy, literature, cinema and late-night performances. Even by festival standards, the setting is rather magical.
Cheese lovers, this one deserves a place in the diary. Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival returns on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September, celebrating local food and the county’s cheesemaking heritage in the heart of the Blackmore Vale.
Alongside plenty of cheese to taste and take home, visitors can browse stalls from artisan food and drink producers, meet local makers and enjoy live entertainment throughout the weekend. Come hungry and leave with a very full shopping bag.
Dorset Architectural Heritage Week forms part of the national Heritage Open Days celebration, running from 11 to 20 September.
It’s a rare opportunity to explore historic buildings, unusual landmarks and normally inaccessible spaces across the county, with guided walks and behind-the-scenes tours among the programme. Highlights include special events at Corfe Castle, Nothe Fort, Portland Port, Dorset History Centre and several remarkable buildings around East Dorset. Many activities are free, although advance booking may be required.
Bournemouth will be transformed by colour, performance and creativity when Arts by the Sea returns on 25 and 26 September.
The free festival brings art installations, music, dance and live performances into public spaces around the town. The 2026 theme is Elemental, exploring the forces that connect people with one another and the natural world. It’s always full of unexpected moments, so leave time to wander rather than planning every minute.
Photo: Unsplash
September is one of the best times to rediscover Dorset’s coastline. The main summer rush has eased, but the days can still be warm enough for a picnic, a paddle or lunch outside with a sea view.
Try the cliff path between Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, walk from Studland towards Old Harry Rocks or head west for the climb up Golden Cap. Start early, pack a light layer and allow plenty of time to stop and admire the views.
Photo: Unsplash
September brings that lovely in-between season when we’re not quite ready to say goodbye to summer, but the first autumn flavours are beginning to appear.
Look out for local apples, blackberries, squash and late-summer tomatoes at Dorset’s farm shops and markets. Follow it with a leisurely Sunday roast in a country pub, or squeeze in one last fish-and-chip supper beside the sea. September sunsets are often particularly beautiful - and you won’t have to wait quite so late to see one.
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