Explore the best of Dorset this Winter
Explore the best of Dorset this Winter
With crisp coastal and countryside walks surrounded by beautiful Dorset landscapes, cosy pubs with roaring fireplaces, a huge range of festive activities, and independent businesses selling something for everyone, there is great fun to be had for all the family across the county in winter.
Have a read of our blog to discover the best of Dorset this winter.
Festive Events
You can check out our recent blog for a packed schedule of Christmas events taking place across Dorset, but here are even more magical attractions that you may not know about.
New for 2022, the Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival features dazzling illuminations from the Lighthouse, through the town centre to Falkland Square and down the high street to Poole Quay. There are market stalls along the high street and kids can enjoy the funfair on the Quay. You can even book a Christmas Lights Cruise in the harbour.
Swanage Railway’s Steam and Lights is returning this December for a magical journey through the Isle of Purbeck countryside, passing the historic ruins of Corfe Castle, with stations along the line specially lit. Adorned with brightly coloured lights with the cosy interiors festively decorated, stepping on board the steam locomotive for the one-hour evening adventure will certainly be a memorable experience.
Corfe Castle near Wareham will be hosting various activities for its Christmas at Corfe Castle event. Explore the castle and learn about different winter traditions on the family trail, gather around a fire pit with a hot beverage and toast marshmallows, and travel back to the 17th century on an interactive journey through the castle ruins with the ‘Lord of Misrule’.
Winter Walks
Did you know that winter is the best time of year to find fossils? Head to Charmouth Beach for a walk and discover what the storms and crashing waves have churned up.
Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are extremely popular Dorset landmarks but during winter the area will be much quieter. Have a bracing walk between the two iconic locations, exploring the Jurassic coast as you go.
Winter is the perfect time to gaze at Dorset’s breath-taking sunsets. Enjoy a walk at Colmer’s Hill, Eggardon Hill, Pulpit Rock at Portland Bill and Abbotsbury Hill and take in the stunning panoramic views.
Shop Small this Christmas
It’s so important now more than ever to support our local economy. Selling food, arts and crafts, jewellery, music and more, Dorset has a fantastic range of independent businesses.
For some Christmas gift ideas, we’ve listed a few to visit across the county.
Dorchester
Vinyl Van: For the vinyl collector, Vinyl Van sell new and used records covering a variety of genres, from reggae and hip hop to rock and blues.
Magpie: Located in Poundbury, Magpie sell homewares, cards, bags, garden sculpture and jewellery – all of which make great gifts!
Weymouth
La Luna: Lovely place for gifts and souvenirs, including clothes and jewellery.
SW Coast Refills: Eco-friendly and ‘zero waste’, you can have a guilt free shopping experience knowing that you’re helping the planet. As well as food, the refill shop also sells a variety of useful gifts.
Wimborne
Present Company: An independent gift shop selling gadgets, mugs, socks, jewellery, handbags, quirky signs, toys and ‘Make Your Own’ kits for kids.
Designs on West Borough: Family-run art gallery featuring ceramics, paintings and sculptures.
Sherborne
Suzie Watson Designs: Looking for something for a home décor lover? Head to this store for hand-carved furniture, handmade cushions and hand painted pottery.
Winstone’s Bookshop: This award-winning independent bookshop has over 9000 titles so you’re bound to find the book/s on your loved one’s Christmas list.
Blandford
Hambledon Gallery: Selling a variety of home and lifestyle products, such as fragrances and candles, this award-winning shop has been open since 1962.
Edie-Mae’s Gallery: With unique work from over 30 artists, designers and makers, you’ll be sure to tick off your Christmas shopping list. Take a break by enjoying a cuppa and homemade cake in the tea room.
Shaftesbury
Willow Natural: From beauty gifts to stationery and footwear, Willow Natural sell a range of products all made with natural fibres.
The Potting Shed Garden Shop: For green-fingered gift recipients, have a browse in the garden centre and gift shop.
We hope you enjoyed our mini guide to exploring Dorset this winter. Wrap up warm, get those decorations up, sip on a mulled wine and relax, you deserve it!
From all of us at Dorset Property, have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Added: 30th November 2022
