Spectacular Summer in Dorset
Spectacular Summer in Dorset
Whether you’re a watersports fanatic, a foodie, enjoy a lively festival or you’re looking for attractions to visit with the family, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained across the county this summer. Read on for our guide to summer 2024 in Dorset!
Food, Music and Family-Friendly Festivals
Dorset has an absolutely jam-packed summer events calendar. Here are just a few to make a note of:
• Wimborne Minster Folk Festival – 7th-9th June
• Summerfest, Weymouth – 8th June
• DorsetFest, Blandford Forum – 21st-22nd June
• The Summer Festival, Sculpture by the Lakes, Dorchester – 25th-29th June
• Sandfest, Poole – 14th July
• Xchurch Music Festival, Christchurch Quay – 19th-21st July
• Camp Bestival, Lulworth Castle – 25th-28th July
• Shaftesbury Fringe – 26th-28th July
• Weymouth Food & Family Festival – 27th-28th July
• Dorset Food and Arts Festival, Poundbury – 3rd August
• VDub at the Pub, Wimborne – 16th-18th August
• Bournemouth Air Festival – 29th-31st August
Attractions
Sculpture by the Lakes, Dorchester
This tranquil site features a variety of contemporary sculptures set amidst beautifully landscaped grounds. It's an ideal location for a peaceful stroll, offering artistic inspiration and an escape from the hustle and bustle.
Sherborne Castle and Gardens
Built by Sir Walter Raleigh in the 16th century, Sherborne Castle is surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland. Visitors can explore the historic interiors, enjoy the picturesque landscapes and participate in family-friendly events throughout the summer.
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, Weymouth
These beautifully landscaped gardens are home to a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers. With stunning views of the Jurassic Coast, the gardens offer a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll and are particularly vibrant in the summer months.
Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park
This marine life park features a wide range of zones, including an ocean tunnel, fairy penguin island and turtle sanctuary. It provides an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages, showcasing the diversity of marine life. On a warm day, kids can cool off and play in the water jets at the Castaway Bay Splash Zone and Pool.
Kingston Lacy, Wimborne
This elegant 17th century Italian inspired country mansion, managed by the National Trust, features lavish interiors and expansive gardens. Summer is the perfect time to explore the vibrant flower beds, take a stroll in the Japanese garden or have a picnic in the parkland.
Dorset Waterpark
For some adventurous fun, head to Dorset Waterpark near Corfe Castle. This inflatable obstacle course on a lake is perfect for cooling off on a hot day. With separate sections for adults and children, it guarantees a splash-filled day for all ages.
Brownsea Island
Accessible by ferry from Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island is a haven for wildlife and outdoor adventure. Managed by the National Trust, the island is famous for its red squirrels, peacocks and diverse bird species. Enjoy scenic walks, picnic spots and the serene atmosphere of this natural retreat.
Celebrate Summer Solstice
The longest day of the year, Thursday 20th June, is nearly upon us!
If you don’t mind an early start, you can head to Arne RSPB Reserve in Swanage for a 4am walk through farmers’ fields and heathland on the way to Shipstal shoreline in time for a breathtaking sunrise overlooking Poole harbour.
At Hurn Event Field from 8pm, you can conquer the coals and try a firewalk! The event raises funds for Wessex Cancer Support and includes games provided by Dorset Adventure Sports, music, local food, hot drinks and the opportunity to camp under the stars.
Beaches
Bournemouth Beach stretches over seven miles along the coast, offering pristine sandy shores and clear waters. It's perfect for families with its numerous amenities, including kiosks, arcade games, seaside bars, restaurants and beach shops. On Bournemouth Pier you can enjoy funfair rides and try your hand at zip-lining.
Hengistbury Head has a blend of sandy and pebbly shores with stunning views of the Isle of Wight and Christchurch Harbour. The area is a designated nature reserve, rich in wildlife and perfect for hiking and birdwatching. It's an excellent spot for a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature.
Weymouth Beach is a gently sloping, sandy beach that's ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is known for its traditional seaside attractions, such as donkey rides and Punch and Judy shows. The nearby harbour offers a charming array of pubs, restaurants and shops, making it a lively spot for visitors.
Ringstead Bay is a secluded pebble beach located near Weymouth. Accessible by a narrow, winding road or a scenic walk along the South West Coast Path, this National Trust beach offers stunning views of the Jurassic Coast. With fewer visitors and limited facilities, Ringstead Bay is ideal for a picnic, fossil hunting and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Watersports
Weymouth and Portland are prime destinations for sailing and windsurfing, with consistently good wind conditions and sheltered waters. The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, which hosted the sailing events during the 2012 Olympics, offers courses and facilities for all levels. Additionally, Weymouth Beach is perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking, with equipment hire and lessons readily available. The clear, shallow waters make it an excellent place for beginners to get started.
Bournemouth Beach is not just for sunbathing, it’s also a hotspot for various watersports. Sorted Surf School in Boscombe offers surfing and paddleboarding lessons and board rentals. The coastal waters provide a safe environment for beginners.
Sandbanks Beach is renowned for its waterskiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing and sailing opportunities. This upscale beach area offers equipment rental and lessons through companies like Easy Riders and The Watersports Academy, along with beautiful sandy shores.
Dining Al Fresco
The Priory Hotel, Wareham: share an afternoon tea with a loved one on the terrace overlooking the River Frome.
Summer Lodge, Evershot: luxurious dining on the terrace, surrounded by lush, manicured gardens and Dorset’s beautiful countryside. Meals are made with local ingredients and produce grown in the hotel gardens and polytunnels.
The Crab House Café, Weymouth: rustic outdoor seating with views of Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon. Specialises in locally sourced seafood, including its own oyster beds.
Upwey Wishing Well, Weymouth: charming garden café surrounded by picturesque greenery. The soothing sounds of the natural spring add to the peaceful dining experience.
The Eastbury, Sherborne: locally sourced dishes served in a charming, historic environment and idyllic garden setting.
The Olive Branch, Wimborne: large outdoor terrace with a Mediterranean ambiance and delicious seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.
The Crown Hotel, Blandford: beautiful garden terrace serving traditional British fare with a contemporary twist using local produce.
The Jetty, Christchurch: fresh, locally sourced seafood and contemporary dishes with stunning views over Christchurch Harbour.
If you’re not already a local, we hope we’ve tempted you to make the move to our beautiful county. From modern apartments to country cottages, we have a variety of properties to rent or buy across the county. With offices across Dorset and over 30 years’ expertise, we can help you find your dream home – get in touch today!
Added: 1st June 2024
