Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
What's On in Dorset
To search the listings, enter a keyword, location and/or date in the boxes below.
When entering a location, select the best location match from the list that appears, then click Go.
Click here to clear your search.
Cool Coast Ice Rink
1st January-22nd February 2026
Venue: Bournemouth International Centre
Website: www.coolcoasticerink.co.uk
Ice skating experience - see website for details
The Walled Bug Trail
7th-22nd February 2026
Venue: The Walled Garden, Moreton
Website: www.walledgardenmoreton.co.uk
Follow your map, explore the gardens, complete the quiz, find the ladybirds and claim your prize
WW2 Week Half Term
13th-22nd February 2026
Venue: Nothe Fort
Website: www.nothefort.org.uk
Explore Weymouth's role in World War II
Adventure Valley Land Rovers
14th-22nd February 2026
Venue: Moors Valley
Website: www.moors-valley.co.uk
Exciting off-road journey in mini electric Land Rovers
Become a Nature Detective in February Half Term
14th-22nd February 2026
Venue: Studland Bay
Website: www.nationaltrust.org,uk/visit/dorset/studland-bay
Visit the Knoll Beach visitor reception between 10am to 3pm to borrow one of the Nature Detective bags to help you on your nature dtecting journey. In addition, a small number of sensory bags are avilable
Gilbert the Godwit Trail
14th-22nd February 2026
Venue: Studland Bay
Website: www.nationaltrust.org,uk/visit/dorset/studland-bay
Pick up a trail sheet from Knoll Beach Visitor Reception where you can follow the numbered posts as you help Gilbert on your way around the trail. Find out what he needs to help him prepare for a long...
Moors Valley Railway
14th-22nd February 2026
Venue: Moors Valley
Website: www.moors-valley.co.uk
Ride on an authentic steam train around Moors Valley Country Park
The Things We Love Trail
15th-22nd February 2026
Venue: Highcliffe Cstle
Website: www.highcliffecastle.co.uk
Indoor trail running Sunday to Thursday along with activities. Crafts available on Tuesday and Thursday and included in Castle admission
Ranger Den
17th-20th February 2026
Venue: Moors Valley
Website: www.moors-valley.co.uk
Learn about the native birds, engage with the knowledgeable rangers and get crafty with a selection of activities
Light Up The Prom
27th-27th February 2026
Venue: Bournemouth Pier and Beach
Website: www.uhdcharity.org
Evening of remembrance and togetherness
Stagecoach Charity Gala
28th-28th February 2026
Venue: Bournemouth Pavilion
Website: www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk
Evening with entertainment provided by Stagecoach Performing Arts school featuring songs from a variety of famous musicals raising funds for local charities
Family Neurodivergent Nature Walk
7th-7th March 2026
Venue: Studland Bay
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/studland-bay
Walk for neurodivergent families to connect and enjoy nature together - see the website for details
Abbotsbury Swannery reopens
14th-14th March 2026
Venue: Abbotsbury Swannery
Website: www.abbotsburyswannery.co.uk
Swannery opens for the summer season
Mother's Day Afternoon Tea
14th-15th March 2026
Venue: Farmer Palmer's Farm Park
Website: www.farmerpalmers.co.uk
See the website for details
Daffodil Week
15th-19th March 2026
Venue: Mapperton
Website: www.mapperton.com
Enjoy daffodils, crocuses and primroses as the gardens open for 2026
Mother's Day Afternoon Tea
15th-15th March 2026
Venue: Mapperton
Website: www.mapperton.com
Relaxed afternoon tea experience
Mother's Day Afternoon Tea
15th-15th March 2026
Venue: Gullivers Farm Shop
Website: www.gulliversfarmshop.co.uk
Afternoon tea event - see website for details
Park to Pier Walk
Venue: Swanage Pier/Durlston Castle
Website: www.swanagepiertrust.com
Guided walk from Durlston Castle to Swanage Pier learning about the wildlife geology and history of Durlston Country Park and Swanage