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
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Summer Events for Children in Dorset
1st July-2nd September 2019
Venue: Dorset
Website: https://www.primarytimes.co.uk/dorset/news/2019/07/summer-events-and-activities-in-dorset
Long sunny days, light evenings and six whole weeks of play – what’s not to love about the summer? Here’s just a few suggestions to help make your summer supersonic! Top Ten Beach...
Summer Live
12th July-26th August 2019
Venue: The Square
Address: Bournemouth, BH2 6EG
Website: www.summerlive.co.uk
Featuring live music every day, face painting and watch the artists in action in their huts as they paint, draw and create. During the last 2 weeks of August there will be additional children’s entertainment.
Medieval Games
20th July-31st August 2019
Time: 10am to 5pm
Venue: Corfe Castle
Address: Wareham, BH20 5EZ
Also 21, 22 and 23 July, 20, 21, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 August. Have fun with friends and family playing traditional games as you explore the castle ruins. Call 01929 481294.
Summer Fun on Brownsea
20th July-1st September 2019
Time: 10am to 4pm
Venue: Brownsea Island
Address: Poole, BH13 7EE
Explore nature and adventure on Brownsea. Try out a free trail, meet some creatures that make the shoreline their home, have a go at the tree climbing trail or get creative on the nature rubbing trail....
Summer Holiday at the Tank Museum
20th July-1st September 2019
Venue: The Tank Museum
Address: Bovington, BH20 6JG
Website: www.tankmuseum.org
Summer holiday fun with weekday Tank in Action displays- with realistic lifelike explosions and expert commentary- family trails, lots of family activities, an outdoor play area and tonnes of fun!
Hydro High Dive
22nd July-1st September 2019
Time: 10am to 5.30pm
Venue: Crealy Theme Park and Resort
Address: Sidmouth Road, Clyst Sty Mary, Exeter, EX5 1DR
Website: www.crealy.co.uk
Direct from the USA, this High Dive show has a fireman theme. Be amazed watching the Crealy Brigade fight the fires and jump from heights of 80ft into the pool below. The show will be performed every Monday...
Summer Holiday at Kingston Lacy
22nd July-1st September 2019
Time: 10am to 4pm
Venue: Kingston Lacy
Address: Wimborne, BH21 4EA
Keep little explorers busy all summer with plenty of opportunities to relax and discover nature throughout July and August. Call 01202 883402.
Creepy Crawly Day
23rd-23rd July 2019
Venue: Groves Nurseries
Address: West Bay Road, Bridport, DT6 4BA
Website: https://grovesnurseries.co.uk
Find out more about these exotic animals in this interactive, fun and educational experience. Meet Darcie and Elizabeth the Giant African Land Snails, Indie the adorable tortoise and Opi the spirited Mexican...
Durdle Door Circular Family Stroll
23rd July-27th August 2019
Time: From 11am
Venue: Durdle Door Holiday Park
Address: West Lulworth, BH20 5PU
Website: www.lulworth.com
Every Tuesday until 27 August. Join a Lulworth Ranger for a circular family stroll. Learn lots about the geology, wildlife, land use and ancient history. There are plenty of children’s activities to...
Minibeasts and More
23rd July-28th August 2019
Venue: Brownsea Island
Address: Poole, BH13 7EE
Join this fun family guided adventure that will explore Brownsea's minibeasts. Find out about these intriguing creatures that play such an important part in the entire ecosystem. For details call 01202...
Treasure Hunt Challenge
23rd July-31st August 2019
Time: 9am to 5pm
Venue: Moors Valley Country Park
Address: Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
Website: www.moors-valley.co.uk
A fun treasure hunt learning about the animals that live at Moors Valley. Navigate your way round the park and identify creatures along the way to solve the hidden word.
Caterpillar Kids: Peculiar Pond Life
24th-24th July 2019
Time: From 10.30am to 12.30pm
Venue: Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre
Address: Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Have a go at pond dipping and discover the amazing underwater world of diving beetles, newts and nymphs at this fun family friendly event.
Have-A-Go Session at Stone Carving
24th July-29th August 2019
Venue: Burngate Stone Carving Centre
Address: Kingston Road, Langton Matravers, BH19 3BE
Website: www.burngatestonecentre.co.uk
Also 25, 30 and 31 July. And 1, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 27, 28 and 29 August. Try your hand at the traditional craft of stone carving. Have-a-go carving courses typically last for approximately...
Summer Holidays at Russell Cotes: The Fairies at the Bottom of the Garden
24th July-1st September 2019
Venue: Russell Cotes Museum
Address: East Cliff Promenade, Bournemouth, BH1 3AA
Website: www.russellcotes.com
Find the fairies at the bottom of the garden at Russell-Cotes this summer. Join the magical crafts, trails, competitions, games, and much more.
Wild Wednesday
24th-24th July 2019
Time: 11am to 3pm
Venue: Durlston Country Park
Address: Swanage, BH19 2JL
Website: www.durlston.co.uk
Free drop-in craft activity session for families.
Camp Bestival
25th-28th July 2019
Venue: Lulworth Castle
Address: East Lulworth, BH20 5QS
Website: www.campbestival.net
A four-day festival for families. With live music and children’s entertainment. Plus, a huge children’s area featuring BigTopMania, a big bouncy castle, the greatest tent on earth, fairground rides,...
Dolphins and the Deep Blue Sea
25th-25th July 2019
Time: 2.30pm to 4pm
Venue: Durlston Country Park
Address: Swanage, BH19 2JL
Website: www.durlston.co.uk
Discover the amazing lives of the Durlston dolphins with games and activities. Booking essential. Cost: £3.
Mervyn Cole’s Summer Family Fun Shows
25th July-29th August 2019
Time: 12pm to 2pm
Venue: Wimborne Model Town
Address: Wimborne Minster, BH21 1DY
Website: www.wimborne-modeltown.com
Also 30 July and 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27 and 29 August. Join Mervyn Cole for his summer family fun shows. There will be jokes, magic tricks, balloons, puppets and Mr Punch.
Outdoor Theatre: Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves
25th-25th July 2019
Time: From 7pm
Venue: Kingston Lacy
Address: Wimborne, BH21 4EA
Packed with cliff-hangers, larger-than-life characters, and laughs galore, this production of Ali Baba will keep you on the edge of your deckchair! Watch the performance under the stars. Call 0344 249...
Poole Park Family Fun Day
25th-25th July 2019
Time: 10am to 3pm
Venue: Poole Park
Address: Parkstone Road, Poole, BH15 2SF
Website: www.pooletourism.com
With plenty of mainly free activities for all the family to enjoy. With a climbing wall, circus skills, arts and crafts, wildlife activities and much more. Rockley Watersports will be offering free kayak...
Reptile Morning
25th-25th July 2019
Time: 9.30am to 11.30am
Venue: Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre
Address: Bournemouth, BH6 4EN
Website: www.visithengistburyhead.co.uk
Discover more about the weird and wonderful amphibians and reptiles that call Hengistbury Head home. Check out their habitats and learn identification techniques. Cost: £5 per adult, £2 per child. Booking...
Summer Spectacular Fireworks
25th July-29th August 2019
Time: 7pm to 10pm
Venue: Poole Quay
Address: Poole, BH15 1HJ
Website: www.pooletourism.com
Also 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 August. A weekly summertime Thursday night occasion with live music, family entertainment and a firework finale at 10pm.
Bournemouth Friday Fireworks
26th July-23rd August 2019
Time: 10pm
Venue: Bournemouth Seafront
Address: Pier Approach, Bournemouth, BH2 5AA
Also 2, 9, 16 and 23 August. At dusk, be dazzled by the amazing Bournemouth Firework display. Watch the skies light up above Bournemouth seafront at 10pm every Friday night during the summer. Call 01202...
Bridport Folk Festival
26th-28th July 2019
Venue: Various Locations
Address: Bridport, DT6
Website: www.bridportfolkfestival.com
Featuring over 65 music acts across 5 stages, dance and music workshops, ceilidhs and dances, children’s activities, storytelling, art and craft and much more.
Family Nightjar and Bat Evening
26th-26th July 2019
Time: 7.30pm
Venue: Studland
Address: Near Swanage, BH19 3AE
Tuck into some fish, chips and ice cream followed by a walk through the dunes and beach discovering the wonders of bats and nightjars. For details call 01929 450500.
Family Nightjar and Bat Evening
26th-26th July 2019
Time: From 7.30pm
Venue: Studland Nature Reserve
Address: Swanage, BH19 3AX
A family wildlife event in the sand dunes exploring the majestic birds and bats of Studland. Tuck into fish, chips and ice cream followed by a walk through the dunes and beach. Call 01929 450500.
Glow Worm Walk
26th-26th July 2019
Time: From 9pm
Venue: Durlston Country Park
Address: Swanage, BH19 2JL
Website: www.durlston.co.uk
Night walk to discover the magical creatures. Booking essential. Cost: £5.
Puppet Making Workshop
26th-26th July 2019
Venue: Blandford Corn Exchange
Address: 7 Market Place, Blandford Forum, DT11 7AG
Website: www.squashboxtheatre.co.uk
Make puppets with Squashbox Theatre. Using simple materials and card templates, create a moving, articulated puppet to take home. This workshop will develop design skills, use of different tools and materials,...
Groves Summer Fair
27th-27th July 2019
Venue: Groves Nurseries
Address: Bridport, DT6 4BA
Website: www.grovesnurseries.co.uk
Enjoy plenty of summer fun in the garden at this seasonal event.
Kimmeridge Dolphin Watch
27th-27th July 2019
Time: 11.30am to 3.30pm
Venue: Wild Seas Centre
Address: Kimmeridge Bay, Kimmeridge, BH20 5PE
Learn how to spot dolphins and watch for them from the cliff top lookout at Kimmeridge. For older primary aged children and their parents/carers. For details call 01929 481044.
Milton Abbas Street Fair
27th-27th July 2019
Time: 11am to 5pm
Venue: Milton Abbas
Address: The Street, Blandford Forum, DT11 0BP
Website: http://miltonabbasstreetfair.co.uk
A traditional period street fair featuring traditional foods, crafts, music and children’s entertainment. Including Morris Dancing, Punch and Judy and artisan demonstrations.
Puncknowle Fete
27th-27th July 2019
Time: 2.30pm to 4.30pm
Venue: Puncknowle Manor
Address: Church Street, Puncknowle, DT2 9BX
A traditional village fete in the beautiful gardens of Puncknowle Manor. Featuring a prize raffle, children’s games, toys, bric-a-brac, a coconut shy and more. Cost: £1 entry. Children under 12 free....
Russell-Cotes’ Fairy Fun
27th July-1st September 2019
Venue: Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum
Address: Bournemouth, BH1 3AA
Website: www.russellcotes.com/summer
Enjoy some fairy fun over the summer holidays. With lots of family activities including trails, treasure hunts, crafts, competitions and garden games.
Sting in the Tale Festival: Field of Stories
27th-27th July 2019
Venue: Various venues
Address: Wimborne, BH21
Website: www.stinginthetale.org.uk
This 10-day festival launches with a free, family storytelling, art and craft event ‘Field of Stories’ on 27 July. With storytelling performances, street theatre and puppet shows. Children will be...
Swanage Carnival and Regatta
27th July-3rd August 2019
Venue: Various Locations
Address: Swanage, BH19
Website: www.swanagecarnival.com
Eight days of fun filled events and entertainment for all ages, including; air displays, live music, sporting events, games, competitions, treasure hunts, three magnificent firework displays and a famous...
Family Pond Dipping
28th-28th July 2019
Venue: Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre
Address: Bournemouth, BH6 4EN
Website: www.visithengistburyhead.co.uk
Discover the weird and wonderful creatures lurking in the pond. Cost: £3 per child, suitable for children aged 5 years+. Booking essential. For details call 01202 451618.
Life Cycle of Dragonflies
28th-28th July 2019
Venue: Upton Heath
Address: Longmeadow Lane, Broadstone, near Corfe Mullen, BH17
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Go for a walk across Upton Heath to spot adult damselflies and dragonflies on the wing, and also witness egg-laying. Followed by a pond-dipping session to reveal the nymphs of dragonflies.
Weymouth Lifeboat Week
28th July-3rd August 2018
Venue: Nothe Parade
Address: Weymouth, DT4 8TX
Website: www.weymouthlifeboat.org.uk
Celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. A whole week of various events happening including live music, a fabulous parade of boats, crabbing, paddle boarding and displays - all raising vital funds...
Wild Craft Sunday
28th-28th July 2019
Time: 2pm to 4pm
Venue: Kingfisher Barn Visitor Centre
Address: Granby Road, Bournemouth, BH9 3NZ
Try your hand at stone painting. Use acrylic paint to create a lasting work of art. Call 01202 451548.
Arty Ocean Activities
29th-29th July 2019
Time: 11am to 4pm
Venue: Wild Seas Centre
Address: Kimmeridge Bay, Kimmeridge, BH20 5PE
Some ocean-themed have-a-go arts and crafts for children. Choose from a selection of items to make and decorate. For details call 01929 481044.
Get Dorset Buzzing Roadshow
29th-29th July 2019
Time: 10am to 2pm
Venue: Dolphin Shopping Centre
Address: Poole, BH15 1SZ
Website: www.dolphinshoppingcentre.co.uk
Have fun finding out how to help pollinators keep buzzing at the Eco-hub in Poole’s Dolphin Shopping Centre.
Get Hooked on Fishing
29th-29th July 2019
Time: 10am to 12pm
Venue: Moors Valley Country Park
Address: Ashley Heath, Near Ringwood, BH24 2ET
Website: www.moors-valley.co.uk
An introductory taster session for children. Learn the basics from a friendly qualified fishing coach in an uncomplicated, easily understood manner. Cost: £14 per child. For children aged 5 years+.
Seawatch
30th-30th July 2019
Time: From 9am
Venue: Durlston Country Park
Address: Swanage, BH19 2JL
Website: www.durlston.co.uk
In celebration of National Dolphin and Whale Watch Week, take a stroll to meet, learn and help the other Dolphin watchers. A free event.
Shark School
30th-30th July 2019
Time: 11am to 12.30pm
Venue: The Fine Foundation Chesil Beach Centre
Address: Portland, DT4 9XE
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Learn how to identify sharks, discover their fascinating behaviour and find out how important sharks are as top predators in the sea. Then hunt for shark and ray eggcases along Chesil Beach. Cost: £4...
Bing and Flop visit Adventure Wonderland
31st-31st July 2019
Venue: Adventure Wonderland
Address: Christchurch, BH23 6BA
Website: www.adventurewonderland.co.uk
Celebrate the start of the long summer holidays by meeting Bing and Flop at Adventure Wonderland. Bing, as seen on CBeebies, uses everyday events to help children learn. They will be making personal appearances...
Dazzling Dragonflies
31st-31st July 2019
Time: From 10.30am to 12.30pm
Venue: Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre
Address: Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Pick up a trail and discover how dragonflies develop from underwater nymphs into foraging flyers travelling over 1km/day.
Durlston Dash
31st-31st July 2019
Time: From 5.30pm to 7pm
Venue: Durlston Country Park
Address: Swanage, BH19 2JL
Website: www.durlston.co.uk
A 2.5K fun run. Participants are awarded a medal and refreshments. For children aged 8-13 years. Booking essential. Cost: £2.
Meadow Minibeasts
31st-31st July 2019
Time: 10am to 12pm
Venue: Moors Valley Country Park
Address: Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
Website: www.moors-valley.co.uk
Follow the signs from the Visitor Centre to the nature area and see what you can find living in the meadow. Featuring meadow sweeping, tree beating, and butterfly netting. Cost: £2 per child.
Rockpool Ramble
31st-31st July 2019
Time: 11am to 12.30pm
Venue: Meet Cobb Gate Car Park
Address: Marine Parade, Lyme Regis, DT7 3QD
Website: www.charmouth.org
Join the marine warden on a rockpool ramble to explore the fascinating creatures of the seashore and how they live, love and do lunch. Cost: £4 Adult, £3 Child. Booking essential.
Wild Wednesdays
31st July-28th August 2019
Time: 10am to 12.30pm
Venue: Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre
Address: Bournemouth, BH6 4EN
Also 7, 14, 21 and 28 August. Fun nature activities for children, including pond dipping, bug hunts, moth spotting and more. Cost: £5 per child. Booking essential. For details call 01202 451618.
BSO Proms in the Park
1st-1st August 2019
Time: From 4.30pm
Venue: Meyrick Park
Address: Central Drive, Bournemouth, BH2 6LH
Enjoy an afternoon of musical fun for the whole family, featuring a matinee concert by the BSO. For information and tickets call 01202 669925.
Burton Bradstock Church Fete
1st-1st August 2019
Time: 2pm to 5pm
Venue: Church Street
Address: Burton Bradstock, DT6 4QS
A classic garden fete in a beautiful Dorset village. Entry £1. For details call 07982 237739.
Bushcraft Bootcamp
1st-1st August 2019
Time: From 2.30pm to 4pm
Venue: Durlston Country Park
Address: Swanage, BH19 2JL
Website: www.durlston.co.uk
Explore, make dens, cook marshmallows and create wild art. Booking essential. Cost: £3.
Hands On History
1st-1st August 2019
Time: 1pm to 2pm
Venue: Poole Museum
Address: 4 High Street, Poole, BH15 1BW
Website: www.poolemuseum.co.uk
An exciting hands on history activity – have the chance to hold museum objects and learn about the archaeology, natural history and the social history of Poole.
Family Sleepover Event
2nd-4th August 2019
Venue: Monkey World
Address: Wareham, BH20 6HH
Website: www.monkeyworld.org
An event exclusively for charity members and adoptive parents. Watch the primates as they bed down for the night and enjoy dinner around a campfire. In the morning tuck into a tasty breakfast. Booking...
Seashore Safari - Fleet Lagoon
2nd-2nd August 2019
Time: 1.30pm to 3pm
Venue: The Fine Foundation Chesil Beach Centre
Address: Portland, DT4 9XE
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
At low tide explore the amazing underwater world of the Fleet Lagoon. Hunt for the marine wildlife which calls the shores their home and look for the tell-tale tracks and signs of hidden species.
The Big Wild Sleepout
2nd-3rd August 2019
Time: 5pm to 10am
Venue: Arne Nature Reserve
Address: Wareham, BH20 5BJ
Website: www.rspb.org.uk/arne
Also 3rd overnight to 4th August. Camp out in the wild. Enjoy an evening meal and a full English breakfast cooked over the campfire. Go on an evening walk to track down nightjar, glow worms, owls and bats....
Church Knowle Fete
3rd-3rd August 2019
Venue: The Old Rectory
Address: Church Knowle, Corfe Castle Village, BH20 5NG
A traditional village fete with plenty of stalls in lovely grounds. Fun for all the family with lots of children's games and activities. For details call 01929 480048.
Dorset Food and Arts Festival
3rd-3rd August 2019
Venue: Queen Mother Square
Address: Poundbury, Dorchester, DT1 3RT
Website: https://dorsetfestival.org
The 8th annual festival with free entry for all. Featuring more than 60 stalls, live music and demonstrations.
Lifeboat Week
3rd-3rd August 2019
Venue: Lyme Regis RNLI
Address: Lyme Regis, DT6
Website: www.lymeregis.org
A week of fun, games, music and displays for all the family. Look out for the Lifeboat Lucky Dip - £1 a dip and win a prize every time. Plus, orange ball star prizes.
Lyme Regis Regatta and Carnival Week
3rd-11th August 2019
Venue: Various locations
Address: Lyme Regis, DT7 3BS
Website: www.lymeregiscarnival.co.uk
A fun-packed week filled with family friendly events including a carnival procession, a firework display, regatta races, children’s activities and much more.
Rockpool Ramble
3rd-3rd August 2019
Time: 2pm to 4pm
Venue: Wild Seas Centre
Address: Kimmeridge Bay, Kimmeridge, BH20 5PE
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Discover wildlife on the seashore on a guided rockpool ramble. Learn about the bizarre lives of the fascinating sea life from sea snails to crafty crabs. For details call 01929 481044.
The Great Dorset Chilli Festival
3rd-4th August 2019
Time: 10am to 5pm
Venue: St Giles House
Address: Wimborne St Giles, BH21 5NS
Website: http://greatdorsetchillifestival.co.uk
A chilli fiesta with stalls selling all things chilli, plus cooking demonstrations, music, bouncy castles, face painters, Mere Down Falconry, Alfredo's Pirates and a family shelter tent. Call 01257 447040.
Party in the Park
4th-4th August 2019
Time: 12pm to 7pm
Venue: Lodmoor Country Park
Address: Beach Road, Weymouth, DT4 7SX
An annual music festival, with live music from 12pm -7 pm, arts and crafts and children's entertainment. For more details call 01305 836040.
Poole Lifeboat Station Open Day
4th-4th August 2019
Time: 10.30am to 4.30pm
Venue: Poole Lifeboat Station
Address: The Quay, Poole, BH15 8HA
Website: www.poolelifeboats.org.uk
A fun filled day with demonstrations on the water, side stalls and games and an amazing raffle with some fantastic prizes. Plus, have a look at the lifeboats and meet the crew. Admission is free.
West Bay Day
4th-4th August 2019
Time: From 12pm
Venue: West Bay
Address: Bridport, DT6 4EY
Website: https://bridportandwestbay.co.uk
A family fun day with a duck race, classic cars, food stalls, a model aeroplane display, live music, children’s entertainment and much more.
Have a Go at Archery
5th-5th August 2019
Time: 12pm to 4pm
Venue: Moors Valley Country Park
Address: Ashley Heath, Near Ringwood, BH24 2ET
Website: www.moors-valley.co.uk
Learn the basic skills you need to be an archer, then give it a go and see if you can hit the target. Cost: £3.50 for 8 arrows. For children aged 4 years+.
Step Back in Time
5th-5th August 2019
Time: 11am to 3pm
Venue: Poole Museum
Address: 4 High Street, Poole, BH15 1BW
Website: www.poolemuseum.co.uk
Step back in time every Monday and Tuesday throughout August with free historically themed activities. Re-enactors will demonstrate crafts from the past and will encourage families to have a go at historical...
Children’s Poetry Along the Stour
6th-6th August 2019
Time: 2pm to 3.30pm
Venue: Kingfisher Barn Visitor Centre
Address: Granby Road, Muscliff, Bournemouth, BH9 3NZ
Children will be able to connect with nature and the river through poetry in this free workshop. Listen and create poems. Booking is essential. Call 01202 451548.
Knoll Gardens Foundation: Annual Garden Wildlife Survey
6th-6th August 2019
Time: 10am to 3pm
Venue: Knoll Gardens
Address: Hampreston, Wimborne, BH21 7ND
Website: www.knollgardensfoundation.org
Join wildlife volunteers and experts as they discover more about Knoll's garden wildlife and help survey the garden. Suitable for all ages. Call 01202 873931.
Pond Dipping
6th-6th August 2019
Venue: Moors Valley Country Park
Address: Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
Website: www.moors-valley.co.uk
The wildlife ponds are teeming with nature so grab a net and see how many different creatures you can find. Various sessions. There are limited numbers per session. Cost: £2 per child.
Seashore Superheroes
6th-6th August 2019
Time: 11am to 12.30pm
Venue: Chesil Beach Centre
Address: Portland, DT4 9XE
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Learn how to protect local wildlife by completing a series of challenges to become a masked hero. Cost: £3 per child. Adults free.
Beautiful Butterflies and Buzzy Bees
7th-7th August 2019
Time: From 10.30am to 3.30pm
Venue: Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre
Address: Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Pick up a trail and search for bees and butterflies in the wildflower meadows. Family fun, wildlife inspired trail across the reserve.
Dinosaur Dig and Discover
8th-8th August 2019
Time: From 2.30pm to 4pm
Venue: Durlston Country Park
Address: Swanage, BH19 2JL
Website: www.durlston.co.uk
Discover more about the dinosaurs that once roamed the Earth. Booking essential. Cost: £3.
Moth Trap and Walk
8th-8th August 2019
Venue: Upton Heath
Address: Longmeadow Lane, Broadstone, near Corfe Mullen, BH17
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Open the moth trap at Beacon Hill then go on a guided walk across the heath.
Open Air Cinema: Mary Poppins Returns
8th-8th August 2019
Time: From 7pm
Venue: Walled Garden
Address: Upton Country Park, Poole, BH17 7BJ
Website: https://uptoncountrypark.com/
Summer Screens open air cinema returns to the beautiful Walled Garden this August. In Mary Poppins Returns, the magical nanny returns to help the Banks siblings and Michael’s children through a difficult...
Duckfest 19
9th-10th August 2019
Venue: Hintock Farm
Address: Charminster, Dorchester, DT2 7SG
Website: www.ducksdrakescancertrust.org.uk
A fun festival with live music, free camping, stalls and refreshments.
Purbeck Rally
9th-11th August 2019
Time: 10am to 5pm
Venue: Purbeck Rally
Address: Worgret, Wareham, BH20 6AB
Website: https://purbeckrally.com
A family friendly steam and vintage show featuring Xtreme Falconry, a dog and duck show, circus skills workshops, walkabouts with Micky Bimble, classic cars and much more. Kids under 16 go free.
Bournemouth Pavilion Summer Youth Theatre School
10th-18th August 2019
Venue: Bournemouth Pavilion Ballroom
Address: Westover Road, Bournemouth, BH1 2BU
Website: http://www.bic.co.uk
Take part in an 8 day series of workshops, aimed at improving musical theatre skills. The workshops will centre on singing, acting, dancing, performance techniques and general stage craft.
Get Dorset Buzzing Roadshow
10th-12th August 2019
Time: 10am to 5pm
Venue: Chesil Beach Centre
Address: Portland, DT4 9XE
With plenty of information about welcoming pollinators into your garden, wildlife gardening and family games, including the Pollinator Wheel of Fortune and the Bee Buzz wire game. Call 01305 206191.
Wild About Chesil
11th-11th August 2019
Time: 10am to 4pm
Venue: Chesil Beach Centre
Address: Portland, DT4 9XE
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
This mini wildlife festival is Chesil's biggest event of the year. There will be music, dancing and an action packed programme of wildlife activities for the whole family, including Get Dorset Buzzing.
Stargazing
12th-12th August 2019
Time: From 9pm
Venue: Durlston Country Park
Address: Swanage, BH19 2JL
Website: www.durlston.co.uk
See the Perseid meteors, Jupiter, Saturn, Mars and summer constellations. This event is weather dependant - call on day to confirm. Cost: £3. For details call 01929 424443.
Wild Flower Walk
12th-12th August 2019
Time: 10am to 12.30pm
Venue: Kingfisher Barn Visitor Centre
Address: Granby Road, Bournemouth, BH9 3NZ
Join the rangers to see what's in flower along the River Stour. For information ring 01202 451548.
Open Air Cinema: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
13th-13th August 2019
Time: From 7pm
Venue: Lulworth Castle
Address: West Lulworth, BH20 5QS
Website: www.thelunacinema.com
Watch a blockbuster film under the twinkling stars with your friends and family. Get your wand’s at the ready for the second instalment in Harry’s adventures with Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
Summer in Corfe Barrows Nature Park
13th-13th August 2019
Time: 10am to 12pm
Venue: Happy Bottom
Address: Merley Park Road Ashington, Wimborne, BH21 3EA
Go for a gentle stroll around the Corfe Barrows Nature Park to discover summer wildlife. For more information, ring 01202 692033.
Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Show
14th-14th August 2019
Time: 8.30am to 6.15pm
Venue: Turnpike Showground
Address: Motcombe, Nr Shaftesbury, SP7 9PL
Website: www.gillshaftshow.co.uk
A classic midweek agricultural show featuring over 2,000 animals, plus a Kennel Club dog show, terrier racing, a duck display, hundreds of trade stands, all day events and attractions in 3 arena.
Lucky Ladybirds
14th-14th August 2019
Time: From 10.30am to 12.30pm
Venue: Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre
Address: Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Discover why ladybirds have spots and are brightly coloured. Family fun, wildlife inspired crafts and games with the Community Conservation Officer.
Open Air Cinema: The Greatest Showman
14th-14th August 2019
Time: From 7pm
Venue: Lulworth Castle
Address: West Lulworth, BH20 5QS
Website: www.thelunacinema.com
Watch a blockbuster film under the twinkling stars with your friends and family. See the uplifting musical, The Greatest Showman, on the big screen.
PAW Patrol’s Marshall and Skye visit Adventure Wonderland
14th-14th August 2019
Venue: Adventure Wonderland
Address: Christchurch, BH23 6BA
Website: www.adventurewonderland.co.uk
PAW Patrol’s Marshall and Skye are back again for a mid-summer visit. No job is too big for these heroic pups, who are always ready for a ruff-ruff rescue to protect Adventure Bay.
Bottle Rockets
15th-15th August 2019
Time: From 2.30pm to 4pm
Venue: Durlston Country Park
Address: Swanage, BH19 2JL
Website: www.durlston.co.uk
Take a pop bottle, then have fun creating and launching a rocket. Booking essential. Cost: £3. For details call 01929 424443.
Bushcraft
15th-15th August 2019
Venue: Moors Valley Country Park
Address: Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
Website: www.moors-valley.co.uk
A chance for junior children to learn some helpful bushcraft skills. Learn woodland skills including tracking, making nettle cordage and fire lighting. For children aged 8 to 16 years. Booking essential....
Slimy Seaweeds: Gardens under the Sea
15th-15th August 2019
Venue: Chesil Beach Centre
Address: Portland, DT4 9XE
Learn fascinating facts about seaweed, how to identify seaweed and have fun pressing them and make a picture of an underwater garden. Call 01305 206191.
Owl Encounters
16th-16th August 2019
Venue: Moors Valley Country Park
Address: Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
Website: www.moors-valley.co.uk
Meet owls up close and then watch them flying outdoors. Plus, meet and handle some native owls from Hawks in the Forest. For children aged 6 years and over. Booking essential. Cost: £5 per child, £10...
Seashore Safari and Beach Clean
16th-16th August 2019
Venue: Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre
Address: Bournemouth, BH6 4EN
Website: www.visithengistburyhead.co.uk
Discover what it’s like to live on the foreshore combined with a chance to take action against litter. Cost: £2 per person. Booking essential. For details call 01202 451618.
Big Weekender Summer Party
17th-17th August 2019
Venue: Monkey World
Address: Wareham, BH20 6HH
Website: www.monkeyworld.org
A big summer party with live music with the Rat Pack, two nights camping, a BBQ, hot food, games, a fire pit and trip to Monkey World.
Bridport Carnival
17th-17th August 2019
Time: From 7pm
Venue: West Road
Address: West Allington, Bridport, DT6
Website: https://bridportandwestbay.co.uk/
See the lively procession make its way through the streets of Bridport. Other activities include a carnival quiz, darts and a family bingo, as well as the traditional Sunday evening torchlight parade from...
Dorset Dogs Festival
17th-17th August 2019
Time: 11am to 4pm
Venue: Canford Park SANG
Address: Knighton Lane, Poole, BH21 3AS
Website: www.dorsetdogs.org.uk
A wonderful celebration of dogs, the countryside and wild creatures. A family-friendly day out with lots of refreshments, free activities, stands and a large marquee. Free entry and parking.
Family Garden Wildlife Safari
17th-17th August 2019
Time: 10.30am to 12.30pm
Venue: Knoll Gardens
Address: Hampreston, Wimborne, BH21 7ND
Website: www.knollgardensfoundation.org
This special family-friendly workshop will help inspire a love of nature from a young age. Depending on the weather, activities could include pond dipping, moth trapping and bug hunting. For 5 – 10 year...
Torchlight Procession through Bridport
18th-18th August 2019
Time: From 9pm
Venue: Bucky Doo Square
Address: South Street, Bridport, DT6 3LF
Website: https://bridportandwestbay.co.uk
Torches will be on sale from 6pm at Bucky-Doo Square. The procession will start at 9pm. A bonfire and fireworks will be lit at around 10pm.
International Orangutan Day
19th-19th August 2019
Venue: Monkey World
Address: Wareham, BH20 6HH
Website: www.monkeyworld.org
Help celebrate all things orangutan, with stalls, fun trails, and talks.
Junior Rangers
19th-19th August 2019
Time: 10am to 2pm
Venue: Kingfisher Barn Visitor Centre
Address: Granby Road, Bournemouth, BH9 3NZ
A day of cutting back scrub and burning on one of the nature reserves, followed by a cooked lunch on the bonfire. For ages 11 years+. Booking essential. For information ring 01202 451548.
SummerMT@DYT
19th-23rd August 2019
Time: 9.30am to 5pm
Venue: Sunninghill Community Hall
Address: Culliford Road, Dorchester, DT1 1EB
A production in a week culminating in a performance where up to 30 young people take part in drama, song and dance. Call 01305 266926.
Chesil Strandline Detectives
20th-20th August 2019
Venue: Chesil Beach Centre
Address: Portland, DT4 9XE
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Walk along Chesil Beach and hunt the strandline for wildlife treasure washed in from the sea.
Sand Art
20th-20th August 2019
Time: 10.30am to 12.30pm
Venue: Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre
Address: Bournemouth, BH6 4EN
Website: www.visithengistburyhead.co.uk
Make a lovely picture by peeling sections of paper away and then pouring colourful sand on the sticky surface. Cost: From £2.50 to £6. For details call 01202 451618.
Dinosaur Footprints Walk to Keates Quarry
21st-21st August 2019
Time: 12pm to 2pm
Venue: Worth Matravers
Address: Swanage, BH19 3LF
Website: www.jurassiccoast.org
A leisurely, family-friendly Dinosaur Footprints Walks to Keates Quarry in Purbeck. Join local experts for a lunch-time stroll to a spectacular dinosaur footprints site and walk where giant sauropods once...
Get Dorset Buzzing Roadshow
21st-21st August 2019
Time: 10am to 4.30pm
Venue: Wimborne Model Town
Address: King Street, Wimborne, BH21 1DY
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Be part of the buzz for wildlife with creature crafts at Wimborne Model Town.
Let’s Go Fly a Kite
22nd-22nd August 2019
Time: From 2.30pm to 4pm
Venue: Durlston Country Park
Address: Swanage, BH19 2JL
Website: www.durlston.co.uk
A fun session where children can build a kite to fly on a windy day. Booking essential. Cost: £3. For details call 01929 424443.
Melplash Show
22nd-22nd August 2019
Venue: West Bay Road
Address: Bridport, DT6 4EG
Website: www.melplashshow.co.uk
One of the largest traditional country shows in the area. Includes The Sheep Show, Tractor Ted Live!, Professor Crump, children’s entertainment, livestock displays, show jumping, over 300 trade stands,...
The Great Dorset Steam Fair
22nd-26th August 2019
Venue: South Down
Address: Blandford Forum, DT11 8HX
Website: www.gdsf.co.uk
A traditional English fair showcasing Britain’s industrial and agricultural history. Attractions include vehicle displays, a music festival, fairground organs, variety shows, heavy horses, stunt displays,...
Cinema Under the Stars
23rd-23rd August 2019
Time: From 7.30pm
Venue: Corfe Castle
Address: The Square, Wareham, BH20 5EZ
Pack a picnic and experience the magic of watching a film with family and friends in the castle ruins. Advanced booking essential. Watch: How to Train your Dragon, The Hidden World. Call 01929 481294.
Seashore Ramble
23rd-23rd August 2019
Venue: Brownsea Island
Address: Poole, BH13 7EE
Explore Brownsea's coastlines on this free guided wildlife walk. Join one of the experienced rangers as they discuss the curious creatures that make the shoreline their home. For details call 01202 707744.
Cinema Under the Stars
24th-24th August 2019
Time: From 7.30pm
Venue: Corfe Castle
Address: The Square, Wareham, BH20 5EZ
Experience the magic of watching a film under the stars. Advanced booking essential. Watch: Mary Poppins Returns. Call 01929 481294.
Go Nuts at Monkey World
24th-26th August 2019
Venue: Monkey World
Address: Wareham, BH20 6HH
Website: www.monkeyworld.org
Every child who takes an unopened bag of nuts for the primates will receive a free Monkey World badge over the bank holiday weekend. Call 01929 462487.
Stock Gaylard Oak Fair
24th-25th August 2019
Time: 10am to 5pm
Venue: Stock Gaylard
Address: Sturminster Newton, DT10 2BG
Website: www.stockgaylard.com
Celebrating its 15th year! Featuring over 200 stalls, heavy horse shows, falconry, impressive lumberjack displays, big machinery demonstrations, climbing with The Great Big Tree Climbing Company, axe throwing,...
RNLI Fun Day at West Bay
25th-25th August 2019
Time: From 11am
Venue: West Bay Green and Beach
Address: West Bay, DT6
Website: https://bridportandwestbay.co.uk
A fun day with attractions for all the family. With a coconut shy, prize raffle, duck race and children’s games on the Green and a thrilling search and rescue display on the beach.
The Chesil Challenge
25th-25th August 2019
Venue: Chesil Beach Centre
Address: Portland, DT4 9XE
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Complete the Chesil Challenge: an indoor and outdoor children's treasure trail. Look for clues to solve puzzles about Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon. Suitable for 5 years+.
Chesil Seashore Explorers
27th-27th August 2019
Venue: Chesil Beach Centre
Address: Portland, DT4 9XE
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Take on the Chesil Seashore Explorer family challenge to see if you can complete the activities. Hunt for marine life, wildflowers, birds and bugs. Cost: £8 per family pack.
Peppa Pig visits Adventure Wonderland
28th-28th August 2019
Venue: Adventure Wonderland
Address: Christchurch, BH23 6BA
Website: www.adventurewonderland.co.uk
The ever-popular children’s favourite Peppa Pig will be visiting her adoring fans in the late summer, just before the kids head back to school. Peppa will be making personal appearances at intervals...
Pirates Ahoy
28th-28th August 2019
Time: 2.30pm
Venue: Wimborne Model Town
Address: Wimborne Minster, BH21 1DY
Website: www.wimborne-modeltown.com
An exciting and interactive hour of making music, dressing up and creating stories. Expect a fun filled time of sea shanties and pirate dancing before the story of Pirates Ahoy is told.
Precarious Pond Life
28th-28th August 2019
Time: From 10.30am to 12.30pm
Venue: Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre
Address: Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH
Website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Have a go at pond dipping and discover the amazing underwater world of diving beetles, newts and nymphs.
Bournemouth Air Festival
29th August-1st September 2019
Venue: Bournemouth
Address: Bournemouth, BH1
Website: www.bournemouthair.co.uk
Four days of spectacular aerial displays in the skies above Bournemouth, on land and at sea. On land, the festival site covers a 1.5 mile stretch of coastline.
Bugs, Beetles and Beasts
29th-29th August 2019
Time: From 2.30pm to 4pm
Venue: Durlston Country Park
Address: Swanage, BH19 2JL
Website: www.durlston.co.uk
Learn all about Durlston's creepy crawlies at this fun event. Booking essential. Cost: £3. For details call 01929 424443.
Crab Watch
29th-29th August 2019
Time: 2pm to 4pm
Venue: Wild Seas Centre
Address: Kimmeridge Bay, Kimmeridge, BH20 5PE
Website: www.mba.ac.uk/crabwatch
Learn about the different species of crab, then search for them on the seashore at Kimmeridge.
Lyme Regis Folk Festival
30th August-1st September 2019
Venue: Marine Theatre
Address: Lyme Regis, DT7 3BS
Website: www.lymefolk.com
With free live music all day, every day on the seafront stage, plus Morris dancing all over the town.
Seashore Safari
30th-30th August 2019
Venue: Chesil Beach Centre
Address: Portland, DT4 9XE
At low tide, explore the amazing underwater world of the Fleet Lagoon. Hunt for the marine wildlife which calls the shore their home and look for the tell-tale tracks and signs of hidden species. Call...
Moors Valley Junior Parkrun
1st-1st September 2019
Time: From 9am
Venue: Moors Valley Country Park
Address: Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
Website: www.moors-valley.co.uk
A fun, free 2K timed run for children aged 4 to 14 years. The course is 2K on loose stone paths and trail paths consisting of one lap that is run in an anti-clockwise direction.
Dragonflies and Damselflies
2nd-2nd September 2019
Time: 11am to 1pm
Venue: Kingfisher Barn Visitor Centre
Address: Stour Acres, Granby Road, Bournemouth, BH9 3NZ
Website: www.visitstourvalley.co.uk
Learn to identify these colourful insects, which are common along the river and by the ponds on the reserve. A free event.
Swanage Folk Festival
6th-8th September 2019
Venue: Sandpit Field
Address: Shore Road, Swanage, BH19 1NY
Website: www.swanagefolkfestival.com
A full weekend of music and dance. Get involved with workshops, music sessions and free entertainment on Sandpit Field for the young of all ages.
Bridport Hat Festival
7th-7th September 2019
Venue: Various Venues
Address: Bridport, DT6 3LF
Website: www.bridporthatfest.org
A celebration of hats, with live music, multiple competitions, demonstrations, talks, displays, shows, a hat auction, games, hatted dogs and much more. The event is topped off with a huge mass hat-wearing...
Dorset County Show
7th-8th September 2010
Venue: Dorchester Showground
Address: Dorchester, DT1 1NF
Website: www.dorsetcountyshow.co.uk
A two-day event showcasing the best of Dorset’s rural life. Featuring livestock displays, arena attractions, food and drink, children’s entertainment, main ring entertainment and much more.
Stargazing
7th-7th September 2019
Time: From 8pm
Venue: Durlston Country Park
Address: Swanage, BH19 2JL
Website: www.durlston.co.uk
See the Moon, Jupiter, Saturn, galaxies, star clusters and early autumn constellations. This event is weather dependant - call on day to confirm. Cost: £3. For details call 01929 424443.
