Share:

September and October in Dorset

The kids may be back to school but there is still plenty going on at weekends and after-school between now and half term for families across Cornwall. See our featured local businesses below or see our frequently updated online listings guide here for more tips and ideas

Make a splash with Water Babies swimming lessons, across Devon, Somerset and Dorset.

“Designed for babies, toddlers and children up to early school years, our fun classes help little ones build confidence in the water while learning vital life-saving skills. With expert teachers, warm pools and magical moments to treasure, Water Babies is the perfect way to support your child’s development. From first kicks to independent swimming, every lesson is packed with smiles and splashes — giving parents and carers, precious bonding time too. Dive in and discover the joy of swimming with us!”

Call 01392 790100 or email pushtheduck@waterbabies.co.uk

 

Step into Santa’s magical Winter Wonderland and enjoy a festive family adventure this Christmas.

 Follow a snowy pathway through enchanting scenes, including the elves’ workshops and Rudolph’s stables, before meeting Santa in his cosy grotto. Children can share their Christmas wishes, with the option to purchase a souvenir photo. If they’ve been especially good, Santa will invite them to choose a gift from the Toy Store, making the experience even more magical. Babies aged 0–6 months, will receive a small cuddly toy to keep.

Book early to avoid disappointment at santa.stewarts.co.uk!

 

'Looking for a fun, friendly activity that helps your little one grow in confidence?

babyballet® Bournemouth & Poole offers award-winning dance classes for babies, toddlers and young children from 6 months to 6 years. Our magical classes introduce ballet, tap and movement in a warm, welcoming environment where every child can shine. With enchanting characters, imaginative storytelling and age-appropriate activities, children develop coordination, creativity, social skills and a lifelong love of dance while having lots of fun. Join the babyballet® family in Bournemouth and Poole and discover why so many local families choose to dance with us every week.'

 

Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle has stood guard over the Purbeck Hills for over 1,000 years, and its ruins still hold plenty of secrets to uncover. Built shortly after the Norman conquest of 1066, the castle's towering Keep once dominated the skyline, its Purbeck stone gleaming for miles around. Kings, Knights, Soldiers and noblewomen called it home. Fallen walls and secret places hide tales of treachery and treason around every corner. Families can spot the castle's infamous "murder holes," designed to defend against attackers, and count the narrow arrow loops built into its walls. During the English Civil War, the castle was besieged, betrayed and finally blown apart by Parliamentary forces, leaving the dramatic ruins visitors explore today. Archaeologists have since uncovered hidden treasures within the rubble, from medieval pottery to an old Dutch stink bomb. History lives in every stone.

 

Young Artists Open Call Exhibition at Coda Music & Arts Trust

Calling all creative young people aged 4-18 across Dorset and the New Forest! This Summer, Coda is inviting children and young people to submit artwork for their Young Artists Open exhibition, opening in November 2026.

The theme is Play - show what inspires you, what makes you curious, or simply what “play” means to you. All kinds of artwork are welcome, and no previous exhibition experience is needed.

Entries are welcome from individuals, schools, youth groups and community organisations.

Submission deadline: Thursday 1 October 2026

Find out more and enter at: www.coda.org.uk/open-call-young-artists

 

Autism Unlimited

“Parents of autistic children deserve practical, compassionate support, and Autism Unlimited’s Parent sessions provide exactly that. By equipping families with evidence-informed strategies, the training helps parents better understand their child's needs, strengthen communication, and build confidence in managing everyday challenges. Beyond practical skills, it creates a supportive community where families can share experiences and learn from one another. Empowering parents has a lasting impact, improving outcomes for children while reducing stress within the home. Investing in parent training is an investment in stronger families, greater inclusion, and brighter futures.“

 

Farmer Palmer’s Winter Passes Are a Family’s Best Friend

Farmer Palmer’s Winter Passes are crafted with families in mind, offering unbeatable value without compromising on fun. For one affordable price, parents and children can enjoy unlimited visits during the quieter, magical winter months. From cosy indoor play to meeting friendly farm animals, every trip feels fresh and exciting. The pass encourages quality time together, turning ordinary days into cherished memories. With savings that quickly add up, it’s not just a ticket—it’s an invitation to adventure, learning, and laughter all season long. For families seeking joy and value, Farmer Palmer’s delivers both in abundance.

Find out more at https://www.bookings.farmerpalmers.co.uk

 

Get creative at the weekend!

Back to school is the perfect time to enrol your aspiring artist onto a Saturday Art School course at AUB Academy, where they’ll grow in confidence and make friends outside of their regular school classes.

Your child will be led by expert tutors in a fun, supportive and inspiring environment, as they navigate a range of different creative subjects: painting, drawing, modelmaking, photography, and more!

Classes run across 8 Saturdays during term time. Autumn term starts from 12 September 2026 and spring term from 23 January 2027.

Learn more today at aub.ac.uk/Saturday.

 

Message from Young Vets Club

Here's a curiosity: research on children and pets throws up something called the "pet effect paradox" - simply having an animal in the house doesn't reliably make kids happier or calmer. What helps is something more specific: how closely they engage with it. Feeding, observing, learning to read behaviour, noticing what a nervous animal needs to feel safe. A quality relationship goes beyond ownership - it becomes a hobby. And a hobby can become a passion, a career, a direction in life. In the age of doom-scrolling, young people need hobbies more than ever. This is why we created Young Vets Club.

Visit www.youngvetsclub.com to find out more.
Created by Worldwide Veterinary Service.

 

Creating Confident Futures!

'At Razzamataz Bournemouth, we believe in preparing young people for their future by equipping them with essential life skills taught through performing arts. So, whether you have a budding actor dreaming of being on the big stage, a little superstar looking to learn some new skills or just someone wanting to make some new friends; we're here to help and have the class for you!

Get in contact today or visit www.razzamataz.co.uk/school/29/Bournemouth/ to find out more about us and our sessions!'

 

Whether it’s acting, singing, dancing — or all three — Swish of the Curtain Theatre School is where young stars shine.

“With our local classes in Bournemouth, Poole, and Christchurch - your child can discover their passion close to home.

Our weekday and weekend sessions for ages 3–14 spark creativity, build confidence, and help every child perform to their full potential. Led by warm, industry-qualified teachers, each class blends skill-building with fun, friendship, and exciting performance opportunities.

For over 30 years, Swish has been the trusted choice for parents seeking a supportive, inspiring environment for artistic growth. We believe the performing arts give children lifelong skills - from teamwork to self-belief - as well as unforgettable memories.”

✨ 2-Week Trial Available ✨
Watch our class videos to discover more and book your trial today at www.swish.school

 

BEAT Street Dance Company

“Looking for a dance school where your child can have fun, make friends and build confidence & creativity ? BEAT Street Dance Company is the place! With Street Dance and Flips N Tricks classes, there’s something for every energetic child, from beginners to aspiring performers. Our exciting classes develop confidence, creativity, dance skills and teamwork, all within our amazing BEAT family. It doesn’t stop in the studio! Dancers enjoy our annual Awards Night & Christmas Party, plus spectacular shows every other year, giving them unforgettable opportunities to perform. With BEAT, students don’t just learn to dance — they become part of something special.”

Find out more at www.beatcompany.com

 

Creating Confident Futures!

'At Razzamataz Bournemouth, we believe in preparing young people for their future by equipping them with essential life skills taught through performing arts. So, whether you have a budding actor dreaming of being on the big stage, a little superstar looking to learn some new skills or just someone wanting to make some new friends; we're here to help and have the class for you!’

Get in contact today or visit www.razzamataz.co.uk/school/29/Bournemouth/ to find out more about us and our sessions!’

 

Message from Diverse Abilities

STARs is a specialist support service from Diverse Abilities designed for siblings of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Recognising that these young people often face additional responsibilities, worries, and reduced parental attention, STARs provides a safe, supportive space where they can connect with others who share similar experiences. The term-time programme welcomes children and young people aged 6 to 16, offering friendship, guidance, and enjoyable activities that build confidence and resilience. By helping siblings feel heard, understood, and valued, STARs creates lasting support networks and ensures they have opportunities to have fun, develop skills, and be themselves.

 

Get a free health and wellbeing reboot

Between school runs, packed lunches and busy family life, your own health and wellbeing can slip to the bottom of a very long list.

LiveWell Dorset is a free service supporting mums, dads, or any Dorset resident 18+, to get healthier: lose weight, move more, drink less, stop smoking and generally feel better.

Feel more energised, confident and ready for the months ahead. Start this new season with positive changes that benefit you and your family.

Call 0800 840 1628 or visit livewelldorset.co.uk

 

Discover confidence, creativity and fun at Aerial Arts Dorset!

“Based in our purpose-built studio in Wimborne, we offer exciting aerial classes for children aged 5-16, combining aerial hoop, aerial hammock, strength training and flexibility in a safe, supportive environment. Our experienced, fully qualified instructors help children develop confidence, coordination, resilience and lifelong friendships while learning incredible aerial skills. Whether your child dreams of performing or simply wants to try something new, our classes provide a unique way to stay active and express creativity. We also offer parties, performances and classes for adults. Come and discover the joy of flying with us!”

Find out more at www.aerialartsdorset.co.uk

 

 

Wimborne Model Town

Discover Wimborne’s Little Treasure since 1952. Walk around the Town in 1/10 scale and view the Model of the Model in 1/100 scale. Take a quiz to guide you through over 100 miniature shops, homes and businesses, in beautiful gardens. Enjoy the sensory gardens and make music on their outdoor Musical Instruments.

Meet the Wareham Bears, drive a train in the Model Railway and wonder at the Beryl Dade Dolls’ House Collection. Play a round of Crazy Golf and after relax in the tearoom which offers drinks, delicious cakes and lunches.

Visit www.wimborne-modeltown.com for details of their monthly events, opening times and prices. Your entry ticket is valid for 12 months!!