By Looking for the best things to do in Dorset this weekend? Whether you’re a local resident or planning a coastal getaway, Dorset is packed with exciting events, family-friendly activities, food festivals, markets, and cultural experiences. From scenic seaside towns like Weymouth and Swanage to historic hubs like Dorchester and Shaftesbury, there’s something happening across every corner of the county. In this guide, we highlight whats on this weekend in Dorset, so you can make the most of your time—rain or shine.
Major Festivals & Food Events
Bridport Beer & Food Festival (Fri 13 – Sat 14 June)
- Where: Askers Meadow, Bridport
- What: 21st-year celebration of local brews, ciders, artisan food, live cooking demos & kids’ workshops (visit-dorset.com)
- When: Beer night on June 13, Food Festival June 14 (9:30 AM–5 PM)
- Tickets: Adults £3.50 advance / £5 on the day; under-17s free (dorsetfoodanddrink.org)
Harry Paye Pirate Day (Sat 14 June)
- Where: Poole Quay
- What: Pirate parade, best-dressed competition, children’s rides, live music (visit-dorset.com)
Highcliffe Food & Arts Festival (Sat 14 – Sun 15 June)
- Where: Highcliffe Village Green & High Street
- What: Food stalls, artisan crafts, live music and family entertainment (dorsetmums.co.uk)
Lyme Regis Fossil Festival (Sat 14 – Sun 15 June)
- Where: Lyme Regis
- What: Science workshops, fossil hunting, talks—celebrating the Jurassic Coast heritage (dorsetmums.co.uk, visit-dorset.com)
Family Fetes, Fairs & Fun Days
- St Mark’s School Summer Fete – Bournemouth (Fri 13) (dorsetmums.co.uk)
- Tarrant Gunville Church Fete – Blandford Forum (Sat 14) (dorsetmums.co.uk)
- All Saints Church Family Fun Day – Swanage (Sat 14) (dorsetmums.co.uk)
- Christchurch Hospital Summer Fete – Christchurch (Sat 14) (dorsetmums.co.uk)
- Corfe Castle Village Hall Summer Fair – Corfe Castle (Sat 14) (dorsetmums.co.uk)
- Corfe Mullen Carnival – Recreation Ground (Sat 14) (dorsetmums.co.uk)
- Merley Family Fun Day – Merley First School (Sat 14) (dorsetmums.co.uk)
- Moors Valley Railway Summer Gala – Ashley Heath (Sat 14–Sun 15) (dorsetmums.co.uk)
Nature & Trails
Brambly Hedge Summer Story Trail (Sat 13)
- Where: Abbotsbury Swannery
- What: Family-friendly fairytale trail inspired by children’s books (visit-dorset.com)
Frome Valley Trail
- About: 16-mile scenic footpath between Evershot and Dorchester—perfect for walkers and cyclists (en.wikipedia.org)
Live Music & Cultural Highlights
- Oasis Tribute – Bournemouth Pier (Sat 14) (resortdorset.com)
- Wimborne Minster Folk Festival (Fri–Sun, 2nd weekend June)
Traditional folk music and dance in Wimborne (up to 70,000 visitors) (en.wikipedia.org)
Cultural and Artistic Events
- Harmony Festival – Dorchester (11–14 June): flower displays, art, music & evening concerts (visit-dorset.com)
What to Do & Where to Go
- Sandbanks & Poole Quay – Visit the pirate event and enjoy summer evening walks along the harbour.
- Brownsea Island Reopens – The National Trust island in Poole Harbour is back with wildlife trails, new observatory and café (visit-dorset.com, thesun.co.uk)
- Durlston Country Park – Ideal for cliff walks, nature spotting and family afternoons near Swanage (en.wikipedia.org)
Tips for the Weekend
- Advance Tickets: Book for Bridport Food Festival and Brownsea ferry to avoid queues.
- Transport: Expect busy roads—car share, bus, or ferry where possible.
- Weather: Check Dorset forecast, bring layers and sunscreen.
- Parking/Ferries: Arrive early at popular spots like Abbotsbury and Poole to secure spots.
Conclusion
This weekend in Dorset offers something for everyone—whether you’re into food and drink, family-friendly fairs, live music, or nature and heritage. Be sure to plan ahead, check times, and enjoy the best of Dorset’s local events June 13–15.
FAQs
Q 1: What are the main events this weekend in Dorset?
Highlights include the Bridport Beer & Food Festival, Harry Paye Pirate Day at Poole Quay, the Highcliffe Food & Arts Festival, and the Lyme Regis Fossil Festival.
Q 2: Is Brownsea Island open this weekend?
Yes. Brownsea Island reopened mid-March and is operating with new ferry services, a wildlife observatory, events, and café (dorsetfoodanddrink.org).
Q 3: Where can I find family-friendly events in Dorset this weekend?
Plenty! Look to St Mark’s School fete, Church fairs (Tarrant Gunville, Swanage, Christchurch), Corfe Castle Summer Fair, Merley Fun Day, and story trails at Abbotsbury Swannery.
Q 4: Are there any music festivals in Dorset now?
Yes—Wimborne Minster Folk Festival runs this weekend, plus live performances like the Oasis tribute in Bournemouth.
Q 5: Any cultural festivals happening this weekend?
Catch the Harmony Festival in Dorchester for music, flower displays, and art exhibits through June 14.
Also read: What to Do in Cheltenham England: 21 Best Attractions & Activities
