Family Friendly Events in Dorset July 2026
Posted on
Need ideas for things to do with the family in July? You'll find lots of fun events and shows listed below.
ABBOTSBURY SWANNERY BRAMLEY HEDGE STORY TRAIL
Info: The trail takes visitors around the Swannery grounds, to discover more about the swans and the adventurous mice. Designed for families to enjoy, the trail includes interactive activities, stamp points and questions to answer, all alongside the swans and discovering more about the unique Swannery.
Dates: Saturday 14th March – Saturday 31st October 2026
Address: Abbotsbury Swannery, New Barn Road, Abbotsbury, Dorset, DT3 4JG
Website: Abbotsbury Swannery
KINGSTON LACY POKEMON TCG MEGA EVOLUTION TRAIL
Info: Get active outdoors on the Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evolution Trail. Team up as a family to search the woodlands for each Mega Evolution Pokémon, discover their powers and complete your own challenges.
Dates: Saturday 23rd May – Sunday 6th September 2026
Address: Kingston Lacy, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 4EA
Website: National Trust Kingston Lacy
CORFE CASTLE INTERACTIVE QUEST
Info: Get ready for a fun adventure at Corfe Castle based on The New Famous Five by Chris Smith, inspired by Enid Blyton. The interactive quest invites families to explore the castle like true detectives. Solve clues, crack puzzles and uncover hidden secrets as you explore the ruins. During half term, families can also plant your own nasturtium seeds in an eco pot and join the Keeper of the Castle on a lively, interactive storytelling tour that brings the past to life.
Dates: Saturday 23rd May – Sunday 6th September 2026
Address: Corfe Castle, The Square, Corfe Castle, Dorset, BH20 5EZ
Website: National Trust Corfe Castle
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOUR DREAMCOAT
Info: As one of the most enduring musicals of all time, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a reimagining of the biblical story of Joseph and his Brothers. It is a story of hope, reconciliation and forgiveness, all wrapped up in the joy of song and dance. This beloved musical with lyrics by Tim Rice and Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, is full of catchy songs in a variety of styles. An Amateur production by arrangement with LW Entertainment Ltd.
Dates: Thursday 2nd – Saturday 11th July 2026
Address: Shaftesbury Arts Centre, 13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 8AR
Website: Shaftesbury Arts Centre
CIRCUS ZYAIR
Info: Fearless acrobats and daredevil stuntmen guarantee maximum thrills by risking life and limb daily for your entertainment!
Dates: Tuesday 7th – Saturday 11th July 2026
Address: Christchurch Quay, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1BU
Website: Circus Zyair
JAY MILLERS CIRCUS
Info: Join the cast as they present to you a spectacular live entertainment production, jam-packed with fun for the whole family to enjoy!
Dates: Wednesday 8th – Sunday 12th July 2026
Address: Herston, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2NS
Website: Jay Millers Circus
BREDY REUNION
Dates: Thursday 9th – Saturday 11th July 2026
Address: Bredy Farm, Bredy Lane, Burton Bradstock, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4ND
Website: Bredy Farm
DORSET VOLKSFEST
Info: Family friendly weekend of live entertainment, beer, great street food, and VWs!
Dates: Friday 10th – Sunday 12th July 2026
Address: The Showground, Worgret Road, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 6AB
Website: Dorset Volkfest
HOLDENHURST VILLAGE SUMMER FAIR
Date: Saturday 11th July 2026
Address: St John’s Church, Holdenhurst Village, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 0EE
Facebook: Holdenhurst Village
WESTIVAL
Date: Saturday 11th July 2026
Address: Fryer Field, West Moors, Dorset, BH22 0LL
Website: West Moors Town Council
SYDLING CHURCH FETE
Date: Saturday 11th July 2026
Address: The Village Green, Sydling St Nicholas, Dorset, DT2 9SY
Website: Sydling St Nicholas
DORSET CERAMICS MARKET
Date: Saturday 11th July 2026
Address: The Corn Exchange, High East Street, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1HF
Website: This Thing With Ceramics
DINOSAURS LIVE!
Info: Ever since they were first identified in the 1800s, dinosaurs have sparked the imagination of kids and adults alike and for the first time ever, the world-renowned Natural History Museum has teamed up with Mark Thompson Productions to take you on a dinosaur adventure like no other. You’ll go on a pre-historic journey together to the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods and watch the life-like dinosaurs come alive right on stage! Not only that, but you’ll also find out more about fossils, time scales and how our planet has changed over hundreds of millions of years.
Date: Saturday 11th July 2026
Address: Bournemouth Pavilion, Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2BU
Website: Bournemouth Pavilion
ALICE IN WONDERLAND ‘A WORLD OF WONDER AWAITS’
Info: Step into a fantastical world where nothing is quite as it seems. Follow Alice on her extraordinary journey through Wonderland in this vibrant and imaginative adaptation of the classic tale. All 350 talented students of the school will bring this magical adventure to life in a creative and ambitious production, bursting with music, dance and colourful characters. A spellbinding show for all the family, full of surprises and wonder at every turn.
Date: Saturday 11th July 2026
Address: Lighthouse Poole, 21 Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG
Website: Lighthouse Poole
CORFE CASTLE FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL
Dates: Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th July 2026
Address: The Square, Corfe Castle, Dorset, BH20 5EZ
MINION MAYHEM AT MUSEUM OF EAST DORSET
Info: Minion Mayhem at the Museum is an interactive adventure that invites visitors to step into the world of Minion Training. Budding recruits will take on a series of playful challenges, from HookaBanana to Minion Skittles, to discover whether they’re a Kevin, Bob, or Stuart. Along the way, families can enjoy a Minion hunt through the museum and its beautiful walled garden, dive into hands-on activities and raid the ever popular fancy dress station.
Dates: Saturday 11th July - Saturday 5th September 2026
Address: Museum of East Dorset, 23-29 High Street, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1HR
Website: Museum of East Dorset
WIMBORNE COMMUNITY GARDEN FUN DAY
Date: Sunday 12th July 2026
Address: Wimborne Community Garden, School Lane, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1HQ
Facebook: Wimborne Community Garden
HAPPYARD FAMILY FUN SHOW
Date: Sunday 12th July 2026
Address: Happyard, Kingston Russell, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 9ED
Facebook: Happyard
BOURNE FREE FAMILY FUN DAY
Date: Sunday 12th July 2026
Address: Meyrick Park, Central Drive, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH2 6LH
Website: Bourne Free
SUMMER CAMP OUT
Info: Get ready for a full-on ska explosion. There’s 40+ bands and DJ’s over the weekend, local food and drink, plus family friendly activities for all ages.
Dates: Thursday 16th – Sunday 19th July 2026
Address: Pilford Farm, Pilford Heath Road, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 7BD
Website: Summer Camp Out
THE RUSTIC STOMP
Dates: Friday 17th – Sunday 19th July 2026
Address: Knoll Farm, Soldiers Road, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5DU
Website: Rustic Stomp
CHRISTCHURCH MUSIC FESTIVAL
Dates: Friday 17th – Sunday 19th July 2026
Address: Christchurch Quay, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1BU
Website: Christchurch Music Festival
TOLPUDDLE MARTYRS’ FESTIVAL
Info: The Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival returns with an inspiring programme of discussion, music, performance, children's activities, speakers, food stalls, and more.
Dates: Friday 17th – Sunday 19th July 2026
Location: Tolpuddle Village
Website: Tolpuddle Martyrs
SUMMERFEST
Info: Summerfest promises an action packed day full of entertainment, live music, sports tournaments, food and drink stalls, and family entertainment.
Date: Saturday 18th July 2026
Address: Redlands Leisure Centre, Dorchester Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 5AW
Website: Weymouth Round Table
ALL SAINTS SUMMER FETE
Date: Saturday 18th July 2026
Address: All Saints Church, 28 Western Road, Poole, Dorset, BH13 7BP
Facebook: All Saints Church
BURTON BRADSTOCK PARTY IN THE PARK
Date: Saturday 18th July 2026
Address: Playing Fields, 91 High Street, Burton Bradstock, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4RA
MUSCLIFF FAMILY FUN DAY
Date: Saturday 18th July 2026
Address: Muscliff Park, Shillingstone Drive, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH9 3LR
EDMONSHAM VILLAGE FETE
Date: Saturday 18th July 2026
Address: Edmonsham Village Hut, Edmondsham, Dorset, BH21 5RF
Facebook: Edmonsham Village Hut
MARTINSTOWN GARDEN FETE
Date: Saturday 18th July 2026
Address: The Manor, Martinstown, Winterborne St. Martin, Dorset, DT2 9JN
YETMINSTER FAIR & DOG SHOW
Date: Saturday 18th July 2026
Address: Yetminster Sports Ground, Yetminster, Dorset, DT9 6NR
Facebook: Yetminster Fair
HOLY ROOD WOOL FUN DAY
Date: Saturday 18th July 2026
Address: Holy Rood Church, Church Lane, Wool, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 6DD
Facebook: West Purbeck Benefice
THE WOW BUBBLE SHOW
Dates: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th July 2026
Address: Shaftesbury Arts Centre, 13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 8AR
Website: Shaftesbury Arts Centre
ALICE IN WONDERLAND
Info: Follow Alice on a madcap adventure down the rabbit hole to a land of peculiar creatures and chaotic fun in this family-friendly panto! Treehouse Theatre’s summer show is colourful and interactive, filled with excitement, laughter and live music, where you can even play a part on stage if you want to. Cheer the heroes, boo the bad guys, and help Alice save the day in this panto style version of Lewis Carroll's crazy classic.
Dates: Saturday 18th July – Thursday 13th August 2026
Locations: Shaftesbury, Abbotsbury, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Wimborne, Ferndown, Buckland Newton & Wareham
Website: Treehouse Theatre
TANK MUSEUM SUMMER HOLIDAYS
Info: Experience the biggest day out in history with live tank displays, vehicle rides, interactive exhibitions, family-friendly activities, and more.
Dates: Saturday 18th July – Monday 31st August 2026
Address: Tank Museum, Linsay Road, Bovington, Dorset, BH20 6JG
Website: Tank Museum
DURLSTON COUNTRY PARK ACTIVITY TRAILS & MORE
Info: The Marvelous Meadows Trail runs through the first half of the summer holidays and then the Monsters of the Jurassic Trail runs until the end. Plus there’s guided walks, scavenger hunts, nature activities and Wild Wednesdays all planned on selected dates.
Dates: Saturday 18th July – Wednesday 2nd September 2026
Address: Durlston Country Park, Lighthouse Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2JL
Website: Durlston Country Park
CHARMOUTH FOSSIL HUNTING WALKS
Info: Join a guided Fossil Walk with the wardens to find and take home your very own Jurassic fossil. Costs apply and booking is essential.
Dates: Saturday 18th July – Saturday 5th September 2026
Address: Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre, Lower Sea Lane, Charmouth, Dorset, DT6 6LL
Website: Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre
WAREHAM CARNIVAL
Date: Sunday 19th July 2026
Address: Wareham Town & The Rec
Website: Wareham Carnival
THE CATTISTOCK COUNTRYSIDE SHOW
Date: Sunday 19th July 2026
Address: Cattistock, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 0HA
Website: Cattistock Show
KPOP FANTASY
Info: KPOP Fantasy is a high-energy theatrical celebration of the global phenomenon that is K-pop. Blending electrifying choreography with outstanding live vocals, this immersive stage show brings the spectacle, precision, and passion of K-pop to life in a thrilling theatre experience.
Date: Sunday 19th July 2026
Address: The Regent, 51 High Street, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1AS
Website: The Regent
KINGSTON LACY SUMMER OF PLAY
Dates: Monday 20th July – Sunday 30th August 2026
Address: Kingston Lacy, Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 4EA
Website: National Trust Kingston Lacy
LYME REGIS MUSEUM
Info: Lyme Regis Museum is full of the rich historical and cultural history of the town. The summer holiday programme includes clay modelling workshops, 3D modelling, print making workshops, and more. Admission costs apply and some activity sessions require pre-booking.
Dates: Tuesday 21st July – Thursday 27th August 2026
Address: Lyme Regis Museum, Bridge Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3QA
Website: Lyme Regis Museum
STUDLAND SUMMER OF PLAY
Info: On selected dates, take a break from the beach and head to the sand bowl where you will find games like badminton, giant snakes and ladders, twister and sack races, amongst others.
Dates: Wednesday 22nd July – Wednesday 26th August 2026
Address: Shell Bay, Studland, Dorset
Website: National Trust Studland Bay
FARMER PALMERS FARM PARK SUMMER FUN
Info: Farmer Palmers have a jammed packed diary of events planned and in addition to numerous play areas and animals to see, there will be ‘Wet the Western’ tractor trailer rides and foam parties every Wednesday and Friday.
Dates: Wednesday 22nd July – Friday 28th August 2026
Address: Farmer Palmers, Wareham Road, Organford, Poole, Dorset, BH16 6EU
Website: Farmer Palmers
LOVE PARKS DAY
Info: Free entertainment for all the family including bouncy castles, Punch and Judy, face painting, and crazy golf.
Date: Thursday 23rd July 2026
Address: Dorchester Borough Gardens, Cornwall Rd, Dorchester DT1 1RG
Facebook: Dorchester Borough Gardens
THE COURTYARD SUMMER SESSIONS
Dates: Thursday 23rd & Thursday 30th July 2026
Address: The Courtyard, Huntick Road, Lytchett Minster, Poole, Dorset, BH16 6BA
Website: The Courtyard
RUSSELL-COTES MUSEUM FAIRY ACTIVITIES
Info: Be enchanted this summer with fairy themed trails, crafts and workshops celebrating the current exhibition Flower Fairies™: Enchantment by the Sea.
Dates: Thursday 23rd July – Friday 31st August 2026
Address: Russell-Cotes Museum, East West Cliff Promenade, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 3AA
Website: Russell-Cotes
BERE REGIS SUMMER PICNIC
Date: Friday 24th July 2026
Address: Wild Woodbury, Southbrook Road, Bere Regis, Dorset, BH20 7LL
BOURNEMOUTH REGGAE WEEKENDER
Info: Bournemouth Reggae Weekender is an independently run 3 day unique occasion to celebrate the diverse African-Caribbean culture and heritage in Bournemouth through reggae music with a full range of entertainment and traditional activities that supports creative arts and performing artists through music, poetry, storytelling, and dance workshops.
Dates: Friday 24th – Sunday 26th July 2026
Address: King’s Park, Kings Park Drive, Bournemouth, BH7 6JD
Website: Bournemouth Reggae Weekender
POWERSTOCK COUNTRY FETE
Date: Saturday 25th July 2026
Address: The Wier Sports Field, Nettlecombe, Dorset, DT6 3SY
GAGGLEFEST
Date: Saturday 25th July 2026
Address: Gaggle of Geese, Buckland Newton, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 7BS
Website: Gaggle of Geese
DORCHESTER KITE FESTIVAL
Date: Saturday 25th July 2026
Address: The Great Field, Poundbury, Dorset
Website: Discover Dorchester
MOONACRE MAGICK
Dates: Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th July 2026
Address: Moonacre, Roundhouse Roundabout, Sturminster Marshall, Dorset, BH21 4AA
Facebook: Moonacre Magick
MUDEFORD ARTS FESTIVAL
Dates: Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th July 2026
Address: The Green, Mudeford Quay, Dorset
Website: Mudeford Arts Festival
SWANAGE CARNIVAL WEEK
Info: Whether you’re looking for family fun, live entertainment, or an unforgettable day by the sea, Swanage Carnival Week is the perfect way to experience summer in Dorset.
Dates: Saturday 25th July – Saturday 1st August 2026
Address: Across Swanage
Website: Swanage Carnival
SHERBORNE CASTLE FAIRY DOOR TRAIL
Info: Hidden among the trees of Sherborne Castle and Gardens, the fairy door trail feels like stepping into a storybook. The trail winds gently through the peaceful gardens, encouraging slow exploration, playful discovery, and moments of quiet enchantment, making it a charming highlight of any visit to the gardens. Prizes will be available from the ticket box at the end of the trail.
Dates: Saturday 25th July – Sunday 30th August 2026
Address: Sherborne Castle, New Road, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 5NR
Website: Sherborne Castle
HIGHCLIFFE CASTLE SEASIDE OUTDOOR SUMMER TRAIL
Info: Begin your journey by collecting your trail card from the Castle Gift Shop, then make your way around the Castle grounds, following clues and answering seaside‑themed questions as you go. Once completed, every participating child receives a seaside‑themed gift bag.
Dates: Saturday 25th July – Sunday 30th August 2026
Address: Highcliffe Castle, Rothesay Drive, Highcliffe, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 4LE
Website: Highcliffe Castle
CORFE CASTLE SUMMER OF PLAY
Info: Step back in time and play like a castle-builder at Corfe Castle. Sharpen your aim in the archery zone, fire beanbags with mini slingshots, and tackle balance beams and stepping stones fit for a medieval obstacle course.
Dates: Saturday 25th July – Friday 31st August 2026
Address: Corfe Castle, The Square, Corfe Castle, Dorset
Website: National Trust Corfe Castle
BLUE POOL FAIRY DAY
Info: Discover the new Trail of Enchanted Doors where the woodland is home not only to fairies, but to a host of other mythical characters. Meet real-life fairies, enjoy face painting, listen to storytelling beside the Wishing Tree, take part in interactive ceremonies and workshops, and explore artisan stalls in the Magical Maker’s Market.
Date: Sunday 26th July 2026
Address: The Blue Pool, Furzebrook Road, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5AR
Website: The Blue Pool
LITTLEDOWN FAMILY FUN DAY
Info: The Family Fun Day will take place outside within 47 acres of parkland with some activities taking place inside the centre. Enjoy dinosaurs and dragons walkabouts, shows and performances on the main stage, meet Merlin and the baby Dragon, virtual reality sessions, character meet and greets, 360-science dome, bug and spider handling experiences, face painting, under 5 activities, kids entertainers, bouncy castle, arts and crafts, fun fair, stalls, live music, plus food and drink.
Date: Sunday 26th July 2026
Address: Littledown Centre, Chaseside, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH7 7DX
Facebook: BH Live Active Littledown
THE WIMBORNE BUMP TO BABY SHOW
Date: Sunday 26th July 2026
Address: The Allendale Centre, Hanham Road, Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 1AS
Facebook: Wimborne Bump to Baby Show
UPTON COUNTRY PARK FAMILY SHOW
Date: Monday 27th July 2026
Address: Upton Country Park, Poole Road, Upton, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7BJ
Website: Upton Country Park
THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA
Info: A musical play adapted and directed by David Wood, based on the book by Judith Kerr. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. Don’t miss this stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem… expect to be surprised!
Dates: Tuesday 28th July – Thursday 30th July 2026
Address: Lighthouse Poole, 21 Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG
Website: Lighthouse Poole
RUDE SCIENCE
Info: Brace yourselves for BBC Gastronaut Stefan Gates’ revolutionary, high-tech, highly-explosive new show, packed with outrageous science stunts!
Date: Wednesday 29th July 2026
Address: Weymouth Pavilion, Esplanade, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8ED
Booking: Weymouth Pavilion
LEGALLY BLONDE
Info: Get ready to bend and snap your way to the theatre! Join Elle Woods, the fashion-savvy sorority girl who takes Harvard Law School. This fabulously fun and award-winning show follows Elle as she defies expectations, tackles stereotypes, and proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style! With catchy songs, dynamic dance numbers, and a heartwarming story, this musical is a delightful celebration of self-discovery and empowerment.
Dates: Thursday 30th July – Saturday 1st August 2026
Address: The Regent, 51 High Street, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1AS
Website: The Regent
CAMP BESTIVAL
Dates: Thursday 30th July – Sunday 2nd August 2026
Address: Lulworth Castle, East Lulworth, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5QS
Website: Camp Bestival Dorset
POOLE HARBOUR FESTIVAL
Dates: Friday 31st July – Sunday 2nd August 2026
Address: Baiter Park, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1TQ
Website: Poole Harbour Festival
LYME REGIS CARIVAL WEEK
Info: Lyme Regis Regatta and Carnival Week is packed full of fun events and activities for all the family to enjoy, culminating in the Grand Carnival Procession.
Dates: Friday 31st July – Saturday 8th August 2026
Address: Across Lyme Regis
Website: Lyme Regis Regatta
If you know of any more events coming up in July then please do Contact Us.
Need more summer ideas for the family?
Attractions & Places to Visit
Soft Plays & Play Cafes
Splash Parks & Paddling Pools
Car Boot Sales
Pubs with Play Parks
Sport & Leisure Centres
Rainy Days in Dorset
Popular Blog Posts:
Free & Low Cost places to go in Dorset with Kids
Crazy Golf Courses in Dorset
Where to see Planes, Trains and Automobiles
Walking the Lawrence of Arabia Trail
The Blue Pool
Tout Quarry Sculpture Park in Portland
The Great Field Play Park at Poundbury
Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre & Beach
Nothe Fort
Church Ope Cove, Rufus Castle & Pirate Graves Walk
RSPB Arne
Durlston Country Park to Swanage Town Circular Walk
Tyneham Village & Worborrow Bay
Carey’s Secret Garden in Wareham
Steamer Point Nature Reserve
Snowtrax Alpine Adventure Park
Nicks Farm
Hamworthy Park & Paddling Pool
King George V Playing Fields
Longham Lakes Circular Walk
Exploring Badbury Rings Iron Age Hillfort
Dorsetmums has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this site and does not accept liability for any errors or omission. Please also note that an event or venue may cancel or close at any time and you should consider contacting before visiting.
