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  1. Need ideas for things to do with the family in September?  You'll find lots of fun events and shows listed below.

    Canva September 

    ABBOTSBURY SWANNERY BRAMLEY HEDGE TRAIL

    Info: Based on the Summer Story book, the trail includes fun facts, stamp points and an activity booklet. The trail runs alongside the daily mass swan feeds, willow swan maze and pedal go-karts.

    Dates: Ongoing
    Address: Abbotsbury Swannery, New Barn Road, Abbotsbury, Dorset, DT3 4JG
    Website: Abbotsbury Swannery

     

    THE WALLED GARDEN DINOSAURS IN SPACE TRAIL

    Dates: Wednesday 16th July - Friday 5th September 2025
    Address: The Walled Garden, Station Road, Moreton, Dorset, DT2 8RH
    Website: The Walled Garden

    July Aug The Walled Garden Dino Trail 2025

     

    TANK MUSEUM SEASON OF STEM

    Info: Get involved with hands-on games and interactives, watch live tanks in action and experience a tracked vehicle ride.  Plus, explore the tank-themed outdoor playpark or soft play for mini-tank enthusiasts.

    Dates: Saturday 19th July - Tuesday 2nd September 2025
    Address: Tank Museum, Linsay Road, Bovington, Dorset, BH20 6JG
    Website: Tank Museum

     

    DURLSTON COUNTRY PARK ACTIVITY TRAIL

    Info: Head to the Castle reception to collect your Boats of the Bay activity trail booklet.  The trail will take you on a trip around the park to learn more about the boats you'll spot from the Durlston cliffs.

    Dates: Saturday 19th July - Wednesday 3rd September 2025
    Address: Durlston Country Park, Lighthouse Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2JL
    Website: Durlston Country Park

     

    KINGSTON LACY SUMMER OF PLAY

    Info: There's so much to try out this summer - start your engines in the wacky races, build something amazing with the giant blue blocks, try out the ball play and slacklining zone and much, much more.

    Dates: Saturday 19th July - Sunday 7th September 2025
    Address: Kingston Lacy, Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 4EA
    Website: Kingston Lacy

     

    MOORS VALLEY COUNTRY PARK STICK MAN TRAIL & MORE

    Info: Moors Valley is an award-winning visitor attraction offering a host of outdoor activities for all ages with long paths to explore in the woods, multiple fun play areas, the Moors Valley Railway and much more.  Activities in the holidays include pond dipping, fishing, mini golf, adventure valley land rovers and the Stick Man Trail.

    Dates: Saturday 19th July - Sunday 7th September 2025
    Address: Moors Valley Country Park, Horton Road, Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
    Website: Moors Valley Country Park

     

    THORNCOMBE WOODS WILD WORKOUT TRAIL

    Info: Enjoy a FREE nature inspired Physical Activity Trail. Keep everyone moving and exploring this summer holiday with a family friendly trail around the reserve!  Follow the pink and blue waymarked trails to discover beautifully hand-painted discs.  Each disc reveals a nature-inspired movement challenge to try.  Trail leaflets can be found in car park or at the Visitors Centre.

    Dates: Saturday 19th July - Monday 8th September 2025
    Address: Thorncombe Woods, Higher Bockhampton, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8QH
    Facebook: Hardys Birthplace

     

    HIGHCLIFFE CASTLE SUMMER WELLBEING CHALLENGE

    Info: Explore the grounds of Highcliffe Castle for an outdoor challenge trail promoting positive wellbeing and appreciating you. Indoor crafts will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays and there will be a different craft each week to do.

    Dates: Sunday 20th July - Sunday 7th September 2025
    Address: Highcliffe Castle, Rothesay Drive, Highcliffe, Dorset, BH23 4LE
    Website: Highcliffe Castle

     

    MUSEUM OF EAST DORSET MINECRAFT ADVENTURES

    Info: From character hunts to crafty clay creations, families can dive into a pixel-powered holiday filled with creativity and exploration.  Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone in this immersive experience.

    Dates: Monday 21st July - Saturday 6th September 2025
    Address: Museum of East Dorset, 23-29 High Street, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1HR
    Website: Museum of East Dorset

     

    MADJESTON ANIMAL FARM ACTIVITIES

    Info: There are new attractions each week of the holidays which include straw bales to climb, jump, hide and play on, pedal tractors, space hoppers, sand, water, disco and bubbles to name a few.  Plus there’s animal activity sessions, café and play area.

    Dates: Thursday 24th July - Wednesday 3rd September 2025
    Address: Madjeston Animal Farm, Cole Street Lane, Madjeston, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 5JQ
    Website: Madjeston Animal Farm

     

    MAPPERTON SUMMER WILDLINGS

    Info: This summer, Mapperton is inviting families to explore, discover and get creative with six weeks of themed activities across the gardens, Wildlands and play areas.  From forest trails and storytelling to sketching wildlife, scavenger hunts and postcards from the past - there’s something new to enjoy every week.

    Dates: Sunday 27th July - Thursday 4th September 2025
    Address: Mapperton, Beaminster, Dorset, DT8 3NR
    Website: Mapperton

     

    KINGSTON MAURWARD ANIMAL PARK & GARDENS MAGICAL FAIRY TRAIL

    Dates: Saturday 9th August - Friday 5th September 2025
    Address: Kingston Maurward, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8PX
    Website: Kingston Maurward Gardens & Animal Park

    Aug 9 to Sept 5 Kingston Maurward Fairy Trail 2025

     

    PURBECK FILM FESTIVAL CINEMA UNDER THE STARS

    Info: Enjoy a magical season of summer screenings in some of Purbeck’s most iconic outdoor locations.

    Dates: Saturday 16th August - Saturday 6th September 2025
    Locations: Studland, Swanage, Corfe Castle & Wareham
    Website: Purbeck Film Festival

     

    MAD4ANIMALS SHOW AT SOUTHERN AQUATICS

    Date: Monday 1st September 2025
    Address: Southern Aquatics, Northmead Drive, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7XZ
    Website: Southern Aquatics

    Sept 1 Mad Southern Aquatics 2025

     

    BOUNCY CASTLE PLANET

    Info: A fun filled inflatable activity for the kids aged 1-12 years, with a selection of the most exciting inflatables all in one place!

    Date: Monday 1st September 2025
    Address: Ferndown Leisure Centre, Cherry Grove, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9EZ
    Website: ABC Leisure 

     

    ANGUS WOOD SUMMER NATURE TRAIL

    Date: Monday 1st September 2025
    Address: Angus Wood, St Leonards Avenue, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7PJ
    Facebook: Blandford Environmental Trust

    Sept 1 Angus Wood Trail 2025

     

    BLUEY VISITS AT PEEKABOO & BREW

    Dates: Monday 1st - Sunday 7th September 2025
    Address: PeekABoo & Brew, 214a Macaulay Road, Broadstone, Poole, Dorset, BH18 8DX
    Website: PeekABoo & Brew

    Sept 1 to 7 Peeka Boo 2025

     

    LITTLEMOOR SILENT DISCO

    Date: Tuesday 2nd September 2025
    Address: Top Club, Louviers Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 6AY
    Website: Big 4 Littlemoor

    Sept 2 Top Club Littlemoor 2025

     

    MAD4ANIMALS SHOW AT AVON HEATH COUNTRY PARK

    Info: Not only will you see a highly entertaining show, but directly afterwards there will be a chance for you to get your hands on some of the animals in the show and even have pictures with the giant snakes!

    Date: Tuesday 2nd September 2025
    Address: Avon Heath Country Park, Brocks Pine, St Leonards, BH24 2DH
    Website: Avon Heath Country Park

     

    SWANAGE FOLK FESTIVAL

    Info: A weekend of music, dance and fun around the beautiful town of Swanage.

    Dates: Friday 5th – Sunday 7th September 2025
    Location: Across Swanage
    Website: Swanage Folk Festival

     

    CLASSIC & STEAM VEHICLE SHOW

    Dates: Friday 5th - Sunday 7th September 2025
    Address: Norden, Corfe Castle, Dorset, BH20 5DW
    Website: BPP Club

    Sept 5 to 7 Classic Steam Show Norden 2025

     

    BOURNEMOUTH BRICK FESTIVAL

    Date: Saturday 6th September 2025
    Address: Bournemouth International Centre, Exeter Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH2 5BH
    Website: Bournemouth International Centre

    Sept 6 Bournemouth Brick Festival 2025

     

    BOURNEMOUTH COMIC CON

    Date: Saturday 6th September 2025
    Address: Bournemouth International Centre, Exeter Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH2 5BH
    Website: Bournemouth International Centre

    Sept 6 Bournemouth Comic Con 2025

     

    VJ DAY CELEBRATIONS

    Date: Saturday 6th September 2025
    Address: New Milton Recreation Ground, Whitefield Road, New Milton, BH25 6DF
    Website: New Milton Town Council

    Sept 6 New Milton VE 2025

     

    BRIDPORT HAT FESTIVAL

    Date: Saturday 6th September 2025
    Location: Bucky Doo Square & Millenium Green
    Website: Bridport Hat Fest

    Sept 6 Bridport Hat Festival 2025

     

    BLANDFORD TOWN MUSEUM OUTDOOR FAMILY PERFORMANCE

    Date: Saturday 6th September 2025
    Address: Blandford Town Museum, Beres Yard, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7HQ
    Website: Blandford Town Museum

    Sept 6 Blandford Museum 2025

     

    CLIFFTOP MUSIC FEST

    Date: Saturday 6th September 2025
    Address: Wharncliffe Road, Highcliffe, Dorset, BH223 5DF
    Website: Highcliffe Village

    Sept 6 Clifftop Music Fest 2025

     

    BRIDPORT FIRE STATION OPEN DAY

    Date: Saturday 6th September 2025
    Address: Bridport Fire Station, 56A South Street, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 3NN
    Facebook: Bridport Fire Station

    Sept 6 Bridport Fire Station Open Day 2025

     

    MOORS VALLEY RAILWAY STEAM SPECTACULAR

    Date: Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th September 2025
    Address: Moors Valley Country Park, Horton Road, Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
    Website: Moors Valley Railway

    Sept 6 and 7 Moors Valley Railway 2025

     

    DORSET COUNTY SHOW

    Info: The Dorset County Show returns with stunt riders, action horses, livestock, live music, local produce, stalls, and much more.

    Dates: Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th September 2025
    Address: Dorchester Showground, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 7SD
    Website: Dorset County Show

     

    WEYMOUTH WATERFEST

    Date: Sunday 7th September 2025
    Location: Weymouth Beach
    Website: Weymouth Town Council

    Sept 7 Weymouth Waterfest 2025

     

    ARTS BY THE SEA BITSIZED FESTIVAL

    Date: Sunday 7th September 2025
    Address: Bourne Community Hub, Northmere Road, Poole, Dorset, BH12 4DY
    Website: Arts by the Sea Festival

    Sept 7 Arts by the Sea Bourne Hub 2025

     

    B-SIDE ARTS FESTIVAL

    Info: B-side is an internationally recognised and locally loved arts organisation that both embodies and enriches its place of origin - the Isle of Portland.

    Dates: Thursday 11th - Sunday 14th September 2025
    Location: Across Portland
    Website: B-Side Festival

     

    INSIDE OUT DORSET

    Info: Inside Out Dorset is an international outdoor arts festival. Expect live performance in unexpected places – in town centres, by the sea, on hilltops and in woodland, all for everyone to enjoy.

    Dates: Friday 12th - Sunday 21st September 2025
    Locations: Across Dorset
    Website: Inside Out Dorset

     

    HERITAGE OPEN DAYS

    Dates: Friday 12th - Sunday 21st September 2025
    Locations: Across Dorset
    Dorsetmums Blog: Heritage Open Days in Dorset

    Heritage Open Days Dorset 2025

     

    SWANAGE BOATHOUSE OPEN DAY

    Date: Saturday 13th September 2025
    Address: Swanage Lifeboat Station, Peveril Point Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 2AY
    Facebook: Swanage Lifeboat Station

    Sept 13 Swanage Lifeboat 2025

     

    WELDMAR’S SUMMER FETE

    Info: Set in the beautiful grounds of the hospice, this much-loved annual event brings together local talent, family-friendly entertainment, and a whole host of activities for all ages.

    Date: Saturday 13th September 2025
    Address: Weldmar Hospicecare Inpatient Unit, Herringston Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 2SL
    Website: Weldmar Hospicecare

     

    STURTS FARM FAMILY FUN DAY

    Date: Saturday 13th September 2025
    Address: Sturts Farm, Three Cross Road, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 0NF
    Website: Gullivers Farm

    Sept 13 Sturts Farm Open Day 2025

     

    SEAFOOD & SOUNDS

    Dates: Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th September 2025
    Location: Poole Quay
    Website: Seafood and Sounds

    Sept 13 and 14 Seafood and Sounds 2025

     

    STURMINSTER NEWTON CHEESE FESTIVAL

    Dates: Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th September 2025
    Address: Sturminster Newton Recreation Ground, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, DT10 1BY
    Website: Cheese Festival

    Sept 13 and 14 Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival 2025

     

    DUSK 'TIL DARK

    Info: Watch an amazing fusion of contemporary dance, martial arts and live soundscapes coming from boom bikes.  The performance starts at Weymouth Town Bridge and weaves through the streets to the beach.

    Dates: Friday 19th & Saturday 20th September 2025
    Location: Weymouth Town & Beach
    Website: We Are Weymouth

     

    DISCOVERY FEST

    Date: Saturday 20th September 2025
    Address: Shore Road, Swanage, Dorset
    Website: Dorset Coast

    Sept 20 Discovery Fest Swanage 2025

     

    LITTLEMOOR FAMILY FUN DAY

    Date: Saturday 20th September 2025
    Address: Top Club, Louviers Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 6AY
    Website: Big 4 Littlemoor

    Sept 20 Big4Littlemoor 2025

     

    RINGWOOD CARNIVAL

    Info: Ringwood Carnival consists of 2 processions - an afternoon children’s procession and an evening illuminated parade.  In addition to this, there is live entertainment across the town throughout the day plus stalls, fireworks and fun fair.

    Date: Saturday 20th September 2025
    Location: Ringwood Town
    Website: Ringwood Carnival

     

    THE DORSET BIKE FESTIVAL

    Dates: Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: Wooders Campsite, Bere Regis, Dorset, BH20 7NN
    Website: Dorset Bike Festival

    Sept 20 and 21 Wooders Bike Festival 2025

     

    SHAFTESBURY CARNIVAL WEEK

    Dates: Saturday 20th – Sunday 28th September 2025
    Location: Across Shaftesbury
    Website: Shaftesbury Carnival

    Sept 20 to 28 Shaftesbury Carnival 2025

     

    THE WALLED GARDEN FETE

    Date: Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: The Walled Garden, Station Road, Moreton, Dorset, DT2 8RH
    Website: The Walled Garden

    Sept 21 The Walled Garden 2025 

    WESSEX HEAVY HORSE SHOW & COUNTRY FAIR

    Date: Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: Turnpike Showground, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 9PL
    Website: Wessex Heavy Horse Society

    Sept 21 Wessex Heavy Horse Show 2025

     

    ARTS BY THE SEA FESTIVAL

    Dates: Friday 26th - Sunday 28th September 2025
    Location: Bournemouth Town
    Website: Arts by the Sea Festival

    Sept 26 to 28 Bournemouth Arts by the Sea 2025

     

    STINSFORD VILLAGE FETE

    Date: Saturday 27th September 2025
    Address: The Old Vicarage & Stinsford Church, Stinsford, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8XW

    Sept 27 Stinsford Fete 2025

     

    THE ZOO THAT COMES TO YOU

    Info: The Zoo That Comes To You follows the impassioned attempts of two animal enthusiasts to share their love of and concern for animals with the world.  They take in animals that need respite, care or a temporary home and have, accidentally, ended up with a whole sanctuary, but with no visitors!  So everybody, animals and humans alike, have decided it is time to get out, see the world, and bring the zoo, to you.  Featuring puppetry, live music and playful characters, Scarlet Oak Theatre welcomes you to join the conversation about animal conservation.

    Date: Saturday 27th September 2025
    Address: Lighthouse Poole, 21 Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG
    Website: Lighthouse Poole

     

    THE ALLENDALE FREE FILM CLUB

    Date: Sunday 28th September 2025
    Address: The Allendale, Hanham Road, Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 1AS
    Website: The Allendale

    Sept 28 Allendale film club 2025

     

    GILLINGHAM CARNIVAL WEEK

    Info: The week features a variety of traditional carnival events, including a walking treasure hunt, a baby show, bingo, a quiz night, and a fun fair.

    Dates: Sunday 28th September – Saturday 4th October 2025
    Location: Across Gillingham
    Website: Gillingham Carnival

     

    Please always check an event is running before travelling as cancellations can occur.  If you know of any more family friendly events in September then please do Contact Us.

     

    Need more ideas for the things to do with the family?

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    Canva September

  2. Every year in September, Heritage Open Days offers the public the opportunity to visit hundreds of attractions, castles, churches, theatres, town halls, museums, and more for FREE!

    In 2025, the event runs from Friday 12th to Sunday 21st September however you will need to check with each location which dates their event applies.

    Below are just a few attractions and places of interest that you can visit in Dorset.

     

    CASTLES, COUNTRY PARKS, ESTATES & HISTORIC BUILDINGS

     

    • LULWORTH CASTLE & PARK •

    Info: Visit and discover the stunning 17th Century Lulworth Castle and the Chapel of St Mary.

    Dates: Tuesday 16th & Wednesday 17th September 2025
    Address: Lulworth Castle, East Lulworth, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5QS

     

    • LULWORTH CASTLE HOUSE •

    Info: Visit the Weld family home in the grounds of Lulworth Castle.  The Entrance Hall and Drawing Room will be open to view.  Please note the gardens are not open.

    Dates: Tuesday 16th & Wednesday 17th September 2025
    Address: Lulworth Castle House, East Lulworth, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5QS

     

    • KINGSTON LACY • 

    Info: Enjoy a picnic on the south lawn, or let the kids run wild in the play areas.  Wander through the Japanese Garden to the Kitchen Garden, which is being restored to Victorian splendour.  Explore the vast 8,500 acres of estate, featuring Iron Age hill forts, colourful heathland, water meadows and the world's oldest pedigree herd of Red Ruby Devon cattle.

    Dates: Thursday 18th - Saturday 20th September 2025
    Address: Kingston Lacy, Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 4EA

     

    • INSIDE OUT DORSET ARTS FESTIVAL AT CORFE CASTLE •

    Info: Experience Idiòfona, a large-scale sound installation by Joan Català inviting audiences to find harmony in shared vibration.  Discover Consequences, a monumental new giant inspired by the mystery of the Cerne Abbas Giant, and part of the Nature Calling arts project, encouraging everyone to better understand and connect with their local natural landscapes.

    Dates: Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5EZ

     

    • NOTHE FORT •

    Info: Nothe Fort was built as a coastal defence and is now one of Dorset’s best loved heritage attractions.  Join the team of volunteers for a unique insight into how this much-loved Victorian fort was secretly utilised during the latter part of the Cold War.

    Date: Sunday 14th September 2025
    Address: Nothe Fort, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UF

     

    • HIGHCLIFFE CASTLE GUIDED TOURS •

    Info: Visit Highcliffe Castle for a Behind the Scenes guided tour to discover areas not usually on the visitor route.

    Date: Thursday 18th September 2025
    Address: Rothesay Drive, West Borough, Highcliffe, Dorset, BH23 4LE

     

    • HARDY MONUMENT •

    Info: Climb to the 120 steps to the top of the monument and enjoy breathtaking views across Dorset.

    Dates: Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th September 2025
    Address: Hardy Monument, Portesham, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 9HY

     

    • UPTON HOUSE •

    Info: Explore the ground floor of Upton House to discover the families that have called it home and their links to the local and global community.  You can also pre-book a free, below-stairs guided tour of the House’s basement level to find out more about the people that kept the place running.

    Dates: Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: Upton Country Park, Poole Road, Upton, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7BJ

     

    • MAX GATE •

    Info: Max Gate, home to Dorset's famous author and poet, Thomas Hardy, was designed by the writer himself and built by the Hardy family building firm in 1885.  Join a guided tour with a volunteer guide and discover the stories of Hardy's home.

    Dates: Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: Max Gate, Alington Avenue, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 2FN

     

    • PORTLAND HOUSE OPEN DAY •

    Info: A hidden gem on the Dorset coastline, Portland House looks over the glittering water and basks in the tropical climate of the South Coast, which rivals the Mediterranean on a sunny day.

    Dates: Friday 19th - Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: 24 Belle Vue Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8RZ

     

    • MELBURY HOUSE TOUR •

    Info: Supervised tour of parts of private house and contents including the entrance hall, breakfast room, saloon, square drawing room, dining room and long drawing room.  Visits to Melbury Church are also permitted if requested in advance.

    Dates: Monday 15th & Tuesday 16th September 2025
    Address: Melbury House, Melbury Sampford, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 0LF

     

    • BELMONT OPEN DAYS •

    Info: This fine 18th-century maritime villa in Lyme Regis is listed Grade II* and once belonged to the remarkable businesswoman, Mrs Eleanor Coade.

    Dates: Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th September 2025
    Address: Belmont, 16 Pound Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3HZ

     

    • WHITE MILL •

    Info: An 18th-century corn mill in a peaceful, rural setting.  Rebuilt in 1776 on a site marked in the Domesday Book, this substantial mill was extensively repaired in 1994 and still retains its original elm and applewood machinery (now too fragile to be used).  Enjoy a stroll over White Mill bridge or sit in the garden and enjoy the tranquillity of the River Stour.

    Dates: Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th September 2025
    Address: White Mill, Sturminster Marshall, Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 4BX

     

    • STURMINSTER NEWTON TOWN MILL OPEN DAY •

    Info: Recently discovered evidence suggests this Mill largely dates from 1566, on a more ancient milling site which could date back to 1016.  Powered by a 100 year old turbine, the machinery should be running for this open day, and volunteers will be available for more information about this historic site.

    Date: Wednesday 17th September 2025
    Address: Sturminster Newton Town Mill, Quay Road, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, DT10 2HW

     

    • CLAVELL TOWER •

    Info: Clavell Tower is a circular tower high on the cliffs above Kimmeridge Bay.  Enjoy a rare chance to see inside this well-loved landmark.

    Dates: Saturday 13th - Sunday 14th September 2025
    Address: Clavell Tower, Kimmeridge, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5PE

     

    CHURCHES

     

    • ABBOTSBURY ABBEY & ST CATHERINE’S CHAPEL WALKING TOURS • 

    Info: Set high on a hilltop overlooking Chesil Beach and the Isle of Portland, this barrel-vaulted 14th century chapel was built by the monks of the nearby Abbotsbury Abbey as a place of pilgrimage and retreat.

    Date: Saturday 13th September 2025
    Address: Chapel Hill, Abbotsbury, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 4JH

     

    • BLANDFORD FRUM PARISH CHURCH OPEN DAYS & ROOF TOURS •

    Info: You will get a brief history of the church and a chance to admire the newly repainted and regilded apse ceiling and then will be taken up a small, stone, spiral staircase to the ringing chamber, the clock chamber and then to walk above the nave ceiling in the ‘attic’.

    Dates: Friday 12th - Sunday 14th September 2025
    Address: St Peter & St Paul's Church, Church Lane, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7AD

     

    • WIMBORNE MINSTER CHURCH & BELL TOWER TOURS •

    Info: A rare opportunity to visit the Bell Tower of Wimborne Minster which was built in 1464.  Sit in the Ringing Chamber and watch the ringers in action.  Discover the history of the bells and hear about ringing for special events such as The Coronation.  Guided tours will also allow you to see some Norman architecture with many historical treasures.

    Date: Monday 15th September 2025
    Address: Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 1EB

     

    • ST PETER’S CHURCH BELL TOUR TOURS •

    Info: Unique access to the bell tower of St Peter's Church along with a guided tour of the historic church.

    Date: Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: St Peters Church, 26 High West Street, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1EZ

     

    • CHRISTCHURCH PRIORY CHURCH & TOWER TOURS •

    Info: The Priory Church in Christchurch is over 900 years old.  Enjoy a tour around the church which includes the Great Quire with ancient Misericords, two crypts, four Chantries, the Miraculous Beam and Cloister Way with stained glass story of the church and other parts not normally open to the public.

    Date: Monday 15th September 2025
    Address: Christchurch Priory, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1BU

     

    • SHERBORNE ABBEY TOURS •

    Info: Discover 1300 years of history with a guided tour of Sherborne Abbey, led by an experienced tour guide.

    Dates: Friday 12th – Saturday 20th September 2025
    Address: Sherborne Abbey, Abbey Close, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 3LQ

     

    • KNOWLTON CHURCH AND EARTHWORKS TOUR •

    Info: This Norman church, which was built in the 12th century, is situated at the centre of a Neolithic ritual henge earthwork.  The unusual pairing of the henge and the church symbolises the transition from pagan to Christian worship.  The 12th century church is built of stone and flint, and the line of the roof remains clearly visible on its eastern face.

    Dates: Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: Knowlton Church and Earthworks, Knowlton, Buildwas Abbey, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 5AE

     

    MUSEUMS & HERITAGE CENTRE’S

     

    • DORSET MUSEUM & ART GALLERY TOURS •

    Info: An exclusive opportunity to be guided by a museum expert and discover 250 million years of Dorset's story.

    Date: Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: Dorset Museum, 66 High West Street, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1XA

     

    • SHIRE HALL HISTORIC COURTHOUSE MUSEUM GUIDED TOUR •

    Info: Participants will take part in a tour of the Shire Hall Museum focusing on “Conviction Politics” and the tumultuous relationship between convictions and conviction.

    Date: Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: Shire Hall Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1UY

     

    • MUSEUM OF EAST DORSET MUSEUM GUIDED TOUR •

    Info: Guided tour of the museum house, with particular emphasis on the history of the building and its architectural heritage.

    Dates: Saturday 13th & Tuesday 16th September 2025
    Address: Museum of East Dorset, 23-29 High Street, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1HR

     

    • BOURNEMOUTH NATURAL SCIENCE SOCIETY GUIDED TOUR •

    Info: This tour looks at the detailed architectural features externally and internally as well as the history of the building.  After the tour there is a chance to view the Victorian natural history and antiquarian collections in the building.

    Date: Wednesday 17th September 2025
    Address: BNSS, 39 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 3NS

     

    • THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF SCAPLEN’S COURT •

    Info: Join for a fascinating guided tour of Scaplen’s Court and Garden with archaeologist Peter Bellamy of Terrain Archaeology.  Discover the layers of history uncovered as part of the archaeological investigations during the Poole Museum redevelopment.

    Date: Friday 19th September 2025
    Address: Scaplen’s Court, Sarum Street, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1JW

     

    • BLANDFORD FASHION MUSEUM OPEN DAY •

    Info: Visitors are welcome to visit and appreciate the Georgian building, plus the Museum's collection of historical costumes and textiles.

    Date: Saturday 20th September 2025
    Address: Blandford Fashion Museum, 11 The Plocks, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7AA

     

    • GROVE PRISON MUSEUM •

    Info: The convict prison at Portland was established in 1848 to Quarry stone for the Breakwaters creating Portland Harbour in Dorset for the Admiralty.  Learn more about the fascinating history of the Prison at the Grove Prison Museum.

    Dates: Thursday 18th & Saturday 20th September 2025
    Address: Grove Road, HMP Portland gatehouse, Community Gardens, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1DL

     

    • DORSET HISTORY CENTRE TOURS •

    Info: Visit the Dorset History Centre, the home of the county’s archives, to see plans, film and photos of Dorset’s coastal architecture.

    Date: Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: Dorset History Centre, Bridport Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1RP

     

    • SHERBORNE STEAM AND WATERWHEEL CENTRE •

    Info: See the vintage waterwheel and steam engines in operation, together with other machinery, visiting attractions and audiovisual displays of restoration work.

    Date: Sunday 14th September 2025
    Address: Sherborne Steam and Waterwheel Centre, Oborne Road, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 3RX

     

    • NEW FOREST HERITAGE CENTRE •

    Info: The FONFA Heritage Centre is the only display and reference library dedicated to protecting the history and heritage of the airfields that were operational in the New Forest.

    Date: Saturday 20th September 2025
    Address: Mosquito Way, Bransgore, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 8HE

     

    MORE OPEN DAYS, TOURS & EXPERIENCES

     

    • VICTORIAN ARTILLARY RE-ENACTMENT DISPLAY •

    Info: Witness the Nothe Fort Artillery in their splendid uniforms and displays including musketry and cannon firing drills.

    Date: Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: Borough Gardens, Cornwall Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1RG

     

    • HISTORICAL TOUR OF PORTLAND PORT •

    Info: A rare opportunity to have a private tour of parts of the Port, focussing on the history of the breakwaters, the harbour, the naval defences and the maritime history of the area.  Please note, a government issued photo ID and car registration is a required.

    Date: Saturday 20th September 2025
    Address: Details given when booked

     

    • STUDLAND BAY IN WWII GUIDED WALK •

    Info: Discover how Britain prepared to defend it's coastline and the later shift to preparing for invasion, with a full scale rehearsal for the D-day landings called Exercise Smash.  Join a guided walk or take a self-guided walk around some of our remaining WW2 remnants.  There's also kids activities including a mini obstacle course, make a clay tile and code cracking.

    Date: Sunday 14th September 2025
    Address: Knoll Beach visitors Centre, Ferry Road, Studland, Dorset, BH19 3AQ

     

    • WWII BOMBING DECOY BUNKER OPEN DAY •

    Info: The decoy bunker at Moors Valley was used during World War II to power and control lights to mimic the nearby RAF airfields at Hurn and Ibsley, including a 1km flare path whose location has been identified.  This is an opportunity to take a closer look at the bunker, which is not normally open to the public.

    Date: Sunday 21st September 2025
    Address: Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath, Ringwood, BH24 2ET

     

    • WWII DOUBLE ANDERSON AIR RAID SHELTER •

    Info: This WWII air raid shelter in Blandford Forum remarkably survives over 80 years later.  Situated in a lovely garden and kindly made available for you to experience.

    Date: Saturday 20th September 2025
    Address: Details given when booked

     

    GUIDED WALKS & TALKS

    There are numerous guided walks also happening in Dorchester, Blandford Forum and Wimborne Minster.  Learn all about the local history which can include Roman archaeology and aqueducts, architecture and more.

     

    There are so many more places of interest to explore in Dorset and beyond so please visit Heritage Open Days for further information including if pre-booking is required.

    Please note that dates may be subject to change.

    Heritage Open Days Dorset 2025