Family Friendly Events in Dorset August 2026
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Need ideas for things to do with the family in August? 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
THE BLUE POOL TRAIL OF ENCHANTED DOORS
Info: Discover beautifully crafted doors hidden among the trees and meet the fairies and other magical woodland characters who live behind them. Children can enjoy the play area at the end of the trail. Complete your activity sheet and have the special certificate on the back stamped to take home with you.
Dates: Ongoing
Address: The Blue Pool, Furzebrook Road, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5AR
Website: The Blue Pool
ABBOTSBURY SUBTROPICAL GARDENS TRAIL
Info: Join Lancaster The Explorer on a journey across the world of plants at the Subtropical Gardens. This new children's activity trail highlights and educates children on the world of plants. Find out interesting facts, collect stamps and visit Lancaster's Hut.
Dates: Friday 1st May – Wednesday 30th September 2026
Address: Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, Bullers Way, Abbotsbury, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 4LA
Website: Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
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
HENGISTBURY HEAD SCAVENGER HUNT & MORE
Dates: Wednesday 1st July - Wednesday 30th September 2026
Address: Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre, Broadway, Southbourne, Dorset, BH6 4EW
Website: Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre
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
NOTHE FORT SUMMER
Info: You can expect a great family day out at Nothe Fort and during the summer holidays you can enjoy exhibitions, galleries, marching drills, artillery displays, silent disco, plus a weekend of Alice in Wonderland themed games and shows.
Dates: Wednesday 15th July – Saturday 29th August 2026
Address: Nothe Fort, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UF
Website: Nothe Fort
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
UPTON COUNTRY PARK EVENTS
Info: Explore 160 acres of gardens, woodland and parkland at Upton Country Park. During the summer holidays there will be bouncy castle sessions, workshops with Conkers Magical Earth Academy, family shows, guided walks, open-air cinema, Wildlife Discovery Day, storytelling and crafts.
Dates: Saturday 18th July – Monday 31st August 2026
Address: Upton Country Park, Poole Road, Upton, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7BJ
Website: Upton Country Park
THORNCOMBE WOODS BUTTERFLIES & MOTHS TRAIL
Info: Keep everyone moving and exploring this summer holiday with a family friendly trail around the reserve! Pick up a FREE pocket map from the car park or visitor centre and look out for the colourful hand-painted discs hidden throughout the route, each showcasing the variety of butterflies and moths you might spot.
Dates: Saturday 18th July – Monday 31st August 2026
Address: Thorncombe Woods, Higher Bockhampton, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8QH
Facebook: Hardys Birthplace
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
THE OCEANARIUM SUMMER TRAIL
Info: Dive in with a splash and take a voyage of discovery, whilst finding out fun facts and learn how you can help conserve our natural world.
Dates: Saturday 18th July – Wednesday 2nd September 2026
Address: Oceanarium, Pier Approach, Bournemouth, Dorset
Website: Oceanarium
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
THE ALLENDALE CENTRE FREE FAMILY FILMS
Dates: Sunday 19th July – Thursday 27th August 2026
Address: The Allendale Centre, Hanham Road, Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 1AS
Website: The Allendale Centre
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
SCIENCE ZONE
Info: Science Zone will have STEM activities for children and families – featuring everything from planetarium workshops to hands-on science experiments.
Dates: Monday 20th July – Wednesday 2nd September 2026
Address: Science Zone, 21 Royal Arcade Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 4BT
Website: Science Zone
LYME REGIS MUSEUM EVENTS
Dates: Tuesday 21st July – Thursday 27th August 2026
Address: Lyme Regis Museum, Bridge Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3QA
Website: Lyme Regis Museum
CIRCUS WONDERLAND
Dates: Wednesday 22nd July – Sunday 2nd August 2026
Address: Wimborne Showground, Wimborne Road, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1EF
Website: Circus Wonderland
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
Dates: Wednesday 22nd July – Friday 28th August 2026
Address: Farmer Palmers, Wareham Road, Organford, Poole, Dorset, BH16 6EU
Website: Farmer Palmers
REDHILL PARK CAFÉ
Dates: Wednesday 22nd July - Wednesday 2nd September 2026
Address: Redhill Park Café, Redhill Avenue, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH9 2SW
Website: Redhill Park Café
CHRISTCHURCH REC FUN FAIR
Dates: Thursday 23rd July – Friday 31st August 2026
Address: Recreation Ground, Barrack Road, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1PA
Facebook: Coles Fairground
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
SHIRE HALL MUSEUM SUMMER SMUGGLERS ESCAPADE
Info: Discover the world of Victorian smugglers in the family friendly trail, with museum activity bags and hands-on crafts. Plus, kids go FREE!
Dates: Thursday 23rd July 2026 – Tuesday 1st September 2026
Address: Shire Hall Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1UY
Website: Shire Hall Museum
WIMBORNE FAMILY FOOTBALL TRAIL
Info: Enjoy a FREE interactive football adventure with seven stops to discover. At each stop, players will find special window artwork or trail signage containing a clue about the AR experience waiting for them. By scanning the QR code with a modern smartphone, families can unlock a different digital surprise at every location, from mini games to selfie lenses.
Dates: Thursday 23rd July - Saturday 5th September 2026
Location: Wimborne Minster
Website: Wimborne BID
TUCKTON TEA GARDENS SUMMER SCREENINGS
Info: Whether you're making a night of it with the kids or fancy a relaxed riverside evening with friends, there's something for everyone and no booking is required.
Dates: Friday 24th July – Wednesday 2nd September 2026
Address: Tuckton Tea Gardens, Belle Vue Road, Southbourne, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH6 3BA
Website: Tuckton Tea Gardens
MOORS VALLEY COUNTRY PARK 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, outdoor adventure games like laser tag, and the Room on the Broom Trail.
Dates: Friday 24th July - Sunday 6th September 2025
Address: Moors Valley Country Park, Horton Road, Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
Website: Moors Valley Country Park
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
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
THE WALLED GARDEN DINOSAURS IN SPACE TRAIL
Dates: Saturday 25th July – Sunday 6th September 2026
Address: The Walled Garden, Station Road, Moreton, Dorset, DT2 8RH
Website: The Walled Garden
SYMONDSBURY ESTATE SUMMER FUN
Info: Pick up Summer Explorer Trail booklet from the Visitor Centre and discover magnificent trees, spot wildlife and complete fun nature challenges as you explore the Estate. Alongside the trail, children can enjoy giant lawn games, perfect for letting off steam.
Dates: Saturday 25th July – Sunday 6th September 2026
Address: Symondsbury Estate, Manor Yard, Mill Lane, Symondsbury, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 6HG
Website: Symondsbury Estate
LITTLE CITY SESSIONS
Dates: Various Dates
Locations: East Stour, Blandford Forum, Marnhull & Shaftesbury
Website: Little City
BOUNCY FUN PLAY AT THE PARK
Dates: Monday 27th July – Wednesday 26th August 2026
Address: Upton Country Park, Poole Road, Upton, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7BJ
Website: Upton Country Park
THE TOWN MILL MINI MILLERS
Dates: Tuesday 28th July – Thursday 27th August 2026
Address: The Town Mill, Mill Lane, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3PU
Website: The Town Mill
BREWERY SQUARE SUMMER PLAYBOOK
Info: Looking for ways to keep the kids active, entertained, and smiling this summer? Brewery Square have you covered with FREE fun activities from Tuesday to Thursday during the holidays.
Dates: Tuesday 28th July – Thursday 27th August 2026
Address: Brewery Square, 3 Copper Street, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1GH
Website: Brewery Square
BLANDFORD ANIMAL FARM OPEN DAYS
Dates: Tuesday 28th July – Thursday 3rd September 2026
Address: Blandford Animal Farm, Higher Shaftsbury Road, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT118ST
Website: Blandford Animal Farm
RED HOUSE MUSEUM
Info: A former Georgian workhouse, the Red House is now a museum exploring the story of Christchurch from before the Ice Age to modern times. During the summer holidays, families can summer panto performances and take part in creative workshops.
Dates: Wednesday 29th July – Wednesday 26th August 2026
Address: Red House Museum, Quay Road, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1BU
Website: Red House Museum
HIVE BEACH CREATIVE COAST CLUB
Dates: Wednesday 29th July – Wednesday 2nd September 2026
Address: Hive Beach, Beach Road, Burton Bradstock, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4RF
Facebook: National Trust North & West Dorset
CAMP BESTIVAL
Dates: Thursday 30th July – Sunday 2nd August 2026
Address: Lulworth Castle, East Lulworth, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5QS
Website: Camp Bestival Dorset
BLANDFORD FASHION MUSEUM WORKSHOPS
Dates: Thursday 30th July – Monday 3rd August 2026
Address: Blandford Fashion Museum, 11 The Plocks, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7AA
Website: Blandford Fashion Museum
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
Dates: Friday 31st July – Saturday 8th August 2026
Address: Across Lyme Regis
Website: Lyme Regis Regatta
LODERS FETE
Date: Saturday 1st August 2026
Address: Loders Court, Loders, Nr Bridport, Dorset, DT6 3RZ
JUNIOR DRIVER EXPERIENCE DAY
Date: Saturday 1st August 2026
Address: Littledown Railway, Littledown Centre, Chaseside, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH7 7DX
Website: Littledown Railway
STOMPIN ON THE QUOMPS
Date: Saturday 1st August 2026
Address: The Quomps, Christchurch, Dorset
Website: Stompin on the Quomps
CHALDON HERRING TREASURE HUNT
Date: Saturday 1st August 2026
Location: Chaldon Herring Village
LOVE PORTLAND FESTIVAL
Date: Saturday 1st August 2026
Address: The Old Cricket Field, Grove Farm Estate, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1GD
ABBOTSBURY SUMMER FETE
Info: This year's fete will have vintage vehicles, a range of stalls, activities for children, and the added fun of a dog show!
Date: Saturday 1st August 2026
Address: Rodden Row, Abbotsbury, Dorset
Facebook: Abbotsbury Beachcombers
WEST BAY WEEKEND
Date: Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd August 2026
Location: Across West Bay
Website: West Bay Days
GREAT DORSET CHILLI FESTIVAL
Dates: Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd August 2026
Address: Stock Gaylard Estate, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, DT10 2BG
Website: Great Dorset Chilli Festival
CHILD IN THE WILD FAMILY FUN DAY
Date: Sunday 2nd August 2026
Address: Ower Wood, Owermoigne, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8HY
Website: Child in the Wild
BREWERY SQUARE BUTTERFLY TRAIL
Info: Collect your free trail map from the Concierge Office and hunt for hidden butterflies in the shop windows, test your nature knowledge, and complete all 5 Explorer Challenges!
Dates: Tuesday 4th – Saturday 8th August 2026
Address: Brewery Square, 3 Copper Street, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1GH
Website: Brewery Square
THE WALLED GARDEN BUG & EXOTIC ANIMAL EXPERIENCES
Dates: Tuesday 4th, 6th & 11th August 2026
Address: The Walled Garden, Station Road, Moreton, Dorset, DT2 8RH
Website: The Walled Garden
BOURNEMOUTH NATURAL SCIENCE SOCIETY OPEN DAYS
Dates: Tuesdays & Wednesdays in August 2026
Address: BNSS, 39 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 3NS
Website: BNSS
TRAINMASTER SUMMER EVENTS
Dates: Various dates in August 2026
Locations: Christchurch, New Milton, Wimborne, Ringwood, Gillingham & Weymouth
Website: Trainmaster Dorset
WAREHAM WEDNESDAYS PARTY NIGHT
Date: Wednesday 5th August 2026
Location: Wareham High Street & Quay
Website: Wareham Wednesday
ACTIVE GILLINGHAM
Dates: Wednesday 5th August 2026
Address: Hardings Lane Park, Gillingham, Dorset, SP84HX
Website: The Rendezvous
CIRCUS WONDERLAND
Dates: Wednesday 5th – Sunday 16th August 2026
Address: Asker Meadows, Pasture Way, Bridport, DT6 4DN
Website: Circus Wonderland
WEST HOWE UN-OLYMPICS
Dates: Thursday 6th August 2026
Address: The Henry Brown Centre, 18 Cunningham Crescent, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH11 8DU
Website: The Henry Brown Centre
GILLINGHAM YOUTH ART FRINGE
Dates: Thursday 6th August 2026
Address: The Slade Centre, The Square, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4AY
Website: The Rendezvous
PALM FEST
Dates: Thursday 6th – Sunday 9th August 2026
Address: The Palm House, Swannery Lake, Commercial Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 7TZ
Facebook: The Palm House
BLUEY’S BIG PLAY
Info: When Dad feels like a little bit of afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans! Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag.
Dates: Thursday 6th – Sunday 9th August 2026
Address: Bournemouth Pavilion, Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2BU
Website: Bournemouth Pavilion
THE COURTYARD SUMMER SESSIONS
Dates: Thursday 6th – Thursday 27th August 2026
Address: The Courtyard, Huntick Road, Lytchett Minster, Poole, Dorset, BH16 6BA
Website: The Courtyard
FESTIVAL OF WELLBEING
Dates: Friday 7th August 2026
Address: Boscombe Gardens, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 4AA
Website: BCHA Festival of Wellbeing
JAMIE JIGSAW ENTERTAINMENT
Date: Friday 7th August 2026
Address: Woodhouse Gardens, The Plocks, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7DN
Website: Blandford Forum Town Council
MAD4ANIMALS LIVE!
Info: Meet giant snakes, discover incredible reptiles, get up close to beautiful birds, encounter amazing mammals, learn about fascinating amphibians and come face to face with our creepy crawlies.
Date: Friday 7th August 2026
Address: Upton Country Park, Poole Road, Upton, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7BJ
Website: Upton Country Park
PURBECK RALLY
Info: Enjoy a day full of arena events, stalls, craft tent, entertainment, food and drink.
Dates: Friday 7th – Sunday 9th August 2026
Address: Worgret Road, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 6AB
Website: Purbeck Rally
ONE WORLD FESTIVAL
Date: Saturday 8th August 2026
Address: The Borough Gardens, Cornwall Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1RG
Website: South West Dorset Multicultural Network
BRIDPORT LEISURE CENTRE OPEN DAY
Date: Saturday 8th August 2026
Address: Bridport Leisure Centre, Brewery Fields, Skilling Hill Road, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 5LN
Website: Bridport Leisure Centre
GEORGE’S COUNTRY FAMILY FUN DAY
Date: Saturday 8th August 2026
Address: The World’s End, Almer, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 9EW
Website: The World’s End
TEDDY BEAR PARACHUTE & ZIPLINE
Date: Saturday 8th August 2026
Address: Durweston Village Hall, Church Road, Durweston, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 0QA
Website: Teddy 20
FAB FEST
Date: Saturday 8th August 2026
Address: Woodhouse Gardens, The Plocks, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7DN
Website: FAB Families & Babies
CANFORD HEATH COMMUNITY SUMMER FETE
Date: Saturday 8th August 2026
Address: The Neighbourhood Centre, Canford Heath, Poole, Dorset
Facebook: AR Canford Heath
DORSET DINGHY DAY
Date: Saturday 8th August 2026
Address: Iford Bridge, Iford, Bournemouth, Dorset
Website: Dorset Dinghy Day
ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND
Info: Join Alice as she tumbles down the rabbit hole and encounters a whirlwind of curious characters - the grinning Cheshire Cat, the frantic White Rabbit, the eccentric Mad Hatter, and the fearsome Queen of Hearts. This timeless tale of imagination, riddles, and wonder comes to life on stage in a dazzling production full of humour, music, and a touch of madness.
Date: Sunday 9th August 2026
Address: Nothe Fort, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UF
Website: Nothe Fort
COUNTRY FAYRE & DOG SHOW
Info: With delicious food, shopping stalls, entertainment, inflatables, dog show and so much more, it's the perfect summer day out for animal lovers of all ages.
Date: Sunday 9th August 2026
Address: Margaret Green Animal Rescue, Church Knowle, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5NQ
Website: Margaret Green Animal Rescue
SAFEGUARD COMMUNITY DAY
Date: Sunday 9th August 2026
Address: Kings Park, Kings Park Central Drive, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 4NN
Website: Safeguard Community Support
DORCHESTER VEGAN MARKET
Date: Sunday 9th August 2026
Address: Maumbury Rings, Weymouth Avenue, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1TY
Facebook: Dorchester Vegan Market
FAMILY SILENT DISCO
Date: Sunday 9th August 2026
Address: The Exchange, Old Market Hill, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, DT10 1FH
Website: Stur Exchange
RNLI MUDEFORD FUN DAY
Date: Sunday 9th August 2026
Address: Mudeford Quay, Mudeford, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 3NQ
Website: RNLI Mudeford
THE HOLME BUSH INN INFLATABLE FEST
Dates: Tuesday 11th & Wednesday 12th August 2026
Address: The Holme Bush Inn, Old Wareham Road, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne BH21 3RZ
Facebook: The Holme Bush Inn
MEET THE REPTILES AT COMPTON ACRES
Date: Wednesday 12th August 2026
Address: Compton Acres, 164 Canford Cliffs Road, Poole, Dorset, BH13 7ES
Website: Compton Acres
WAREHAM WEDNESDAYS RETRO NOSTALGIA NIGHT
Date: Wednesday 12th August 2026
Location: Wareham High Street & Quay
Website: Wareham Wednesday
LOBSTER DIG
Date: Wednesday 12th August 2026
Address: Avon Beach, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 4AN
Website: The Noisy Lobster
WEST HOWE PAINT, PROPS & PANTOMIME
Dates: Thursday 13th August 2026
Address: The Henry Brown Centre, 18 Cunningham Crescent, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH11 8DU
Website: The Henry Brown Centre
CIRCUS CORTEX
Info: From breathtaking aerial performances and gravity-defying acrobatics to fearless stunt acts, spectacular lighting, laugh-out-loud comedy and incredible international performers, BizZZar is an unforgettable show created for audiences of every age.
Dates: Thursday 13th – Monday 17th August 2026
Address: The Great Field, Poundbury, Dorset
Website: Circus Cortex
BOUNCY FUN PLAY AT THE WALLED GARDEN
Date: Friday 14th August 2026
Address: The Walled Garden, Station Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8RH
Website: The Walled Garden
JURASSIC FIELDS MUSIC FESTIVAL
Dates: Friday 14th – Sunday 16th August 2026
Address: West Bay Fields, Nr Broomhill Farm, West Bay Fields, Bridport, DT6 5LB
Website: Jurassic Fields Music Festival
LIL GIANT FESTIVAL
Dates: Friday 14th – Sunday 16th August 2026
Address: Cerne Abbas Brewery, Dorchester Road, Cerne Abbas, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 7JS
Website: Cerne Abbas Brewery
MAD4ANIMALS LIVE!
Info: Meet giant snakes, discover incredible reptiles, get up close to beautiful birds, encounter amazing mammals, learn about fascinating amphibians and come face to face with our creepy crawlies.
Date: Saturday 15th August 2026
Address: Maumbury Rings, Weymouth Avenue, Dorchester, Dorset
Website: Mad4Animals
RIVERSIDE FEST
Date: Saturday 15th August 2026
Address: Riverside Meadows, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, DT10 2BS
Facebook: Riverside Fest
BOVINGTON COMMUNITY SUMMER
Date: Saturday 15th August 2026
Address: Memorial Hall, King George V Road, Bovington, Dorset, BH20 6JQ
CANFORD SUMMER FAIR
Dates: Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th August 2026
Address: Canford School, Canford Magna, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 3AD
Website: The Wessex Event Company
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 15th August – Saturday 5th September 2026
Locations: Studland, Corfe Castle & Wareham
Website: Purbeck Film Festival
SHINEFEST
Date: Sunday 16th August 2026
Address: Kingston Maurward House, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8PY
Website: Shine 21 Dorset
BOUNCY CASTLE KINGDOM
Info: Dive into a wonderland of giant slides, bounce castles, obstacle courses, and epic inflatable challenges!
Date: Monday 17th August 2026
Address: Wimborne Showground, Wimborne Road, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1EF
Facebook: Inflatable Theme Parks
THE BRANKSOME CENTRE FAMILY FUN DAY
Date: Monday 17th August 2026
Address: The Branksome Centre, Recreation Road, Poole, Dorset, BH12 2EA
Website: The Branksome Centre
TOTO THE NINJA CAT AND THE GREAT SNAKE ESCAPE
Info: Meet Toto. She might look like an ordinary cat, but she’s no ordinary feline. Almost completely blind, Toto has incredible ninja skills, a big heart, and a nose for adventure. By day, she naps like any other pet… but by night, she’s out on daring missions with her cheeky brother, Silver. In their very first adventure, a deadly King Cobra has escaped onto the streets of London, and it’s up to Toto to use every ounce of her courage and cunning to save the day.
Dates: Tuesday 18th & Wednesday 19th August 2025
Address: Weymouth Pavilion, Esplanade, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8ED
Website: Weymouth Pavilion
CIRCUS BERLIN
Info: With an array of brilliant Circus acts, music and real youthful energy, enjoy an international Production packed full of comedy, daredevils, dancing & aerial acts, including Motorbikes inside the Globe of Death and an incredible High Wire act unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!
Dates: Tuesday 18th - Sunday 23rd August 2026
Address: Lodmoor Country Park, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 7SX
Website: Circus Berlin
SUMMER FAMILY FUN FAIR
Dates: Tuesday 18th – Monday 31st August 2026
Address: West Bay, Dorset, DT6 4EZ
WAREHAM WEDNESDAYS PIRATE NIGHT
Info: The Wareham Wednesday crew are stock pilling the ammo ready for when the Pirates return to invade Wareham Quay! But never fear the mighty Muddlecombe Men will be on hand to help defend the town and The Wimborne Militia at the ready on the bridge to blast the Pirates away!
Date: Wednesday 19th August 2026
Location: Wareham Quay
Website: Wareham Wednesday
GILLINGHAM & SHAFTESBURY SHOW
Info: The show brings together livestock competitions, live ring entertainment, local food and drink, practical demonstrations, trade stands and hands-on activities for children – all in one unforgettable day out!
Dates: Wednesday 19th & Thursday 20th August
Address: Motcombe, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 9PN
Website: Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show
BOUNCY CASTLE KINGDOM
Info: Dive into a wonderland of giant slides, bounce castles, obstacle courses, and epic inflatable challenges!
Dates: Sunday 20th & Monday 21st August 2026
Address: The Great Field, Peverell Avenue East, Poundbury, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 3RH
Facebook: Inflatable Theme Parks
WE OUT HERE FESTIVAL
Info: The 4 day festival celebrates world-class music, alongside wellness, family and cultural activities.
Dates: Thursday 20th – Sunday 23rd August 2026
Address: St Giles House, Wimborne St Giles, Dorset, BH21 5NA
Website: We Out Here Festival
PURBECK VALLEY FOLK FESTIVAL
Dates: Thursday 20th – Sunday 23rd August 2026
Address: Purbeck Valley Farm, Valley Road, Harman’s Cross, Dorset, BH20 5HU
Website: Purbeck Valley Folk Festival
VDUB AT THE PUB
Info: A great family friendly festival with live music and DJ’s, stalls, food and drink, sports games, children’s activities and of course VW’s.
Dates: Friday 21st – Sunday 23rd August 2026
Address: Julians Field, Julians Road, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 3DH
Website: Vdub at the Pub
RNLI COLLEGE FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL
Date: Saturday 22nd August 2026
Address: RNLI College, West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ
Website: RNLI College
SUMMER SILENT DISCO
Info: Enjoy family-friendly tunes by Shush Events Silent Disco, a fiery circus by The Inferno Sisters Fire & Circus Entertainment, food and drink.
Date: Saturday 22nd August 2026
Address: Nothe Fort, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UF
Website: Nothe Fort
FAMILY FUN DAY
Date: Saturday 22nd August 2026
Address: Wareham & Swanage RFC, Bestwall Road, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 4HY
Website: Wareham & Swanage RFC
IGNITE THE NIGHT
Date: Saturday 22nd August 2026
Address: North Dorset Rugby Club, Longbury Hill Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 5SY
Website: Shaston Events
HOLME BUSH INN SUMMER FAIR
Date: Sunday 23rd August 2026
Address: The Holme Bush Inn, Old Wareham Road, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne BH21 3RZ
Facebook: The Holme Bush Inn
PIMPERNE SUMMER FETE
Date: Sunday 23rd August 2026
Address: Pimperne Village Hall, Newfield Road, Pimperne, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8WF
CIRCUS BERLIN
Info: With an array of brilliant Circus acts, music & real youthful energy, enjoy an international Production packed full of comedy , daredevils, dancing & aerial acts, including Motorbikes inside the Globe of Death and an incredible High Wire act unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!
Dates: Monday 24th – Monday 31st August 2026
Address: Branksome Recreation Ground, Poole, Dorset, BH12 2AL
Website: Circus Berlin
WAREHAM WEDNESDAYS WILD WEST NIGHT
Date: Wednesday 26th August 2026
Location: Wareham High Street & Quay
Website: Wareham Wednesday
MELPLASH SHOW
Date: Thursday 27th August 2026
Address: West Bay Road, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4EG
Website: Melplash Show
BECIDER SEASIDE 22
Dates: Friday 28th – Sunday 30th August 2026
Address: Bredy Farm, Bredy Lane, Burton Bradstock, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4ND
Website: Bredy Farm
THE TRUMPET MAJOR FAMILY FUN DAY
Date: Saturday 29th August 2026
Address: The Trumpet Major, 40 Alington Avenue, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 2AB
Website: The Trumpet Major
BARNIE BINOCULARS TOTS SHOW & MAD4ANIMALS MAYHEM
Info: The tots show is designed especially for children under 5 years old. Barnie's Binoculars is an interactive wildlife adventure packed with storytelling, music, audience participation and amazing animals. Join Barnie as he sets off on an exciting expedition to discover incredible creatures from around the world, with plenty of laughs, surprises and opportunities for little explorers to get involved. Or attend a Mad4Aniamls Mayhem show which combines incredible animals, comedy, audience participation and live entertainment to create an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Date: Saturday 29th August 2026
Address: Upton Country Park, Poole Road, Upton, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7BJ
Website: Upton Country Park
THE MONMOUTH ASH FUN FEST
Date: Saturday 29th August 2026
Address: The Monmouth Ash, 93 Manor Road, Verwood, Dorset, BH31 6DT
Website: The Monmouth Ash
ACTION ZONE BIG SUMMER BOUNCE
Date: Saturday 29th August 2026
Address: Kings Park Leisure Centre, King's Park Drive, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH7 6JD
Website: Kings Park Leisure Centre
FARMER PALMERS HAPPY CIRCUS
Dates: Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th August 2026
Address: Farmer Palmers, Wareham Road, Organford, Poole, Dorset, BH16 6EU
Website: Farmer Palmers
NICKS FARM SUMMER BONANZA
Dates: Saturday 29th - Monday 31st August 2026
Address: Nicks Farm, Valley Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 0EB
Website: Nicks Farm
FAMILY FUN DAY
Date: Sunday 30th August 2026
Address: Lytchett Minster Rugby Club, Old Watery Ln, Lytchett Minster, Poole BH16 6HZ
Website: Lytchett Minster Rugby Club
DOG, SAUSAGE & CIDER FESTIVAL
Date: Sunday 30th August 2026
Address: The Springhead, Sutton Road, Sutton Poyntz, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 6LW
Website: The Springhead
MAD4ANIMALS MAYHEM
Info: The Mad4Aniamls Mayhem show which combines incredible animals, comedy, audience participation and live entertainment to create an unforgettable experience for the whole family. And if that’s not enough, ‘Get Me Outta Here’ is an exciting live challenge experience for brave adventurers aged 10 years and over. Contestants will tackle a series of animal themed challenges inspired by jungle adventure shows, testing their nerve, teamwork and determination while coming face to face with some incredible creatures.
Date: Monday 31st August 2026
Address: Upton Country Park, Poole Road, Upton, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7BJ
Website: Upton Country Park
BLANDFORD FORUM SUMMER FAIR
Date: Monday 31st August 2026
Address: Marsh & Ham, West Street, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7AW
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
Summer Fireworks Displays
PYO Fruit Farms
Sunflower Trails & PYO
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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
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