Each year, people across the country gather to celebrate one of the UK's most ancient festivals - the Summer Solstice.

In this blog, Visit Dorset has teamed up with some of the county’s best photographers to share their favourite sunrise and sunset locations.

Happy scrolling!

Swyre Head

The highest point on the Isle of Purbeck, Swyre Head has views towards Corfe Castle and Kimmeridge on the Jurassic Coast. This is a favourite sunset location for Andy Lyons.

Swyre Head near Kimmeridge copyright Andy Lyons

 © Andy Lyons Photography

White Nothe

One of Owen Vachell’s favourites is White Nothe near Chaldon Herring. Sunrise and sunset can be seen from the top of White Nothe all year round, but photographically it works better at sunrise. We just love this tonal shot of his.

White Nothe on the Jurassic Coast copyright Owen Vachell

 © ORV Photography

Chapmans Pool

Another of Owen Vachell’s top picks is Chapmans Pool near Worth Matravers. Misty and moody, this photo shows you don't need clear skies to get a stunning sunset photo.

Chapmans Pool near Worth Matravers copyright Owen Vachell

© ORV Photography

Chesil Beach

Chesil Beach is fantastic at any time of year and captured beautifully by James Loveridge. You can see lovely golden sunsets on the beach at West Bexington or Abbotsbury. 

Man fishing at Chesil Beach at West Bexington copyright James Loveridge

© James Loveridge

Sandbanks

Matt Pinner’s favourite sunset is at Sandbanks in Poole. Evening Hill has a panoramic view across the Harbour and benches to sit and admire the scenery or have a picnic. 

Sunset at Sandbanks, Poole copyright Matt Pinner

© Pinner's Photography

Fishermans Bank

One of Steve Hogan's favourites is Fishermans Bank at Christchurch. The light across the water at sunset is just beautiful. 

Fishermans Bank at Stanpit, Christchurch copyright Steve Hogan

© Steve Hogan

Corfe Castle

Picked by the Visit Dorset team as their favourite, if you're lucky and get the right conditions, you can get magical shots like this! 

Corfe Castle at sunrise copyright Martin Dolan

© Martin Dolan

Lake Pier

Lake Pier at Hamworthy, Poole is a favourite of many photographers, including Rick McEvoy. With views across Poole Harbour towards Arne, you can see some great colour skies at the sun goes down. Just look at this vibrant pink composition!

Lake Pier, Hamworthy copyright Steve McEvoy

© Rick McEvoy Photography. All rights reserved.