With Dorset's gardens and parks bursting with colourful flowers and warm spring sunshine peeping through the clouds, April is a lovely time of year to visit our county.
As average temperatures reach 15°C (59°F) you'll be able to enjoy dining outside at a café, bistro or pub, or even get to spend some time on the beach. However, if the April showers try to put a dampener on your visit, don’t worry, we’ve got lots of ideas for wet weather days for all ages.
Top tip – spring and autumn are the best times to visit the super popular landmarks such as Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, Old Harry Rocks and Portland Bill. Parking will be easier and there will be less crowds to get in the way of your perfect holiday photo!
Read on for all the best things to see and do in Dorset during April.
Spring Gardens
Dorset gardens in springtime give visitors a welcome blast of colour from beautiful camellias, cherry trees and magnolias. You may also see late flowering daffodils and early bluebells depending on when you visit.
World famous for its camellia groves and magnolias, Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is a top location to visit during spring. Located near the Jurassic Coast, you can enjoy magnificent views over the coastline and The Fleet Nature Reserve from their viewpoint - the walk up maybe steep, but is definitely worth it!
For spring flowers of a different kind, tulips and daffodils dazzle visitors in the Capability Brown landscaped gardens at Sherborne Castle and Gardens.
Read our blog for what to expect when visiting Dorset's gardens during spring.
Easter Fun
The 2025 Easter school holidays fall at the beginning of April this year with Good Friday on 18 April.
Throughout Dorset, there will be lots of Easter events taking place including children’s trails, craft activities, family fun and of course plenty of Easter Egg Hunts!
Stampede By The Sea Trail
The Stampede By The Sea Trail is a new, free and interactive way to explore the stunning landscapes of west Dorset. This engaging trail brings together creativity, community, and a celebration of the region. Each elephant has been designed by talented artists, and is sponsored by local businesses.
Along the trail you'll find 50 unique elephant sculptures located in and around Bridport, West Bay and Lyme Regis.
Each elephant will have scannable QR codes with offers, activities and competitions for attendees to participate in - everything from guessing the number of plankton on an elephant to winning a family pass to Mapperton House and Gardens!
The trail is open from 28 March to 25 May 2025, maps are available at participating locations and online at stampedebythesea.org. You can also download the trail mobile App too.
It's lambing time
For the chance to see and feed lambs and kids (baby goats) head over to Farmer Palmers Farm Park. The Park is specially designed for children under 8 years old and there are also pigs, donkeys, deer, guinea pigs, alpacas, chicken, ducks, cows and ponies to see. Children will also love the play areas and World of Dinosaur Roar!
Bournemouth Writing Festival
If you have an interest in writing or literature, the Bournemouth Writing Festival is the place to be in April. Across 3 days you can take part in workshops, talks, a poetry hub, children’s events and more in venues across Bournemouth Town Centre.
From Friday 25 to Sunday 27 April 2025, you’ll get the chance to meet best-selling authors, screenwriters, editors, poets and journalists. Some events are free and some events are ticketed.
Reconnect With Nature
Spring is a great time to reconnect with nature. With the weather warming up and spring flowers popping up all over the place, it’s time to get outside and awaken your senses.
Take the time to slow down, relax and enjoy the simple things in life. Listen to the birds twittering, notice the colourful wildflowers or enjoy a picnic with your favourite people (or four legged friends).
Read our blog for more information about country parks and nature reserves to visit in Dorset.
Bridport's Film Festival
From Page To Screen is a film festival with a difference. It is the UK's only festival celebrating the adaptation of books to film.
Taking place in Bridport from Wednesday 23 to Sunday 27 April 2025, the Festival features discussions, Q&As and masterclasses with authors, screenwriters, directors and film academics.
Sidney Poitier in the film A Raisin In The Sun.
Book an April getaway to Dorset
If you're thinking about booking a holiday or short break to Dorset this April, we've lots of choice for places to stay overnight. From cosy cottages and scenic log cabins to luxury hotels and homely B&Bs, there is something for all tastes and budgets.
Don't forget to check out our special offers for booking a bargain break at discounted prices.
What are you waiting for - book your spring holiday today!
