Whether you are planning a holiday or day trip or just wondering what there is to see and do in Dorset during July, here's some fabulous ideas for how to spend your summer.

July really is the time to get outside to enjoy the south coast sunshine and warmer evenings. So, it's not surprising that this month is filled with lots of music festivals, camping adventures, carnivals and outdoor theatre shows to make the most of the good weather.

For a full list of events this month, take a look at our What's On guide for July.

Outdoor music festivals

A photo from the stage at Camp Bestival looking out to the crowd

© Camp Bestival

We’ve got some fantastic music festivals taking place this summer – here are our top picks.

The family-friendly Camp Bestival returns to the beautiful grounds of Lulworth Castle at the end of July.

SandFest returns for its 8th instalment at Sandbanks in mid July.

With over 50 live acts across 4 stages, Poole Harbour Festival is back at the end of July.

Carnivals

It wouldn’t be summer without carnivals, and we’ve got some brilliant ones taking place this July.

Kicking off the Carnival season is Wareham Carnival. With live music and food and drink and then the Carnival Procession on the final day, don’t miss this weekend of fun in mid July.

Swanage Carnival and Regatta is one of the biggest events taking place in Swanage and draws visitors every year from far and wide. Enjoy 8 days of events from the end of July into early August.

Lyme Regis and Bridport Carnivals take place in August.

Reconnect with the land beneath your feet

Views of Worth Matravers village from the Smugglers Ways walking route in Dorset

This summer, why not get out those walking shoes and discover Dorset’s history.

Not only is the scenery and landscapes amazing to look at, there is a story behind what lies hidden beneath your feet as you walk through our beautiful countryside.

Discover mystery and intrigue as you wander along riverside walks, over the top of hills or next to the magnificent Jurassic Coast. Even if you’re not a history buff, you’ll still get to see cracking views and there is always a pub, café or tearoom nearby to sample a few local flavours. Read our blog for 5 suggested walking routes to follow.

Swanage Jazz Festival

Headline acts and supporting artists will be performing traditional to contemporary jazz at Swanage Jazz Festival in mid July

Sherborne Castle Classic and Supercars Show

Atkins Ferrie Supercar Show at Sherborne Castle and Gardens

Photo courtesy of Sherborne Classic & Supercars Limited

With over 1500 vehicles, the Classic and Supercars Show returns to the stunning grounds of Sherborne Castle on the third Sunday in July.

For car enthusiasts and families alike, this event is a huge crowd pleaser.

Open air theatre

What could be better than a warm summers evening and sitting outside for a picnic and outdoor theatre show?

As well as your chairs and picnics, remember to take a blanket or warm clothing for when the sun goes down as the evenings in July can still feel a little cool.

Car free adventures

Swanage Railway steam train at Corfe Castle station in Dorset

Corfe Castle Railway Station © Diana Jarvis

If you want to leave the car at home or head out for a day of adventure by bus, train or boat, we’ve got some great ideas for car free adventures in Dorset.

Jump on a double-decker open top bus to see more of our amazing county, take to the sea with a Coastal Cruises boat trip between Poole and Swanage or step back in time for a nostalgic ride on a Swanage Railway steam train.

Whichever way you choose to travel, you can put away the Sat Nav, relax and let someone else do the driving!

Stay a little longer

If you're planning on an overnight stay or short break during your to Dorset visit this July, we've got lots of choice places to stay.

Whatever your budget or requirements, choose from hotels, B&Bs, pubs and inns, holiday parks, glamping or camping.