October is a lovely time of year to visit Dorset. As the leaves change from gorgeous green to rusty red and with the rush of summer behind us, the county once again settles into a more relaxed pace.
Although the weather may be cooling down and there'll be a few more rainy days, it doesn't mean you can't get out into the great outdoors to enjoy a walk or bike ride or even an alfresco coffee on sunnier days.
Experience the best of our glorious gardens as they showcase their autumn colours, join a guided walk to find a rare red squirrel or be bedazzled by our autumn carnival processions. And don’t forget to boo-k your autumn getaway for half-term and Halloween – it’s going to be spooktacular!
Autumn carnivals
You might be mistaken for thinking that carnivals only take place in the summer months – not here in Dorset.
We’ve got two spectacular carnivals, both in the north of the county, to brighten up your autumn nights.
Shaftesbury Carnival has been held for over 145 years and takes place on Saturday 28 September 2024. There will be market stalls, food, games and entertainment from 10am, plus 2 processions, marching bands and a fun fair too!
Gillingham Carnival Week begins on Sunday 29 September 2024 with their Grand Illuminated Procession taking place the following Saturday. Throughout the week you can take part in treasure hunts, bingo and quiz nights, or visit the fun fair and watch the duck race. Sporting events including fishing, darts and skittles and more.
The events are fun for all ages and the carnival processions are free to watch.
Pumpkin picking and carving
October is the month for heading out to one of Dorset's farms, putting on your wellies and picking your perfect pumpkin. Whether you choose to carve it or cook it, this is a fantastic autumnal tradition for all ages to enjoy.
There are pumpkin picking and carving events taking place across the county and beyond.
Awesome Autumn Colours
Photo credit - Sherborne Castle and Gardens by Paul Dibben
As the seasons change, our beautiful gardens and countryside will be turning brilliant shades of red, orange and gold this month. A sign that autumn has well and truly arrived.
Grab your walking boots and a warm jumper to head out into the fresh air and awaken your senses. Hear the crunch of leaves underfoot, feel the cool autumn air on your face and toast the season with a pumpkin spiced latte – yum!
We’ve got two great blogs with lots of days out ideas for visiting gardens, woodlands and nature reserves or taking an autumnal walk in our glorious countryside.
Red Squirrel Walks
Photo credit - National Trust Images
Autumn is the best time of year for the chance of seeing a rare red squirrel on the National Trust’s Brownsea Island.
As these cute creatures forage for food to hide away for winter, they venture out from the safety of the trees down onto the woodland floor, which makes them much easier to spot.
Red squirrels are extremely rare in England and only live in the south of the country on islands such as Brownsea.
From 14 September until 3 November 2024 you can join a daily guided walk with a National Trust volunteer to try and find the squirrels. There’s no extra charge to join one of these walks as it’s included with your entry ticket – and if you’re a National Trust member you’ll get in free of charge.
Halloween and October Half Term Holidays
The autumn school holiday in Dorset starts on Monday 28 October 2024.
There’s lots of things to see and do for all the family during half-term including pumpkin picking, craft activities, treasure trails and lots more.
For Halloween, get dressed up in your most ghoulish outfit and jump on a ghost train, explore haunted tunnels or create your own fang-tastic potion.
Purbeck Film Festival
Now in its 29th year, the annual Purbeck Film Festival is much loved by visitors and locals.
Showing a varied mix of classic, award-winning, independent or foreign language films in some wonderful and unusual venues, the film festival takes place from 18 October until 3 November 2024.
There’s also a number of family-friendly films for younger viewers as well as exclusive Q&As and film previews.
The greatest treasure hunt!
Explore Dorset’s best-kept secrets! Visit unique museums, creative events, and embark on an unforgettable treasure hunt this October. From classic art to contemporary collections, we have unmissable events right across the county – let us lead you through breathtaking countryside to find creative delights, educational workshops and curated art collections.
Book your October break to Dorset
Wanting to book a short break or holiday in October? We've got some great accommodation options for you. From luxury hotels and cosy self-catering cottages to B&Bs and budget friendly holiday parks, there's something for everyone.
