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Events and Festivals in Purbeck

 

On the Isle of Purbeck, there is a year-round calendar of events to keep you entertained at all times and in all weathers. So whether you are wanting to take an art class, watch open-air theatre or eat all you can at a foodie festival, there is plenty on offer.

Toe tapping fun

If you’re a music lover, then we’ve got just about everything you could want, from headlining acts at Camp Bestival to up and coming local bands performing in pubs.

Blues, Roots and Folk are big on the list of music festivals which take place every year and have a huge following – so book your accommodation early to avoid disappointment.

Challenge yourself

Are you the fitness fanatic in your family whose idea of a relaxing holiday is to go for a 5 mile run every morning? Then you might like to take part in or watch one of our many sporting events – marathons, rowing regattas, walking challenges and triathlons are just a few. Or why not make up your own running, cycling or walking route – there are plenty of hill climbs to get the heart racing!

Family friendly

The events calendar is bursting with things to keep the kiddies amused or to entertain the whole family during your visit.

The Tank Museum’s TankFest is a highlight of the year – the world's biggest and best live display of historic armour, living history, and much more at the Home of the Tank. And then when summer arrives it’s all about carnival week with fun and games, competitions, fancy dress and parades.

If art is more your scene, you won’t want to miss Purbeck Art Weeks where there are open studios to watch the artists at work, exhibitions and musical performances.

And if you are visiting during the school holidays, our local attractions always have extra special events to let the children burn off some energy and the adults put their feet up for five minutes!

Something for all seasons

It’s not just the summer which is packed with events. If you are visiting at Easter, you’ll find chocolate egg hunts and treasure trails for all ages – who doesn’t love chocolate!

Autumn brings Halloween fancy dress parties, pumpkin festivals and amazing firework displays and bonfires on Guy Fawkes Night. And then to close the year, you can celebrate the Winter Solstice, witness the lighting up of our towns and villages with Christmas lights, join in with some carol singing, and then ring in the New Year with a glass of bubbly or two.

Book your stay on the Isle of Purbeck

So you've planned what you are going to do while on holiday, now find somewhere to stay. You'll find lots of choices from homely guest houses to 5 star campsites. For extra advice, contact one of team at Swanage Information Centre.

Events coming soon

Artisans on the Beach Dec 14

Artisans on the Beach

Artisans on the Beach is an established event and now in its 11 th  year. It is run to give local artists and crafts people the opportunity to show and sell their handmade and handcrafted items...

Christmas and New Year in Wareham Dec 14

Christmas and New Year in Wareham

The build up to Christmas is a bustling time in the town of Wareham. The historic market town is decorated with Christmas lights and a wonderful Christmas tree which stands on the town crossroads....

Christmas in Swanage Dec 14

Christmas in Swanage

The beautiful Victorian seaside town of Swanage is the perfect destination to soak up the Christmas atmosphere. Christmas Shopping Whether it is strolling through the town's main thoroughfare...

Father Christmas Yuletide Express Dec 14

Father Christmas Yuletide Express

Step into a world of twinkling lights, festive cheer and timeless Christmas tradition aboard the Father Christmas Yuletide Express. Leaving from Swanage Station, beautifully dressed for the season,...

Carols Under the Castle Dec 19

Carols Under the Castle

Join us at The Greyhound, Corfe Castle for a magical festive evening beneath the castle glow. From 7pm, Mad Melodies Choir will fill our garden and heated marquee with Christmas classics and modern...

Christmas at Corfe Castle Dec 19

Christmas at Corfe Castle

Take time to relax and enjoy a winter warmer in the seasonal setting of Corfe Castle. Gather around a fire pit to toast marshmallows whilst catching up with friends or family. Natural decorations will...

Winter Lights Dec 19

Winter Lights

Explore the ruins of Corfe Castle lit under warm glowing lights with the stars above you. Gather around a fire pit to toast marshmallows whilst catching up with friends or family. Braziers and festoon...

Christmas crafts at the castle Dec 20

Christmas crafts at the castle

Join us in the castle lodge for a relaxed crafting activity, perfect for children and their grown-ups. With all materials provided, you can take a quiet moment to make something festive together...

Elton John Tribute night at The Greyhound Dec 20

Elton John Tribute night at The Greyhound

Elton John Tribute & Party Night at The Greyhound, Corfe Castle Join us for a spectacular evening of Elton John classics followed by a set of timeless party anthems — all beneath the glow of Corfe...

Festive Fun Days on Swanage Pier Dec 21

Festive Fun Days on Swanage Pier

Feel the festive spirit as you arrive at our enchanting Winter Wonderland, where twinkling lights and music fill the air. Be warmly welcomed by our merry elves before gathering your loved ones for a...

Winter Solstice at Corfe Castle Dec 21

Winter Solstice at Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle will be opening its gates from 7am to experience the rare opportunity of watching the sun rise over East Hill on the shortest day of the year from the castle ruins. Explore the ruins and...

Plan Your Visit

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