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

Victorian Weekend Mar 22

Victorian Weekend

Victorian Weekend at Swanage Railway. A three-day celebration of the era that built the railway branch line from Wareham to Swanage in the 1880s. Includes: - Home Fleet of Locomotives. - LSWR No. 563,...

Come and Sing Evensong Mar 24

Come and Sing Evensong

Advance notice of our next "Come and Sing" Evensong at St Mary's Church in Swanage which will be on Palm Sunday, 24th March, when we are delighted to welcome Dr David Flood to lead our...

Full Moon Walks at RSPB Arne Open to All Mar 24

Full Moon Walks at RSPB Arne Open to All

New for 2024, Full Moon Walks at Arne are now open to all! Don't miss this special opportunity to discover the wonders of RSPB Arne by moonlight. Join us for a 2 hour guided walk around the...

Easter Egg Hunt Mar 29

Easter Egg Hunt

Easter Egg Hunt Can you help the Easter Bunny hunt for eggs? Come to Swanage railway for a fun filled family trip and as you travel look out of the windows to spot the missing eggs. This event is free...

Easter Sunday Carvery Mar 31

Easter Sunday Carvery

Join us at the Grand Hotel for a lovely Carvery this Easter Sunday. Sit back, relax and enjoy the gorgeous views across Swanage Bay. To book a table call 01929 423353.