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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

Swanage Pier History Walk Apr 17

Swanage Pier History Walk

Swanage Pier History Walk Saturday 16th March at 2.30pm  Enjoy a tour following in the footsteps of the Victorians in a stroll along the pier, a  pleasure that has been enjoyed by...

The Songs the Beatles Gave Away Apr 19

The Songs the Beatles Gave Away

BBC's Bob Harris and author/music journalist Colin Hall set out upon an intimate speaking tour based around their mutual love and appreciation of The Beatles, including a rare archive from Bob...

Early Morning Bird Walk Apr 20

Early Morning Bird Walk

A ranger from the Dorset Wildlife Trust team will lead you on a wander around the island, lakes and lagoon. Experience the peace and tranquillity of the island and listen out for the sounds of the...

Dawn Chorus Guided Walk Apr 21

Dawn Chorus Guided Walk

The Dawn Chorus is one of the UK's best wildlife spectacles - so why not join us to immerse in Arne's own Dawn birdsong orchestra! It is an event not to be missed, as we take you through the...

Swanage Carnival Classic Car Show Apr 21

Swanage Carnival Classic Car Show

The annual Carnival Classic Motor Show is a great, family-friendly spring day out and charitable event run by the Swanage Carnival committee. This is your chance to experience a fantastic selection of...

Full Moon Walks at RSPB Arne Open to All Apr 22

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...

History Walk at Arne Apr 25

History Walk at Arne

If you like history then why not join us at Arne for one of our fantastic history walks. With history spanning from the bronze age all the way up to ww2 there will be something for everyone. After...

Reptile Survey Walk Apr 25

Reptile Survey Walk

Join us for a unique opportunity to join a reptile survey and learn more about all 6 native reptile species, including Sand Lizards and Smooth Snakes! Arne is one of the few places in the UK where all...

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