2023 is the Year of the Coast – celebrating England’s amazing coastline as well as new sections of the England Coast Path opening.
No matter the time of year, there is always something new to see and do at the coast. From watersports enthusiasts taking advantage of the blustery winter winds to beachlovers soaking up the summer sun, Dorset’s coast is a must-visit destination for all seasons.
So what are you waiting for? Book your 2023 holiday by the sea today.
Wonderful winter at the coast
There’s nothing like a refreshing winter break by the sea to rejuvenate the senses and boost your energy levels.
What better way to increase your winter wellbeing scandi-style with a seafront sauna followed by a bracing dip in the sea? Along with many other health benefits, cold water swimmers rave about the euphoric feeling after getting out the water.
Another way to enjoy the outdoors in comfort is to treat yourself to a cosy cottage or lodge complete with your very own hot tub. Pure indulgence – but you’re worth it!
Our top picks of winter events:
November
December
Escape to the coast this spring
With the weather warming up and days getting longer, you’ll feel a spring in your step when you visit Dorset this March, April or May. And you might even get a day sunbathing on the beach if you’re lucky as temperatures have been known to reach 20 degrees Celsius in spring.
Beautiful spring flowers will be popping up after their winter slumber and you’ll find a number of bluebell woods near the coast to explore at Coney’s Castle and Champernhayes Woods.
Easter is in early April this year and there’ll be lots of Easter Egg Hunts at Dorset attractions as well as an Easter Bonnet Parade in Lyme Regis.
Along with cute lambs running and jumping around Dorset’s fields, the cygnets at Abbotsbury Swannery will start hatching in May which is a real highlight for a visit to the coast.
Spring is a great time of year to get back in the saddle and explore the coast by bike. The weather shouldn’t be too hot yet, so whether you’re new to cycling or an experienced rider, the spring breeze will keep you cool on your journey.
Our top picks of spring events:
March
- Swanage Railway Spring Steam Gala
April
- Lyme Regis Fossil Festival
- Bournemouth Writing Festival
May
- Christchurch Cheese and Chilli Festival
- Quayside Music Festival, Weymouth
Beachside summer breaks in Dorset
Who doesn’t love spending summer by the seaside? Along with traditional fish and chips and seafront strolls, you can soak up some sun on our beautiful beaches and cool down with an ice-cream or dip in the sea.
Lots of our cafes, pubs and restaurants have outside seating, so you can enjoy a delicious meal or drink while enjoying al-fresco life in Dorset.
Of course if the weather gets too hot (and we’ve seen a few of those summers recently), there are lots of inside attractions to escape the heat of the day. Glorious stately homes, magnificent castles and fascinating museums are fantastic places to learn something new as well as somewhere to cool down. Some are dog-friendly too!
Summer is festival season, with something for all interests and budgets – music, food, country shows, dancing, vintage and more. No matter your age, you’ll find your perfect event to spend a summers day (or evening) at!
Our top picks of summer events:
June
- Swanage Fairy Festival
- Shake & Stir, Southbourne
July
- Mudeford Arts Festival
- Camp Bestival, Lulworth Castle
August
- Melplash Show, West Bay
- Bournemouth Air Festival
Autumnal seaside holidays
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a seaside holiday to Dorset. In fact, the sea is at it’s warmest in early autumn after the summer sun has warmed it up – perfect for getting out on the water and trying a new watersport.
Autumn is also a fantastic time of year to go walking, now that the heat of summer has passed. Dorset has many coastal walking routes to choose from. Plus, England’s longest National Trail, the South West Coast Path, connects Studland in Dorset with Minehead in Somerset, although we don’t expect you to walk the whole 630 miles!
Stargazing is another brilliant autumnal activity for all ages. And once the clocks have gone back in October and the skies get darker earlier in the evening, it’s even better for younger members of the family to get involved.
Our top picks of autumn events:
September
- Arts By The Sea Festival, Bournemouth
- Dorset Seafood Festival, Weymouth
October
