Year Of The Coast in Dorset

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.

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

July

August

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

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!