August Bank Holiday in Dorset

The August Bank Holiday weekend in Dorset is ideal for a memorable UK staycation. Enjoy cider tastings, folk music festivals, and vibrant community events across the county. From family-friendly days out to scenic coastal escapes, there’s something for everyone. Explore outdoor cinema at Corfe Castle and open-air theatre in historic settings. Don’t miss spectacular Dorset fireworks displays lighting up the summer skies. With so many things to do in Dorset, your bank holiday will be truly unforgettable.

Events and festivals in Dorset

If you’re looking to start your bank holiday weekend with a bang, don’t forget to head down to Bournemouth seafront for the Friday night firework display. Starting at 10pm, this free event attracts thousands of people to see the dazzling fireworks light up the night sky and can be seen from miles around. You can also catch the beach firework display in Weymouth on Monday 25 August at 9.30pm.

On Friday 22 and Saturday 23 August, Cinema Under the Stars will be showing Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets (PG) and Paddington in Peru (PG). Pack a picnic and some cosy blankets to keep warm, and enjoy outdoor cinema within the grounds of the iconic Corfe Castle.

Over near Sturminster Newton, the annual Oak Fair takes place on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 August. It’s a real celebration of the countryside with woodcraft, chainsaw carving, heavy horse shows, falconry displays, over 200 artisan craft stalls and the skills of the Adams Axemen display team. There’s also lots of food and drink on offer too, so you can make a whole day of it.

The Anonymous Festival in Dorchester is now in its 15^th year. This is a free, family-friendly festival taking place on 25 August from 11am. As well as fresh musical talent from some of the best local youth starlets, there’ll be workshops, activities and food stalls.

At BeCider Seaside Festival (22–25 August) in Burton Bradstock, enjoy a relaxed coastal vibe with over 40 artisan cider producers, live bands, local DJs, delicious food and family-friendly fun.

And don't miss the magical Candles on the Cobb event in Lyme Regis on 24 August, a spectacular event illuminating the historic Cobb Harbour at Lyme Regis with 5000 tea-light candles and raising thousands of pounds for local and national charities.

Cool days out in Dorset

The August bank holiday weekend wouldn’t be complete without a few hot days of sunshine, so if you’re looking to cool off in the water but want to avoid the busy beaches, here’s a few ideas for you.

What better way to cool off in the heatwave than to jump off two huge inflatable assault courses into a lake?! For ages 6 and above, you’ll be shrieking with pure glee as you tackle both the Castle Lake and Woodland Lake adventure courses at Dorset Adventure Park near Corfe Castle. And if a thundery downpour should hit, you could try the Dorset Mud Trail – prepare to get mucky!!!

A traditional British summer pastime, everyone loves a spot of rockpooling at low tide. One of the best places in Dorset (if not the whole country) to find the hidden creatures of the sea is Kimmeridge Bay. The waters here form part of the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve and are teaming with diverse marine wildlife – they even have a snorkelling trail available during the summer months so you can get even closer to the local wildlife and cool off at the same time.

If you're seeking an adrenaline rush, why not have a go at coasteering? Available at many locations along the Jurassic coastline, join an expert guide for a few hours of jumping, swimming and climbing.

August Bank Holiday on a budget

Offering great value for a family day out, check out our blog to find 30 days out costing less than £30.

For some great low-cost or no-cost days out in Dorset read our low-cost holidays blog or check out our top ten ideas for free days out. Explore castles, go on a nature trail or ride your bike for a cycling adventure in our beautiful countryside.

Dorset also has over 50 attractions offering free tickets for children, making your day out that little bit more affordable.

There are also museums, country parks, hill forts and more which offer free admission. See the full list of over 200 free things to do in our wonderful county.

And don't forget to look at our Special Offers page to see what deals and discounts are available to save some money during your break.

Enjoy eating out

Dorset has an excellent reputation for fantastic food and drink. Sample some of the delightful local produce or purchase your own at the many farmers markets and enjoy a delicious picnic at one of Dorset's beauty spots.

Sit back, relax and enjoy a slice Dorset Apple Cake at one of our welcoming tearooms or tuck in to a well deserved pub lunch at one of our cosy country pubs. Just don’t forget to wash it down with some of our locally produced ciders and ales. Now that sounds like our kind of bank holiday weekend!

Book your bank holiday getaway now!

With all of this just waiting to be enjoyed, can you really afford not to book your break in Dorset?

We have a fantastic range of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes. Choose from cosy cottages, farm stays, welcoming B&Bs, country hotels and scenic caravan and campsites. Some will have the added bonus of hot tubs and spa facilities to really treat yourself this August.

Your break in Dorset is only a click away! See you soon…

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