Father's Day in Dorset

Father’s Day is fast approaching, taking place in 2025 on Sunday 15 June. And every year the age-old question is asked – what do you buy your Dad for Father's Day? So this year, why not treat your Dad to a special day out in Dorset.  

There’s plenty of options for days out on or around Father’s Day. Here are some ideas for activities you can enjoy together this Father’s Day, as well as great gift ideas. 

Outdoor adventurers

If your Dad is a fan of the great outdoors, why not treat him to a day out with a difference. Fore Adventure offers various foraging courses on the beautiful Studland coastline, followed by cooking and feasting on what you’ve found. There is even a Kayaking, Foraging, Fishing and Feasting course, for those who want even more adventure.

For those with a head for heights, test Dad's skills on a high ropes challenge at Go Ape. Located in the scenic Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, this is a fantastic activity to share with young adults and teenagers. After your activity you could have lunch in the café, enjoy a picnic by the lake or explore the miles of walking and cycling trails.

Feel the sea breeze and tick something off the bucket list by booking a zip lining experience from the end of Bournemouth Pier. Dad's can race someone else or go it alone as they whoosh over the sea towards the golden sand of the beach. There's indoor rock climbing and adventure high ropes too if the weather isn't so great.

For the wildlife explorer

If your Dad is a nature lover, explore one of Dorset's nature reserves together and get some fresh air whilst admiring the beautiful views over the Dorset countryside.

Many nature reserves welcome dogs, so the whole family can join in and spend the day reconnecting with nature. Remember to pack a picnic so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

Take a boat trip 

Treat your Dad to some time sailing a classic gaff-rigged cutter, Tall Ship Moonfleet. 

Moonfleet Adventure Sailing offers the opportunity for both novice and experienced sailors to try your hand at classic tall ship sailing around Southern England’s stunning Jurassic coastline.

If you prefer not to get involved and enjoy the ride, then you can relax and take in the sights and sounds of sailing Dorset’s beautiful coastline.

For the foodies

Not only does Dorset have a fabulous range of pubs, restaurants and cafés to enjoy a tasty Father's Day meal, but there are two food filled events taking place over the weekend.

Promoting local food and drink producers, Bridport Food Festival is a one day foodie event taking place on Saturday 14 June.

The hugely popular Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival is a free festival with lots of food and drink stalls to buy something delicious to eat on the go, or take home for later. There's also Crafts On The Green, cooking demonstrations and two music stages.

Dorset drinks

Give the gift of your dad's favourite tipple. From award-winning wines to local breweries and vodka made with milk (yes milk!), there is something for all tastes made here in Dorset. 

There are various vineyards across the county offering tasting and tours as well as cellar door shops. Furleigh Estate, Langham Wine, English Oak Vineyard, Bride Valley and Little Waddon Vineyard all have shops offering a selection of red, white, rosé or sparkling wines. So spoil him with a bottle of something special this Father's Day. 

Or delight your Dad with a selection of beers delivered directly to his door from Dorset. 

Hall & Woodhouse offer selections of mixed beers and merchandise on their online shop, there is a great range on offer including limited edition beers. 

Palmers Brewery has bottled as well as draught ales and ciders available for purchase online. Surprise your Dad this year with some of his favourite ale, cider or wine.

With a cider orchard, tasting room and garden, Dorset Nectar is an organic cider farm. Try their award winning craft ciders or their range of organic juices and apple cider vinegars, apple spirit, mead, honey, crisps, local biscuits, fudges, jams, marmalades, chutneys and chilli sauces