Father's Day in Dorset

Father’s Day is fast approaching (18 June 2023), along with the age-old question – 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.

Or enjoy the great outdoors as a family on one of the many hiking or biking trails in Dorset. Try the North Dorset Trailway or the South West Coast Path. Why not take a picnic of local Dorset produce to enjoy en-route?

Car and motorbike enthusiasts

Haynes Motor Museum is home to the UK’s largest exhibition of great cars, from around the world, a perfect day out for any car and motorbike enthusiasts. The museum has over 400 cars and bikes from nostalgic classics of the 50’s and 60’s, Bentleys and Rolls Royce’s to the supercars of today. There are also some fantastic exhibitions, including Williams F1 the Drivers and the Driven, Ferrari and John Haynes OBE.

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 cafes to enjoy a tasty Father's Day meal, but there are two food filled events taking place over the weekend.

Bridport Food Festival is a fortnight of foodie events with the main Festival taking place on Saturday 17 June.

Down on the coast, Swanage Fish Festival is a 2 day event celebrating all things 'fishy'.  The festival will be filled with delicious foods, locally produced drinks, fishing and fun.

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 and English Oak Vineyard all have online 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 or cider.