Nature events in Dorset
When you visit Dorset, you are transported into an unspoilt world of outstanding natural beauty, a place where sea, coastline, hills, streams, meadows and woods stretch out as far as the eye can see.
One of the great draws of this beautiful county is the chance to unplug from the daily rush and indulge in the simple pleasures of country life.
Get even closer to the natural world in Dorset by taking part in these nature-based events.
Lend nature a helping hand
Whether you want to get stuck in helping with practical management of a reserve, or your children want to join in with face-painting, nestbox making and pond-dipping, you’ll love taking part in the hands-on activities here in Dorset.
There’s plenty going on throughout the year at Moors Valley Country Park, Durlston Country Park and the National Trust's Brownsea Island. The RSPB and Dorset Wildlife Trust also run a range of exciting events where you can get involved.
You could be building a den one day to embarking on a mini-beast safari the next!
Get to know Dorset better
Guided walks help you get better acquainted with the wildlife of an area, whether you are local or on holiday, plus it really helps to enrich your experience of the countryside.
Expert guides lead these group walks, and will be able to answer all your burning questions along the way.
So, if you’ve always wanted to know how to recognise what bird is making that beautiful melody, or what species of butterfly has those striking markings, then book on to a walk at your nearest nature reserve and you can find out…
Mindful Dorset
The Dorset countryside is a place to stir the senses and calm the mind, a place where you can feel Mother Nature’s spirit all around you!
There is a fantastic selection of heath and wellbeing events on in Dorset that take advantage of our glorious surroundings.
From practicing yoga on the beach and relaxation walks to stargazing workshops and dancing at ancient sites, you’ll find a deeper connection with the landscape here.
Environmentally conscious accommodation
You’ll find lots of accommodation here in Dorset that adopts a sustainable approach, so rest assured you’ll be doing every bit to protect this area of outstanding natural beauty.
Look out for accommodation that takes part in the Green Tourism Scheme or has a David Bellamy Conservation Award.
Or, what better way to feel at one with nature than to camp outdoors?
Nature eventscoming soon!
Abbotsbury Baby Swans Hatching
Between mid May and the end of June every year, the newly hatched cygnets take their first steps from dozens of nests across Abbotsbury Swannery. Explore the Swannery and witness the unique sight...
Abbotsbury Swannery Interactive Brambly Hedge Trail
The wonderful Brambly Hedge are back for a final season with us. The interactive trail is based on The High Hills book, along with a charming story trail-based Sea Story from the Brambly Hedge...
Beatrix Potter™ Trail
Step Into a World of Mischief & Magic with Our Beatrix Potter™ Trail! Join us from Saturday 21st March and throughout the whole summer for a delightful adventure around our garden centre with our...
Carey Osprey Tours
Careys Secret Garden shares our appreciation for just how special it is to be able to provide viewing access to the only Osprey nest in the south of the UK. The viewing of the nest at Carey is...
Exhibition: Changing Landscapes
Our Changing Landscapes exhibition celebrates 25 years of the Jurassic Coast as a World Heritage Site. Explore fossils including ammonites, see a model Jurassic seabed, watch short films about coastal...
Holistic Water Retreat
Step aboard for a deeply restorative three-hour holistic retreat cruise through the tranquil waters of Poole Harbour. This is more than a boat journey – it's an invitation to reconnect with...
Murder Mystery Adventure
Get ready to immerse yourself in a murder mystery adventure around Weymouth! You are a private investigator, tasked with solving the most high profile murder case to hit Weymouth in years. The victim?...
Room on the Broom Family Trail
Join Witch's magical adventure! Join Witch and her friends on an enchanting adventure at Moors Valley Country Park. This interactive family trail is packed with Room on the Broom themed...
Summer Art Exhibition at the Wild Chesil Centre
Join us at the Fine Foundation Wild Chesil Centre for this exhibition inspired by Dorset's incredible wildlife and beautiful natural land and seascapes. The exhibition showcases work by 10...
Summer Safari Cruises
Join us for our run of Summer Safari Cruises as the busy breeding season concludes and welcomes the beginnings of autumn migration. Breeding birds are joined by the first returning migrants and fresh...
Sunset Safari Cruises
Join the team on our run of evening charters around the harbour, taking in the full beauty of the harbour during golden hour as we go in search of the BIG SIX and plenty of our other great summer...
Young Birders Club
We at Birds of Poole Harbour understand the importance of inspiring the next generation and getting them involved in nature conservation so that they can go on to protect wildlife in the future....
Evening echoes: bird and bat safari
As dusk falls over Brownsea Island head out for an unforgettable evening of discovery. Guided by one of the island's expert Rangers and volunteers, this nocturnal safari offers a rare glimpse into...
West Bay Guided Walks
Explore the beauty, history and wildlife of West Bay with our friendly and knowledgeable volunteer guides. Our walks are a wonderful way to discover the stories, scenery and surprises that make this...
Events at Durlston Country Park: Seabird Boat Trip
Seabird Boat Trips Guillemots, Puffins, Peregrines and geology with the Durlston rangers. Booking required via www.coastalcruisespoole.co.uk/ poole-bird-watching-cruise/ Meet at Swanage Pier....
Plan Your Visit
Why notstay a while?
Bookham Court
Bookham Court Holiday Cottages enjoy panoramic views over Thomas Hardy's Blackmore Vale in Dorset. Personally run by Nicola Foot, the Holiday Cottages are furnished to a high standard, making this...
Brace of Pheasants
Nestled in the Plush Valley just off the Wessex Ridgeway, ‘The Brace’ is a quintessential Old English thatched country Inn. The perfect location to enjoy a break away from it all. Enjoy...
Chideock Grange Holiday Cottages
This is a small, quiet holiday cottage complex, on the outskirts of the village of Chideock, set in a hollow by Winniford Stream and surrounded by rolling farmland. A mile inland off the main road, it...
Cliff Cottage
4 Star VisitEngland Grading: 85% Gold Award Lyme seafront cottage for four with private parking, Cliff Cottage is one of the quaint pink cottages seconds away...
Coppet Hill
Just three miles from the Jurassic Coast, and surrounded by some of Dorset’s most spectacular hills, our 600-acre family farm is a peaceful haven for walkers, campers and wildlife lovers. Our...
Corfe and Purbeck Holidays
Corfe & Purbeck Holidays specialise in letting quality self catering holiday properties in the beautiful Isle of Purbeck, Dorset. All of our our cottages are well equipped, comfortably...
Crabbers' Wharf
Discover the Charm of Crabbers’ Wharf luxury apartments – Your Seaside Escape. Nestled on the edge of Portland Harbour, Crabbers’ Wharf offers a unique self-catering experience where...
Curated Cottages
Curated Cottages offers a handpicked selection of Dorset holiday cottages, each chosen for its character, comfort and location. As a Dorset-based, independent company, we take a more personal approach...
Doles Ash Farm Holiday Cottages
Located in the heart of Hardy’s Dorset, Doles Ash Farm Holiday Cottages offers a relaxing break surrounded by beautiful countryside and set in 12 acres of West Dorset’s Piddle Valley. No...
Dorset Forest Garden Glamping
Making time for just the two of you, escaping the hustle and bustle of daily living, reconnecting with nature. If this resonates with you we have the perfect destination for you, set at the head of a...
Dorset Hideaways
Dorset Hideaways is a Holiday Cottage Agency showcasing a range of properties from cosy cottages crammed full of Dorset charm to luxury retreats oozing with coastal chic. Our aim is to make it easy...
Grand Hotel
Located in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck, The Grand Hotel has stunning views across the bay and has direct access from the gardens to the private beach. The Burlington Health Spa and...
Graston Farm Cottages
A warm welcome awaits you at Graston Farm Cottages nestled in the beautiful Bride Valley, just a mile from the sea, a perfect location for outdoor lovers. Enjoy excellent walking and cycling routes...
Helpful Holidays
Helpful Holidays offers a diverse selection of self-catering cottages in Dorset, catering to various preferences and group sizes. With properties in both West and East Dorset guests can choose between...
Kingston Country Courtyard
Kingston Country Courtyard is a 16th century B&B accommodation. We have 26 rooms located around two courtyards with car parking facilities onsite. We have a wide variety of rooms available...
Loose Reins
Loose Reins is where the world slows down. It’s where the daily grind is left at the gate and a place of experience, discovery and relaxation opens up. It’s where you reconnect, come...
Newlands Holiday Park
Newlands is a family run park located in the picturesque World Heritage village of Charmouth, just a stones throw from the fossil-rich Jurassic Coast near the Dorset/Devon border. Set in 23 acres of...
Riverside Park
We are located on the banks of the River Stour in the centre of the beautiful historic town of Christchurch, within walking distance to the shops, restaurants, spectacular natural harbour, Hengistbury...
Rosewall Camping
Rosewall is a family run camping park, set in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the World Heritage Coast, in the hamlet of Osmington Mills five miles east of Weymouth. Our thirteen-acre south...
Spurwing Guest House
We are Steph and Richard, owners of Spurwing Guest House. We pride ourselves on our bed and breakfast Dorset being a friendly, popular and comfortable chalet-style bungalow, with ground floor...
Strongate Cottage Rural Retreat nr Bridport & Jurassic Coast
Strongate Cottage is a welcoming 17th-century thatched self-catering Cottage, full of character, charm, and original features. Set in the peaceful village of Salway Ash, the Cottage lies at the end of...
Strongate Orchard Farm Stay nr Bridport & Jurassic Coast
Strongate Orchard is your ideal farm stay, a secluded static home set within the Orchard on our small working farm where we have beef cattle, sheep, ducks, and chickens and lambs. Surrounded by...
Strongate View Apartment nr Bridport & Jurassic Coast
Rated 4★ by Visit England, Strongate View Apartment is located in the peaceful village of Salway Ash near Bridport, offering fabulous rural views of the beautiful Marshwood Vale. It’s the...
Summer Lodge Country House Hotel and Spa
Summer Lodge Country House Hotel and Spa is tucked away in the picturesque village of Evershot in the heart of the Dorset Downs. An 18th Georgian Manor House, made famous by its links with the...
Swanage Holiday Properties
Swanage Holiday Properties offers a carefully curated collection of self‑catering holiday homes across Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck, perfect for families, couples and coastal explorers looking to...
Sykes Holiday Cottages
Sykes Holiday Cottages have over 30 years' experience in letting exceptional self-catering holidays. We are the leading UK holiday cottage booking company and are experts in giving customers the...
Symondsbury Estate Holidays
Set in the heart of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and just ten minutes from the Jurassic Coast, Symondsbury Estate offers 14 unique and luxurious holiday cottages in one of West Dorset’s...
The Cedar House
The Cedar House is a luxury, contemporary and highly comfortable 4 bedroom / 4 bathroom split level house. When you arrive you walk over the contemporary glass, steel and wood bridge to the...
The Fleur de Lys
Thomas Hardy stayed here regularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and referenced the pub, ‘Flower-de-Luce’ in Tess of the D’Urbervilles These days our nine ensuite guest...
The Grange at Oborne
A charming country house hotel with a boutique-feel, set in a pretty village just one mile from Sherborne, one of the most beautiful towns in England. The Grange is just seven miles from Yeovil,...
The Grosvenor Arms
The Grosvenor Arms is a gorgeous coaching-inn with 16 high-end boutique bedrooms in the heart of Shaftesbury. With a show-stopping Georgian frontage, contemporary rustic design, and fabulous seasonal...
The King's Arms
The King’s Arms is a gorgeous newly refurbished hotel and foodie pub on Dorchester’s high street. With a history entwined with Thomas Hardy and a roll call of glamourous guests from former...
THE PIG on the beach
Perched on a cliff above Studland Bay on Dorset's Jurassic Coast, THE PIG-on the beach is a mellow yellow hotel with sweeping sea views. Expect Kitchen Garden food, roaring log fires, gargoyles...
The Pines Hotel
We are an independently run, 43 bedroom cliff top hotel, enjoying stunning, panoramic views of Swanage Bay with our own private access to the sandy beach below. Quietly situated close to the South...
The Victorian Barn Dorset
This is the Dorset dream you've been longing for; stunning scenery, rolling hills, and a prehistoric coastline. And this, right here, is the Dorset holiday accommodation you have been dreaming of...
Toad Hall Cottages
Toad Hall Cottages is a leading provider of holiday cottages throughout the South West, and with an office in Lyme Regis in the heart of the region, they know Dorset inside out. ...
Warmwell Holiday Park - Parkdean Resorts
Brilliant new investments have transformed Warmwell Holiday Park into a park packed with fantastic facilities and amazing accommodation. There is so much fun available to you at this park, including...
West Bay Holiday Park - Parkdean Resorts
West Bay Holiday Park is the perfect base for exploring the fantastic Jurassic Coast and gorgeous nearby harbour setting. The park offers a fun-filled, action-packed getaway with its fantastic...
White Horse Farm
White Horse Farm offers its guests a peaceful and relaxed self-catering holiday in beautiful rural Dorset. We have four attractive barn conversion cottages and a 4 star three bed roomed lodge cabin;...
Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park and Spa
For a coastal holiday park in Dorset with luxurious accommodation and 5 star leisure facilities, you need look no further than Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park & Spa, set right alongside Weymouth's...
Burnbake Forest Lodges
Tucked inside the glorious Purbeck region of Dorset on the breathtaking Jurassic Coast, Burnbake Campsite and Forest lodges is the perfect location for a great British getaway for family,...
Character Farm Cottages
Welcome to Character Farm Cottages, a family-run business offering five delightful self-catering cottages situated on our working farm in the picturesque village of Langton Herring, near Weymouth and...
Chesil Beach Holiday Park
Chesil Beach is a 5 star holiday park celebrating a breath-taking coastal location overlooking Portland and the Fleet with panoramic sea views. The fantastic on-park facilities include an...
Classic Cottages
Classic Cottages have the perfect holiday home waiting for you in Dorset. From family-sized homes with sea views in Lyme Regis to chic couple’s boltholes in the heart of Bridport, there's...
Clifftops
Situated on the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site coast. Clifftops luxury lodges are within the grounds of Portland’s Pennsylvania Castle and have uninterrupted sea views. Unique and...
Cove Lodge
Cove Lodge represents the very definition of laid-back luxury. The lodge provides panoramic sea views, an elegant interior, and the perfect location for short breaks, or getaways with friends. Cove...
Dorset & Devon Holiday Cottages
We are a local, family run business offering a friendly but professional service to both our home owners and guests. At Dorset & Devon Holiday Cottages we realise the importance of a holiday,...
Dorset Cottage Holidays
Dorset Cottage Holidays is Dorset's largest independent, family run agency. Established over 25 years ago and located locally in the heart of Corfe Castle in Dorset. We...
Dream Cottages
Discover your dream holiday in Dorset with Dream Cottages. With over 400 charming, independently owned cottages to choose from, there's something for everyone - from cosy countryside retreats to...
Durdle Door Holiday Park
Close to Lulworth Cove and the iconic rock arch of Durdle Door, the Holiday Park is ideally situated between Weymouth and Swanage in one of the most spectacular parts of the Jurassic Coast. This...
Grandeur Property
Grandeur Property has a collection of modern homes and apartments, all chosen for their great location in or near popular locations on the south coast of Dorset. Whether you're looking for a...
Kersbrook
The Kersbrook is a beautiful thatched, eighteenth century Grade II listed building (1780) set in its own picturesque mature gardens just off the town centre with views across Lyme Regis. Family run,...
Knoll House Hotel
You’ll find us at Studland Bay on the Isle of Purbeck, between Poole and Old Harry Rocks. Purbeck is a quiet landscape of coast, cliffs, heath and woodland, and a haven for wildlife. It’s...
Lulworth Holiday Cottages
Thatched cottage retreats with hidden sun terraces, traditional farm buildings with swimming pools, period properties in rolling park-land... Book a stay in a holiday cottage here on the privately...
Lyme Bay Holidays
Everything about a Lyme Bay Holiday is special. As a family-run business we know what's really important when you take a break, and with over 40 years experience you can count on us...
Mallinson’s Woodland Retreat
Escape, unwind and recharge in a stunning West Country woodland. Choose from three distinct award-winning luxury treehouses, each one a self-contained nest for two with its own facilities (and no...
Osmington Mills Lodge Park
Osmington Mills Lodge Park is a relaxed luxury lodge park set in the beautiful wooded valley of Osmington Mills. The quiet rural setting is the perfect place for a peaceful getaway on the Dorset...
Pennsylvania Castle
Pennsylvania Castle is an exclusive wedding, events and private rental venue overlooking the charming Church Ope Cove and UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coastline. The neo-gothic design of the Castle...
Sandford Holiday Park - Parkdean Resorts
The wonderful woodland surrounds Sandford Holiday Park which is bursting with new activities and facilities to make your holiday unforgettable. A Blue Flag beach is just a short drive away, perfect...
The Front Rows Holiday Park
A collection of 20 luxurious holiday homes situated on the cliff edge of The Estate. The Front Rows provide an ideal base for those who wish to explore The Isle of Portland and experience everything...
The Heights Hotel
The Heights Hotel set on the summit of Portland with stunning sea and coastal views over Weymouth and Chesil beach towards Lyme Bay. A warm welcome awaits you at the hotel - whether you are staying...
UK Lodge Breaks
UK Lodge Breaks offers a fantastic selection of lodges across Dorset, making it easy to find the perfect retreat. Whether you're looking to explore the breathtaking Jurassic Coast, relax on...
Upton Grange Holiday Cottages
From it’s location of privilege, cossetted in the centre of the tiny unspoilt hamlet of Upton, where the World Heritage Jurassic Coastline rejoices in the simplicity of nearby Ringstead Bay, the...
Wareham Forest Tourist Park
Our Park is situated midway between Bere Regis and Wareham in the heart of Wareham Forest. We have spacious and level camping, caravan and motorhome pitches in a tranquil woodland setting, with...
