Sporting events in Dorset

Dorset’s expansive coast and countryside make for one big outdoor playground.

The county has cliff faces to be climbed, wild heaths and forests to navigate, cycle trails to conquer and fantastic waves for watersports. 

Plus, Dorset was host to one of the biggest sporting events in history, London 2012, where Olympians sailed for gold, silver and bronze medals off the coast of Weymouth & Portland.

So whether you are a spectator or participant, make sure you get a taste of adrenaline in Dorset. 

A weekend of sport

Bournemouth 7s, the world’s largest sport and music festival, attracts players, spectators and festival goers alike to Bournemouth for an action packed weekend of superb sport, live music and awe-inspiring entertainment.

Over 5,000 players compete in a wide variety of social and competitive tournaments in Rugby, Netball, Dodgeball and Hockey. The elite competitions welcome some of the best national touring sides including a few International stars and are truly worth a watch!

That said, Bournemouth 7s is much more than a sports festival. Famed for its unique atmosphere, the festival offers something for everyone whether you’re 5 or 85!

Sprint for the finish

Running has seen the biggest rise in participation of any sport in England in recent years and marathons, half-marathons, Park Runs and Colour Runs are springing up everywhere.

Dorset is no exception and the county offers some fantastic opportunities for those who want to set themselves their next challenge.

A place to rest

After so much excitement, you’ll need somewhere to rest your limbs.

Book a cosy bed for the night by browsing our list of accommodation.

Sporting eventscoming soon!

Rudolph Rides Again Dec 21

Rudolph Rides Again

Join me, Rudolph and my running mate Dancer, as we take Santa around town by trishaw sleigh to his hideaway grotto inside 1855. Competent Cyclists welcome to meet Santa outside Harts of Stur at 10am...

Chase the Pudding and Chase the Elf Dec 22

Chase the Pudding and Chase the Elf

Be a part of something truly special this festive season by signing up for this year’s Chase the Pudding on Sunday 22nd December 2024. Sign up and run (in a Santa Suit) the 5km from...

Trust10 Dec 22

Trust10

Trust10 running is about enjoying the landscapes and nature surrounding you rather than a competitive event supported by timing systems. Therefore, if timing is important to you, we recommend that you...

Christmas Drop n' Go! Dec 23

Christmas Drop n' Go!

Christmas Drop n' Go! BLACK FRIDAY 29th NOVEMBER – 4 PM to 7 PM MONDAY 23RD DECEMBER – 10 AM to 1 PM MONDAY 23RD DECEMBER – 2 PM to 5 PM Finding it difficult to find time to get...

What does your Dorset look like? Adventures on our epic coastline? Visiting attractions with family? A walk through the beautiful countryside? Or perhaps a chilled out evening eating and drinking with friends? Discover a sample of your #VisitDorset images below and share your love for Dorset using the hashtag on Instagram.