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!

Trust10 Jan 25

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...

Blackmore Vale Half Marathon Feb 01

Blackmore Vale Half Marathon

Blackmore Vale Lions Club (BVLC) are delighted to confirm that the BVHM 26 has been registered with the athletics authorities and will take place on Sunday 1 February 2026 starting at 11.00 am at...

Coastal Combat Festival Feb 07

Coastal Combat Festival

Coastal Combat Festival is back, and this year it's breaking new ground with a spectacular mix of live martial arts, music, and family fun inside the historic Dorchester Prison on Saturday, 7th...

GrandSlam Wrestling Feb 21

GrandSlam Wrestling

HUGE NEWS, BOURNEMOUTH WE ARE COMING Get ready for an action packed evening as GrandSlam Wrestling takes over the Iconic O2 Academy Bournemouth, 21st February. WWE and ECW legend Rhyno will be in...

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.