With so many exciting events in West Dorset this summer, it's the perfect time to explore the beautiful region of West Dorset. From music festivals to food and beer fests, literary events to carnivals, there's something for everyone in West Dorset this summer. Whether you're interested in sampling delicious local cuisine, listening to live music, or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture, there are plenty of things to do while staying at our holiday park in Charmouth. Here are the top summer events in West Dorset to look out for!
Family Fest Dorset
Location: Wimborne Minster
Date: 1st – 2nd June
Family Fest Dorset is a lively festival that takes place in the charming town of Wimborne, offering visitors of all ages a fun-filled day out. From face painting and bouncy castles for the kids to interactive workshops and demonstrations for all ages, Family Fest Dorset is a child’s heaven! It provides the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones and enjoy all that Wimborne offers.
Lyme Regis D-Day 80 Torchlight Procession & Beacon Lighting
Location: Lyme Regis
Date: 6th June
Lyme Regis is gearing up to host the D-Day 80 Torchlight Procession & Beacon Lighting, an event dedicated to commemorating the heroes of World War II. This solemn yet uplifting occasion will allow visitors to actively participate in the torchlight procession, witness the striking beacon-lighting ceremony, and savour live music and entertainment. It's a wonderful chance to pay tribute to those who made incredible sacrifices for our freedom and to come together as a community in remembrance.
Lyme Regis Fossil Festival
Location: Lyme Regis
Date: 8th – 9th June
The Lyme Regis Fossil Festival is a spectacular event that focuses on the area's rich geological history. At the Marine Theatre, captivating talks, screenings, and shows will provide an opportunity to delve deeper into the world of fossils and geology. Festival-goers can also indulge in a variety of food stalls and immerse themselves in the world of science edutainment at Marine Parade.
Sturminster Newton Literary Festival
Location: Sturminster Newton
Date: 8 – 18th June
Sturminster Newton Literary Festival is an unmissable gathering for book lovers. This vibrant festival pays homage to three of the key writers associated with the town - William Barnes, Thomas Hardy, and Robert Young - along with current and aspiring writers in the Dorset and Wessex region. The event features an array of captivating talks, engaging workshops, and book signings by popular authors.
Bridport Food and Beer Festival
Location: Bridport
Date: 14th – 15th June
The Bridport Food and Beer Festival boasts a wide array of food and drink stalls, showcasing tasty treats and refreshing beverages. Visitors can also look forward to engaging cooking demonstrations, where talented chefs share their expertise and culinary secrets. There will also be live music performances, children activities and and, of course, great company!
Tankfest 2024
Location: The Tank Museum
Date: 28th – 30th June
Tankfest is an extraordinary event that showcases the largest collection of tanks in action from around the world. It offers visitors the chance to witness awe-inspiring tank displays, interact with the dedicated crews, and delve into the fascinating history of armoured warfare. This one-of-a-kind experience allows attendees to gain a deeper understanding of the pivotal role that tanks have played in shaping military history and their ongoing significance in modern conflicts.
Jurassic Fields Festival 2024
Location: Bridport
Date: 12th – 14th July
The Jurassic Fields Festival in Dorset celebrates music, arts, and community spirit, promising a fun experience for all attendees. Set against the stunning backdrop of Dorset's landscapes, this festival offers an impressive lineup of live music performances across multiple stages, featuring various genres to cater to every musical taste. There are also engaging art installations and delicious food and drink stalls to explore during your time there.
Lyme Eats Boutique – Street Food Market
Location: Lyme Regis
Date: 21st June, 19th July, 16th August, 20th September
Lyme Eats Boutique hosts a street food market that runs every third Friday of the month until September. It promises a range of delicious street food from around the world, from international cuisines to local delicacies. Visitors can look forward to a flavorful feast that caters to every palate. It's the perfect place to roam around after a long afternoon of exploring and treat yourself to a delicious meal with loved ones.
Tolpuddle Martyrs' Festival
Location: Dorchester
Date: 19th – 21st July
Join in on honouring the workers at the Tolpuddle Martyrs' Festival, taking place in Dorchester. This vibrant festival is a spirited celebration of the trade union movement, featuring an array of engaging activities. Visitors can immerse themselves in live music, thought-provoking talks, and captivating exhibitions while gaining insights into the rich history of the Martyrs and their enduring legacy.
Somers Day Celebrations & Parade
Location: Lyme Regis
Date: 24th July
Somers Day Celebrations & Parade is an annual event that brings the town's vibrant history to life. The colourful parade features beautifully adorned floats, enthusiastic performers, and local community groups coming together to celebrate. You can immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, enjoying lively street performances, toe-tapping live music, and a wide array of delicious offerings from food stalls. It's a joyous occasion that showcases and celebrates Lyme Regis's former Mayor, making it a must-visit event for locals and tourists alike.
Camp Bestival
Location: Lulworth
Date: 25th – 28th July
Camp Bestival in Dorset is a fantastic, family-friendly festival with something for everyone. There's no shortage of entertainment, from live music and comedy shows to circus performances and a variety of workshops. The festival's vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of activities make it a perfect destination for families looking for a fun few days out in Dorset.
Bridport Folk Festival
Location: Bridport
Date: 2nd – 28th July
Bridport Folk Festival is a vibrant celebration of folk music and culture. It's a fantastic opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in live music performances, engaging workshops, and lively ceilidhs. This year's lineup is set to impress with renowned artists such as David Gordon and White Hot Pipes, promising an unforgettable experience for all folk music enthusiasts.
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week
Location: Marine Parade, Lyme Regis
Date: 27th July - 2nd August
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week is a fundraising initiative in support of the RNLI, a vital organisation dedicated to saving lives at sea. You will have the chance to participate in various activities, such as the highly anticipated Grand Duck Race, where rubber ducks race down a waterway to the finish line, and a stunning fireworks showcase that lights up the night sky with an array of colours and patterns. It is considered one of the most significant events in the town, attracting many visitors each year who come to enjoy the festivities and support the worthy cause.
Lyme Regis Regatta and Carnival Week
Location: Lyme Regis
Date: 2nd August – 10th August
The Lyme Regis Regatta Carnival Week is a lively summer celebration in Lyme Regis that features a diverse array of activities for visitors to enjoy. These include a colourful carnival parade, captivating live music shows, delicious food stalls showcasing both local and international delicacies, and a spectacular fireworks show set against the stunning backdrop of the coastline.
Uplyme Summer Flower and Produce Show
Location: King Goerge V Playing Fields, Uplyme
Date: 3rd August
The Uplyme Summer Flower and Produce Show is a delightful celebration of the summer season. It boasts a vibrant display of beautiful flowers and impressive locally-produced goods. Visitors can immerse themselves in the colourful array of flower and produce exhibits while also enjoying the opportunity to browse through various stalls showcasing local crafts and delicious food.
Great Dorset Chilli Festival
Location: Sturminster Newton
Date: 3rd - 4th August
The Great Dorset Chilli Festival is excellent for those looking to indulge in the world of spicy foods and flavours. With its wide variety of chilli-based foods, cooking demonstrations, and live music performances, the festival offers an immersive experience that appeals to all the senses. Whether you're a chilli enthusiast or simply curious about exploring new tastes, come along for the day to see what it's all about!
Burton Bradstock Festival of Music and Art
Location: Bridport
Date: 10 - 18th of August
The Burton Bradstock Festival of Music and Art is a vibrant celebration of creativity, offering a diverse range of experiences, including captivating live music performances, inspiring art exhibitions, and engaging workshops. Attendees can look forward to orchestral concerts, lunchtime recitals, and a fantastic art exhibition featuring a variety of media and styles that showcase the immense talent of local artists from West Dorset and surrounding counties.
Dorchester Cider Festival
Location: Dorchester
Date: 17th August
The Dorchester Cider Festival, held on August 17th, is a lively event that pays homage to the region's esteemed cider-making heritage. Visitors can sample an extensive selection of locally produced ciders, bask in the ambience of live music, and indulge in offerings from a range of food stalls.
Melplash Show
Location: Bridport
Date: 22nd August
The Melplash Show is an annual event that celebrates agriculture and rural life. It offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in a wide array of farming displays showcasing the best of the region's agricultural achievements. Visitors can also explore food and craft stalls featuring local produce and beautifully crafted goods.
Lyme Regis Folk Weekend
Location: Lyme Regis
Date: 23rd – 26th August
The Lyme Regis Folk Weekend is an enriching event celebrating traditional music and provides a platform for talented musicians to showcase their skills. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich sounds of folk music through live performances, workshops, and ceilidhs.
Anonymous Festival
Location: Borough Gardens, Dorchester
Date: 26th August
Come celebrate young artists at Anonymous Festival. Visitors can enjoy live music from various genres, art exhibitions showcasing diverse perspectives and styles and engaging workshops that celebrate different forms of expression. The festival also offers a wide array of food and drink stalls to enjoy with loved ones.
Where to Stay? - Newlands Holiday Park in Charmouth
Looking for the ideal summer getaway in West Dorset to enjoy the many local events? Our holiday park offers a range of self-catering accommodation options in Charmouth, from cosy static caravans to modern lodges. We also have a spacious campsite with serene views of the countryside to enjoy.
With the beautiful Charmouth Beach and Lyme Regis just a short drive away, there’s no better place to stay this holiday season.
Take advantage of our fantastic facilities during your stay, including our Leisure Centre with indoor and outdoor pools, children’s play areas, and the Tow Bar and Restaurant.