9 to 30 Nov · All of Dorset
Nature and wildlife
A guided bird walk along Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon looks for wildfowl, waders and sea birds. Species such as dunlin, ringed plover and oystercatchers may be seen, with the walk starting from the Fine Foundation Wild Chesil Centre on Portland and lasting around ninety minutes.
Nature and wildlife
A guided bird walk along Chesil Beach and Fleet Lagoon, spotting wildfowl, waders and sea birds such as dunlin, ringed plover and oystercatchers. Suitable for beginners and families, with time for questions about the nature reserve along the way.
Arts and culture
Violinist Nigel Kennedy performs an evening of classical, jazz and contemporary music at Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre. The programme includes Bach, his own compositions, and a tribute to Yehudi Menuhin and Stephane Grappelli, accompanied by double bass and cello.
Arts and culture
Violinist Nigel Kennedy performs at the Bournemouth Pavilion as part of his first large-scale UK tour in over fifteen years. The concert follows sold-out shows in London and at Ronnie Scott's in Soho.
Arts and culture
An annual week-long festival bringing authors to venues in and around Bridport, including novelists, historians, biographers, nature writers and poets. The programme also features musical, children's and culinary events, suiting book lovers of all kinds.
Festivals and shows
A free festive trail through Bournemouth's Lower Gardens, lit with thousands of twinkling lights and illuminated displays. Visitors can explore a Christmas tree maze, Santa's Workshop, a festive train and a big wheel, alongside a Christmas market and ice rink nearby. Suited to families looking for a winter evening out.
Arts and culture
A festival of books, poetry and writing in Blandford Forum, featuring author talks, workshops and dedicated children's events. The programme also includes a music and poetry evening and a book and craft fair.
Arts and culture
A weekend literary festival held at venues around Blandford Forum, featuring author talks, workshops and a book and craft fair. There are events for children alongside the main programme.
Arts and culture
A greenwood carving workshop at Kingcombe Visitor Centre, led by greenwood worker Adam Hawker. Participants learn to use an axe and knife safely, select suitable wood, and carve and finish their own wooden spatula. For adults only.
Arts and culture
A live stand-up comedy night at the Lighthouse's intimate studio space in Poole, run by the Coastal Comedy Club. The bill features headline act Nick Page alongside Rich Wilson and Samantha Day, with Dave Chawner hosting.
Arts and culture
Tony Hadley of Spandau Ballet performs a Christmas-themed show of swing and crooner classics from artists such as Sinatra, Bennett and Presley. The evening features his singing alongside his reputation as a natural entertainer and storyteller.
Arts and culture
A storytelling evening at the Grosvenor Arms in Shaftesbury exploring folk tales and traditions about trees from Britain and Ireland. Ecologist and storyteller Lisa Schneidau draws on the changing seasons for her material.
Arts and culture
A day workshop learning willow sculpture with tutor Jo Sadler at the Langton Arms, Tarrant Monkton. All materials, tuition and a buffet lunch are included, with no experience necessary.
Arts and culture
An exhibition and demonstration of textile designer Jayne Burton's work near Bridport. Held at Jenny Penney Local Makers Shop & Gallery, Mangerton Mill, it features cyanotype printing, Shibori dyeing and wood block printing inspired by coastal and woodland imagery.
Arts and culture
An evening of jazz and festive music performed by the Julie Dunn Quartet at Thornford Village Hall. The fundraiser for Friends of St Michael's Church, Beer Hackett, features jazz favourites, sing-along festive tunes, and accompaniment from double bass, saxophone and guitar.
Arts and culture
A stand-up comedy night at Key West on Bournemouth Pier. The line-up includes MC Windsor along with comedians Tadiwa Mahlunge, Kate Lucas and Mark Guest, with food and drink also served on the night.
Arts and culture
A talk by micro-artist Graham Short on his career engraving miniature works, including the Lord's Prayer on a pinhead. Held at Wesley Hall, Wimborne, the session mixes craftsmanship stories with anecdotes from working with well-known collectors.
Food and drink
A festive two-day shopping market at Compton Acres with local sellers across two floors, festive food and drinks, Christmas trees and live choir performances. Suits visitors looking for Christmas gifts or a festive day out.
20 Nov to 3 Jan
A winter light trail through the illuminated grounds of Upton Country Park, with a 60 to 80 minute route of light installations. A food and drinks court near the end offers hot food, mulled wine and marshmallow toasting.
Arts and culture
A curated art fair in the historic Royal Arcade, Boscombe, bringing together around 18 to 20 independent artists. Visitors can browse original artwork, meet the artists and watch live art demonstrations.
Arts and culture
A comedy and music show by Bill Bailey celebrating the tradition of vaudeville, with songs, stories and his trademark multi-instrumental performance. Held at the Bournemouth International Centre.
Festivals and shows
An afternoon of festive entertainment in Broad Street, Lyme Regis, including a Christmas lantern workshop, lantern judging, performances by Lyme Regis Majorettes and Lyme Morris, and a lantern parade. The event culminates with Santa's arrival and the switching on of the Christmas lights.
Arts and culture
A festive storytelling experience with Santa at Scaplen's Court, part of Poole Museum, aimed at children aged four to eleven and their families. Visitors take part in craft activities, hear a seasonal tale, receive a gift and have a photo with Santa, with museum admission included.
Food and drink
A festive one-day food and drink festival in Shaftesbury with over 80 producers, including farmers' market favourites, street food and deli goods. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and alcohol-free options are available, and the whole family, including dogs, is welcome.
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