Explore Dorchester through the Seasons in 2025

Spring

A must-do this season is a trip to Thomas Hardy’s Cottage, when the surrounding gardens and woodlands are covered in colour. Take a springtime stroll and glimpse into the life of the famous writer. And don’t stop there! Join in with Dorchester’s Walking Festival from the 11th to 19th of May to explore the scenic Dorset countryside through over 40 guided and self-guided walks!

This Spring will see two more massive events in Dorchester: the return of the well-loved Dorchester Science Festival and a brand-new Roman Festival! For those who love science and discovery, the Dorchester Science Festival (DSF) offers hands-on activities, workshops, and talks all throughout British Science Week (7th-16th March). DSF ends with Dorchester favourite, Family Science Day on the 16th March with a huge, free science bonanza at Dorset Museum. On 12th & 13th May, the Roman Festival will bring the town’s Durnovaria heritage to life with re-enactments, workshops, and activities galore. This is the perfect accompaniment to Dorset Museum’s Gladiators of Britain Exhibition – an exciting partnership with the British Museum from the 25th January to 11th May.

Spring is also the perfect time to head down to Dorchester’s bustling markets where you can find everything from fresh local produce to unique artisan crafts. As a market-town, there are tons to choose from including Dorchester Market, Cornhill Market, The Artisan Market, Poundbury Independent Market, and Dorchester’s Vegan Markets.

Summer

Time to get outside into the sunshine! In August, follow a scenic walk to The Dorset Sunflower Trail leading you to a colourful spectacle at Maiden Castle Farm, at the foot of the historic Maiden Castle. A bright and exciting day out for everyone perfect for family fun and photo opportunities.

Dorchester Arts takes centre stage with open-air performances, including theatre, music, and dance, set in stunning locations like Maumbury Rings. Enjoy music EVERY weekend throughout the season with the Borough Gardens Summer Sessions. Comedy lovers can see top comedians and emerging talent perform at venues in Dorchester for the annual Hardy Har Comedy Festival.

Long days and warm evenings mean it’s time to head out into Dorchester for Summer outdoor events! On August 9th, Dorset One World Festival will celebrate the diversity of cultures in Dorchester through music, dance, food and activities. With  programme of both traditional and modern cultural activities performed by local communities and a Global Food Village, One World brings a different type of event to Dorchester. August Bank Holiday sees Anonymous Festival fill Borough Gardens with two music stages, activities, inflatables, and food stalls – all for FREE! Celebrating the young musicians of Dorchester, Anonymous features all under-25 performers from the local area and sees around 3000 people in the park.

Autumn

As the leaves turn golden, Dorchester’s spirited summer vibes turn into cosiness.

British autumn’s can be unpredictable, but when the weather is nice there is still so much to explore in the area. Get active and follow one of many great cycle routes around the area with amazing coastal views and so much to explore. For example, The From Valley Cycle Ride takes you through pure Thomas Hardy Country, expansive views, and even a 180ft naked figure of the Cerne Abbas Giant! Celebrate Dorset agriculture, countryside, rural life with the Dorset County Show. Our countryside connections to food, drink, crafts and businesses come together in one of Dorset’s biggest events every September.

Can’t choose between nature and history – have both! Discover all of Dorchester illustrious history right back to Roman times and take in all the sights along the way with the Historical Dorchester walk. The hour long route takes you along footpaths around the town centre. Part of Dorchester’s rich history, our Roman Town House is the only example of a fully exposed Roman Town House in the country! This is the most delightful example of our history in Durnovaria (the Roman name for the town). The Town House is just a five-minute walk from the town centre, and is free to visit, with a range of tours offered.

When the weather doesn’t cooperate, there are lots of autumnal activities to do out of the rain. Museums and exhibitions are the heart of Dorchester, showcasing the incredible history of the town and the surrounding area. With everything from dinosaurs to military history, and Teddy bears to Tutankhamun, there’s eight brilliant museums and exhibitions to choose from. But why not see a few at once? All are a short walk away from each other, making it an easy day out!

And this year The Dorchester Literary Festival is celebrating its 11th Anniversary! From the 18th to 25th October, a stellar line-up and programme will inspire and entertain you through the cold months.

Winter

Winter in Dorchester offers cosy indoor activities and bracing outdoor adventures.

If inside is your preference, there are tons of different ways to fill the season. Solve puzzles and find clues with your friends or family to figure your way out at The Great Big Escape. Test your logic, intuition, and teamwork in two themed rooms ‘The Barber of Pope Street’ and ‘Nebula Navigators’. The ultimate rainy-day activity for groups! Catch a film at the Plaza Cinema. Opened in 1933, the Plaza has kept its doors open since to bring you the best current films at affordable prices. Treat yourself to a luxury break from the cold with a day at the 5-star Monart Day Spa in Poundbury where you can truly rest and relax in a beautiful environment. Enjoy a variety of lavish facilities and treatments by expertly trained spa therapists.

For a refreshing outdoor experience, take your friends and family out off on a lovely walk around Dorchester’s beautiful surroundings. Wander the town’s walks along the old Roman wall line. Meander through Borough Gardens. Explore the historic Maiden Castle or Maumbury Rings. Don’t forget to wrap up warm, bring a hot flask of coffee or chocolate and some mince pies to keep things cosy!

Christmas

Christmas is a season in itself down here in Dorset! As a bonus to our winter activities, you can enjoy:

• Shopping for Christmas at our local independent shops.
• The Dorchester Christmas Cracker – a complete take-over of High East/West Street!
• Carols in the Gardens
• A huge number of markets including Poundbury Independent Christmas market, Brewery Square Christmas market, and Dorset Food & Drink Winter Food Fair