LOCAL EVENTS - Dorset Coast Radio

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Tuesday 15th September

Behind The Scenes Tour - Dorset History Centre, Bridport Road, Dorchester
Go behind the scenes at Dorset History Centre this September. They're offering behind the scene tours at 10.30am and 2pm on the 15th September, and also 10am and 11.30am on the 19th September. There are limited tickets available so go to https://www.ticketsource.com/dorset-history-centre to secure your place.

Heritage Open Days Week - Lulworth Castle And Park, East Lulworth
Today and tomorrow there's free entry, as part of Heritage Open Days. You can walk in the footsteps of Royalty as you explore the 17th Century Castle, and see unrivalled views from the Castle tower. There's also woodland walks and a children's playground. Parking charges apply.

Heritage Open Days Week - Christchurch Castle And Norman House Tours, High Street
Today and tomorrow there's free entry, as part of Heritage Open Days. Led by an expert volunteer, this Norman House tour uncovers the rich history behind two remarkable survivals of a once vast, elite residence. Today, the Norman House remains a remarkably rare surviving example of 12th century domestic architecture.

Bike Nights - Poole Quay
Every Tuesday until the end of September, from 5:30pm to 9pm. Bikers and spectators can enjoy a relaxed evening on Poole Quay. https://www.pooletourism.com/event/bike-nights-on-poole-quay

Wednesday 16th September

Heritage Open Days Week - Lulworth Castle And Park, East Lulworth
Today there's free entry, as part of Heritage Open Days. The Castle has been described as arguably the most important surviving house of the romantic and picturesque style of architecture, from the end of the 18th century. Explore at your own leisure or book a Guided Tour.

Heritage Open Days Week - Highcliffe Castle, Rothesay Drive
Today there's free entry, as part of Heritage Open Days. You can walk in the footsteps of Royalty as you explore the 17th Century Castle, and see unrivalled views from the Castle tower. There's also woodland walks and a children's playground. Parking charges apply.

Heritage Open Days Week - Christchurch Castle And Norman House Tours, High Street
Today there's free entry, as part of Heritage Open Days. Led by an expert volunteer, this Norman House tour uncovers the rich history behind two remarkable survivals of a once vast, elite residence. Today, the Norman House remains a remarkably rare surviving example of 12th century domestic architecture.

Thursday 17th September

Heritage Open Days Week - Kingston Lacy, Wimborne
There's free entry for the next three days as part of Heritage Open Days. You can wander through the Japanese Garden to the Kitchen Garden, or explore the vast 8,500 acres of estate, featuring Iron Age hill forts, colourful heathland, water meadows and the world's oldest pedigree herd of Red Ruby Devon cattle. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy/events/0f598dc3-217d-4164-ac3c-a9c46d910380

Purbeck WALX Festival - Around the Purbecks
On for four days until Sunday 20th, this event offers walks and workshops to suit all levels in iconic locations along the Jurassic Coast, such as Dancing Ledge, Old Harry Rocks, Corfe Castle and more. https://walx.co.uk/dorset-festival-2026/

Friday 18th September

Purbeck WALX Festival - Around the Purbecks
Continuing until Sunday 20th, this event offers walks and workshops to suit all levels in iconic locations along the Jurassic Coast, such as Dancing Ledge, Old Harry Rocks, Corfe Castle and more. https://walx.co.uk/dorset-festival-2026/

Heritage Open Days Week - Kingston Lacy, Wimborne
There's free entry until tomorrow, as part of Heritage Open Days. You can wander through the Japanese Garden to the Kitchen Garden, or explore the vast 8,500 acres of estate, featuring Iron Age hill forts, colourful heathland, water meadows and the world's oldest pedigree herd of Red Ruby Devon cattle. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy/events/0f598dc3-217d-4164-ac3c-a9c46d910380

Saturday 19th September

The South Coast Swim - Undercliffe Drive, Boscombe
With distances ranging from 250m to 10km, there's something for everyone, whether you're dipping your toes in or chasing an Olympic challenge. Be a part of Open Water Swimming history and join the first ever South Coast Swim. From 12 to 5pm. https://wildswimevents.com/products/the-south-coast-swim

Wild And Wiser Festival - Wooders Campsite, Bere Regis
Running over the weekend, a festival for women, by women. Blending wellness, creativity and personal exploration. A chance to reconnect with yourself, other women and nature. https://www.wildandwiser.co.uk/

Wimborne Food Festival
Dorset’s very own Seaside Baker, and former Great British Bake Off contestant, Maggie Richardson will be appearing, with a special cookery demonstration. The festival will take place around the town between 11am and 4pm. https://www.wimbornefoodfestival.com/

Cardboard Camp Out - Diverse Abilities, Merritown Lane, Christchurch
Brave a night outside and raise funds to prevent a housing crisis amongst families with disabilities. https://diverseabilities.org.uk/daevents/cardboardcampout

Heritage Open Days - Corfe Castle
Every September, thousands of venues across England organise events as part of Heritage Open Days, so this is an opportunity to explore the castle ruins, go on a storytelling tour, and discover more about the fascinating history of Corfe Castle. Entry to the castle is free this weekend. From 10am to 4:30pm both days. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/corfe-castle/events

Heritage Open Days Week - Kingston Lacy, Wimborne
There's free entry today as part of Heritage Open Days. You can wander through the Japanese Garden to the Kitchen Garden, or explore the vast 8,500 acres of estate, featuring Iron Age hill forts, colourful heathland, water meadows and the world's oldest pedigree herd of Red Ruby Devon cattle. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy/events/0f598dc3-217d-4164-ac3c-a9c46d910380

Planet Purbeck's Discovery Fest - Swanage Seafront
A free, family friendly seafront festival, which will celebrate Purbeck's community, coast and countryside. From 10am until 3pm. https://planetpurbeck.org/

Sunday 20th September

The Purbeck Marathon - Peveril Point, Swanage
Featuring two routes: A Full Marathon with 1,032m elevation gain, or a 16-Mile Race with 627m elevation gain. Both routes take runners past the iconic ruins of Corfe Castle, along the Jurassic Coast and the South West Coast Path, with the full marathon also going through the abandoned village of Tyneham. The race finishes on the seafront in Swanage, where runners can celebrate with a well-earned sea dip and locally made ice cream. https://thepurbeckmarathon.co.uk/

Purbeck WALX Festival - Around the Purbecks
Final day of this event, which offers walks and workshops to suit all levels in iconic locations along the Jurassic Coast, such as Dancing Ledge, Old Harry Rocks, Corfe Castle and more. https://walx.co.uk/dorset-festival-2026/

Wild And Wiser Festival - Wooders Campsite, Bere Regis
Final day of the festival for women, by women. Blending wellness, creativity and personal exploration. A chance to reconnect with yourself, other women and nature. https://www.wildandwiser.co.uk/

WW2 Bunker Open Day - Moors Valley Country Park And Forest, Ashley Heath
A rare chance to see inside the Decoy bunker situated within Moors Valley. The bunker was used during the Second World War, to power and control lights to mimic the nearby RAF airfields at Hurn and Ibsley, including a 1km flare path whose location has been identified. This is an opportunity to take a closer look at the bunker which is not usually accessible to the public. From 10am to 2pm. https://moors-valley.co.uk/events/bunker-open-day/

Heritage Open Days 'The Wrecks Of Studland Bay' - Ferry Road, Studland
Find out about the 17th century Swash Channel wreck, the Fame of Hoorn, and the 13th century mortar ship wreck. There's also clay tile making and pirate dress up for the kids. It's a free event, meeting at the Discovery Centre, Knoll Beach, from 10am to 4pm. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/studland-bay/events

Tuesday 22nd September

Kingston Lacy Estate Walk: Pamphill And The Droves
The walk takes in Pamphill Green, Little Pamphill, Bear Wood and All Fools Lane. This volunteer led walk will discover some of the ancient woodlands of the estate, and you'll see some of the conservation work they're carrying out to preserve these special areas. It's a 5 mile walk, taking three hours, and starting at 10am. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy

Samba Panache Open Evening - Holdenhurst Village Hall
You can find out more about being part of Samba Panache, Dorsets Samba band, at their workshop. A chance to try different instruments, learn samba rhythms and have lots of fun! No experience required and instruments provided! If you want to join them from 7.30 - 9pm fill out the form at https://www.sambapanashe.co.uk

Thursday 24th September

The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night Time - Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne
Revive Theatre presents Simon Stephens' acclaimed adaptation, which is based on the bestselling novel by Mark Haddon. On for three nights, starting at 7:30pm. https://www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk/events/curious-incident/

Friday 25th September

Arts By The Sea Festival - Bournemouth Gardens and Centre
The theme this year, ELEMENTAL, celebrates the powerful energies that connect us to each other and to the world around us. On both Friday and Saturday. https://artsbythesea.co.uk/

Saturday 26th September

The Time Travellers Kitchen - Corfe Castle
Join them for a weekend of medieval cooking demonstrations. Using authentic recipes and traditional methods over open fire, you'll see how food was prepared and enjoyed hundreds of years ago. From 10am to 4:30pm both days. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/corfe-castle/events

Tiger Tank Day Autumn - The Tank Museum, Bovington
See a WWII tank display, and explore The Tank Museum on a day dedicated to the world’s most infamous tank. From 8:30am until 5pm. https://tankmuseum.org/events/tiger-day-autumn

Sunday 27th September

Dorset Mind Big Walk - Sandbanks
You can choose between two walking challenges designed to suit different abilities and goals. The 30K Coastal Challenge is the ultimate challenge, from Sandbanks to Hengistbury Head and back. If you're looking for a shorter and more accessible option, the 5K Wellbeing Walk starts at Sandbanks and heads towards Branksome Chine Beach. Anyone who fund raises £50 or more, will receive a free Dorset Mind BIG Walk t-shirt. https://dorsetmind.uk/get-involved/fundraise-for-us/the-dorset-mind-big-walk/

Tuesday 29th September

Thursday 1st October

Swanage Blues Festival - Various venues
Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the Swanage Blues Festival brings together an amazing collection of Blues musicians, fans and friends for a weekend of jams, open mics and headline performances. The first of 4 days. https://www.swanage-blues.org/

Legend: The Music Of Bob Marley - The Barrington Arts And Community Centre, Ferndown
Celebrate Black History Month with a night of live music, led by the charismatic Michael Anton Phillips (Cheesy) with a pedigree second to none, as members of the band have worked with some of the reggae greats. Starts at 7:30pm. https://barringtoncentre.co.uk/event/legend-the-music-of-bob-marley/

Friday 2nd October

Swanage Blues Festival - Various venues
Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the Swanage Blues Festival brings together an amazing collection of Blues musicians, fans and friends for a weekend of jams, open mics and headline performances. Continues until Sunday. https://www.swanage-blues.org/

Saturday 3rd October

Stoborough WI Autumn Fair - Stoborough Village Hall, West Lane
With craft stalls, homemade treats, face painting, a hamper raffle and lots more. From 10am to 2pm, with free parking.

Swanage Blues Festival - Various venues
Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the Swanage Blues Festival brings together an amazing collection of Blues musicians, fans and friends for a weekend of jams, open mics and headline performances. Continues until Sunday. https://www.swanage-blues.org/

Romance Writing Festival - Marsham Court Hotel, Bournemouth
The chance to join 100s of writers in Bournemouth for a full day of inspiration, panels, talks, free activities, and creative connection. https://www.romancewritingfestival.co.uk/

Sunday 4th October

Margaret Green Animal Rescue Country Fayre And Dog Show - Church Knowle
**New date** The day includes dog show classes, food and drink, stalls from local traders, live performances, and demonstrations. Gates will open from 11am, with the dog show starting at midday. The event aims to raise funds to support their work with rescue animals across Dorset, Devon and beyond. The centre offers free on-site parking. https://www.margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk/product/country-fayre-dog-show-2026/

Swanage Blues Festival - Various venues
Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the Swanage Blues Festival brings together an amazing collection of Blues musicians, fans and friends for a weekend of jams, open mics and headline performances. Last day of the festival. https://www.swanage-blues.org/

Studland Stampede - Studland Bay, Ferry Road
A tough off-road running event that races over heath land and sandy beaches, with the 12k route offering stunning views of Old Harry Rocks, Brownsea Island and the Isle of Wight. For runners of all abilities. Starts at 10:30am. https://studlandstampede.co.uk/

Monday 5th October

Learn To Sing In Harmony - Ocean Academy, Poole
Southern Union Chorus are Dorset’s only male Barbershop chorus, singing acappella in four-part harmony. They have a free course running on the next four consecutive Monday evenings, from 7:30pm. Run by a professional coach, it's open to all, with the only requirement being that you're able to sing reasonably in tune. https://suchorus.uk/

Tuesday 6th October

Dorset Coast Radio Quiz Night - Brewhouse And Kitchen, Southbourne
Thanks to the team at Big Smart Quiz we'll be fundraising for Dorset Coast Radio, so here's your chance to get a team together and have a fun night of quizzing! Entry is £5 per person, and the quiz starts at 8pm. It's a proper, traditional quiz and teams of up to six will go head-to-head across rounds covering sport, music, history, pop culture and general knowledge, and there are prizes on the line, as well as a raffle. If you want to book a table and secure your space then use this link: https://www.brewhouseandkitchen.com/whats-on/pub-quiz-brewhouse-and-kitchen

The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night Time - The Mowlem, Swanage
Revive Theatre presents Simon Stephens' acclaimed adaptation, which is based on the bestselling novel by Mark Haddon. On for two nights, starting at 7:30pm. https://themowlem.com/event/the-curious-incident-of-the-dog-in-the-night-time/

Let Me Entertain You: A Tribute To Robbie Williams - The Regent, Christchurch
Featuring songs such as Angels, Let Me Entertain You, Feel, Rock DJ (and many more), you'll be singing along and dancing to all the greatest hits. From 7:30pm. https://www.theregent.co.uk/whats-on/robbie-williams-tribute/

Bournemouth International Film Festival - Hilton Bournemouth, Terrace Road
A two-day celebration of emerging filmmaking talent, featuring curated screenings of short and feature films from the UK and around the world. You'll be able to take part in industry talks, panel discussions, and workshops designed to support filmmakers at all stages of their careers. https://bournemouthfilmfest.co.uk/

Saturday 10th October

Thursday 15th October

Women And Song - Newton Manor Hall, High Street, Swanage
An evening of original music with a female focus. Mandy Woods' Women and Song Series of concerts put female songwriters, composers and performers in the spotlight. 50% of the proceeds of the evening will be donated to the Focus Centre in Swanage, which is trying to raise £10,000 to open a community café and garden. From 6:30 to 10pm.

Friday 16th October

Purbeck Film Festival - Various venues
Taking place in over 30 venues, including village halls, pubs, restaurants, hotels, arts centres, castles and more! First day of the festival, which continues until Sunday 1st November. https://purbeckfilm.com/

Sunday 18th October

Stage Door School Of Dance: Reach For The Stars - The Barrington Arts And Community Centre, Ferndown
Featuring the school's Musical Theatre group – a company of young people aged 7 – 15 years run by Felicity Mullins. They'll be performing numbers from a wide range of musicals including: Matilda, Mamma Mia, Oliver, Chicago and many more. From 6:30 to 9pm. https://barringtoncentre.co.uk/event/reach-for-the-stars/

Friday 23rd October

Flying Scotsman At Swanage Railway
One of the world's most famous steam locomotives is coming to Swanage Railway this autumn as part of their 50th anniversary celebrations, until the 1st November. Across the ten-day visit, it will be on static display on selected dates, and on other days, it will be hauling passenger trains along the full Swanage Railway line. https://www.swanagerailway.co.uk/flying-scotsman-returns

Moors Valley Illuminated Trail - Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath
Returning this autumn, the the woodland is transformed into an unforgettable illuminated trail filled with eerie encounters and spooky surprises. Every day until Sunday 1st November, and booking is required. https://moors-valley.co.uk/events/halloween-experience-at-moors-valley/

Saturday 24th October

Moors Valley Illuminated Trail - Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath
Returning this autumn, the the woodland is transformed into an unforgettable illuminated trail filled with eerie encounters and spooky surprises. Until Sunday 1st November. https://moors-valley.co.uk/events/halloween-experience-at-moors-valley/

Flying Scotsman At Swanage Railway
One of the world's most famous steam locomotives is at Swanage Railway until the 1st November. You'll be able to see it on static display on selected dates, and on other days, it will be hauling passenger trains along the full Swanage Railway line. https://www.swanagerailway.co.uk/flying-scotsman-returns

The Blue Pool Halloween Haunt - Furzebrook Road, Wareham
You'll be able to explore the haunted woodland trail, carve your own pumpkin and enjoy a range of Halloween activities. Every day until Saturday 31st October. https://bluepooltearooms.co.uk/halloween/

Sunday 25th October

Moors Valley Illuminated Trail - Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath
Returning this autumn, the the woodland is transformed into an unforgettable illuminated trail filled with eerie encounters and spooky surprises. Until Sunday 1st November. https://moors-valley.co.uk/events/halloween-experience-at-moors-valley/

Monday 26th October

Moors Valley Illuminated Trail - Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath
Returning this autumn, the the woodland is transformed into an unforgettable illuminated trail filled with eerie encounters and spooky surprises. Until Sunday 1st November. https://moors-valley.co.uk/events/halloween-experience-at-moors-valley/

The Halloween Spooktacular - The Barrington Arts And Community Centre, Ferndown
Featuring Bournemouth’s best and most established entertainers, this is the ultimate treat for all ages. https://barringtoncentre.co.uk/event/the-b-e-n-halloween-show/

Tuesday 27th October

Moors Valley Illuminated Trail - Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath
Returning this autumn, the the woodland is transformed into an unforgettable illuminated trail filled with eerie encounters and spooky surprises. Until Sunday 1st November. https://moors-valley.co.uk/events/halloween-experience-at-moors-valley/

Wednesday 28th October

Spooky Halloween Crafts And Games On Swanage Pier
Join them for a drop-in activity where you can create your own spooky masterpieces, just in time for Halloween. There will also be spooky Halloween games and challenges. Pop in anytime between 11:00am and 2:00pm. https://www.swanagepiertrust.com/events

Moors Valley Illuminated Trail - Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath
Returning this autumn, the the woodland is transformed into an unforgettable illuminated trail filled with eerie encounters and spooky surprises. Until Sunday 1st November. https://moors-valley.co.uk/events/halloween-experience-at-moors-valley/

Thursday 29th October

Moors Valley Illuminated Trail - Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath
Returning this autumn, the the woodland is transformed into an unforgettable illuminated trail filled with eerie encounters and spooky surprises. Until Sunday 1st November. https://moors-valley.co.uk/events/halloween-experience-at-moors-valley/

Friday 30th October

Terror Trail - Dorset Adventure Park, Studland Road, Corfe Castle
Step into the darkness of the immersive Terror Trail - a twisted journey through the haunted grounds of Dorset Adventure Park, beneath the looming ruins of Corfe Castle. For people 13 and over, recommended at parent/guardians' discretion, with free parking. Not for the faint-hearted! From 6:30 to 10pm today and tomorrow. https://dorsetadventurepark.com/event/halloween-terror-trail/

Moors Valley Illuminated Trail - Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath
Returning this autumn, the the woodland is transformed into an unforgettable illuminated trail filled with eerie encounters and spooky surprises. Until Sunday 1st November. https://moors-valley.co.uk/events/halloween-experience-at-moors-valley/

Saturday 31st October

Terror Trail - Dorset Adventure Park, Studland Road, Corfe Castle
Step into the darkness of the immersive Terror Trail - a twisted journey through the haunted grounds of Dorset Adventure Park, beneath the looming ruins of Corfe Castle. For people 13 and over, recommended at parent/guardians' discretion, with free parking. Not for the faint-hearted! From 6:30 to 10pm. https://dorsetadventurepark.com/event/halloween-terror-trail/

Moors Valley Illuminated Trail - Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath
Returning this autumn, the the woodland is transformed into an unforgettable illuminated trail filled with eerie encounters and spooky surprises. Until Sunday 1st November. https://moors-valley.co.uk/events/halloween-experience-at-moors-valley/

Littledown Miniature Railway Halloween Special - Chaseside, Bournemouth
Visit the Littledown Miniature Railway for a scary train ride through the old trees. http://littledownrailway.org.uk/

Wimborne DSME Halloween Special - Merley Park Road, Broadstone
Wimborne DSME are a group of like-minded model engineers and railway enthusiasts who run a miniature railway, and their 'Halloween Run' is from 1 until 5pm. https://www.wimbornedsme.co.uk/running-days

Sunday 1st November

Moors Valley Illuminated Trail - Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath
Returning this autumn, the the woodland is transformed into an unforgettable illuminated trail filled with eerie encounters and spooky surprises. Until Sunday 1st November. https://moors-valley.co.uk/events/halloween-experience-at-moors-valley/

Wednesday 18th November

Banff Mountain Film Festival - Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne
Big-screen adventure - incoming! The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is bringing a night of inspirational adventure films to venues around Dorset. There's climbing in Patagonia, mountain biking in Nepal and much more. The Banff Mountain Film Festival features cutting-edge expeditions from remote corners of the globe. Search for 'Banff Film Festival' for ticket details and showtimes.

Tuesday 15th September

Wednesday 16th September

Thursday 17th September

Friday 18th September

Saturday 19th September

Sunday 20th September

Tuesday 22nd September

Thursday 24th September

Friday 25th September

Saturday 26th September

Sunday 27th September

Tuesday 29th September

Thursday 1st October

Friday 2nd October

Saturday 3rd October

Sunday 4th October

Monday 5th October

Tuesday 6th October

Saturday 10th October

Thursday 15th October

Friday 16th October

Sunday 18th October

Friday 23rd October

Saturday 24th October

Sunday 25th October

Monday 26th October

Tuesday 27th October

Wednesday 28th October

Thursday 29th October

Friday 30th October

Saturday 31st October

Sunday 1st November

Wednesday 18th November

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