winter fireplace at a dorset holiday cottage

What's on in Dorset

In September 2024

Find great things to do in

Dorset in September

Explore what’s on in Dorset this September 2024 and make the most of the season. As autumn settles in, Dorset offers a diverse range of events and activities that showcase the county’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Dorset in September. From the Bournemouth Air Festival and the Dorset County Show to local food markets and scenic coastal walks, there’s something for everyone. Start planning your visit and discover what Dorset has to offer this September.

Dorset County Show: 7th & 8th September

The Dorset County Show offers something for everyone, featuring over 2,000 prize-winning animals, the impressive National Vegetable Championships, and magnificent steam engines. With more than 540 trade stands, this event is a highlight of what’s on in Dorset in September. Whether you’re looking for unique attractions or family-friendly things to do in Dorset, the Dorset County Show is a must-visit.

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Dorset Seafood Festival: 7th & 8th September

Save the date for the Dorset Seafood Festival, returning to Weymouth Peninsula on the 7th and 8th of September 2024. Now in its 16th year, this award-winning event is one of the top food and drink festivals in the UK, drawing over 10,000 visitors. If you’re looking for things to do in Dorset in September, this festival is a must-visit, offering a weekend full of flavor and fun on the stunning Weymouth coast.

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Bridport Hat Festival & Colour Day: 7th September

Join the vibrant celebration at Bridport Colour Day where you can showcase your brightest outfits and enjoy the festive atmosphere. On the same day, don’t miss the Bridport Hat Festival, a quirky event where creativity takes center stage with a dazzling array of unique and imaginative hats. If you’re looking for lively events in Dorset in September, Bridport is the place to be, offering a fun-filled day that celebrates colour, creativity, and community spirit.

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Portland B Side Festival, a great event in Dorset in September

Portland B-Side Festival: 5th to 8th September

If you’re looking for unique things to do, don’t miss the b-side Festival on the Isle of Portland. This inspiring event offers four days of art and activities that highlight Portland’s fascinating history, geology, and landscape. With b-side as your guide, explore hidden spots and lesser-known paths, and experience the island in a whole new way. The festival features many free events suitable for all ages, plus the b-side Fringe. Get ready for an unforgettable blend of art and nature in one of Dorset’s most breathtaking locations.

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Classic Steam & Vehicle Show: 6th to 8th September

This event offers something for everyone with a diverse lineup of vintage, modern, and custom motorbikes, classic cars, tractors, vintage campervans, commercial vehicles, and stationary engines. Alongside these impressive exhibits, you’ll find trade stalls, onsite catering, a coffee van, and a beer tent open throughout the day. The show runs from 10am to 4pm with a £5 entry fee for adults, while children enter free. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead.

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Poster for things to do in Dorset in September, Weldmar summer fete

Weldmar Summer Fete: 14th September

Weldmar Hospicecare’s popular Summer Fete is back on Saturday, 14th September 2024, offering a day full of family fun. With a variety of attractions, entertainment, games, and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This event is a great option if you’re looking for things to do in Dorset in September. Join the community for a day of celebration and support a worthy cause at the same time. Don’t miss out on the fun and festivities!

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Wimborne Food Festival: 14th September

Wimborne is set to host its inaugural food festival on Saturday, 14th September 2024, celebrating ‘food, glorious food’. From 11am to 4pm, enjoy a range of culinary delights across various locations in town, including Willow Walk, near Waitrose, and East Street. The festival, organized by local businesses, features a marquee at Willow Walk with free food demos and talks from a variety of food specialists. This new event is a fantastic addition to your September plans in Dorset, offering a delicious day out for all food enthusiasts.

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Miniature Steam Festival: 21st September

Experience the charm of a bygone era at Poole’s Mini Steam on the Quay, taking place on 21st September 2024. From 10am to 6pm, Poole Quay will showcase a stunning collection of miniature steam and traction engines, some of which have been featured on the Discovery Channel. Celebrate the sights, sounds, and smells of the age of steam with beautifully detailed models on display and in action. This event promises a fascinating and enjoyable day out for all ages, making it a perfect addition to your September plans in Dorset.

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Family Science Festival: 22nd September

Discover the wonders of science at Weymouth Family Science Day on 28th September 2024, hosted at Nothe Fort. This engaging event invites you to explore the fascinating world of science through interactive exhibits and activities designed to ignite your curiosity. Whether you’re a budding scientist or just intrigued by the mysteries of our world, there’s something for everyone. From hands-on experiments to inspiring demonstrations, join us for a day of scientific adventure and fun that’s perfect for the whole family. Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the marvels of science!

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Find a September

Holiday Cottage in Dorset

3 Puddledock Cottage

Sutton Poyntz, Nr Weymouth

5/5

Enjoy soaking up the Dorset sunshine in this newly renovated countryside cottage, tucked away in the quiet village of Sutton Poyntz. 3 Puddledock Cottages is within a close proximity of Weymouth beach and local activities.

24th - 27th September £525.85

24th - 26th September £525.85

23rd - 28th September £715.00

+7 more stays

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Brook Cottage

Corfe Castle

4.8/5

Step back in time and enjoy this delightful semi-detached cottage, exuding charm and character throughout. Built in the early 1730s, this distinctive Grade II red bricked cottage, is set in the heart of the historic village of Corfe Castle. This cosy retreat, nestled in the heart of the Purbecks, would surely be able to tell a tale or two! Sitting peacefully at the bottom of the romantic Castle ruins, you will enjoy morning coffee with arguably one of the most impressive backdrops in Dorset.

27th - 30th September ~~£719.30~~ £591.55

18th - 20th September ~~£757.26~~ £622.21

27th - 29th September ~~£719.30~~ £591.55

+1 more stays

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Valley View

Swanage

5/5

A stylish, detached Edwardian home beautifully appointed with hot tub, large garden, parking and spacious reception rooms.

17th - 20th September ~~£977.24~~ £802.77

19th - 20th September ~~£977.24~~ £802.77

25th - 26th September ~~£979.43~~ £848.58

+22 more stays

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Magnolia Cottage

Weymouth

4.9/5

Magnolia Cottage is a beautiful and welcoming three bedroom semi detached cottage built from a mix of local Portland stone and brick. It gets its name from the magnificent Magnolia tree in the cottage style garden that it is truly beautiful when in bloom.

25th - 28th September £603.05

27th - 29th September £603.05

24th - 26th September £603.05

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Mimosa House

Sandford, Wareham

5/5

Mimosa House is a delightful, newly refurbished two-bedroom bungalow, set in a quiet cul-de-sac in Sandford, Wareham. This self-catering accommodation offers plenty of space for a family of 4 and is an ideal spot for a coastal break in Dorset.

20th - 27th September ~~£801.50~~ £731.50

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Angel Cottage

Swanage

4.7/5

Nothing is more refreshing than a coastal holiday near the sea and if you’re looking for a cosy, quaint cottage, Angel Cottage should be first on your wishlist. This mid terrace cottage is the perfect base to discover miles of heritage coastline or relax and unwind on the blue flag sandy beach

28th - 30th September £375.75

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West Lodge

Nr Corfe Castle

5/5

Tastefully presented and finished to a high standard, this fabulous holiday home in Church Knowle, will appeal to those of you visiting with extended family and friends. Located just a mile outside Corfe Castle, as the crow flies between Kimmeridge Bay and the golden sands of Studland, you will be truly spoilt for things to see and do.

25th - 28th September £832.00

25th - 27th September £832.00

25th - 29th September ~~£928.41~~ £844.83

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Malvern Apartment

Swanage

4.5/5

This appealing large, ground floor apartment is part of a modern conversion of a former Edwardian hotel, right in the heart of the seaside town of Swanage in a quiet residential, tree lined street, less than 5 mins walk to restaurants, pubs, shops and the beach. You can enjoy a lovely glimpse view across Swanage bay from the lounge bay window.

21st - 28th September £484.75

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Gable Cottage

Corfe Castle

4.8/5

3 bedrooms. Located on a large corner plot, this light and airy family holiday home in Corfe Castle, offers comfortable furnishings and modern fittings. Conveniently situated close to the common and village amenities including the bakery, general store, tea rooms and pubs.

27th - 30th September ~~£624.68~~ £597.49

28th - 30th September ~~£624.68~~ £597.49

27th - 29th September ~~£624.68~~ £597.49

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Church Cottage

Corfe Castle

4.7/5

Set in an idyllic location, this welcoming 18th century, Grade II listed character cottage stands in the heart of the picturesque village of Corfe Castle. Church Cottage boasts a beautiful garden and welcomes two dogs, making it an ideal base for a family get together.

21st - 23rd September ~~£650.02~~ £593.08

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Castle View House

Corfe Castle

5/5

Escape the ordinary at Castle View House, a haven in the countryside that accommodates up to nine guests. With its enchanting views of Corfe Castle, stylish open-plan interiors, and dog-friendly atmosphere, this residence promises a unique and memorable retreat. Nestled in the heart of Corfe Castle village, it provides an ideal setting for switching off from the demands of everyday life and savoring every moment with friends and family. Whether you're captivated by the historic charm of the surroundings or indulging in the comfort of the stylish interiors, Castle View House invites you to create lasting memories in a tranquil and welcoming escape.

23rd - 26th September £1,630.00

24th - 26th September £1,630.00

23rd - 25th September £1,630.00

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Sea Reach

Swanage

4.9/5

2 Bedrooms. We are delighted to introduce Sea Reach, this spacious and modern ground floor apartment is in a prime holiday hotspot, just 3/4 minutes’ walk from the beach.

28th - 30th September £422.50

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Orchid House

Langton Matravers

4.9/5

A delightful four-bedroom holiday accommodation, set right on the doorstep of Dorset’s most breath-taking coastal walks, in the village of Langton Matravers.

27th - 30th September ~~£810.22~~ £737.95

27th - 29th September ~~£810.22~~ £737.95

28th - 30th September ~~£810.22~~ £737.95

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Beach Approach

Swanage

4.8/5

Settle into a lovely family holiday at Beach Approach. A two bedroom ground floor apartment. A flat walk will take you to Swanage beach and High Street, which is lined with cute cafés, boutiques, and fine restaurants. Beach Approach is perfect for families with top sights in easy reach: Swanage Railway is just a two minute stroll away; take a trip down memory lane on the vintage steam engine to the historic village of Corfe Castle.

28th - 30th September £468.91

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Denbur Cottage

Gaunts Common

4.8/5

2 Bedrooms. Denbur is a lovely semi-detached cottage, with lawned garden and conservatory enjoying a superb location in a village that takes its name from John O’Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster.

16th - 20th September ~~£511.50~~ £380.50

17th - 20th September ~~£453.75~~ £380.50

27th - 29th September ~~£453.75~~ £380.50

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Juniper Cottage

West Lulworth

4.9/5

Juniper Cottage is a recently refurbished Victorian terraced cottage tucked away off the main road in the scenic village of West Lulworth, close to both Lulworth Cove and one of the Jurassic Coast’s most iconic features, Durdle Door. This two-storey, dog-friendly cottage accommodates up to 4 adults or a family of 5. The ground floor is an open-plan living and dining space with small, private front and rear gardens, upstairs are two bedrooms and a bathroom.

19th - 21st September £624.13

18th - 20th September £664.37

18th - 21st September £637.54

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Ridgeview Cottage

Corfe Castle

4.7/5

Located in the sought-after National Trust-owned village of Corfe Castle, Ridgeview Cottage is a modern, detached, family home found moments away from many of Dorset’s prolific attractions.

26th - 28th September £695.03

24th - 26th September £725.69

25th - 28th September £705.24

+18 more stays

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Cordwainer’s Cottage

Winfrith Newburgh

4.9/5

Built in the 17th century Cordwainer’s Cottage is a former shoemaker’s workshop that has been lovingly updated to provide a fantastic holiday home for up to 4 guests. Cordwainer’s cottage is set in a secluded village of Winfrith Newburgh. The cottage is ideal for a small family seeking a tranquil escape in Dorset.

21st - 28th September ~~£735.66~~ £671.96

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