As the festive season begins, West Dorset comes alive with cosy markets, twinkling lights, and family days out. From the charm of Poundbury to the coast at Swanage, here are some of the best Christmas events to enjoy this year.
Markets & Fairs
Shire Hall Christmas Market (Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 November 2025)
Held inside Dorchester’s historic Shire Hall, this market brings together over 30 local makers and producers. Expect stalls filled with handmade gifts, festive food, and Christmas spirit in one of the town’s most atmospheric venues.
shirehalldorset.org
Poundbury Christmas Market (Saturday 29 November 2025)
Located in Crown Square, Poundbury, this is a relaxed and family-friendly market, perfect if you prefer a slower pace than the big town events. Browse local crafts, enjoy festive music, and soak up the community feel that makes this one so special.
https://www.poundburychristmasmarket.co.uk/
Mapperton Christmas Market (Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 November 2025)
Set against the backdrop of Mapperton House and Gardens, this market is a beautiful way to kick off the season. Expect artisan stalls, festive food, and a touch of countryside charm, it’s one of the prettiest settings for Christmas shopping in Dorset.
mapperton.com
Bridport Christmas Cheer (Wednesday 3 December 2025)
Bridport lights up for this popular evening event, with craft stalls, street food, and live entertainment across the town. There’s a lovely community buzz, and it’s the perfect excuse for some midweek festive fun.
Swanage Christmas Market (Saturday 6 December 2025)
A classic festive market with Dorset traders, handmade gifts, and a visit from Father Christmas himself. The town centre is beautifully decorated and full of coastal Christmas charm.
swanage.events
Symondsbury Estate: ‘Merry & Bright’ Festive Evening (Friday 5th December Merry & Bright | 4pm – 8pm)
A more boutique festive event near Bridport, with late-night shopping, carols, and mince pies around the estate. Ideal for families wanting something small, local, and full of atmosphere.
symondsburyestate.co.uk
Light Switch-Ons & Trails
Dorchester Christmas Cracker (Sunday 14 December 2025)
Dorchester’s biggest festive event returns with a Santa-hat parade, live entertainment, and market stalls across the town. Expect plenty of sparkle, music, and festive cheer as the Christmas lights switch on.
https://www.dorchesterchamber.co.uk/dorchester-christmas-cracker/
Swanage Christmas Lights Switch-On (Saturday 29 November 2025)
Swanage’s annual lights event brings the community together for an afternoon of music and celebration before the big switch-on outside The Mowlem.
swanage.events
Illuminate – Winter Lights at Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens – 21st November until 31st December 2025 (select dates)
A magical evening trail through the gardens, with glowing installations, twinkling trees, and music. One of Dorset’s most beautiful light trails, perfect for families or an evening out with friends.
abbotsburygardens.co.uk
Nutley Farm Christmas Lights & Reindeer Experience (28th November – 30th December 2025)
A much-loved event near Dorchester featuring an incredible light trail and the chance to meet real reindeer. There’s also live music, food, and plenty of festive photo spots, a true family favourite.
nutleyevents.co.uk
Special Days Out for Families
A Dorset Christmas at The Tank Museum (15-16 November, 10am – 4pm)
A unique festive weekend featuring craft stalls, family activities, and the arrival of Santa in a tank! A fun mix of history and Christmas magic, perfect for kids (and grown-ups) who love something a little different.
tankmuseum.org
Christmas at Corfe Castle (Throughout December 2025)
Experience the magic of Christmas at this iconic Dorset landmark. Wander through the ruins decorated for the season, join in with festive crafts, and roast marshmallows over an open fire.
nationaltrust.org.uk
Swanage Railway Christmas Steam Trains (From Saturday 29 November 2025)
Hop aboard a festive steam train through the Purbeck countryside with Swanage Railway’s Christmas services. Choose from the Father Christmas Yuletide Express, Steam & Lights evening rides, or Christmas Carol Trains. Expect twinkling lights, festive music, and a little nostalgia along the way perfect for a cosy family outing this December.
swanagerailway.co.uk
All events are correct at the time of posting, but dates and details may change always check the organiser’s website before travelling.
From light trails to local markets, there’s so much to explore this season whether you’re based in Bridport, Dorchester or the Purbecks. West Dorset really does know how to do Christmas.
Love Sarah x
Our Dorset Life 
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