With Christmas almost upon us once again, we’ve hand picked some of the best Christmas markets in Dorset. Right across the county, wonderful artisan gifts and decorations, to beautiful traditional music in unique venues, Santa’s grottoes and something for everyone. A great day out for the family to get into the festive spirit.
Bournemouth Alpine Christmas Market
From favourite festive food and drinks traders to local craftsmen answering all your Christmas shopping needs, festive stalls are open daily, offering a range of products and culinary delights for everyone to enjoy. The Alpine Lodge Bar is the place to enjoy some festive cheer and watch the world go by. And experience the magical spectacle of over 100 glittering trees lighting the path all the way down to Bournemouth’s seafront.
Dates: 13 November – 31 December 2025
Open daily from 11am ‘til late! Market Stalls close at 8pm daily (7pm Sundays) and Food Stalls remain open until 10pm everyday.
Entry: FREE
Christmas at Highcliffe Castle, Christchurch
Christmas is back at the beautiful Highcliffe Castle with Creatives at the Castle. What better location to choose the perfect gift or decoration from local artisan stalls.
Dates: 22 – 23 November 2025, 10am – 4pm.
Adult admission £3.50. Children free, Castle members free.
Ticket includes:
-Entry to the Castle
-Entry to the fair
-Admission to our new exhibition
-Festive activities for children
Poundbury Christmas Market
More than 100 stall holders located in Poundbury’s Crown Square for a beautiful start to Christmas. With live entertainment , delicious food and drink and something for everyone.
Date: Saturday 29 November 2025.
10am – 4pm
Entry FREE.
Mapperton Christmas Market, nr Beaminster
Set in the grounds of the beautiful Mapperton House, you will find the perfect Christmas gifts and decorations from more than 80 local businesses. A bar, live band, and of course Father Christmas – a great way to start your Christmas off.
Dates: 29 – 30 November 2025, Saturday 10am – 6pm, Sunday 10am – 4pm
Entry £5 adults, includes access to Mapperton Gardens.
Shire Hall Christmas Market, Dorchester
Your Christmas shopping all wrapped up at the Shire Hall Christmas Market in Dorchester. Over 30 stalls with local artisanal gifts and decorations. Live entertainment and delicious food and drink to make the day a merry one!
Dates: 15 – 16 November 2025, 10am – 4pm
Entry: FREE
Symondsbury Estate's Artisan Christmas, Nr Bridport
A handpicked selection of 19 local artisans and makers inside the Tithe Barn – perfect for finding beautiful, meaningful gifts. Plus Woodland Fairy workshops for children, live performances, delicious food, mulled cider, and festive treats. And Santa’s Grotto returns!
Dates: Saturday 6 December 2025, 10am -4pm.
Entry: FREE
Steampunk Yuletide at Nothe Fort, Weymouth
Something rather different at Nothe Fort in Weymouth. A weekend of whimsy and Steampunk revelry featuring a packed programme of performances, games and a whole market of trading stalls.
Dates: 6-7 December 2025, 10.30am – 3pm.
Nothe Fort admission prices, free entry for those in Steampunk garb.
