You can’t help but be captivated by a Christmas market – all those tastes, aromas and inspirational gift ideas, just waiting to be explored. Here’s a rundown of Dorset’s best.
11th - 12th November
LONGTHORNS FARM CHRISTMAS MARKET
Host to over 40 local businesses and of course, the resident herd of Alpacas, Longthorns Farms annual event will also see performances by Wareham Town Band and an on-site gaming trailer.
www.facebook.com/LongthornsFarm
From 17th November
BOURNEMOUTH ALPINE MARKET
This popular event based in Bournemouth Square is back and better than ever as part of the Christmas in Bournemouth festivities. Open daily, there will be plenty of stalls to peruse with a variety of locally produced items.
www.christmasinbournemouth.co.uk
25th - 26th November
SHIRE HALL CHRISTMAS MARKET
Over 30 businesses, selling everything from food and drink to jewellery and photography at Shire Hall Museum over the last weekend of November.
shirehalldorset.org/events/shire-hall-christmas-market
25th - 26th November
MAPPERTON CHRISTMAS MARKET
The popular event on the Mapperton Estate in Beaminster will over 80 stalls, refreshments, live entertainment and of course, and Father Christmas.
https://mapperton.com/events
1st - 3rd December
SYMONDSBURY ESTATE CHRISTMAS MARKET
The annual event returns with a wide range of local businesses selling handcrafted food, drink and gifts, together with our independent shops, offering luxury giftware, festive decorations, homeware and artisan food and drink.
symondsburyestate.co.uk/events/christmas-market-2023-2/
2nd December
POUNDBURY CHRISTMAS MARKET
Since 2015, this annual event has gone from strength to strength and for the first time, will welcome 100 of the best of local producers in all industries in the Crown Square.
www.poundburychristmasmarket.co.uk
2nd December
SWANAGE CHRISTMAS MARKET
The annual event established by the Swanage and Purbeck Rotary Club will again take place on Station Road in the centre of Swanage.
www.swanagerotary.org/swanage-christmas-market-2023
10th December
DORCHESTER CHRISTMAS CRACKER
Arguably the highlight of the festive period in Dorchester, this all day event will host 120 festive traders as well as the iconic Santa Hat Parade and much more.
www.facebook.com/dorchesterchristmascracker
