Things to do in Dorset in September

As summer draws to a close, September emerges as one of Dorset’s most interesting months to explore. With fewer crowds, comfortable weather, and the countryside beginning its spectacular autumn transformation, it’s the perfect time to discover both special events and iconic attractions across the county. From rare tank demonstrations to peaceful garden strolls, here’s your guide to making the most of September in Dorset.

Special events and activities

As summer holidays wind down on 2 September, The Tank Museum continues bringing history to life with live displays, vehicle rides, and interactive exhibitions at Dorset’s largest indoor attraction. September highlights include the expanded South West Model Show (13-14 September) featuring traders, demonstrations, and models of planes, ships, trains, and tanks. Don’t miss the rare Tiger Day on 20 September – Tiger 131 only runs twice yearly! Experience WWII tank displays, expert lectures, and living history dedicated to the world’s most infamous tank.

Take part in the Brambly Hedge Summer Story Trail for children and families at Abbotsbury Swannery. The trail takes visitors around the Swannery grounds, to discover more about the swans and the adventurous mice. Find stamp points, questions to answer and fun facts.

September showcases the gardens at Forde Abbey and Gardens at their autumn best with changing colours and the historic house still open for tours. Plus don’t miss the Forde Abbey’s Plant and Gardening Fair on Saturday 6th September. The perfect opportunity to purchase plants and beautiful gardening sundries.

Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre opens an hour early at 9am on 13th September, exclusively for visitors with autism and their families. Sensory trails, a calm room, and drop-In room for support all ensure that Monkey World is a great day out – for all

Attractions to visit

There’s so much to discover at the family-run Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park this September with tractor rides, farm keeper feeding tours and more! Did you know it’s the home of the rare breed heavy horses?

Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park combines the best of both worlds in September with things to do indoor and outdoor, combining farmyard fun and areas to explore and play. Fun for all the family.

Take time exploring the interactive exhibits about communications history without the summer crowds at Royal Signals Museum.

September’s mild weather is ideal for the outdoor PierZip Bournemouth experience and to challenge yourself at the indoor climbing activities at RockReef.

Enjoy some water park fun at Splashdown! Check for seasonal opening schedules before planning a visit.

Bennetts Water Gardens makes a perfect September visit to see the water lilies still in bloom and enjoy peaceful lakeside walks in the crisp autumn air. Open Sunday – Thursday’s in September.

Looking for an autumn indoor soft play adventure? Head to Lemur Landings, one of Dorset’s biggest play centres with a multi-level huge playframe!

Discover Jurassic Dorset’s Ancient Marine World at The Etches Collection – A Contemporary Fossil Museum. Open daily.

Head to The Dinosaur Museum and explore this hands-on attraction without the peak summer crowds.

September provides perfect conditions for tree-top adventures at Go Ape Moors Valley, with cooler weather and beautiful autumn forest colours. Explore with segways or small children can bounce away in the Nets Adventure.

Visit The Tutankhamun Exhibition in September while it’s still open daily before the winter weekend-only schedule begins in November.

Whatever you doin Dorset, you are bound to enjoy your September adventure.