If you're a music lover, a classic car enthusiast or you simply enjoy exploring the local area, here are some events worth adding to your diary this autumn.
Local Highlights (within 10-30 mins)
Purbeck International Chamber Music Festival
3rd – 6th September
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Isle of Purbeck, the Purbeck International Chamber Music Festival brings together internationally acclaimed musicians for a series of performances in unique venues across the area.
Combining exceptional music with beautiful Dorset scenery, it's an ideal excuse for a scenic day out and a chance to experience world-class performances close to home.
Classic & Steam Vehicle Show
4th – 6th September
Held near Corfe Castle, the Classic & Steam Vehicle Show celebrates vintage motoring and engineering. Visitors can admire beautifully restored classic cars, steam engines, motorcycles and agricultural vehicles while enjoying the picturesque surroundings of the Purbeck countryside.
Why not combine your visit with a stroll around Corfe Castle village or a stop for lunch at one of its welcoming cafés?
Swanage Folk Festival
11 - 13th September
A highlight of the Dorset events calendar, the Swanage Folk Festival brings the town to life with live music, dance performances and entertainment throughout the weekend.
The festival's relaxed atmosphere, combined with Swanage's seaside setting, makes it a wonderful destination for a late-summer day trip.
Wimborne Food Festival
19th September
A celebration of Dorset's outstanding local produce, the Wimborne Food Festival brings together artisan food and drink producers, street food vendors and independent retailers in the heart of the historic market town.
Whether you're sampling delicious local specialities, discovering new flavours or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere, it's the perfect opportunity to enjoy a relaxed day out while exploring Wimborne's charming streets and independent shops.
Swanage Blues Festival
1st – 4th October
If blues music is more your style, Swanage hosts another fantastic event later in the season - the Swanage Blues Festival. Venues throughout the town welcome talented musicians from across the UK, creating a lively atmosphere against the backdrop of Dorset's stunning coastline.
With the summer crowds gone, autumn can be one of the best times to enjoy Swanage and its surrounding scenery.
Worth the Journey (45 – 60 mins)
Romsey Show
12th September
One of Hampshire's largest agricultural events, the Romsey Show offers a wonderful showcase of rural life. From livestock displays and countryside crafts to local food and gardening exhibits, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
It's a great day out for those who appreciate the traditions, heritage and community spirit of the countryside.
Beaulieu International Autojumble
12th – 13th September
Motoring enthusiasts travel from across the country to attend the famous Beaulieu International Autojumble.
Known as one of Europe's largest outdoor automotive events, visitors can browse everything from classic car parts and memorabilia to vintage vehicles and restoration projects. Even if you're not a dedicated collector, the atmosphere and variety of exhibits make it a fascinating day out.
Southampton International Boat Show
18th – 27th September
As one of the UK's largest boating events, the Southampton International Boat Show attracts visitors from around the world.
Set along Southampton's waterfront, the show features impressive yachts, sailing boats, watersports demonstrations and marine lifestyle exhibits. It's an excellent opportunity to enjoy a day by the water while exploring one of the South Coast's most popular annual events.
Making the Most of Autumn
Autumn is a wonderful season for exploring Dorset and Hampshire. Cooler temperatures, colourful landscapes and a packed events calendar provide plenty of reasons to venture out and discover somewhere new.
From music festivals and classic vehicle shows to countryside events and coastal attractions, residents at Merley Court are perfectly placed to enjoy some of the very best days out the region has to offer.
