Things To Do This Summer In And Around Wimborne

Summer Days Out: Festivals, Cars & Country Life

🐎 The New Forest & Hampshire County Show

📅 29th–31st July 2025 – Brockenhurst
Just a 40-minute drive from Wimborne, the New Forest Show is a summer classic. A proper countryside celebration with livestock, food stalls, crafts, show jumping and more – all set in the heart of the New Forest. Great for all ages and packed with local character. While you’re there, explore Brockenhurst’s cosy cafes, spot New Forest ponies, or enjoy a quiet picnic in the woods.
🔗 newforestshow.co.uk

🎻 Purbeck Valley Folk Festival

📅 14th–17th August 2025 – Near Corfe Castle
Looking for something a little more musical? Head to this wonderfully laid-back folk festival set on a farm with views of Corfe Castle. Expect three days of live music, workshops, craft stalls, food trucks, suitable for the whole family. Day tickets available.
🔗 purbeckvalleyfolkfestival.co.uk

🚗 Beaulieu Supercar Weekend

📅 2nd–3rd August 2025 – Beaulieu Motor Museum
Petrolheads, take note – this is a big one! A must for car lovers, the Beaulieu Supercar Weekend brings together some of the world’s most prestigious and rare performance cars, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Beaulieu estate. Live displays, demo runs, and family-friendly fun throughout the weekend.
🔗 beaulieu.co.uk/supercar-weekend

Get Creative at Walford Mill with Melanie Ward

🎨 Creative workshops

📅 28^th June & 12^th July – Walford Mill Crafts

Looking for a relaxing and hands-on way to spend a summer day? Local textile artist Melanie Ward is running some beautifully creative workshops at Walford Mill Crafts in Wimborne — perfect for anyone who wants to slow down and make something special.

She has a number of workshops running throughout June and July, including a Stencil Printed Cushion Cover workshop on 28^th June where you'll use Melanie’s nature-inspired stencils and textile paints to create a unique, hand-printed cushion. It’s beginner-friendly and includes all materials (plus tea and coffee, of course!).

Then on Saturday 12th July, join Melanie at her Print & Make a Poppy Lampshade workshop. You’ll learn to print your own fabric and transform it into a professional lampshade to take home — ideal for a statement table lamp or ceiling light.

Both workshops run 10am–4pm, with lots of one-to-one guidance and a lovely creative vibe. Booking is essential as spaces are limited.

📅 More info & booking: melaniewardcreative.com/what-is-on
📸 Instagram: @melaniewardcreative

More Summer Ideas Near Wimborne

There’s so much to enjoy right on our doorstep. Here are some top picks for those sunny days when you just want to make the most of it.

🌊 Beach Days

• Sandbanks – Iconic golden sands, perfect for swimming, water sports or just soaking up the sun.
• Studland Bay – National Trust beach with views of Old Harry Rocks and walks through the dunes.
• Avon Beach, Christchurch – Peaceful and family-friendly, with beach huts and a gentle tide.

🌳 Beautiful Walks & Nature Spots

• Badbury Rings – Ancient hill fort with sweeping views and a magical feel at sunset.
• Pamphill & Cowgrove Walk – Meander through flower-filled meadows and riverside paths.
• Moors Valley Country Park – Great for families, with woodland trails, play areas, and a mini steam train.
• Holt Heath – A hidden heathland gem that glows with heather in late summer.

🍻 Pub Gardens & Alfresco Eats

• The Olive Branch, Wimborne – Outdoor terrace and seasonal menus in the heart of town. (8 mins by car from Merley Court)
• The Stocks Inn, Furzehill – Cosy, traditional, and just the place for a lazy lunch. (11 mins by car from Merley Court)
• The Anchor Inn, Shapwick – Idyllic country pub with a great garden and relaxed atmosphere. (16 mins by car from Merley Court)
• The Pig on the Beach (Studland) – Beautiful sea views and food straight from the garden – book early! (43 mins by car from Merley Court)

Make the Most of Summer

From crafting and countryside to beach escapes and pub gardens, there’s so much to enjoy in and around Wimborne this summer. Whether you're local to Wimborne, planning a visit to Merley Court, or you’re already an owner at our residential park, we hope this guide gives you plenty of inspiration.

Let the sun shine – and don’t forget your sunhat!