lights at a christmas market

Magical Christmas Markets in Dorset

Posted on: 8th November 2023

Days Out

Christmas markets by the sea

Bournemouth Christmas Market

16th November 2023 – 1 January 2024

Soak up the festive atmosphere this year at Bournemouth Christmas Market.

Situated in the city centre, throughout November, December and early January, this annual event will keep the whole family entertained. Enjoy a mulled wine in the alpine lodge bar whilst socialising with friends or try something a little more adventurous at the open-air real ice rink.

To get in the Christmas spirit, visit the Christmas Tree Wonderland – where over 100 trees will be glittering as they lead you from the market towards the Bournemouth seafront. This is has long been established as one of best Christmas Markets in Dorset.

Bournemouth Christmas Market

Swanage Christmas Market

2nd December 2023

One of the highlights in Swanage’s calendar is the Swanage Christmas Market. Dorset traders line the streets around Station Road so pop along to pick up Christmas gifts and seasonal food and drink.
For younger visitors, there’s a merry-go-round and the opportunity to meet Father Christmas. Added to this, there will be a small stage with festive entertainment.

Swanage Christmas Market

Dorset Christmas Markets with local artisans

A Dorset Christmas, The Tank Museum

18th – 19th November 2023
In partnership with Dorset Team – Dorset-based designer-makers and sellers on Etsy, see the Tank Museum transform with stalls selling high quality, local products. Grab some Christmas gifts and check out the live entertainment.

Younger visitors will love the “Frank on a tank” elf trail and can also witness Santa arriving at the museum on a tank!

Blandford Yuletide Festival, Blandford Forum

1st December 2023

Held in the heart of the Georgian town of Blandford Forum, a short drive from South Lytchett Manor, the Blandford Yuletide Festival is set to return on 1st December.

Featuring a festive market, a lantern parade plus the opportunity to meet Father Christmas himself, this is a great event for all the family.

Blandford Yuletime Festival

Christmas on our doorstep

Festive Thursdays, the Courtyard Centre

Various dates November and December 2023

Just a short stroll from our award-winning campsite, The Courtyard Centre will be hosting several Festive Thursday events in the lead up to Christmas. Browse the shops of the Courtyard Centre and enjoy carol singing, mince pies and a truly festive atmosphere.

South Lytchett Manor the Courtyard Centre

Stay in Dorset this Christmas

This is just a taster of what’s going on in Dorset this Christmas. Take a look at our events listings to get more of a feel for what’s happening, including illuminated trails, Christmas grottos and lots more.

Enjoy a Christmas break in Poole by staying at South Lytchett Manor. With a bus stop right outside our gates, you can save the hassle of parking and can travel right into the heart of Poole, Swanage and other Dorset towns.

Our Dorset holiday park is open right through until 2nd January 2024 so if you are looking for an escape with your motorhome or caravan or fancy staying in one of our shepherd huts, glamping pods or Romany Caravans, get in touch by calling 01202 622577 or by booking online.

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What better way to spend the festive season than in the hustle and bustle of one of the many Christmas Markets in Dorset. Surrounded by wonderful stalls, delicious food and an array of entertainment, it’s the perfect day out in the run up to Christmas. Within easy reach of South Lytchett Manor there are number of markets to enjoy. We’ve picked just a small selection of our favourites to visit during your stay.

Bournemouth Christmas Market

16th November 2018 – 2nd January 2019

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Soak up the festive atmosphere this year at Bournemouth Christmas Market. Situated in the city centre, throughout November, December and early January, this annual event will keep the whole family entertained. Enjoy a mulled wine in the alpine lodge bar whilst socialising with friends or try something a little more adventurous at the open-air real ice rink.

To get in the Christmas spirit, children can visit Santa and his elves at the Trethowans grotto, where they will receive a special present to go under the tree! Throughout the duration of the event, local musicians, choirs and carol singers will be performing at the entertainments hub. This is has long been established as one of best Christmas Markets in Dorset.

 

Artisans on the Beach, Swanage

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout December 2018

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Throughout December small businesses and creators will be taking over the beach huts on Swanage promenade, showcasing some of the best artwork the county has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a stylish print, Christmas decorations or a bespoke gift, you certainly won’t be disappointed with the variety on offer at Artisans on the Beach.

RNLI College Christmas Market 2018, Poole

Sunday 9th 2018

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Support a fantastic charity whilst getting in the Christmas spirit at the annual RNLI College Christmas Market. Watch Santa arrive at the event on a lifeboat and join in with a range of arts and crafts workshops, whilst Dr Balloon Man provides children’s entertainment. There will be more than 40 stand holders selling an impressive array of gifts as well as live music throughout the event.

Vintage Christmas Fair, Bovington Tank Museum

1st December – 2nd December 2018

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Take a step back in time at Bovington Tank Museum’s Vintage Christmas Fair, a wonderful and unique event not to be missed. Watch Santa and the Grinch arrive in style on the back of a tank as well as a range of vintage vehicle displays. Stock up on last minute Christmas presents at the festive market, where local producers will be showcasing their wares.

Numerous family friendly events are happening over the course of the weekend including, story time, panto performances, face painting and even Alpacas to pet. There is even the opportunity to enjoy a special Christmas carvery and vintage tea.

Etsy Made Local: Dorset Team Christmas Fair, Wimborne

1st – 2nd December 2018

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Support local this Christmas at the Dorset Team Christmas Fair, where more than 60 Etsy makers will be exhibiting a range of handmade, vintage and craft supplies. Based in the Allendale Centre in Wimborne the two-day event will showcase a range of gifts including cards, jewellery, prints and clothing, perfect for surprising someone special on the big day.

Christmas Cracker, Dorchester

Thursday 6th December 2018

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Enjoy a festive evening in Dorset’s County Town. Watch Paddington Bear switch on the Christmas lights and sample a mince pie or two at St Peters church, where a choir will be performing. Venture to the Shire Hall Historic Courthouse Museum to see a special Victorian Christmas before watching the children’s lantern parade at Brewery Square. To top the evening off indulge in a spot of shopping at one of the many craft stalls on offer!

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