Events in October/November

1st – 4th October

Swanage Blues Festival returns this October, bringing a weekend of live music and a fantastic atmosphere to venues across the town.

Musicians and blues fans travel from across the country to enjoy live performances, jam sessions and plenty of entertainment, making it one of Swanage’s liveliest autumn weekends. Many performances take place in pubs, bars and venues around the town, so it’s easy to wander between gigs and make a day or evening of it.

Heading to the festival? Drop into The Salt Pig Swanage for breakfast, lunch, a drink or something delicious before the music starts.

16th October – 1st November

The Purbeck Film Festival returns this October, bringing a brilliant programme of films to cinemas and unusual venues across Purbeck.

The festival celebrates everything from classic cinema and independent films to international releases and special screenings, with events taking place in Swanage, Wareham and throughout the surrounding area. It’s a great opportunity to discover something different while enjoying some of Purbeck’s most distinctive locations.

Planning a screening in Swanage or Wareham? Make an evening of it with a visit to The Salt Pig for locally sourced food, a relaxed meal or something to enjoy before the film begins.

24th October – 1st November

One of the world’s most famous steam locomotives is heading to Purbeck this October as the legendary Flying Scotsman visits Swanage Railway.

Running through the beautiful Purbeck countryside, Swanage Railway connects Swanage with Corfe Castle and offers one of Dorset’s most memorable heritage railway experiences. The appearance of Flying Scotsman makes it an extra-special opportunity for railway enthusiasts, families and visitors to the area.

24th October – 1st November

Make the most of October half-term at Corfe Castle, with family activities and plenty of opportunities to explore one of Purbeck’s most famous landmarks.

The dramatic castle ruins are particularly atmospheric in autumn, with spectacular views across the Purbeck countryside and lots for children and adults to discover. Combine your castle visit with a walk around Corfe village, a trip on Swanage Railway or a drive through the surrounding countryside.

24th – 31st October

Things are getting spooky at The Blue Pool this October, with Halloween activities adding a seasonal twist to one of Purbeck’s most unusual attractions.

Surrounded by woodland near Wareham, The Blue Pool is a beautiful place for an autumn walk, with changing colours, woodland trails and its distinctive waters creating a magical setting. During the Halloween period, expect some suitably spooky additions to make a visit even more fun for families.

If you’re exploring the Wareham area during half-term, combine your Halloween adventure with a visit to The Salt Pig Wareham for breakfast, lunch or a warming autumn treat.

24th – 31st Octobe

See Corfe Castle in a completely different light this October as the historic ruins provide the spectacular setting for a celebration of Diwali, the Festival of Lights.

This special event brings light, colour and celebration to one of Purbeck’s most recognisable landmarks, creating a memorable autumn evening for visitors.