Discover Dorchester Newsletter - February

Welcome to February in Dorchester. Signs of Spring are starting to come through and our vibrant and welcoming town is the perfect place to visit for a romantic couples weekend or half term family trip. 

A romantic weekend in the heart of Dorset

February is the month of love. Celebrate with your loved one by spending a magical weekend in Dorchester. Known as the heart of Dorset, the town offers the perfect mix of peace, charm and luxury for romance to flourish. Dorchester sits proudly in the centre of the county supported by excellent transport links making it easily accessible from near and far. 

Enjoy coffee & quality time

Start your mornings off slow with a drink and a bite to eat in one of Dorchester’s many independent cafés or bakeries. Spend quality time chatting, people-watching, and planning the romantic days ahead.

Too excited to get out and explore? Grab your coffee to go and walk around the town’s old Roman walls passing parks, shops, and history along the way.

Make memories with your loved ones

After you’ve had a relaxing morning, why not spend the day with a little entertainment?

Catch a film at the Plaza cinema, see how well you work together at The Great Big Escape Room, or visit one of Dorchester’s many award-winning museums! There’s always something going on in and around the town from music, comedy and festivals to exhibitions and talks.

Dorchester’s environment offers an opportunity for memories made. Walk around the town’s gardens, take in the unique Poundbury architecture, or head a little further out and explore Dorset’s countryside that surrounds you. There are lots of self-guided walking routes to follow on the Discover Dorchester website.

Shop for Valentine’s treats

Find a unique and thoughtful gift for your loved one in the wealth of independent shops of your doorstep.

Go classic with a bunch of your partners favourite flowers from Stems Florists, Sage & Fern, or The Florist of Poundbury. Grab a tasty snack from Mina’s Deli, a pick n mix from The Sugar Shack, or a Sicilian pastry from Peppin. Set up a candle-lit dinner with locally made candles from The Rhubarb Candle Company and House of Phaedra.

Thinking bigger? Purchase a special something from one of Dorchester’s jewellery shops – all independent and keen to help you pick the perfect piece. 

Kooky Bloom in Antelope Walk

Romantic evenings

Nothing is more romantic than an intimate dinner for two so cosy up in one of Dorchester’s incredible range of restaurants each with their own unique flavour. Cultural hub Brewery Square offers many well-loved favourites and chains, while featuring some local stars like Meram Kitchen (Turkish cuisine), Santos + Co (British Portuguese fusion) and O’Pasta (speciality Fettucine Alfredo).

On High East Street, you’ll find delicious Italian food at Al Molo and a perfect Sunday roast by The King’s Arms. Head up to Poundbury for the locally sourced, seasonal menu at The Square Bistro or Mediterranean-inspired tapas at Crossroads.

Finish your night by lingering just that little bit longer over a glass of wine (or cocktail!) at one of Dorchester’s pubs or bars.

Stay in luxury

With a wonderful selection of boutique hotels and charming guesthouses, Dorchester hosts the perfect 5-star accommodation for your romantic weekend away. Think plush beds, friendly hospitality, and thoughtful touches. For the couple who like everything on their doorstep, The King’s Arms and Sleeping Bear Hotel sit right in the town centre, and The Duchess of Cornwall is just a stone’s throw away in Poundbury. For the peaceful couples who like to wake up in the countryside, Greenwood Grange and Little Court Bed and Breakfast offer peaceful stays with impeccable service.

Tickets now live for the Dorchester Walking Festival!

Tickets are now on sale online for the 2026 Dorchester Walking Festival.

This years festival takes place from 2nd – 10th May — and we can’t wait to welcome you back!

This year is set to be extra special. We’re delighted to welcome several new walk leaders, bringing with them a selection of brand-new walks that will uncover even more of Dorset’s breath-taking landscapes, hidden gems, and rich heritage. From gentle strolls to more energetic routes, there will be something to delight every walker.

We’re also proud to say that the festival will once again be raising funds for local charities. Proceeds from all walks will be donated to charities chosen by our walk leaders. Last year, thanks to the generosity of our participants, over 15 local charities benefited — our way of saying a heartfelt thank you to the community we love.

The 2026 program offers opportunities to immerse yourselves in history, follow in the footsteps of local heroes, and explore the enchanting countryside. 

Ticket are available for the 2026 festival now and sell out quickly so book now! 

Book now!

Top 10 February Half Term Activities in Dorchester

February half term is coming up and there are some brilliant things to do with the family in Dorchester. Check out our new blog with 10 fantastic half term activities to do this February Half Term. 

Dorchester Science Festival Tickets go live soon!

Dorchester Science Festival is back this year with an exciting programme of events over 10 days. 

Family Science Day returns on the 14th March 2026 from 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm, at the Corn Exchange. We’ve got over 20 stalls with a great range of hands-on activities and investigations hosted by local scientists. This year over half of the stalls are new, with some firm favourites returning as well. The day is sure to bring out the Marie Curie or the Albert Einstein in you with fun for all the family!

You will have the opportunity to; learn about forensics and fingerprinting, discover how to use wildlife tracking equipment, uncover the fascinating world of elephants, and use virtual reality to check out how good you are at recognising faces in a crowd! And much more!

Family Science Day is for ages 4 to infinity, with something for people of all ages to enjoy. Entry is FREE, booking is essential – tickets release Mid February! 

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