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Christmas Party Ideas and Activities in Dorset: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Christmas party activities for office groups in Dorset?
Dorset offers a variety of unique experiences perfect for office Christmas parties. Consider options like ice skating at Bournemouth's Lower Gardens with Skate Bournemouth, exploring the Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival, or enjoying festive markets in Dorchester and Swanage.
Are there any Dorset venues offering private Christmas party packages?
Yes, several venues in Dorset provide private Christmas party packages tailored for office groups. Many offer festive dining and seasonal menus suitable for corporate gatherings.
Can we combine outdoor activities with our Christmas party in Dorset?
Absolutely! Dorset's scenic locations allow for outdoor activities like winter walks followed by festive gatherings. Office groups can enjoy unique experiences at Land and Wave or try team-building and watersports challenges at Rockley Watersports. Pop-up Christmas markets and light trails provide the perfect opportunity to mix fresh air with seasonal cheer.
Are there any unique Christmas party venues in Dorset?
Dorset boasts several distinctive venues for Christmas parties, including museums, historic houses, and event spaces that can host themed experiences, live entertainment, and interactive activities.
What are the typical costs for hosting a Christmas party in Dorset?
Costs vary depending on the venue and services offered. On average, Christmas party venues in Dorset range from £25 to £33 per person, with minimum spends between £250 and £1500, depending on the event's scale and location.
Out-of-Town Christmas Party Activities in Dorset
Stourhead Christmas Light Trail
Where: Stourhead
About: Experience the magic of Christmas at Stourhead, Dorset, from 28th November to 31st December. This after-dark illuminated trail features dazzling new displays like the Star Show, Sea of Light, and laser projections, alongside returning favourites including the twinkling tunnel and lake reflections.
Enjoy festive food, hot drinks, and toasted marshmallows as you stroll through this enchanting winter wonderland.
Address: Stourhead, near Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6QD
Telephone: 01747841152
Top Christmas Party Activities in Bournemouth
Bournemouth Pavilion
Where: Bournemouth Pavilion
About: Celebrate the Festive season with an outting to a Christmas performance at the Bournmeouth Pavilion. Either enjoy their fabulous Pantomime of Cinderella or the musical show Christmas Cracker Carol Concert!
Address: Bournemouth Pavilion, Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2BU
Telephone: 0300 500 0595
Bournemouth International Centre
A Fairytail for Christmas: 13th December
‘Tis the season to be jolly as the ultimate Irish Christmas concert is back for 2025! After four back-to-back sell-out tours, and successful runs in the USA and Europe, A Fairytale for Christmas has gained thousands of festive fans across the globe - and is now back in town.
Elf The Musical: 19th-20th December
This larger-than-life production brings the festive magic to the Windsor Hall with unforgettable scenes, including Santa’s flying sleigh, an interactive snowball fight with the audience, and a giant candy cane journey from the North Pole, all set against breath-taking video-film backdrops on a massive LED screen.
That'll Be Christmas: 21st December
Nothing says Christmas quite like That’ll Be Christmas! This year is extra special as the cast of That’ll Be The Day celebrates their 40-Year Anniversary. Packed with your all-time favourite Christmas classics, laugh-out-loud comedy sketches, and heartwarming festive cheer, this is the perfect family night out.
Laser Quest Bournemouth
Where: Laser Quest
About: Step into the ultimate sci-fi action adventure - perfect for all ages! They provide a full briefing and all the gear you’ll need. Each player is equipped with a futuristic body pack and laser blaster before entering the Laser Quest arena, a multi-level labyrinth filled with catwalks, twists, turns, swirling fog, and spectacular special effects.
Activity: Laser Tag!
Address: Laser Quest, Glen Fern Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2LZ
Telephone: 01202 556 888
Christmas at Key West & Bournemouth Pier
Where: Bournemouth Pier
About: Looking for things to do this Christmas in Dorset? Bournemouth Pier and Key West bring together family activities, festive entertainment and Christmas parties by the sea, with celebrations running from 14th November to 31st December 2026.
Follow the Christmas tree Q&A trail, post a drawing in Santa’s mailbox, enjoy treats from the festive food and drink kiosk, and take photos with the giant Santa and reindeer display inside Key West.
Christmas events and activities:
- Breakfast with Santa: 12th, 13th, 19th and 20th December — a festive breakfast and a visit from Father Christmas.
- Drag on the Pier: 14th November — Vicki Vivacious brings festive cabaret, vocals and glamour.
- Christmas party nights: Selected dates, with festive dining and music for group celebrations.
RockReef & PierZip: Open daily from 19th December to 3rd January for Christmas holiday adventures.
Prices & Booking: Prices vary by activity. Check individual events for availability and booking details.
Christmas Parties at Laser Quest Bournemouth
Where: Bournemouth
About: Bring some friendly competition to your Christmas celebrations at Laser Quest Bournemouth. Gather friends or colleagues for a laser tag battle through a labyrinth of catwalks, mazes, swirling fog and special effects. Full briefings and equipment are provided.
Christmas packages include two games, half-time drinks, a Santa hat and bubbly or chocolates for the winner. Choose the food package to enjoy a hot meal and time together in a private area after your games.
Packages:
Christmas Party - £18 per person: Approximately one hour, with a minimum of six players.
Christmas Party with Food - £22 per person: Includes a hot meal and 45 minutes in a private area. Approximately one hour and 45 minutes, with a minimum of eight players.
Upgrade: Add a third game for £3 extra per person
Address: Glen Fern Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2LZ
Telephone: 01202 556 888
CHRISTMAS MARKET – BH LIVE ACTIVE, LITTLE DOWN
About: Get into the festive spirit at the Christmas Market at BH Live Active Littledown, with up to 80 stalls offering a wide selection of handmade artisan gifts, Christmas crafts and seasonal treats. Browse handmade artisan gifts, jewellery, fused glass, local preserves, chutneys, award-winning fudge, artisan gin, seasonal cakes, chestnuts, cheeses and more.
There will also be Christmas decorations, cards, wrapping paper, wreaths, artisan food and hampers, alongside artwork from local artists and photographers. Enjoy festive music from Sing-People-Sing, who will be performing on the balcony in the main hall, while children can meet Giggles the cheeky elf and have their faces painted.
The Terrace Café will also be open serving hot drinks and snacks, making it a great opportunity to browse for Christmas gifts and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Date: Sunday 22nd November 2026
Time: 11am–4pm
Price: Adults £1 | Children 5–15 years £0.50 | Under 5s Free
Address: BH Live Active Littledown, Chaseside, Bournemouth, BH7 7DX
Top Christmas Party Activities in Bridport
SYMONDSBURY CHRISTMAS MARKET
About: The Symondsbury Christmas Market returns for 2026 for a festive weekend in the unique surroundings of Symondsbury Estate. Set within the historic Tithe Barn and Manor Yard, the market brings together independent makers, growers, artists and artisan producers, with beautifully curated stalls offering plenty of festive shopping inspiration.
Visitors can enjoy seasonal food and drink, live music, family activities and plenty of Christmas cheer, making it a lovely festive day out for families, friends and Christmas shoppers.
Dates: Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th December 2026
Location: Symondsbury Estate, Symondsbury, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 6HG
Telephone: 01308 424 116
Top Christmas Party Activities in Dorset
Christmas Events with Diverse Abilities
Where: Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch
About: Get creative, enjoy Christmas carols or treat little ones to a visit with Mrs Claus while supporting Dorset’s disability charity, Diverse Abilities. Its festive programme offers plenty of things to do this Christmas in Dorset, from wreath-making with friends to family craft activities.
Christmas events and activities:
Christmas Wreath Workshop - 2nd December, 6pm–8pm: Create a wreath at The Beehive in Poole with guidance from the Academy of Floristry. All materials and festive refreshments are included. £45 per person. Find out more.
Mrs Claus’ Grotto - 6th December, 10.30am–5pm: Meet Mrs Claus at The Treehouse in Christchurch, with up to four children per ten-minute slot. Soft play is also available through a separate booking. Grotto tickets from £7.50; soft play from £10. Find out more.
Christmas Concert - 9th December, 6pm–8pm: Enjoy an evening of carols and festive cheer at St Peter’s Church in Bournemouth, in aid of Diverse Abilities. Find out more.
Christmas Biscuit Workshop - 12th December: Head to GATHER at the Dolphin Centre in Poole for festive biscuit decorating, with sessions at 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm. Other Christmas crafts are available for a donation, alongside take-home kits. £7 per workshop place; advance booking essential. Find out more.
Dates: Selected dates from 2nd – 12th December 2026.
Go Bar Hopping!
If you're unsure what to do for your Christmas Party this year, why not go Bar hopping? Dorset hosts numerous amazing cocktail bars and restaurants for yourself and your party to visit!
TGTs Recomendations:
Top Christmas Party Activities in Mudeford
Advantage Padel Mudeford
Where: Mudeford
About: Looking for a Christmas party with a competitive twist? Bring your team together at Advantage Padel Mudeford for a fun-filled session of padel or pickleball. Fast-paced, sociable and suitable for all abilities, it’s a brilliant way to encourage some friendly competition while celebrating the festive season.
The venue features eight indoor padel courts, five indoor pickleball courts and a café and bar, making it an ideal choice for work Christmas parties, group celebrations and festive team-building events.
Top Christmas Party Activities in Poole
Studio Poole
Where: Studio Poole
About: The largest Poole Pottery Outlet in the World with a working studio! They offer a Have-A-Go experience which is perfect for a unqiue Christmas party.
Activity: Create your own ceramic masterpiece with your friends and have some healthy competition on whose looks the best!
Address: Unit D2 to D5, Dolphin Quays, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HU
Telephone: 01202497492
Rockley Watersports
Where: Rockely Watersports
About: Rockley Watersports offer a range of activities! You and your friends or coworkers this Christmas period can celebrate together whilst sailing, kayaking, windsurfing or spend a few days camping!
Address: Rockley Point, Poole, Dorset, BH15 4RW
Telephone: 01202 677272
Farmer Palmers Farm Park
Where: Farmer Palmers
About: Celebrate the festive season in a unique setting at Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park. Perfect for office groups, you can enjoy a relaxed and charming countryside atmosphere while taking part in seasonal activities. From festive decorations to the enchanting “Magical Christmas Barn,” it’s a distinctive venue for raising a glass and enjoying a memorable Christmas gathering with colleagues.
Address: Wareham Rd, Organford, Poole, Dorset, BH16 6EU
Telephone: 01202 622022
David Lloyd Poole
Where: David Llloyd Poole
About: Celebrate the festive season in style at David Lloyd Poole, the perfect venue for your Christmas party. With its state-of-the-art spa facilities, delicious dining options, and a wide range of entertainment, the centre guarantees a memorable and joyous experience for all guests.
David Lloyd host numerous sports and fitness facilities in their gym, including; tennis and badminton courts, swimming pools, gym and much more. David Lloyd also have beautiful spa facilities, perfect for an office Christmas party or for just a gathering of friends and family!
Treat yourself and your friends to a sauna, steam room and spa pool!
Address: 24 Cabot Lane, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7BX
Telephone: 0344 848 4724
Family Christmas at Farmer Palmer’s
Where: Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park, near Poole
About: Meet Farmer Christmas, explore the Magical Christmas Barn and enjoy festive fun at Farmer Palmer’s. With daytime visits and a Twilight Christmas Experience, it’s a lovely option for families looking for things to do this Christmas in Dorset.
Daytime Christmas: Combine indoor and outdoor play and animal activities with an optional visit to Farmer Christmas. Meet the elves, explore the Christmas Barn and let children choose a gift from Ye Olde Toy Shoppe.
Twilight Christmas: Visit after dark for twinkling lights, festive characters and selected play attractions. Children’s tickets include a Farmer Christmas visit, gift, 3D Christmas glasses, reindeer food, and a meal and drink. Adults receive a mulled wine or restaurant discount voucher.
Dates: Selected dates from 11th–23rd December 2026. Twilight runs from 4pm–8pm.
Price: Daytime Farmer Christmas visits cost £18 per child, or £13 on 16th and 17th December, in addition to farm admission or a valid Annual Pass reservation. Twilight tickets cost £28.50 per child and £13 per adult; separate tickets are required for Annual Pass holders.
Address: Wareham Road, Organford, Poole, Dorset, BH16 6EU.
Festive Cruises
Where: Coastal Cruises
About: Set sail for a holly jolly good time on Poole Harbour! Join them for a holly jolly Christmas party cruise on Poole Harbour. Warm up with a glass of mulled wine as you board, then feast on a delicious Christmas themed 2-course festive buffet.
Once you’re fuelled up, it’s time to let loose! Dance the night away to classic Christmas tunes and chart-topping hits spun by their onboard DJ, guaranteed to get everyone in the festive spirit.
Get ready for a night of festive fun and unforgettable memories!
Includes:
- Duration 3 hours
- Welcome glass of mulled wine
- Delicious 2-course festive buffet
- Full-bar available
- Scenic Poole Harbour views
- Disco entertainment and dancing
Menu: Click here
Telephone: 07483 038487
Top Christmas Party Activities in Swanage
Swanage Railway
Where: Swanage Railway
About: Book a day full of festive fun with Swanage Railway, take in the beautiful Dorset landscapes and enjoy the events that Swanage Railway are throwing. Most notably, from the 29th November to 24th December, Swanage Railway are hosting their Father Christmas Yuletide Express event. Step into a world of twinkling lights, festive cheer and timeless Christmas traditions. The Yuletide Express is more than a train ride- it's a heart-warming journey into the magic of the season.
Also,
Christmas Belle - Various dates 6th December-21st December. Soak up a traditional Christmas atmosphere in the specially decorated observation carriage while sitting in relaxing comfy chairs. You will also receive a personalised Christmas card and a delicious chocolate gift from local chocolatier Chococo, to remember your experience.
Christmas Carol Trains - 11th&18th December. Join Swanage Railway for a special festive journey from Swanage to Corfe Castle aboard our beautifully restored steam train, and enjoy an unforgettable night of live music, carols, and Christmas spirit.
Address: Station House, Railway Station Approach, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 1HB
Telephone: 01929 425800
Top Christmas Party Activities in Wareham
Christmas in Colour at Lulworth Castle
Where: Lulworth Castle
About: Enjoy a festive family outing at Lulworth Castle, where real Christmas trees are decorated in different colours and styles. Explore the displays, choose your favourite and let the children follow a Christmas trail, spotting crackers and festive colours along the way.
For an extra treat, book a Father Christmas meet-and-greet for your little one, or even your pet. It’s a lovely choice for families looking for things to do this Christmas in Dorset.
Dates: 6th–23rd December 2026.
Price: Father Christmas meet-and-greets are £6 per child or pet. Each child’s booking includes a five-minute slot and one gift. Check the website for admission prices and booking details.
Top Christmas Party Activities in Wimborne
Tivoli Theatre
Where: Tivoli Theatre
About: The Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne is an Art Deco theatre that hosts a mixture of live music, drama, ballet and comedy shows! This Festive period there will be numerous on stage performances for you to visit, including Pantos and Musicals, see some of our favourites below:
- Jim’s Christmas Cracker (OVER 18’S ONLY!)
- Goldilocks & The Three Bears Panto
- Goldilocks & The Three Bears – GROWN UPS ONLY 16+
Address: 19 West Borough, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1LT
Telephone: 01202 885566
Wareham Christmas Party Nights
THE PRIORY WAREHAM
About: This December, indulge in an exquisite festive lunch at The Priory, where sophistication meets the magic of the season. Perfect for intimate gatherings or distinguished celebrations, elevate your festive experience and reserve your table for a truly memorable afternoon or evening.
Dates: Served from 1st – 23rd December 2026
Menu: Click here
Telephone: 01929 551666
Address: Church Green, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 4ND
This map shows the location of The Priory which is in Wareham.
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WIMBORNE MODEL TOWN & GARDENS
Where: Wimborne Model Town & Gardens
About: Looking for something a little different for a festive day out? Wimborne Model Town & Gardens offers a charming and unique experience where visitors can explore a detailed miniature version of the town as it appeared in the 1950s. Set within landscaped gardens, it’s a relaxed attraction that feels especially cosy during the winter months.
With over 100 miniature buildings, interactive features, and family-friendly trails, it’s a great option for groups, families, or anyone looking to enjoy a more laid-back Christmas activity. The on-site tea room and shop add to the experience, making it easy to turn your visit into a full festive outing.
Activities offered: Explore the model town, enjoy garden walks, discover interactive displays, and relax with refreshments in the tea room