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Dorset Christmas Markets 2025: The Best Christmas Shopping in Dorset

Highcliffe Dorchester Poole Brockenhurst Beaminster Bournemouth Christchurch Bridport Swanage FAQs – Christmas Shopping & Markets in Dorset

The most magical time of the year will be here before we know it. Whether you love nothing more than immersing yourself in all things Christmas, you are looking for a specific handcrafted gift for that special someone, or you simply love to eat and drink all those festive treats, we’ve rounded up some of the best Dorset Christmas Markets 2025 so you know where to head this winter season. Read on to discover markets full of festive cheer, craft fairs to find unique gift ideas and events that are sure to get you in that Christmas spirit!

Christmas in Dorset is nothing short of magical. From twinkling markets filled with mulled wine and handmade gifts to charming high streets and shopping destinations dressed for the season, there’s no better place to soak up the festive spirit. Whether you’re browsing independent boutiques, stocking up on local produce from farm shops, or hunting for bargains at shopping centres, Dorset offers a wonderful Christmas shopping experience to suit everyone.

While Dorset is filled with magical Christmas markets, it’s not the only way to tick off your festive shopping list. Across the county you’ll find Christmas lights fill high streets, independent boutiques, and shopping destinations that make gift-hunting a real festive experience.

Christmas Shopping on Dorset’s Festive High Streets & Villages

Dorset’s towns and villages come alive at Christmas, with fairy lights and late night shopping. Sherborne’s annual festive shopping day includes a farmer’s market, with live music, carols and street entertainers and browse Sherborne’s great range of independent shops.

Wimborne, and Bridport are especially charming with cobbled streets, independent shops, and festive window displays that look straight out of a Christmas card.

Poole High Street sparkles with seasonal lights and choirs while Bournemouth Town Centre is home to the ice rink and the famous Christmas Tree Wonderland, where over 100 glittering trees, illuminations, and installations transform the streets and garden into a festive trail.

Christmas Shopping in Dorset’s Independent Shops, Boutiques & Farm Shops

If you’re looking for something a little more personal, Dorset has plenty of independent stores and farm shops full of festive treats. Poundbury in Dorchester is a hub for boutique shopping and artisan gifts, while Westbourne in Bournemouth is well known for its stylish independents. Farm shops such as Washingpool Farm (Bridport) and Holme for Gardens (Wareham) stock local produce, hampers, and handmade gifts, perfect for Christmas tables or foodie presents. Dorset’s garden centres also embrace the season; Castle Gardens in Sherborne and Stewarts in Christchurch & Broomhill are famous for their enchanting Christmas displays, decorations, and grotto experiences, making them destinations in their own right.

Where to Do Your Christmas Shopping in Dorset’s Shopping Centres & Retail Parks

For those who prefer everything under one roof, Dorset’s shopping centres and retail parks add a festive touch to the experience. Castlepoint in Bournemouth combines high street favourites with seasonal events, while The Dolphin Shopping Centre in Poole hosts pop-up traders, Christmas workshops, and family entertainment in the run-up to the big day.

Don’t forget to support local restaurants too! You’ll find plenty of Christmas dining with the most delicious and warming dishes, and why don’t you leave the car at home and enjoy a bus ride with Morebus, get the app and have a fuss free and affordable travel (Don’t forget that they have phone charge ports on board).

So whether you’re strolling through a bustling Christmas market, exploring a cosy village high street, or filling your basket with locally made festive treats, Christmas shopping in Dorset is about more than just ticking off your list, it’s about making memories.

Check out our Bournemouth Christmas Market video to see how we’ve tried and tested the ultimate Christmas market in Dorset.

Highcliffe

The Oaks Highcliffe Christmas Market

About: The Oaks are running a Christmas Market to remember! As they transform their garden area into a beautiful Christmas Market, you are welcomed in to browse the offerings of local artisan stalls. Not only are there stalls, but also make sure to take your children along with you as there will be opportunites to meet Santa!

Location: 189 Lymington Road, Highcliffe, BH23 5EA

Dates: 2025 dates TBC

Times: 12pm-5pm

Cost: FREE

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Dorchester

Shire Hall Christmas Market

About: Shire Hall are throwing an exceptional Christmas Market this festive season! Head over on the 23rd and 24th November to check out over 30 businesses' stalls! Either treat yourself or keep an eye out for that special something for a special someone; you'll find independently made jewellery, beautiful photography, delicious food and much more!

Location: High W Street, Dorchester, DT1 1UY

Dates: Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th November 2025

Times: 10am-4pm

Cost: FREE

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Poole

Kingland Christmas Market

About: Discover the best locally produced gifts at Kingland Christmas Market. Brand new for 2024, Kingland Christmas Market will offer visitors a selection of handmade and locally produced gifts, sweet treats, and more.

Find Kingland Christmas Market inside the former Millets store at 22 Kingland Crescent from 10am on Monday 25th November. The market will be open to visitors for free every day from 10am to 4pm until Monday 23rd December.

Location: Kingland Crescent, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1TB

Dates: 2025 Date TBC

Times: 10am to 4pm

Cost: FREE

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Brockenhurst

Rhinefield House

About: Discover beautiful gifts and treats from local suppliers, perfect for thoughtful holiday presents. As you browse through the delightful offerings, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, enhanced by the soothing sounds of live music. The elegant melodies provide the perfect backdrop to your shopping experience, adding a touch of holiday magic to every moment.

Celebrate the season in style, support local artisans, and enjoy a memorable evening of shopping and entertainment.

Location: Rhinefield Rd, Brockenhurst SO42 7QB

Dates: 12th December 2024

Time: From 4pm to 8pm

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Beaminster

Mapperton House

About: Get into the festive spirit at Mapperton’s Christmas Market 2025! Join them for a magical weekend filled with seasonal cheer, charming stalls, and holiday fun. Browse a selection of unique gifts, decorations, and treats, perfect for ticking off your Christmas shopping list.

Enjoy a glass of mulled wine or a hot beverage at our bar, with festive music playing throughout the day to keep the Christmas spirit alive. After a busy day of shopping, unwind and enjoy the atmosphere while sipping your drink and soaking in the holiday magic.

The Santa’s Grotto back for 2025 after its huge success last year! Children will have the chance to meet Father Christmas, post their letters to the North Pole, and join in with the festive fun. £5 per child to visit Santa and make magical memories!

Location: Mapperton, Beaminster DT8 3NR

Dates: Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th November

Times: Saturday: 10am – 6pm | Sunday: 10am – 4pm

Cost:

Adults: £5
Under 15s: Free
Santa’s Grotto: £5 per child

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Bournemouth

Bournemouth Alpine Christmas Market

About: You simply can’t miss out on Bournemouth’s Alpine Christmas Market, in town from mid November right up to the beginning of 2026. With food and craft stalls galore, a Bavarian themed bar and outdoor ice rink and a Christmas Tree Wonderland, this is the definition of a Christmas market.

Location: Bournemouth Square

Dates: 2025-26 Dates TBC

Times: 11:00-23:00

Cost: FREE

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Christchurch

Diverse Abilities Christmas Market

About: Join Diverse Abilities on Saturday 30th November at 7pm at The Treehouse for their Christmas Market. There will be stalls selling gifts, treats, crafts and much more. There will also be some light festive refreshments.

Location: The Treehouse, Merritown Lane, Christchurch, BH23 6DT

Dates: 2025 Date TBC

Times: 7pm - 9am

Cost: £5pp

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Bridport

Symondsbury Estate Christmas Market

About: Enjoy live music and performances throughout the day and soak up the festive cheer at Symondsbury Estate’s annual Christmas Market. Showcasing local businesses selling handcrafted gifts including homeware, artisan food and drink and festive decorations, it’s a must visit.

Location: Symondsbury Estate, Bridport, DT6 6HG

Dates: Friday 6th, Saturday 7th, Sunday 8th December 2024.

Times: Friday 6th - 12pm-6pm, Saturday 7th - 10am-6pm, Sunday 8th - 10am-4pm.

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When do Christmas markets start in Dorset?

Most Christmas markets in Dorset begin in late November and run throughout December, with some opening as early as mid-November. Popular events in Bournemouth, Dorchester, and Poole often extend right up until Christmas Eve.

Is there food and drink at Dorset Christmas markets?

Yes! Many markets feature food stalls serving mulled wine, hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, mince pies, street food, and other seasonal delights to enjoy while shopping.

What can I buy at Dorset Christmas markets?

You’ll find a wide range of gifts and festive treats, including handmade crafts, artisan foods, Christmas decorations, jewellery, winter clothing, and locally produced goods that make perfect presents.

Is there a Christmas market in Weymouth?

Yes - Weymouth's Big Christmas. It begins in November and provides kids' events including a carols concert, face-painting, street entertainment and a chance to meet Santa Claus.

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Dorset Christmas Markets 2025: The Best Christmas Shopping in Dorset