What’s on at Corfe Castle

What’s on at Corfe Castle – Events and Activities for Spring and Summer

🏰 Step into centuries of history and imagination with a vibrant programme of events at National Trust’s Corfe Castle. From immersive medieval experiences to family-friendly adventures, exhibitions and live performances, there’s something to captivate visitors of all ages throughout the season. Here’s what’s on at Corfe Castle this season….

What’s on at Corfe Castle…

🏺 Home and Hearth: Archaeological Finds Exhibition

2 May – 31 October
Delve into the everyday lives of Corfe Castle’s medieval inhabitants through this fascinating exhibition. Showcasing artefacts discovered on site, visitors can explore intricate details of life 800 years ago—from cheater’s dice and delicate tweezers to a bone flute and personal adornments.
Located in the Castle View Welcome Centre, this intimate display offers a rare chance to see these tiny yet powerful objects up close, bringing the past vividly to life.

💚 Free (normal admission applies).

Early May Bank Holiday Weekend

🏹 2nd – 4th May / 🕙 10am – 4.30pm

A lively weekend of medieval-inspired fun awaits. Families can build their own fortress in the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® marquee, try archery, or dress as knights and princesses. Entertainment includes maypole dancing with Gobbledygook Theatre and live music from local performers. Alongside the festivities, visitors are invited to explore the castle’s 900 years of history.
Maypole dancing and live music take place on 2–3 May only.
💚 Free (normal admission applies).

May Half Term – Stories and Seedlings

🌱 23rd – 31st May / 🕙 10am – 4.30pm

Celebrate nature and storytelling with a hands-on half-term experience. Visitors can plant nasturtium seeds—echoing the medieval use of herbs—while enjoying interactive storytelling tours led by the Keeper of the Castle. Through games and tales, discover how medieval guests were welcomed, entertained and impressed. Story tours run throughout the day, offering an engaging experience for families and history enthusiasts alike.

💚 Free (normal admission applies).

🗺️ The New Famous Five and the Forgotten Treasure

23 May – 6 September | 10:00am – 4:30pm
Adventure calls with this imaginative quest inspired by the spirit of classic explorers. Families can solve puzzles, crack clues and uncover hidden secrets across the castle ruins. From navigating mazes to exploring a mock burial chamber, this interactive trail blends storytelling with exploration—perfect for curious minds and budding adventurers. 

💚 Free (normal admission applies).

Corfe Castle Village Fair

🎪 25th May / 🕙 10am – 4.30pm

A traditional village fête set within the castle grounds, organised by the local community. Expect games, crafts, face painting and a lively arena programme throughout the day. Residents of BH19 and BH20 postcodes receive free entry (proof required). Visitors are advised to bring cash due to limited signal on site.

💚 Free (normal admission applies).

Purbeck Art Weeks Festival Exhibition

🎨 1st – 7th June / 🕙 10am – 4.30pm

In collaboration with the Purbeck Art Weeks Festival, this exhibition showcases an inspiring collection of work from emerging and established local artists.
Featuring painting, photography, sculpture and more, it’s a celebration of creativity set within the Castle View Welcome Centre.

💚 Free

🎪 Circus Skills with Fiery Jack

6–7 June | 10:00am – 4:00pm
A full day of circus fun for all ages. Visitors can try their hand at a range of skills in open workshops, enjoy a midday performance, and experience the high-energy Cycle Circus in the afternoon. Whether watching or joining in, this lively event brings colour and excitement to the castle grounds.

💚 Free (normal admission applies).

⚔️ Life in the Middle Ages

13–14 June | 10:00am – 4:30pm
Step back in time with an immersive exploration of medieval life. Through storytelling and performance, visitors encounter characters such as Nichodemus the physician and Ursula, revealing a world where medicine, religion and superstition intertwine. Interactive shows and a Medieval Games Arena offer hands-on experiences for all ages.

💚 Free (normal admission applies).

🛡️ Knights and Castles Weekend

20-21 June  | 10:00am – 4:30pm

Experience the drama and daily life of the medieval world through this action-packed event. Meet Sir Stephen de Blenerhayset and Lady Eleanor, take part in Knight School, learn medieval dances and test siege tactics in castle-building challenges. With live shows and interactive activities throughout the day, it’s a dynamic journey into the past.

💚 Free (normal admission applies).

Food & Drink Festival

🍓 11th – 12th July / 🕙 10am – 4.30pm

Celebrating the best of local produce, this festival—hosted by Love It Local—offers a delicious showcase of regional food and drink. Discover artisan flavours, meet producers and enjoy a relaxed summer atmosphere in a unique historic setting. More details on the Food and Drink Festival at Corfe Castle at Love It Local Events. 

💚 Free (normal admission applies).

🎶 Summer Nights at the Castle – with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra

Concerts under the stars, with an illuminated castle. Organised by Love It Local events. Tickets selling fast. Book now to avoid disappointment!

BSO: West End to Hollywood

🎭 24th July/ 🕢 7.30pm – 9.30pm

A spectacular evening of music from stage and screen, performed by a 14-piece ensemble and brought to life with storytelling and insight. Expect iconic melodies, cinematic drama and timeless favourite 🎟️ £40.00

Book tickets at Love It Local Events

BSO Smash Hits 80s

🎤 25th July / 🕢 7.30pm – 9.30pm

An energetic celebration of 80s music under the stars. Featuring singers, band and orchestral strings, this nostalgic performance blends pop anthems with symphonic flair. 🎟️ From £40.00

Book tickets at Love It Local Events

BSO Curious Creatures and Adventurous Animals

🦁 26th July / 🕢 7.30pm – 9.30pm

A family-friendly musical journey inspired by the natural world. This enchanting performance brings animals and landscapes to life through sound, guided by engaging storytelling. 🎟️ From £40.00 and child from £20.00

Book tickets at Love It Local Events

☀️ Summer Holidays

Summer of Play

🎉 25th July – 31st August / 🕙 10am – 5pm

Enjoy a packed programme of games and activities throughout the summer holidays.
💚 Free (normal admission applies).

Keep of the Castle Storytelling Tours

🏰 25th July – 30th August / 🕚 11am – 4.40pm

Meet the castle’s keeper and discover how guests were welcomed centuries ago.
💚 Free (normal admission applies).

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, these events promise memorable experiences surrounded by history and stunning Dorset scenery. Find more details of all these events on the National Trust Website Events at Corfe Castle. 

Tickets to Corfe Castle price guide: Adult £15.00 off peak / £16.00 peek / Child £7.50 child off peak / £8.00 peak / Family £37.50 off peak / £40.00 off peak (Prices without gift aid, correct as of March 2026)

Read Visit Purbeck’s guide to Corfe Castle 

Note: This event listing is a guide only. For up to date information and or changes to the event please check with the organiser or venue.