With Halloween last weekend and bonfire night now fast approaching, we have been reminded just how much we love the seasons here in the UK. It feels like just a few weeks ago that we were relaxing in deckchairs on our golden beaches and now we’re wrapped up warm ready for breezy beach strolls! Obviously we are huge fans of splashing about in the sea and sunshine during the summer, but there is a lot to be said for autumn too.
This is a fantastic time of year to explore Dorset. If you’re a local then you may be enjoying some slightly quieter walks on the beautiful coastal path. Or just content with finding a peaceful spot along the promenade to sit and watch the world go by. And if you’re a visitor, you can enjoy the feeling that you’ve missed the crowds and have a little piece of our beautiful county all to yourself!
In one of our recent blogs we talked about some of the best places in Dorset to enjoy a colourful autumnal walk. If you do head out to enjoy the great outdoors and some of our favourite spots, then why not reward yourself in one of Dorset’s lovely cosy pubs to really get those autumnal vibes! What could be nicer than picking one with a roaring fire and snuggling up with a nice cup of tea or a local Dorset ale.
So, are you starting to love autumn too yet? If you still need a bit of persuading, take a look at some of these fantastic Guy Fawkes celebrations happening across Dorset this weekend. With huge bonfires, extravagant firework displays and loads of yummy treats, maybe an exciting outing on the 5th November will rekindle your love for these chilly autumn days! We’ve rounded up a list of some of Dorset’s best bonfire events.
Dorset’s best bonfire celebrations
Poole Quay – maybe the best spot in Dorset
Back with a bang is the annual free display put on over Poole Quay. It’s taking place on Friday 5th November with fun and festivities starting from 5pm. With live music and family entertainment this is always a popular event so, if you can, use public transport (or hire a Beryl Bike) to make sure you don’t miss the big display that happens at 8 o’clock. In fact, why not make a day of it and head down to the quay to explore the area. There is the Cockle trail and the Poole trail you can follow – self-guided walks with information boards across the old town telling stories of Poole’s past!
Lyme Regis – a harbour-side display
If like us, you love Lyme Regis (or want to find out why we do), then why not head down there this weekend to enjoy an autumnal walk on the beach and stay on into the evening for their harbour-side firework display. Langmoor and Lister Gardens overlooking the Cobb will give you a great view. Or head down to the huge bonfire on the beach to keep warm. Then again, it wouldn’t hurt to pack a flask of your favourite Dorset Tea too! The event is happening on Saturday 6th November at 6.30pm and it’s free!
Weymouth Beach – a family-friendly event
Another free event happening in Dorset this Friday is on Weymouth Beach. We always adore Weymouth for its family-friendly fun, and bonfire night is no exception. From 4pm there will be a funfair on the pavilion forecourt with loads of stalls and rides, followed by a children’s Guy Fawkes competition (you just need to make a homemade guy – a fun activity to do during the day)! The giant beach bonfire will be lit at 6.40pm and the firework display starts at 8pm!
Coppleridge Inn, Motcombe – for cosy night inside and out!
What was that we were saying about cosy pubs earlier… if you’d prefer to combine your bonfire celebrations with a tasty meal and a drink or two then take a look at Coppleridge Inn. Located in the pretty village of Motcombe, just outside Shaftesbury, the country pub is offering a special menu and free firework display on Saturday 6th. They are raising money for the local primary school and Dorset’s Weldmar Hospice.
Dewlish Village – for a Dorset community feel
If you’re after something with a real community feel, we love the sound of the celebrations happening at Dewlish Village, located halfway between Dorchester and Blandford Forum. Parsonage Farm are hosting on Saturday 6th and on site they will have live music, hot food, a licensed bar and free children’s activities. They plan to light the bonfire at 7.40pm and the fireworks start at 8pm! (Adults £5, children £3).
A time to eat and drink!
If you are celebrating bonfire night at home or with friends then you may be thinking about some yummy treats to make! Here are some ideas that will go down a storm!
Toffee Apples – an absolute classic popular with children and adults! For little ones you could try cutting the apples into slices and dunking them in the toffee instead.
Caramel pear blondies – these blondies sound so tasty. Pair with a nice cup of our sunshine blend!
Bonfire night cookies - if you’re expecting a house full of tinies then you could actually set this up as an activity for them to do during your party! Get the kettle on ready for when they come out the oven – the grown ups will be hovering around wanting a taste too!
Fruit & Cider Tatin – this moist tatin looks absolutely delicious… but rather than the cider we might give it a go using our apple cake tea!
If you are planning a home display then you may want to take a look at some safety tips from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue. And if you have neighbours with children or pets it’s polite to pop round and let them know your plans.
Let us know if you go to any of our suggested events – we’d love to see a pic or two! You can keep in touch with us on instagram @dorsetteauk or twitter @dorset_tea