Sarah
16 October 2019
New Year’s Eve soon comes around along with the question of where to go and what to do. Have you considered spending a new year break in Dorset? It’s a great all-round destination with plenty of parties but also plenty of peace too! There are lots of new year events taking place in Dorset, but equally, if you’d rather avoid the parties and crowds, we have a fantastic selection of cosy cottages where you can hide away and create your own fun.
For the late-night revellers…
Whether you are a party animal, or you like to join in with the local traditions, these are the best places to spend New Year’s Eve in Dorset.
Weymouth
Previously dubbed as one of the biggest and best New Year’s Eve parties in the UK, Weymouth draws hundreds of revellers each year. As is the tradition in the town, many come wearing fancy dress costumes, and the clubs and bars come together to host live music and entertainment into the early hours. Just before midnight, the partygoers gather at the Jubilee Clock for the countdown!
Stay near Weymouth
Bridport & West Bay
Once again, don your best fancy dress and join the residents of Bridport and West Bay in Bucky Doo Square. Countdown to midnight among impressive outfits with everything from superheroes to pirates, and embrace the party atmosphere.
Stay near Bridport & West Bay
Bournemouth
Choose from the lively clubs and bars to the classy theatre affairs to start your New Year’s Eve break in Dorset. Many of the venues in the town put on special menus and host events like the Bournemouth Pavilion Ballroom. Whatever your style, as the countdown approaches, revellers come together in the Square, Lower Gardens or Pier Approach to welcome in the New Year in fantastic company and a scintillating rendition of Auld Lang Syne.
For a low-key New Year’s Eve in Dorset…
Not everyone wants to dress up and join a street party, and to be honest, we don’t blame you. A low-key New Year’s Eve can be equally as special. Stock up on tasty nibbles and a few bottles of fizz and countdown to midnight in the company of your nearest and dearest. You could even start the evening with an early stroll around Kingston Lacy’s illuminated gardens or a meal at one of the fantastic restaurants in Dorset.
Where to stay for a quiet new year’s break in Dorset
Christopher Cottage, Lulworth: sleeps 6
Away from the lively street parties of Weymouth and Bridport, Lulworth is a charming village. Spend new year reflecting with your loved ones or pop to the local pub to soak up the jovial atmosphere.
Bramble Lodge, Netherbury: sleeps 2
Located near the River Brit this quiet countryside escape is perfect for a couple who are looking for peace and tranquillity over New Year. There is a pub just 1 mile away!
New Year’s Day events in Dorset
Wake up on New Year’s Day and breath in that fresh sea air - what a way to start a new year. Whether you are feeling fragile or refreshed, get outdoors and revitalise the spirit with a walk along the coast, a pub lunch, or join in one of these invigorating New Year’s Day events.
- The Lyme Lunge – As is tradition, every New Year’s Day at 1pm, those who are brave enough, take a dip in the waters of Lyme Bay to raise money for the chosen Rotary charity. Wetsuits allowed – ideally with fancy dress over the top!
- Duck race – Another tradition in Lyme Regis ahead of the Lyme Lunge, watch rubber ducks race down the River Lyme at 12pm, before hopping into the sea!
- Bathtub Race – Feel refreshed as you watch several teams take to the water in their homemade crafts in Poole Harbour. Cheer them on and watch the excitement along the way!
- A fun family day out - Choose from Aladdin at Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth, Jack & The Beanstalk at Lighthouse – Poole’s Centre for the Arts or Cinderella at Weymouth Pavilion Theatre.
Have you been inspired to spend a new year break in Dorset? Book your stay now and start planning your celebrations! However lively or peaceful you’d like them to be, Dorset has it all.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.