Did you know that on select days in September there are Heritage Open days which includes FREE entry to Dorset attractions. During 2025, the Heritage Open Days are between 12th and 21st September. Some attractions will require you to book your tickets in advance so check out the local Dorset attractions and book your slots.
Heritage Open Days are England’s largest festival of culture and history. Discover something new with thousands of locations across England opening up their doors to visitors. There’s plenty to do during your visits, including some attractions including activities for children as well.
We have included a selection of Heritage Open Days in Dorset below for your enjoyment.
Heritage Open Days Dorset
Belmont: 18th Century Maritime Villa – Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3HZ
Sit in John Fowles’s former writing room drinking in its wide views of the sea and sky. In the garden, there is a Victorian observatory tower, with a hatch and revolving roof. Open on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September.
Blandford Fashion Museum – Dorset, DT11 7AA
Heritage Open Days visit is by pre booked appointment on 20th September.
Why not also read about our visit to Blandford Fashion Museum
Blandford Forum Cemetery Chapel – Salisbury Road, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7UX
No booking is required for your Heritage Open Days visit on 12th September.
Christchurch Priory Church Tours – BH23 1BW
Pre booked tours are available on 15th September
Clavell Tower – Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5PE
Normally only for holiday lets, see inside the tower on 13th and 14th September 2025. Booking isn’t essential but is preferred.
Related post – Visiting Kimmeridge Bay
Highcliffe Castle – Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 4LE
Pre booked tours and open for FREE entry on 18th September.
Kingston Lacy – BH21 4EA
There is FREE entry to Kingston Lacy between 18th – 20th September which also includes a visit to the house.
Related post – Kingston Lacy National Trust
Lulworth Castle & Park – Wareham, BH20 5QS
Walk in the footsteps of Royalty as you explore the 17th Century Castle. Discover the stunning landscapes, beautiful 18th Century Roman Catholic Chapel and unrivalled views from the Castle tower. Thursday 16th and Friday 17th September.
Why not also visit the nearby Lulworth Cove.
Max Gate
You can book an advance ticket to visit the National Trust Max Gate on 20th and 21st September.
Museum Of East Dorset Guided Tour – Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1HR
Pre booked tours on 13th & 14th September
Nothe Fort Open Day – Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UF
No booking required on 14th September for free entry to Nothe Fort
Shire Hall Museum
Visit the historic courtroom in Dorchester for FREE on 13th September. Pre booking not required
Upton House – Poole Road, Upton, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7BJ
Book on for a FREE! guided tour of Upton House as part of Heritage Open Days. This will be a rare opportunity to explore the basement and former servants’ quarters at Upton House. – 20th – 21st September
Related post – Upton Country Park
Sherborne Abbey – Sherborne, Dorset, DT9
Pre book for guided tours of Sherborne Abbey on 12th – 20th September.
Find out more information and book your Heritage Open Days tickets