We may be closed for the winter to guests and holiday home owners, but for friendly locals in the area and day-trippers there's much to look forward to this month! We're very fortunate in our Charmouth location to be so close to some fantastic West Dorset Christmas events. From awe-inspiring illuminations, carol singing to visits from Santa himself, there's plenty of festivities to enjoy.
Each year there's a variety of fun activities for all the family held in our nearby towns of Lyme Regis and Bridport. Our swimming pool is open Monday-Friday (9am-4:45pm - last session at 4pm) and Saturday & Sunday (9am - 1:45 - close at 2pm).
Here's our guide to some of the not-to-be-missed Christmas events in West Dorset in 2021...
Illuminate at Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Abbotsbury, 26th November – 23rd December 2021
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is hosting the annual ILLUMINATE over the festive season. Running until 23rd December, this is a chance to explore the gardens of a top visitor attraction with an atmospheric display of lights. Take the whole family for this memorable way to get into the festive spirit – the kids will love it! Take the time to visit the onsite café and enjoy homemade cakes, mulled wine, snacks and hot drinks.
Entertainment in Bridport
Bridport Arts Centre & Bridport Electric Palace
Bridport is a great place to be on the run up to Christmas, the vibrant town captures the festive atmosphere perfectly. Bridport Arts Centre plays host to a selection of theatre, music and Gifted – an exhibition of Christmas craft and design. Equally, Bridport Electric Palace is a great option for entertainment with comedy, film, live music and Disco Inferno – a Christmas Party on 3rd December 2021.
Surfin' with Santa
West Bay Harbour, Sunday December 12th 2021
Have some festive fun on the water and dress up in fancy dress for Surfin' with Santa at West Bay. The relaxed activity is open to all water users, including paddle boards, canoes, and kayaks. Come and get involved in this community event in the harbour, which is guaranteed to bring a smile to the face of everyone taking part. The event raises money for Action for Children aiming to help local children have a happier Christmas.
Santa Claus is coming to town
12th - 14th December 2021
Santa makes his annual pre-Christmas eve stop off in Uplyme, Lyme Regis & Charmouth on 12th - 14th December. You'll be able to hear him coming with the sound of music as he approaches with his helpers. Keep your eyes and ears peeled!
This year, funds collected will be donated to the Woodroffe Schools Welfare Project which provides a range of mental health services for students. A great cause worthy of your support!
Lyme Regis Christmas Tree Festival
Lyme Regis Baptist Church, 17th – 19th December
The Christmas Tree Festival is a much loved festive event in Lyme Regis. See an impressive collection of brightly decorated Christmas trees being showcased in style by local groups and organisations. The magical display is free to attend, with any donations greatly received. Refreshments are also available.
Christmas films at Marine Theatre
Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis. 15th & 22nd December 2021
Watching one of the all-time great festive films is a perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit. The Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis is showing some of the nation's favourite heartwarming classics this year. It's A Wonderful Life is being shown on 15th December, followed by a double bill of The Snowman and Father Christmas on 22nd December. Visit Marine Theatre for the times and to book your tickets.
Carols around the Christmas tree
Lyme Regis, 23rd December 2021
The Rotary Club of Lyme Regis host an Annual Carols Round the Tree at the Shambles in Broad Street. The charming community gathering is attended by The Lyme Regis Town Band, who perform a selection of seasonal carols for a good old sing along.
Annual Christmas Day swim in Charmouth
Charmouth, 25th December 2021
One of our favourite 2021 Christmas events in West Dorset has to be the Annual Christmas Day swim in Charmouth. If you're feeling brave enough to get into the water on the big day, head to the beach at Charmouth at 10.30am, the swim starts at 11 sharp. Fancy dress is a traditional part of the event but not essential. As always, the event going ahead will depend on good weather conditions. Proceeds from the event go to RNLI.