Christmas at Corfe Castle
- Published:
- 14 October 2026
Experience the charm of Corfe Castle this Christmas. Discover festive touches around the castle, follow our family quest and toast marshmallows around the fire pits. By night, wander the ruins under the stars at our Winter Lights events.
Christmas at Corfe Castle
19 December 2026 - 3 January 2027 | 10am - 3pm | Normal admission applies | Free to National Trust members
Take time to relax and enjoy the seasonal magic of Corfe Castle this Christmas. Gather around the fire pits to toast marshmallows with friends or family, explore the ruins on our medieval Christmas quest, and return after dark for Winter Lights.
Natural decorations, collected from across the Purbeck estate will be sprinkled throughout castle.
Please note additional charges apply for marshmallows.
For further information: Christmas Family quest: Family quest Winter lights: Winter lights
Winter lights
12 December & 19 December 2026 | 4pm - 7.15pm | Normal admission applies | Free to National Trust members
Step into the magic of Corfe Castle after dark at our two late-night openings.
The ruins will be illuminated, creating a unique atmosphere as you explore, enjoy a winter warmer and toast marshmallows around the fire pits.
Braziers and festoon lighting will guide your way through the grounds, but we recommend bringing a torch for the walk from the car park and to help spot uneven ground.
The castle will be open until 8pm (weather permitting), with last entry at 7:15pm.
For further information: Winter lights
Winter Solstice sunrise at Corfe Castle
Sunday 21 December | 7am - 10am| Normal admission applies | Free to National Trust members
Wake up bright and early to experience the rare opportunity of watching the sun rise over East Hill on the shortest day of the year from within the castle.
Explore the ruins and keep cosy with a winter warmer and marshmallows to toast around fire pits in the Outer Bailey.
Castle gates open at 7am in time for you to walk up and find the perfect spot to watch the sunrise. Bring a camping chair for added comfort.
For further information: Winter Solstice
Christmas in and around Dorset
Discover how the houses and gardens around Dorset are being transformed for Christmas in 2026 and plan your festive day out.
Eating and shopping at Corfe Castle
Situated in an 18th century former cottage, the Tea-room at Corfe Castle serves a delicious menu of hot and cold food, drinks, cakes and bakes. Afterwards, stop off at the Shop to discover beautiful collections of homewares, gifts and locally made ranges to take home with you. The second-hand book shop located in Castle View is also filled with literary treasures.
Things to see and do at Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle offers plenty to see and do, including walks around the ruins, a audio trail and wildlife spotting in the surrounding hills. Find out more.
