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Winter Solstice at Corfe Castle

Experience the rare opportunity of watching the sun rise over East Hill on the shortest day of the year from the castle ruins.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Corfe Castle will be opening its gates from 7am to experience the rare opportunity of watching the sun rise over East Hill on the shortest day of the year from the castle ruins.

Explore the ruins and keep cosy around a fire pit roasting marshmallows in the Outer Bailey. Enjoy a hot drink or pastry from local cafe, The Goat.

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.

Standard admission applies, National Trust members free.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Suitability

No unaccompanied children

Meeting point

Castle entrance

Accessibility

Dress warmly and appropriately for weather conditions. Wear sturdy footwear. Bring a camping chair for added comfort. You may need to bring a torch for the walk up.

Other

Please be aware that there are steps, steep slopes, and uneven paths in the castle. There is wheelchair access to the Outer Bailey only.

Upcoming events

Kings' view experience 

For the first time since 1646, you can ascend the Kings Tower at Corfe Castle to experience rare historical features and panoramic views - once only reserved for royalty.

Event summary

on
2 Dec to 31 Dec 2025
at 10:30 to 15:30+ 29 other dates or times

Guided tour and Kings’ View experience 

Travel through time with a guided journey through Corfe Castle, ending with an exclusive ascent to the new Kings’ view platform. A breath taking view not experienced since the castle’s destruction in 1646.

Event summary

on
3 Dec to 19 Dec 2025
at 11:00 to 12:30+ 12 other dates or times

Artisan Crafts 

Watch demonstrations of heritage crafts from our friendly artisan volunteers.

Event summary

on
5 Dec to 26 Dec 2025
at 10:00 to 14:00+ 3 other dates or times

Monty and Matilda Travelling Tales - family quest 

Explore the castle this festive season, searching for the festive scenes in the castle.

Event summary

on
5 Dec 2025 to 4 Jan 2026
at 10:00 to 15:30+ 28 other dates or times