Early May Bank Holiday Weekend
Live music, maypole dancing, LEGO® castle building, blacksmithing workshops, medieval dress-up. A packed bank holiday weekend for all the family.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Step into the spirit of May Day this Early May Bank Holiday with a weekend of medieval craftsmanship, relaxed live music and traditional seasonal celebrations, all set against the dramatic ruins of the iconic castle.
On Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 May, visitors can enjoy live performances at The Centaur Stage, a pop‑up performance space championing emerging musical talent. The perfect soundtrack for a relaxed bank holiday weekend.
Adding a modern twist to a centuries‑old tradition, Gobbledgook Theatre will host a Disco Maypole, inviting visitors of all ages to join in weaving colourful ribbons around the maypole in a fun interactive dance.
On Monday, visitors can book a hands‑on blacksmithing workshop with Alistair Butcher of AB Forgeworks, and create their own early‑medieval key to take home. Pre-booking essential.
Throughout Saturday 2, Sunday 3 and Monday 4 May, visitors can also enjoy:
A castle‑building extravaganza using a quarter of a million LEGO® bricks on loan from the University of Exeter, inviting visitors of all ages to follow designs or let their imaginations run free - castle dragons optional.
Traditional outdoor games, including archery and welly wanging.
The chance to try on replica medieval costumes inspired by historic records, or arrive dressed as a noble, knight or peasant.
A May Queen flower selfie‑station in front of the castle, featuring representations of local wildflowers.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Meeting point
This event will take place in the Outer Bailey of the castle
- What to bring and wear
Wear clothing and footwear suitable for exploring a ruined castle.
- Accessibility
The main activities will take place in the Outer Bailey where there is step free access.
Upcoming events
Blacksmithing Workshops - Medieval Keymaking
Would you like to have a go at forging your very own medieval key?
Home and Hearth: Archaeological finds exhibition
Delve into the past and discover more about everyday life at Corfe Castle. This exhibition, hosted in Castle View Welcome Centre, showcases fascinating small finds from archaeological excavations.
May Half Term - Stories and Seedlings at Corfe Castle
Grow, explore and time travel this May half term. Join us at Corfe Castle for a fun mix of hands‑on planting and interactive storytelling with the Keeper of the Castle, where families are welcomed as guests from the past.
The New Famous Five and the Forgotten Treasure
Get ready for a fun adventure at Corfe Castle based on The New Famous Five by Chris Smith, inspired by Enid Blyton. Our interactive quest invites families to explore the castle like true detectives.