The Purbeck Film Festival
The Purbeck Film Festival is the oldest rural film festival in the UK, supported by over 8,500 people annually. The events offer more than just a visit to the cinema – there is a unique cinematic experience with introductions, special guests, a great atmosphere and strong community spirit. Events are held across a range of cinemas, theatres, libraries, art centres, village halls and local venues across Dorset. There are also outdoor cinema screenings in iconic locations such as Corfe Castle, though these often take place in the Summer rather than during the main Festival.
The aim of the Festival is to bring films to areas of rural Dorset ill served by access to cinemas in the form of memorable community events. It also aims to expand audience choice by screening arthouse, classic, independent and foreign language films in a wide and often quirky range of venues.
Event tickets can be bought online in the run-up to the Festival.
Event details
Dates and times
Friday 16th October - All day
Saturday 17th October - All day
Sunday 18th October - All day
Monday 19th October - All day
Tuesday 20th October - All day
Wednesday 21st October - All day
Thursday 22nd October - All day
Friday 23rd October - All day
Saturday 24th October - All day
Sunday 25th October - All day
Monday 26th October - All day
Tuesday 27th October - All day
Wednesday 28th October - All day
Thursday 29th October - All day
Friday 30th October - All day
Saturday 31st October - All day
All day
Similar events
Events are happening throughout the year all over Dorset and across our holiday parks. Similar events to The Purbeck Film Festival are listed below. Alternatively, view all listed events via the button.
Party In The Park
Fun, music and entertainment while raising money for a local school
Saturday 18th July, 2026
at 1:00pm and 1 future dates
The World Nettle Eating Competition
Yes, you read that right, a stinging nettle eating competition!
Saturday 20th June, 2026 - All day and 1 future dates
Weymouth Armed Forces Weekend
A themed, celebratory weekend
Sunday 21st June, 2026
at 10:00am and 3 future dates
The Great Dorset Chilli Festival
The hottest day out in Dorset...
Sunday 2nd August, 2026
at 10:00am and 3 future dates
Swanage Wild Swimming Festival
Wild swimming in some scenic locations
Sunday 19th July, 2026 - All day and 3 future dates
Love Parks Day
Celebrating Dorchester's Borough Gardens
Thursday 23rd July, 2026
at 11:00am and 1 future dates
Bridport Folk Festival
A long weekend of music and dance
Sunday 26th July, 2026 - All day and 5 future dates
Purbeck International Chamber Music Festival
Local and international talent on show
Sunday 6th September, 2026 - All day and 7 future dates