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February can be a lovely time to visit Dorset, as the days start getting longer and you begin to notice the first tantalising signs of spring.
This is a lovely month to visit Dorset’s gardens and woodlands in search of snowdrops, early crocuses, and other winter blooms. Wrap up warm and hit the coast path for a blustery walk, explore Dorset’s heritage at the many museums and stately homes, or make the most of indoor attractions if it’s raining. February is still very much quiet season, so prices are generally lower and attractions are less crowded – even during half-term.
At-a-Glance: Dorset in February
- Average temperature: 9.1°C high / 1.6°C low
- Rainfall: 67 mm
- Daylight hours: ~9.5 hours
- Sea temperature: ~8–9°C
- Tourism Level: Quiet
- Best For: Photographers, nature lovers, romantic winter getaways.
Weather in February
February remains cold: temperatures are similar to January, and frosty mornings are common. Rainfall is lower than in mid-winter, but the weather is still very mixed. You can expect bright sunshine, showers, and grey skies – sometimes all in the space of an hour! As the month progresses, the days start getting noticeably longer, and the first hints of spring begin to appear.
What to Expect in Dorset in February
February in Dorset feels quiet and slow-paced. As the days start getting longer and early daffodils appear in the countryside, you get the sense that we’re finally moving out of winter. Visitor numbers remain low, even during the half-term holiday, making this a relaxed time to explore.
Many attractions are still closed for the winter, and others run limited winter hours, but there are plenty of gardens, stately homes, and museums to explore. Some run special offers at this time of year, and accommodation prices tend to be low, so February can be a very budget-friendly time to visit. It’s a good month for peaceful walks, cosy countryside getaways, and enjoying Dorset before the spring crowds arrive.
Highlights
- Early signs of spring in Dorset’s countryside and gardens.
- Mostly quiet, though slightly busier during half-term.
- Good availability and off-season prices.
- Peaceful coastal and countryside walks.
Events & Festivals in February
- February half term (16-20 Feb 2026)
- Cool Coast Ice Rink, Bournemouth (until 22 Feb 2026)
- Kings’ View Experience at Corfe Castle (until 28 Feb 2026)
- Meet Rembrandt art exhibition, Kingston Lacy (until 22 March)
- Snowdrop Trail at Kingston Lacy (28 Jan – 21 Feb 2026)
- Coastal Combat Festival (7-8 Feb 2026)
- Dorchester Beerex beer festival (6-7 February 2026)
- Shaftesbury Snowdrop Festival and Lantern Parade (14-22 Feb 2026)
- Light Up the Prom, Bournemouth Pier (27 Feb 2026)
Best Things to Do in February
- Snowdrop spotting: You’ll see these welcoming winter flowers throughout the countryside. Gardens like Kingston Lacy, Mapperton Gardens, and Forde Abbey host special snowdrop events, while the town of Shaftesbury hosts an annual Snowdrop Festival.
- Family-friendly Indoor Attractions: Such as Splashdown Waterpark, Rock Reef climbing centre, or SEA LIFE Weymouth.
- Tour one of Dorset’s stately homes, like Kingston Lacy or Lulworth Castle, for art and history. Full list here.
- Book a spa day at one of these gorgeous hotels (perfect for a Valentine’s Day treat).
- Hiking on the South West Coast Path: Trails are quiet, and you can spot spring blooms in the woodlands. Stay well back from cliff edges and pay attention to any route diversions. Good walking boots are a must!
Wildlife Highlights in February
February is still a good month for winter birdwatching, with large numbers of waders and wildfowl in Dorset’s coastal wetlands. Early signs of spring appear in woodlands and gardens, with more birds singing and pairing up.
Key species & where to see them:
Winter blooms – Snowdrops, winter aconite, eastern sowbread, and early daffodils can be seen in hedgerows, woodland areas, and Dorset’s gardens.
Roe deer – Dorset’s native species of deer can be seen all year round, but they are easiest to spot in winter when they tend to form small groups.
Tawny owls – Listen out for their iconic “too-wit too-woo” calls at night, a duet between males and females as they guard their territories in preparation for egg-laying in February/March.
Overwintering waders and wildfowl – avocets, curlew, redshank, oystercatchers, teal, and wigeon are common, especially around Poole Harbour, The Fleet, and RSPB Radipole.
Brent geese – reliable around Ferrybridge and Portland Harbour.
Marsh harriers – regular sightings at Lodmoor and Radipole.
Early songbirds – robins, great tits, and blackbirds becoming more vocal in gardens and woodland edges.
Quick Tips for Visiting in February
- Expect mixed weather: layers and waterproofs are essential, and you’ll want sensible shoes if you’re hitting the trails.
- Avoid half-term if you prefer quieter days out.
- Check seasonal reopening dates for attractions.
- Book indoor activities in advance during half‑term.
- Pay attention to weather warnings, and stay on the path when walking the cliffs. Check the South West Coast Path website for alerts and route changes.
Whether you’re planning a short break or a longer stay, February is a lovely time to experience Dorset at a slower, gentler pace. With its early spring blooms, wintery events, and lower prices, it’s a great month for a budget-friendly getaway – even in half-term! Don’t forget to explore my other Dorset guides for more inspiration.
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FYI: weather averages are taken from the Met Office’s official climate station page for Bournemouth Airport/Hurn. Source for daylight hours: timeanddate.com. Sea Temperature Source: Channel Coastal Observatory records for Weymouth.
Booking Your Trip
Airports Guide – An in-depth guide to the best airports for Dorset, including travel info for each one.
Booking.com – The best booking site for all types of accommodation. It usually has the lowest prices and the widest range. I highly recommend downloading the app to manage your bookings and search on-the-go (app prices are sometimes slightly cheaper, too).
Get Your Guide – Find and book tours and attraction tickets for your trip.
Discover Cars – Easily search for and book car hire for your Dorset trip.
Airalo – If you’re coming from overseas, buy a pre-paid eSIM for the UK to get online without roaming fees. Use code EMILY9237 to get £2.50 off your first purchase.
