Here's everything you need to know for Summer Nights at the Castle
We can’t wait to welcome you to the Summer Nights at the Castle series of concerts featuring the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra in the spectacular ruins of Corfe Castle.
To help you make the most of your evening, we’ve put together some useful information about arrival, parking, what to bring and a few important site guidelines. Please take a few minutes to read through everything before you travel.
- 📍 Venue: Corfe Castle (Main Entrance via Drawbridge)
- 🎟️ Entry: Have digital or printed tickets ready to scan
- 🪑 Seating: Bring your own picnic blankets & folding chairs
- 🌧️ Weather: Open-air event (runs rain or shine!)
- 🚪 Gates Open: 6:30 PM (Fri/Sat) | 4:00 PM (Sun)
Table of Contents
Start Times
Friday 24 July – West End to Hollywood
- Gates open: 6:30pm
- Concert starts: 7:30pm
Saturday 25 July – Smash Hits 80s
- Gates open: 6:30pm
- Concert starts: 7:30pm
Sunday 26 July – Curious Creatures
- Gates open: 4:00pm
- Concert starts: 5:00pm
Your tickets
Please have your tickets ready on arrival. They can be shown on your phone or printed if you prefer.
Transport
Swanage Railway train service
Prefer to drive? Where to park
The recommended parking is at the National Trust Castle View Welcome Centre car park (BH20 5DR). Although the Welcome Centre itself will be closed, parking will be available.
A free overflow parking field opposite the Welcome Centre will also be open for concertgoers.
Please note:
- Parking is at your own risk.
- It’s approximately a 5–10 minute uphill walk from Castle View to the castle entrance.
- Parking in Corfe village is very limited, so please use the official event car parks and be considerate of local residents.
If you would prefer a flatter walk, there is parking available on West Street in Corfe.
Guests with limited mobility may be dropped off near the village square before the driver parks.
Accessibility
Please be aware that Corfe Castle is an historic site accessed via a cobbled drawbridge.
- There is no disabled parking within the castle grounds.
- The concert area is mainly flat grass.
- Accessible toilets are located just over the drawbridge beside the National Trust ticket office.
Food & Drink
You’re welcome to bring your own picnic & drinks, including alcohol.
Please DO NOT bring any glass bottles or glass containers.
There will also be:
- A licensed bar serving beer, cider, wine, spirits and soft drinks from The Goat.
- Hot and cold drinks from The Goat.
- Cherry Ices ice cream throughout the evening.
What to bring
Please note this is not a seated concert, so we recommend bringing:
- Picnic chairs or blankets
- Suitable footwear for grass and uneven ground
- Sunscreen, hats and drinking water if it’s warm
- Waterproof clothing if rain is forecast
- A torch, as the paths to the castle and parking areas are unlit after dark
Friday and Saturday are sold out, so space will be limited. Please be prepared to sit close to other guests and avoid using more space than necessary with large blankets.
Smoking
Corfe Castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, so smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere within the castle grounds.
Please Help Protect Corfe Castle
The castle is one of Dorset’s most treasured historic landmarks.
During the concert:
- Please stay within the designated event areas.
- The castle ruins will be closed and must not be climbed on or entered.
- Please take all litter home or use the bins provided.
Your help in protecting this special place is greatly appreciated.
Dog policy: Dogs are allowed
Well-behaved dogs are welcome provided they remain on a short lead at all times.
Cancellation policy
Photography & Filming
Photography and filming will take place during the event for use on our website, social media and promotional material. By attending, you consent to being included in this content.
