Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve produced these FAQs based on the most common enquiries sent to our Festival team. If you can’t find an answer to the question you’re looking for, please contact us.
About the Festival
Where and when will the 2024 Festival be held?
This year’s Festival will be held on the weekend of 7th & 8th September, on the Weymouth Peninsula.
What hours is the Festival open?
The Festival will be open Saturday 10.00am to 8.00pm, and Sunday 10.30am to 5.00pm.
How do I find out what’s on and when at the Festival this year?
We’ll be updating the website regularly with information about this year’s event schedule. For the latest information you can register for latest news, or follow the Festival on Facebook, Instagram or X (formerly Twitter).
How do I reserve a place for my child in the School of Fish?
You can reserve a place on the Tickets page of this website.
Why is the Festival held on Weymouth Peninsula?
Weymouth Peninsula is a wonderful location, mid-way between the beach and the harbour, offering spectacular views over Weymouth Bay. In the past, the Festival spread across the harbourside, but with the redevelopment of Custom House Quay the harbour is no longer suitable for such a large and popular event. The Peninsula provides additional space, is a fantastic location for live music, improved seating and more family friendly activities.
Is there disabled access to the Festival?
Yes, the site is relatively flat and should cause minimal issues for those in wheelchairs. Find out more at Planning Your Visit.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, well behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a short leash at all times.
Festival Tickets
Where can I buy Festival tickets?
You can buy tickets from this website.
Can I buy tickets on the gate?
Visitor numbers are capped each day, so please buy your tickets in advance from this website. We will only sell tickets at the gate in the event that availability remains.
Are discounted tickets available?
Concession tickets are available for local residents (DT3, DT4 and DT5 postcodes) – £5 on Sunday 8th September – and for seniors over 65. Children under 16 can enter for free but must have a valid Kids Go Free concession ticket. Proof of address or age may be requested at the entrance gate.
Why do local residents have to pay to visit the Festival?
Like everything else, the cost of running the Festival has been rising steeply over recent years. To keep the event an important date in Weymouth’s calendar, it’s vital we ask for a contribution from everyone who attends, even local residents. We do, however, offer discounted entry, for just £5, for residents of DT3, DT4 and DT5 postcodes, on Sunday 8th September.
Can I get a refund for tickets I’ve already bought?
We are sorry, but tickets cannot be refunded after purchase unless the Festival is cancelled or rescheduled. There will be no refund or compensation in the event of adverse weather. For more information, please read the full Terms and Conditions of tickets sales.
Travel to the Festival
Where can I park?
There’s plenty of parking in Weymouth, but we recommend you arrive early because over Festival weekend town centre car parks tend to fill up quickly and congestion can be expected.
How do I get to Weymouth by train?
From London Waterloo (3hrs 12 mins), via Southampton, Bournemouth and Poole on South Western Railway or from Bristol on First Great Western (2hrs 20 mins). The festival site is about one mile from the railway station
How do I get to Weymouth by coach?
National Express coach services run daily from London Victoria, Plymouth, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester and Brighton.
About Weymouth
What else is there to do in Weymouth and the surrounding area?
Weymouth is the quintessential Great British seaside town, but its golden sands and picturesque harbour are just the start of what’s waiting for you. Visit Nothe Fort, Portland Castle, Durdle Door and Lulworth, or just watch the world go by from a spot by the harbour. For ideas of what to do when you visit try the Visit Dorset and Love Weymouth websites
Where can I stay?
Weymouth has every type of accommodation on offer from fun, family holiday parks to romantic boutique hotels. For inspiration, try the accommodation pages on the Visit Dorset or Love Weymouth websites.
Where can I eat?
If you’ve got any space left after the Festival, Weymouth is a fantastic foodie destination, with everything available from traditional seaside fish and chips to the finest in fine dining. Take a look at our Visit Weymouth page for ideas.
Stallholders & Exhibiting
How do I find out more about the stallholders at the Festival?
Details of all the businesses exhibiting at this year’s Festival can be found on the What to See page of this website.
Where can I find out more information about exhibiting at the Festival?
You can find out more about how to get involved on this website, download our Exhibitor Terms & Conditions, or contact the Festival team on 01305 783222 or at hello@dorsetseafood.co.uk.
Typically, how many visitors attend the Festival?
In recent years, approximately 10,000 people have visited over Festival weekend.
Sponsorship & Partners
Where can I find out more information about becoming a sponsor or partner of the Festival?
You find out more about how to get involved on this website or contact the Festival team on 01305 783222 or at hello@dorsetseafood.co.uk.
What is the Festival contact for media information?
If you have a media enquiry about the Festival, please contact Sophie Kermani at In The Bag PR on 01305 783222 or at sophie@inthebagpr.co.uk.
