Events & Entertainment | Posted on August 12th, 2026 | return to news

Eclipse watch: Parties and events to view the solar event of the decade

From Hengistbury Head to Weymouth’s Nothe Fort, Dorset is perfectly positioned for some of the best views of today’s solar eclipse. Remember, wherever you are, to take safe viewing precautions, and never look directly at the sun!

The eclipse, where the moon blocks out the sun, begins at 18:17 BST with maximum eclipse coverage of around 91 to 94 per cent at 19:13 to 19:14.

Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre is charging £4.50 (glasses will be provided) for a private viewing event (now sold out) with astronomers Kate Earl and Bill Coombes to explore this rare celestial event. The Moon will almost cover the Sun, leaving just a small crescent behind.

There will be a special telescope to view the eclipse, as well as free entry for children and craft activities, plus more information on astronomy and the dark skies needed to best enjoy them. If you’ve missed booking, there’s plenty of public space across the Head for personal viewing.

Around Dorset, Nothe Forte is providing a free viewing zone. Kingston Maurward Animal Park has an event while a Solar Eclipse Party at Bournemouth’s Urban Reef has Salsa and Latin Music to add to the atmosphere. On Southbourne cliff tops, Café Riva will offer food and drink for viewers, and there are plenty of events to cater for sun watchers.

Solar eclipse safety tips:

Never look at the Sun without proper safety equipment (sunglasses are not safe).
Do not look through smartphone screens, camera lenses or telescopes at the sun.
Do not try to take photographs without a solar filter or you risk damaging your equipment.
Pinhole viewers made from cardboard boxes, kitchen colander viewers and even the leaves a tree provide safe indirect ways to view the eclipse.