Dorset Events
Past Events In Dorset
Past events by date
Page 2
Pipsford Farm - Open Garden for NGS
Fri 22 May 26
Pipsford Farm, Beaminster DT8 3NT
3 acres of formal and informal gardens. Ponds surrounded by mature specimen trees, acers, hydrangeas, ferns and bamboo...
Adult Soft Play: Big Kid Energy
Fri 22 May 26
The Treehouse, Merritown Lane, Christchurch BH23 6DT
You asked and here it is - an evening in the soft play just for the grown ups.
Get your mates together, maybe do a few warm up stretches, and get...
'Into The Light' Art Exhibition, Dorset Art Week Event
Fri 22 May 26
The Gallery Upstairs
Upton Country Park, Poole Road, Upton, Poole BH17 7BJ
Exhibition Title: 'Into the Light'
Dates: 22nd May – 8th June 2026
Venue: The Gallery Upstairs (above the tearooms), Upton Country Park...
Quartet by Ronald Harwood, performed by Castle Players
Thu 21 May 26
Lytchett Matravers Village Hall, High Street, Lytchett Matravers BH16 6DD
A Heartwarming Tale of Second Chances
Cecily, Reggie, and Wilfred are living out their days in a beautiful English country house for retired...
Join our choir in Dorchester for a FREE taster session
Tue 19 May 26
Dorchester RFC, Coburg Road, Dorchester DT1 2HX
If you are wanting to join a choir you'll like singing with us in the Rock Choir.
The local Dorchester choir is run by Dorset based...
Deans Court - Open Garden for NGS
Mon 18 May 26
Deans Court, Wimborne Minster BH21 1EE
13 acres of peaceful, partly wild gardens in ancient monastic setting with mature specimen trees, Saxon fish pond, herb garden and orchard beside...
Swanage Mediumship Evening with Nikki Kitt
Mon 18 May 26
Swanage Conservative Club
27 Kings Road West Swanage BH19 1HE
Evening of Mediumship with Psychic Medium Nikki Kitt
Psychic Medium Nikki Kitt is a Spiritualist Medium who is currently touring the UK with her...
Little Benville House - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 17 May 26
Little Benville House, Dorchester DT2 0NN
Contemporary garden, with landscape interventions by Harris Bugg Studio within a varied ecological AONB and historic landscape off Benville Lane,...
Pugin Hall - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 17 May 26
Pugin Hall, nr Dorchester DT2 0PR
Pugin Hall was once Rampisham Rectory, designed in 1847 by Augustus Pugin, who also helped to design the interior of the Houses of Parliament...
Bembury Farm - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 17 May 26
Bembury Farm, Sherborne DT9 6QF
Created and developed since 1996 this peaceful garden has lawns and large herbaceous borders informally planted with interesting perennials around...
22 Lancaster Drive - Open Garden for NGS
Sat 16 May 26
22 Lancaster Drive, Broadstone BH18 9EL
Hidden in the heart of Broadstone, this 360ft woodland garden blends timeless oaks, a natural spring and seasonal acers with spaces for calm and...
Myrtle Cottage - Open Garden for NGS
Sat 16 May 26
Myrtle Cottage, Blandford Forum DT11 0ES
A small to medium size segmented cottage garden, sympathetic to wildlife with a wildflower meadow and pond, part flower, part fruit and vegetable, a...
Christchurch Cheese & Chilli Festival
Sat 16 May 26
Next To Bournemouth Airport, Parley Lane, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 6AD
Get ready for a weekend of flavour, fire, and family fun at the Christchurch Cheese & Chilli Festival – one of the South Coast’s most loved food...
Magic of Thailand Festival in Poole
Sat 16 May 26
Harbourside Park (Baiter Park), Poole BH15 1UY
A two day Thai Festival to experience the taste of Thailand this summer at Harbourside Park is brought to you by Magic of Thailand, previously known...
24 Carlton Road North - Open Garden for NGS
Fri 15 May 26
24 Carlton Road North, Weymouth DT4 7PY
Town garden near the sea. Long garden on several levels. Steps and narrow sloping paths lead to beds and borders filled with trees, shrubs and...
Seven Drunken Nights - The Story of The Dubliners
Thu 14 May 26
Regent Centre Christchurch, High Street, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1AW
Proudly celebrating its 10th Anniversary, Seven Drunken Nights - The Story of The Dubliners is back for 2026!...
FREE taster session with the Dorchester Rock Choir
Tue 12 May 26
United Church, Charles Street, Dorchester DT1 1EE
If you have always wanted to join a choir locally, you can!
The Dorchester Rock Choir is led by local vocal tutor Sadie Kerslake...
Beginners Macrame Workshop
Tue 12 May 26
The Treehouse, Merritown Lane, Christchurch BH23 6DT
Join us for a relaxed and creative introduction to the art of macramé!
You’ll learn the essential foundation knots, including the lark’s head and...
39 Pergin Crescent - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 10 May 26
39 Pergin Crescent, Poole BH17 7AL
This 1950s property is situated on the outskirts of Poole with a front garden of appro 850sq metres and a rear garden of approx 112sq metres...
The Secret Garden at Serles House - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 10 May 26
The Secret Garden at Serles House, Wimborne BH21 1EN
The former home of the late Ian Willis, who lived here for just under 40 yrs. Alan Titchmarsh described this amusingly creative garden as one of the...
Ceilidh and Cake!
Sun 10 May 26
Harman's Cross Village Hall, Haycrafts Lane, Swanage BH19 3EB
Folk dances for all ages and abilities with ceilidh band Maiden Oak and caller Malcolm Churchill.
Enjoy our homemade cakes and...
Cerne Giant Festival - Kith and Kin
Sat 9 May 26
St Mary's Church, Abbey Street Cerne Abbas DT2 7JQ
Step into the mead hall and join us for Kith and Kin - a warm- hearted delightful solo show that , brings the everyday world of a 9th century...
Falconers - Open Garden for NGS
Sat 9 May 26
Falconers, Poole BH16 6BJ
Behind the gate of 150 yr old Falconers Cottage lies a ¼ acre mature garden with some interesting plants...
Celebrate Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday at the Oceanarium!
Fri 8 May 26
Oceanarium, Pier Approach, Bournemouth BH2 5AA
Join the Oceanarium team on Friday 8th May 2026, to celebrate Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday and his dedicated work...
Cerne Giant Festival - What the Giant Sees?
Thu 7 May 26
St Mary's Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7JQ
Gary Prescott has been a keen wildlife and landscape photographer for many years and recently has been enthused by photographing the night sky...
Purbeck Folk Club
Thu 7 May 26
Village Hall, High Street, Langton Matravers BH19 3HA
Our next gig on the 7th May 2026 features Amica from Bournemouth. Amica play a diverse range of original music, traditional folk tunes, and jazz folk...
Cerne Giant Festival - Anglo-Saxon Riddle 'Quiz' Night
Tue 5 May 26
St Mary's Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas , Dorchester. DT2 7JQ
How did those 10C Monks in Cerne Abbey while away long winter evenings? Surprisingly, 'What am I?' type riddles were rather popular!...
Cerne Giant Festival - Rambling with Dorset Poetry
Mon 4 May 26
St Mary's Church Abbey Street Cerne Abbas DT2 7JQ
Immerse yourself in the literature and music of Dorset. Join members of the William Barnes Society for this gentle ramble around Cerne and its...
10 Ryan Close - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 3 May 26
10 Ryan Close, Ferndown BH22 9TP
In February 150 varieties of snowdrops carefully named in baskets. In early summer this plantswomans garden is filled with a remarkable selection of...
22 Avon Avenue - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 3 May 26
22 Avon Avenue, Ringwood BH24 2BH
Japanese themed water garden featuring granite sculptures, ponds, waterfalls, azaleas, rhododendrons, cloud topiary and a collection of goldfish and...
Cerne Giant Festival - Riverflies Safari
Sun 3 May 26
Vicarage Field, 4 Back Lane, Cerne Abbas DT2 7JW
The river Cerne contains many interesting invertebrates. Volunteers from the 'Riverfly' project will teach us how to observe and monitor...
Dawn Chorus Guided Walk with Breakfast
Sun 3 May 26
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
Experience the atmospheric dawn chorus at RSPB Arne this spring!
Join us for an early morning wander around RSPB Arne nature reserve, listening to...
Cerne Giant Festival - Giants and Kings
Sat 2 May 26
St Mary's Church Abbey Street Cerne Abbas DT2 7TQ
Join Rebecca Danicic, Forth Bard of Dorchester (Caer Dur 2025-26) and Peter Roe, Grand Bard of Dorset (2024-29) for an afternoon of poetry, stories...
Dawn Chorus Guided Walk with Breakfast
Sat 2 May 26
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
Experience the atmospheric dawn chorus at RSPB Arne this spring!
Join us for an early morning wander around RSPB Arne nature reserve, listening to...
Bournemouth Northern Soul New Venue
Sat 2 May 26
Carrington House Hotel, Knyveton Road, Bournemouth,Bournemouth BH1 3QQ
Saturday 2 May 2026
InCrowd Soul Society NORTHERN SOUL
Carrington House Hotel
Resident DJ Steve Lyons, Guests Nik Mak, Keith Moon
Free...
Spring Art Exhibition
Thu 30 Apr 26
The Gallery Upstairs
Upton Country Park BH17 7BJ
A variety of paintings, prints and greetings cards will be on display and for sale.
There is also an opportunity to have your portrait sketched free...
Cerne Giant Festival - Artists in the Dorset Landscape
Wed 29 Apr 26
Village Hall, Church Lane, Godmanstone DT2 7AQ
Three local art enthusiasts will each give a short illustrated talk.
Their titles are:
1) Contemporary Sculptors working in Dorset today...
Reptile Survey and Heathland Species Guided Walk
Tue 28 Apr 26
RSPB Arne, Arne Road BH20 5BJ
Join us for a rare chance to step behind the scenes at RSPB Arne on a guided walk that combines a live reptile survey with an exploration of our...
Cerne Giant Festival - Understanding Ancient Trees
Mon 27 Apr 26
St Mary's Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7TQ
Bo Walsh is a Senior Tree Officer with Dorset County Council. In this illustrated talk, he will explain the work of a tree officer, and then broaden...
Western Gardens - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 26 Apr 26
Western Gardens, Poole BH13 7AN
Created over 50 yrs the award winning garden offers enormous variety with rose, courtyard and woodland gardens, herbaceous borders and cherry tree...
The Old Rectory, Litton Cheney - Open Garden for NGS
Sun 26 Apr 26
The Old Rectory, Litton Cheney, Dorchester DT2 9AH
Steep paths lead to beguiling 4 acres of natural woodland with many springs, streams, 2 pools, one a natural swimming pool planted with native...
Dawn Chorus Guided Walk with Breakfast
Sun 26 Apr 26
RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
Experience the atmospheric dawn chorus at RSPB Arne this spring!
Join us for an early morning wander around RSPB Arne nature reserve, listening to...
Cerne Giant Festival - Farm Walk at Nether Cerne
Sat 25 Apr 26
Follow signs for Nether Cerne. Farmyard grid ref: SY672 93 DT2
Edward Gallia is a farmer, landowner and environmental adviser farming 870 acres of arable chalk downlands...
Colours of Light An Art Exhibition in Card, paint, clay and glass
Sat 25 Apr 26
Eype Centre for the Arts, Mount Lane, Eype DT6 6SG
Jenny Penney works in card, using an inspired technique. She creates pictures in relief using card, glue a scalpel...
Later Life Letter
Sat 25 Apr 26
Lighthouse Poole (sherling studio), 21 Kingland Road, Poole BH15 1UG
Later Life Letter tells the story of Luke Wright’s adoption – the life he leads, and the one he might have done...
Talk: The Destruction of Arctic Convoy PQ17
Fri 24 Apr 26
Church Knowle Village Hall
Church Knowle, Near Corfe Castle BH20 5NG
A tale of strategy, courage and human fallibility, this talk 'The Destruction of Arctic Convoy PQ17' is given by Naval historian and...
Cerne Giant Festival - The Spring at the Giant's Feet
Thu 23 Apr 26
St Mary's Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7JQ
James Rattue has been researching the holy wells of England for four decades and wrote the first attempt to place these folkloric sites in historical...
Blindfolded bites – Ferndown care home to host sensory dinner
Thu 23 Apr 26
110 Golf Links Road
Ferndown
Dorset BH22 8DA
A care home in Ferndown is inviting the local community to dine in the dark to raise money for charity...
Horn Park - Open Garden for NGS
Tue 21 Apr 26
Horn Park, Beaminster DT8 3HB
Large plantsman's garden with magnificent views over Dorset countryside towards Beaminster and the sea...
Cerne Giant Festival - Shakespeare the Naturalist
Mon 20 Apr 26
St Mary's Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7JQ
One of the aspects of Shakespeare we are coming to appreciate, more and more, especially in these days of growing environmental destruction, is his...
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Things to do around Dorset
Here's an extended summary of delightful activities for a day out in Dorset:
1. Eat Around Shaftesbury:
- Shaftesbury, a historic working town with roots dating back to Saxon times, offers a charming day out. Don't miss the iconic Gold Hill, made famous by an advertisement for 'Hovis' bread. Enjoy spectacular views over Blackmore Vale. Explore the town's markets – Thursdays for the charter market, regular farmer's markets, flea markets, and book fairs. Take a leisurely stroll along Park Walk for panoramic vistas. For wine enthusiasts, visit Melbury Vine Vineyard, where you can learn about English wines and their growing prominence.
2. Visit Castles & Coast on the Isle of Purbeck:
- Hop on the steam train to Corfe Castle, an iconic defensive fortress with a rich history. Explore the castle ruins and the historic village below. Guided walks and story trails are perfect for families. Venture further into the Isle of Purbeck, where cycling allows you to appreciate the stunning landscape sustainably. Don't forget to take the scenic Breezer Bus.
3. Learn the History of Dorchester:
- Dorchester, the county town of Dorset, is steeped in history. Visit the Dorset County Museum to delve into local heritage, including the famous Dorset Giant, Thomas Hardy, and Roman artifacts. Explore the charming streets, perhaps stopping for a traditional cream tea or browsing independent shops.
4. Hive Beach to Lyme Regis Coastal Walk:
- Embark on a coastal adventure from Hive Beach to Lyme Regis. The scenic walk offers breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast, fossil-rich cliffs, and the dramatic coastline. Explore the charming town of Lyme Regis, known for its beaches, fossils, and literary connections (think Jane Austen and Mary Anning).
5. Sherborne Castles & Abbey:
- Discover the historic town of Sherborne. Visit the magnificent Sherborne Castle, built by Sir Walter Raleigh, and explore its beautiful gardens. Don't miss Sherborne Abbey, a stunning medieval church with intricate architecture. Wander through the town's quaint streets and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery.
6. Relax at a Day Spa in Dorset:
- Treat yourself to relaxation and rejuvenation at one of Dorset's day spas. Unwind with massages, facials, and soothing treatments amidst tranquil surroundings. Whether it's a coastal spa or a countryside retreat, pamper yourself and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Remember, Dorset offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and coastal charm – perfect for a memorable day out! 🌿🏰🌊¹³.
:
1. Eat Around Shaftesbury:
- Shaftesbury, a historic working town with roots dating back to Saxon times, offers a charming day out. Don't miss the iconic Gold Hill, made famous by an advertisement for 'Hovis' bread. Enjoy spectacular views over Blackmore Vale. Explore the town's markets – Thursdays for the charter market, regular farmer's markets, flea markets, and book fairs. Take a leisurely stroll along Park Walk for panoramic vistas. For wine enthusiasts, visit Melbury Vine Vineyard, where you can learn about English wines and their growing prominence.
2. Visit Castles & Coast on the Isle of Purbeck:
- Hop on the steam train to Corfe Castle, an iconic defensive fortress with a rich history. Explore the castle ruins and the historic village below. Guided walks and story trails are perfect for families. Venture further into the Isle of Purbeck, where cycling allows you to appreciate the stunning landscape sustainably. Don't forget to take the scenic Breezer Bus.
3. Learn the History of Dorchester:
- Dorchester, the county town of Dorset, is steeped in history. Visit the Dorset County Museum to delve into local heritage, including the famous Dorset Giant, Thomas Hardy, and Roman artifacts. Explore the charming streets, perhaps stopping for a traditional cream tea or browsing independent shops.
4. Hive Beach to Lyme Regis Coastal Walk:
- Embark on a coastal adventure from Hive Beach to Lyme Regis. The scenic walk offers breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast, fossil-rich cliffs, and the dramatic coastline. Explore the charming town of Lyme Regis, known for its beaches, fossils, and literary connections (think Jane Austen and Mary Anning).
5. Sherborne Castles & Abbey:
- Discover the historic town of Sherborne. Visit the magnificent Sherborne Castle, built by Sir Walter Raleigh, and explore its beautiful gardens. Don't miss Sherborne Abbey, a stunning medieval church with intricate architecture. Wander through the town's quaint streets and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery.
6. Relax at a Day Spa in Dorset:
- Treat yourself to relaxation and rejuvenation at one of Dorset's day spas. Unwind with massages, facials, and soothing treatments amidst tranquil surroundings. Whether it's a coastal spa or a countryside retreat, pamper yourself and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Remember, Dorset offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and coastal charm – perfect for a memorable day out! 🌿🏰🌊¹³.