upComing EvEntS
pre-loved rainbow trail
Wimborne’s Pre-LOVEd Rainbow Trail has been created to encourage sustainable shopping choices. Buying second-hand reduces both the use of resources to make something new and the disposal of throwaway items, often to landfill. Making sustainable spending decisions is one of the most important things we can do to care for our planet.
The Pre-LOVEd Trail is one of many trails created by Planet Wimborne for Wimborne Town of Culture 2026, and to endure into the future as a legacy.
Location: All Charity and Second Hand Book Shops
Free to attend
uplift youth festival
Taking place Monday 6 – Sunday 19 April 2026, UPLIFT is part of Wimborne Town of Culture 2026 and is a programme of pop-up events, performances and creative activities by young people and for young people.
Across the Easter holidays, you’ll find creative activity popping up across the town – from workshops and performances to exhibitions and markets – with many events free to attend or take part in.
UPLIFT is all about creating opportunities for young people to share their creativity, try new things and help shape what happens in their town.
meet the author - ben kane
Join us at Wimborne Library for a look into the world of Ben Kane’s latest historical adventure. Set in 211 BC, the story follows Hannibal’s continuing struggle against Rome in Italy, while the Carthaginians face a decisive defeat in Sicily.
Ben Kane will explore the history, characters, and research behind his work.
andy smith (exhibition) - not out of the woods yet…
Andy Smith, an artist based in Wimborne Minster has been painting seriously for just over four years, before that, he says, he was finding his way. He tried out a great variety of artistic paths before he was seized by a love of bright lights between dark trees, zinging with vibrant colour.
His chosen style of painting tried to capture both tonal contrasts and vivid colours and uses the brightness of acrylic paint. He is looking for the starkness of sunlight between the bright leaves and the tracery of branch silhouettes, for pools of golden sun amongst dark shadows and for the bright glow of backlit flower petals against dark backgrounds.
This year, for his third exhibition at Walford Mill, he has branched out (pun) and been experimenting with oils. Seeking out scenes that capture light with his camera phone before beginning to paint. Using bright acrylics upon square boards of 6mm MDF and vivid oils on canvas boards, he is setting out to prove that his style has evolved and that he is Not out of the woods yet!
youth creative workshops (uplift youth festival)
A series of free creative workshops for children, teenagers and young adults will be part of the programme, giving young people the opportunity to make, experiment and explore creativity in a welcoming environment.
droves & downs: in conversation
Droves & Downs: In Conversation offers a rare opportunity to experience the exhibition after hours, before settling in for an engaging artist panel discussion. This is your chance to hear directly from the exhibiting artists about how they approached the project, and how the extraordinary landscape of Cranborne Chase National Landscape has shaped and inspired the works on display. Enjoy a free drink on arrival, take time to explore the exhibition, and gain deeper insight into the creative processes behind the show.
Arrival is from 5:30pm at the museum’s main entrance with the panel discussion beginning at 6.45pm.
This event is free to attend, but booking is essential.
uplift live (uplift youth festival)
On Saturday 11 April, Wimborne’s Market Square will host UPLIFT Live, a series of performances from young musicians and performers, bringing fresh energy and creativity to the heart of the town.
youth makers market (uplift youth festival)
In partnership with Walford Mill, we are running a Youth Makers Market as part of the Walford Mill Makers Market on Sat 11 April, showcasing work created by young artists and makers.
up at the big house - talk by ruth kerr
Ruth grew up on The Glen Estate in the Scottish Borders and talks about Glen House, its history and her recollections of working there. As her first job, she worked on the housekeeping team at Glen House, the Scottish home of Lord & Lady Glenconner, which is depicted in the acclaimed TV’s series ‘The Crown’.
a wimborne town river stour walk
A gentle 5-mile circular walk from the fringes of Wimborne following the River Stour upstream, then looping back via Canford. We will follow suburban and rural footpaths with no stiles to negotiate. Please bring a snack and dress appropriately for the weather with suitable footwear.
fused glass with linda rowe
Discover the art of glass fusing in our small, friendly workshops designed for both beginners and returning participants. Learn the basics or build on your experience while creating your own beautiful fused glass pieces in a relaxed and creative setting. All materials and kiln firing are included.
festival of sport & active leisure
The Festival of Sport & Active Leisure is a free, one-day community event taking place in Wimborne on Sunday 19th April 2026, as part of the Town of Culture celebrations.
Held at Willow Walk from 10:00am to 4:00pm, the festival invites people of all ages and abilities to discover local sport and active leisure opportunities in a relaxed, inclusive setting. Organised by the Wimborne Sports & Active Leisure Forum in partnership with Wimborne BID and the Town Council, the event is designed to make getting active feel accessible, enjoyable, and pressure-free.
Visitors can expect a wide range of drop-in activities, taster sessions, and demonstrations, all delivered by local clubs, charities, and businesses.
This is not a competitive event. It’s about having a go, meeting the people behind local clubs, and finding ways to move that feel good.
willow bumble bee
Learn how to use willow to create a gorgeous bumble bee for your garden! You will learn a variety of techniques to produce this fabulous sculpture. This is great for both beginners to willow as well as those with experience.
Cost: £35
Location: East Dorset Heritage Trust, Allendale House, Hanham Road, Wimborne Minster. BH21 1AS
Access provision: Step-free access, Inclusive toilet facilities, Blue badge parking onsite or nearby?, Clear pathways (aisles/space wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooter, double buggies and prams), Assistance dogs allowed
saint george, england's patron saint - talk by john smith
Brief description of event: On England’s Patron Saints Day, learn about Saint George as an historical figure. Why was he selected and accepted as England’s National Saint? What were his origins and how did he become a saint? This talk explores the story from the beginning with various interpretations and contradictions.
Location: East Dorset Heritage Trust, Allendale House, Hanham Road, Wimborne Minster. BH21 1AS
Cost: £6
Access provision: Step-free access, Inclusive toilet facilities, Blue badge parking onsite or nearby?, Clear pathways (aisles/space wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooter, double buggies and prams), Support workers/Guides/Disability trained staff, Assistance dogs allowed
modern calligraphy (using brush pens)
Learn the basics of modern calligraphy using brush pens. You will practise techniques for producing beautiful lettering and have a chance to try out a number of types of pens. You will also create one or two of your own unique cards using your newfound skill.
Locaton: East Dorset Heritage Trust, Allendale House, Hanham Road, Wimborne Minster. BH21 1AS
Cost: £29
Access provision: Step-free access, Inclusive toilet facilities, Blue badge parking onsite or nearby?, Clear pathways (aisles/space wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooter, double buggies and prams), Assistance dogs allowed
ambient afternoon
An afternoon of ambient music concerts, in a garden setting. With tea and cake. If you like the music of Robert Fripp and Brian Eno, this is for you! Concerts byJames Osland, Andrew Heath, Mosaicist + Geoff Hearn, POND (Rosie Carr & Pedro Figueiredo), Grasslands, Thompost, Soundhenge, Tim Cowie and an ambient dj set from Harry Towell. Experimental electronica - modular synths - tape loops - Frippertronics - shakuhachi improvisations. All welcome, free to attend.
Start Time: 1.30pm - 5.30pm
Location: Museum of East Dorset
Cost: Free
Access provision: Inclusive toilet facilities, Seating options (perch points, accessible viewing points, wheelchair spaces)
the pushchair murder - talk by paul stickler
In 1946, a patrolling police constable was murdered in Burton-on-Trent as he walked his beat during the silent hours. He had disturbed a burglar. It would take 10 years to bring the suspected offender before the courts but not before a world-wide manhunt, including the personal intervention of J Edgar Hoover, Head of the FBI. This presentation exposes post-war attitudes towards American GIs who had remained in Britain after the war.
visit to moignes court
Moignes Court is the oldest inhabited house in Dorset with records showing it was built in 1267. The Cree family bought the house in 1826 and have continued to live there for 8 generations. Ralph Cree (7th generation) will give a guided tour of the historic grounds which include the moat, kitchen garden, medieval fishponds and earthworks from the medieval village of Owermoigne. The tour will also include the old kitchen and 1st floor courtroom in the house. Refreshments will be served before the tour. There is no coach to this property.
meet the author talk with fiona williams
Join us for a Meet the Author talk with Fiona Williams, author of The House of Broken Bricks. Fiona’s work explores themes of identity, belonging and rural diversity.
This event is part of the Words Alive in Libraries tour, presented by South Western Regional Library Services and Literature Works, and funded by Arts Council England.
Location: Wimborne Library, Wimborne Minster, BH21 1HH
Cost: Free
Access provision: Clear pathways (aisles/space wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooter, double buggies and prams), Hearing loops, Assistance dogs allowed
quiz night
Get ready for a night of fun at our Quiz Night.
Great prizes, great company, and plenty of friendly competition—don’t miss it.
murder at villa madeira: the story of the rattenburys - talk by hattie miles
In March 1935 Bournemouth was shaken by a sensational murder. Retired architect Francis Mawson Rattenbury, aged 67, was found dead at his home, Villa Madeira, on Manor Road. This fascinating true story begins in 1867 and takes us right up to 2021 and involves two architects, a concert pianist and a chauffeur.
coach visit to pennard house and hauser & wirth, somerset
Join us on this amazing chance for a rare, private tour of Pennard House —a stunning 17th-century estate that remains a cherished family home. Discover the house’s hidden history, from its origins as part of Glastonbury Abbey to its centuries as the seat of the Dearden family.
stonehenge and durrington walls walk
Join us on this walk around the Stonehenge landscape which is steeped in ancient history. Starting in Amesbury and crossing the River Avon to the Normanton Down barrows to Stonehenge. From there on to Woodhenge and Durrington Walls before returning past the site of Amesbury Abbey.
aerial arts dorset showcase
Join us for an afternoon of performances by our talented aerialists! Displays of aerial hoop, hammock and pole fitness by our aerialists aged 5 through to adults!
new forest national park - talk by steve roberts
Covering the history of the New Forest from pre-Norman times, through William the Conqueror’s royal hunting ground and William Rufus’s death, right up to more modern times and the Forest during WW2.
married to the mob - talk by brian and jaquline sutton
Young, beautiful and everything to live for, Frances Shea, briefly married to Reggie Kray, remains one of the most tragic stories of the Swinging Sixties. Drawn into a world of nightclubs, fast cars, beautiful clothes and showbiz parties, she struggled to cope with the violence, drink, and drugs of the Kray twins’ gangland world. This sad story reveals Reggie’s obsession with Frances and her attempts to break free, resulting in her untimely death at only 23.
chesil beach guided geology walk with john scott
Enjoy a guided walk along a section of Dorset’s amazing Jurassic Coast centred on Chiswell and Chesil Beach.
tearoom makers market
The Makers Market celebrates local artists, makers and small businesses offering a wonderful mix of handmade goods, unique finds and thoughtful designs.
And don’t forget – the fabulous Tearoom will be open serving it’s usual delicious treats.
shrek the musical
oin Shrek, a grumpy but lovable ogre, live on stage at the Tivoli Theatre this June, on an hilarious and heart-warming adventure to rescue the feisty Princess Fiona and reclaim his swamp! Along the way, he’s joined by the fast-talking Donkey, faces off with the villainous Lord Farquaad, and discovers that true love and friendship really does come in all shapes and sizes. Filled with dazzling costumes, laugh-out-loud moments, and a big green heart, it’s the show that proves being different is truly what makes you special.
Location: The Tivoli Theatre, West Borough, Wimborne Minster
Cost: £22 adult / £18 Under 16’s
Access provision: Step free access, Inclusive toilet facilities, Clear pathways (aisles wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, buggies and prams), Seating options (perch points, accessible viewing points, wheelchair spaces), Hearing loops, Family toilet facilities
quarterjack quilters' exhibition & sale
Quarterjack Quilters of Wimborne are holding their 2026 Exhibition on Saturday and Sunday 4th & 5th July 2026 from 10.00am – 4.00 pm at the Allendale Centre in the heart of Wimborne in Dorset.
On display will be a wide variety of quilts and other textile items made by our members. These will range from king-size bed quilts to pin cushions – with a wide selection in between! A number of quilts will be offered for sale.
debby kirby (exhibition) - threaded together
A celebration of colour, texture and form.
This Exhibition will feature collaborations with Manda Beeching, Claire Thomas, Caroline Parrott and others along with ceramics by Dave Pointer.
Join for a Celebration Party on the 1st August 2026
wimborne art club summer exhibition
The Wimborne Art Club Summer Exhibition will be held at Pamphill Village Hall from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 August.
The exhibition showcases the artistic talents of its members and features crafts as well as paintings. There is a varied selection of subject matter and styles, something to suit everyone’s taste.
tearoom makers market
The Makers Market celebrates local artists, makers and small businesses offering a wonderful mix of handmade goods, unique finds and thoughtful designs.
And don’t forget – the fabulous Tearoom will be open serving it’s usual delicious treats.
canford easter sports academy (3 day course)
Canford is delighted to once again be able to host its 3-day Easter Sports Academy from Monday 30th March - Wednesday 1st April 2026. Led by the school’s own sports coaches and visiting coaching staff and making use of the exceptional sporting facilities among 250 acres of grounds, Canford is the perfect setting for children to develop their sporting, teamwork and leadership skills.
The courses are aimed at children in Years 5-8 who are keen to further develop their cricket, golf, tennis or try out a range of sports ahead of the summer season.
Location: Canford School
Cost: £225 (3 day course, including lunch)
Timings: 8:45am - 4:30pm
the great easter egg hunt
A fun afternoon at Wimborne Community Garden for children of all ages to enjoy an Ester Egg hunt, playing the Corn-hole game, take part in pancake and egg & spoon races. Tea and cakes plus a plant stall available.
tearoom makers market
Museum of East Dorset’s Makers Market celebrates local artists, makers and small businesses offering a wonderful mix of handmade goods, unique finds and thoughtful designs.
And don’t forget – the fabulous Tearoom will be open serving it’s usual delicious treats.
around the world - the weird wild and wonderful new zealand - talk by andrew negus
Andrew returns for the next instalment of his journey of discovery. This time New Zealand with its marvellous mountains, glaciers, volcanoes and serene lakes. There are strange beaches that are more like Dartmoor than Blackpool.
Location: East Dorset Heritage Trust, Allendale House, Hanham Road, Wimborne Minster. BH21 1AS
Cost: £6
Access provision: Step-free access, Inclusive toilet facilities, Blue badge parking onsite or nearby?, Clear pathways (aisles/space wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooter, double buggies and prams), Support workers/Guides/Disability trained staff, Assistance dogs allowed
easter adventures at kingston lacy
Join in the Easter fun this spring. Put on your bunny ears, complete the ten amazing activities around the Easter adventure field before claiming your tasty chocolate prize.
Location: Kingston Lacy
Cost: Entry to property from £11.70. Easter trail £3.50 per trail
Access provision: Inclusive toilet facilities, Changing & feeding facilities, Family toilet facilities, Seating options (perch points, accessible viewing points, wheelchair spaces), Blue badge parking onsite or nearby?, Clear pathways (aisles/space wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooter, double buggies and prams), Lowered displays (exhibitions lowered for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and children), Hearing loops, Quiet space, Buggy parking, Assistance dogs allowed
super museum adventure
Explore the museum by hunting for coins, testing your skills, and unlocking your inner adventurer. Enjoy hands-on craft activities and dress up in our fancy dress section.
On select dates, join our Mario gaming sessions on a Nintendo Wii—book your slot upon arrival.
rose hatcher & kate alexander (exhibition)
Exhibition featuring Silk Fibre Art, Fused Glass, Mixed Media, Jewellery, Handstitched Notebooks.
launch of historic town trail
The launch of the Historic Town Trail is the latest Planet Wimborne, Town Council and Wimborne BID town trail to be launched as part of the Town of Culture. The trail is based on some of the significant people and buildings of Wimborne's colourful past. The Town Crier, Wimborne Minster Town Mayor, a Planet Wimborne Trustee and Malcolm Angel, owner of Gullivers Bookshop, will officially launch the trail at this free event.
mother's day cream tea
Celebrate Mother's Day with a delicious cream tea in our Tea Room.
the wimborne pottery throw down!
Join The Touring Potter Team, for The Wimborne Pottery Throw Down! The workshops will offer the opportunity to use both the potter’s wheel and hand build with clay. Pottery is a fun, creative and therapeutic craft.
The class is designed for all abilities, and all classes are inclusive of tuition, materials and refreshments. You will be able to choose from a selection of stunning artisan glazes to finish your pieces. Your clay creations will be taken away to be kiln fired and then returned to Allendale House for collection.
crochet for beginners
Crochet is one of the easiest and most satisfying crafts to enjoy. Come along and learn the basics of how to create the traditional ‘Granny Square’. You will learn how to chain stitch to form a circle, how to treble crochet and create corners plus how to change colour. Watch as your creation grows before your eyes. Yarn and hooks will be provided to buy, or you are welcome to bring your own.
Location: East Dorset Heritage Trust, Allendale House, Hanham Road, Wimborne Minster. BH21 1AS
Date: Friday 13 March 10am - 12:30pm & 1.30pm - 4.00pm
Cost: £24
Access provision: Step-free access, Inclusive toilet facilities, Blue badge parking onsite or nearby?, Clear pathways (aisles/space wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooter, double buggies and prams), Assistance dogs allowed
natures marvels - talk by david boag
We are surrounded by a wonderful world and every day we see marvels of nature. However, many marvellous things can become so familiar that we stop appreciating them. From butterflies to plants, symbiosis to photosynthesis. A wealth of beautiful and interesting things are illustrated with David’s camera and his enthusiasm brings them all to life. A remarkable and exciting lecture for everyone.
Location: East Dorset Heritage Trust, Allendale House, Hanham Road, Wimborne Minster. BH21 1AS
Cost: £6
Access provision: Step-free access, Inclusive toilet facilities, Blue badge parking onsite or nearby?, Clear pathways (aisles/space wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooter, double buggies and prams), Support workers/Guides/Disability trained staff, Assistance dogs allowed
downstream dorset - bridging the past and the future - relive old memories, discover new facts
In 2022, Mary van Coller completed a six-year labour of love tracing the streams, rivers and stories of Dorset.
Driven by a deep affection for the county, alongside a longstanding interest in history and a passion for community, Downstream Dorset brings to life the historic villages, landscapes, and local stories connected by Dorset’s waterways thus capturing what makes the county such a special place to so many.
Downstream Dorset is available from Gulliver’s or on the night.
20% of book profits go to support Dorset Air Ambulance
Location: Wimborne Library
Cost: Free event for FoWL members - Guests £5
Book in person with Library staff; phone: 01202 882770
or email: wimbornelibrary@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
Access provision: Step-free access, Inclusive toilet facilities, Changing & feeding facilities, Family toilet facilities, Seating options (perch points, accessible viewing points, wheelchair spaces), Clear pathways (aisles/space wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooter, double buggies and prams), Lowered displays (exhibitions lowered for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and children), Interactivity, Hearing loops, Relaxed hours, Buggy parking, Quiet space
talk: rembrandt and the science of art
Join Rebecca Hellen, National Conservator for Visual Arts, for a talk which will take you behind the scenes to look at what is means to understand paintings through science and conservation.
Rebecca worked extensively on the Rembrandt Self-portrait that is currently on display at Kingston Lacy and she will be able to bring this to life along with other paintings sharing some of her knowledge on what can be learnt from studying these paintings. The National Trust is also creating the UK and Europe’s largest collection of scientific paint samples of its paintings, interiors and more embarking on a journey into colour. Rebecca will explore how we are pioneering in this field and why.
The talk will start with time for you to enjoy the slow looking audio guide experience of Rembrandt’s Self-portrait in a Feathered Bonnet. This will be followed by Rebecca’s talk with time for questions.
The talk will be taking place in a fully accessible exhibition space. Personal wheelchairs and mobility scooters are welcome.
into the light: pioneers of black british ballet exhibition
A celebration of courage, creativity, and cultural impact. Learn about the individuals who opened doors in British ballet and continue to inspire dancers and audiences today.
spanish language courses - various levels available
We welcome all newcomers to our friendly Wednesday or Friday groups. Please get in touch for help to ensure you join the correct level. Our tutor is a native Spanish speaker.
Cost: 4 week courses £48
Location: East Dorset Heritage Trust, Allendale House, Hanham Road, Wimborne Minster. BH21 1AS
Access provision: Step-free access, Inclusive toilet facilities, Blue badge parking onsite or nearby?, Clear pathways (aisles/space wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooter, double buggies and prams), Assistance dogs allowed
february makers market
Join us for our February Makers Market, a curated event bringing together independent makers, artists and small businesses from across Dorset
Organised by the Dorset Team, our events focus on quality and creativity and bringing together a range of different crafts all under one roof!
You’ll find a carefully selected mix of stalls by local makers and creatives including jewellery, ceramics, textiles, illustration, homeware and gifts. The fair is perfect for discovering something a little different and shopping local.
Location: Allendale Community Centre, Hanham Rd, BH21 1AS
Cost: Free entry
Access provision: Step-free access, Inclusive toilet facilities, Changing & feeding facilities, Blue badge parking onsite or nearby?, Clear pathways (aisles/space wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooter, double buggies and prams), Lowered displays (exhibitions lowered for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and children), Assistance dogs allowed, Family toilet facilities
from bombs to bourneville - a talk by helen baggot
This illustrated talk includes the story of a family who helped build torpedoes and buildings, of a man from Cornwall whose manufacturing invention transformed processes on both sides of the Atlantic… The story of the Unknown Warrior’s final journey is revealed through a postcard sent to a spinster music teacher and a different card takes us to Brownsea Island and the first camp of the Scouting movement.
Location: Castleman Suite, Allendale House, Wimborne
Entry Fee £6.00
Tuesday 24 February 2pm
didi littlewood & lilly tigwell (exhibition) - maker’s table
Didi and Lilly are local artists. The love of nature and their faith inspires works of art which can be seen through creative renderings of Lilly’s doves and Didi’s trees.
submit your event
Wimborne's year as Dorset Town of Culture is shaped by our community – and that means you! Whether you're planning a brand new event or already run regular activities in Wimborne, we'd love to feature your event in our 2026 programme.
All types of events are welcome: workshops, performances, exhibitions, heritage walks, sports activities, festivals, talks, and anything else that brings our community together through culture. Fill out the form to tell us about your event.