upComing EvEntS

pre-loved rainbow trail
Feb
12
to 31 Dec

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

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uplift youth festival
Apr
6
to 19 Apr

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.

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meet the author - ben kane
Apr
7

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.

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andy smith (exhibition) - not out of the woods yet…
Apr
8
to 19 Apr

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!

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droves & downs: in conversation
Apr
9

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.

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up at the big house - talk by ruth kerr
Apr
15

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’.

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a wimborne town river stour walk
Apr
16

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.

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fused glass with linda rowe
Apr
18

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.

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festival of sport & active leisure
Apr
19

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.

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willow bumble bee
Apr
23

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

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saint george, england's patron saint - talk by john smith
Apr
23

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

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modern calligraphy (using brush pens)
Apr
23

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

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ambient afternoon
Apr
26

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)


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the pushchair murder - talk by paul stickler
Apr
29

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.

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visit to moignes court
Apr
30

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.

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meet the author talk with fiona williams
Apr
30

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

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stonehenge and durrington walls walk
May
14

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.

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married to the mob - talk by brian and jaquline sutton
Jun
2

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.

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tearoom makers market
Jun
20

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.

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shrek the musical
Jun
25

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

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quarterjack quilters' exhibition & sale
Jul
4
to 5 Jul

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.

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wimborne art club summer exhibition
Aug
14
to 16 Aug

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.

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tearoom makers market
Sept
26

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.

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canford easter sports academy (3 day course)
Mar
30
to 1 Apr

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

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the great easter egg hunt
Mar
29

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.

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tearoom makers market
Mar
28

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.

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around the world - the weird wild and wonderful new zealand - talk by andrew negus
Mar
27

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

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easter adventures at kingston lacy
Mar
21

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

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super museum adventure
Mar
21

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.

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launch of historic town trail
Mar
14

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.

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the wimborne pottery throw down!
Mar
13

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.

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crochet for beginners
Mar
13

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

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natures marvels - talk by david boag
Mar
12

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

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downstream dorset - bridging the past and the future - relive old memories, discover new facts
Mar
11

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

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talk: rembrandt and the science of art
Mar
10

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.

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spanish language courses - various levels available
Mar
4
to 25 Mar

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

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february makers market
Feb
28

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

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from bombs to bourneville - a talk by helen baggot
Feb
24

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

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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.