Booking Arrangements
If the event is marked as 'Bookable' booking is essential.
Requests for tickets must be accompanied by a Booking Form. The booking form (accompanied by a stamped addressed envelope) should be received by Friday 15th August.
The Booking Form can be downloaded here
(Please note that you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the Form. This is free software and it can be downloaded here )

To ensure fairness, tickets will be allocated by ballot. You will be advised by post if you are lucky or not.

From Friday, 22nd August, tickets still available can be collected from the Booking Office at Allendale House, Wimborne. Please phone to check availability but tickets will only be sent on receipt of a stamped addressed envelope.

Many events do not require tickets. Please check the programme details carefully to avoid frustration and disappointment.
Please try and ensure that you arrive on time at the meeting place. If appropriate, we will send you details of where the event starts but if it is not clear, please ring the Booking Office for clarification.
You should NOT arrive at a Bookable event without a ticket. Only those with tickets will be allowed entry. Please be fair to others and if you know you will not be able to honour the booking, please telephone the Booking Office as soon as possible so that the ticket(s) can be reallocated.

Jump to a day:

Saturday 13th                 Sunday 14th                

Monday 15th                  Tuesday 16th                   Wednesday 17th                 Thursday 18th                  Friday 19th

Saturday 20th                Sunday 21st

02
Holy Trinity Church Tourist Office & Heritage Centre
Church Visit
South St, Wareham.
Opposite Abbots Quay. GR: 924873. Please use public car parks. NO on-site parking please.
Dogs allowed only if kept on a lead
Photography allowed
Children welcome
No Disabled Access
Holy Trinity Church, formerly St Andrews Chapel, includes a Nave and Chancel dating from the 14th Century and a Tower from around 1700. It was damaged by fire in 1762 and then fell into disuse until 1830. It is now the Purbeck Information & Heritage Centre.
02/01 Saturday 13th September 9.30am-5pm
02/02 Monday 15th September 9.30am-5pm
02/03 Tuesday 16th September 9.30am-5pm
02/04 Wednesday 17th September 9.30am-5pm
02/05 Thursday 18th September 9.30am-5pm
02/06 Friday 19th September 9.30am-5pm
02/07 Saturday 20th September 9.30am-5pm

03
Old Crown Court & Cells, Dorchester
Open Day
High West St, Dorchester. Please use public car parks
Not normally open to the public
No dogs allowed
No photography allowed
Children welcome
Partial Disabled Access. Stairlift available to Court but no access to cells.
Visit the Old Crown Court and Cells in Dorchester and discover it's gripping history. Experience 200 years of gruesome crime and punishment on a free guided tour. Further information available at www.westdorset.com
03/01 Saturday 13th September 10am-5pm
03/02 Sunday 14th September 2pm-4pm

04
St Stephen's Church, Bournemouth
New Event
Church Visit
St Stephen's Way, Bournemouth. Opposite the Town Hall. Parking available on-site
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access
St Stephen's Church is Grade I listed. A cathedral in miniature with soaring stone vaulting, exquisite ironwork and breathtaking painted wooden reredos. A masterpiece of architect John Loughborough Pearson, it was considered by John Betjeman to be the most beautiful church in Bournemouth. There will be guided tours at 11am and 2pm, an organ recital at 1pm and visitors will also be welcome at Mass at 10am. Refreshments will be available.
04/01 Saturday 13th September 10am-4pm

05
The Guildhall, Lyme Regis
Open Day
Church St, Lyme Regis. Next to the Museum near the seafront. Please use public car parks
Dogs welcome
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access
The Guildhall is the Lyme Regis Town Hall and is still in daily use. The town was originally granted a Guild in 1284 but the present building dates from 1888.
05/01 Saturday 13th September 10am-4pm
05/02 Sunday 14th September 10am-4pm

06
Open Day At Seventeenth Century Quaker Meeting House & Burial Ground
Open Day
South St, Bridport. On the East side of the street, opposite St Mary's Church. GR SY 466 926. Please use public car parks
No dogs allowed inside
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access. Low door sill, ramp inside for toilet.
Bridport Friends welcome you to our much loved Meeting House, a 17th Century barn used for worship ever since as detailed in a series of descriptive panels. Share the peace of the oft-visited burial ground.
06/01 Saturday 13th September 10am-4pm

07
The Study Gallery
Open Day
On the North Road Campus of Bournemouth & Poole College. Opposite Poole Civic Buildings and behind The Sloop pub. Reserved parking available on-site but is limited. Please use call button at barrier for access.
Guide Dogs only
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access
An iconic minimalist building designed by international architect and professor of microarchitecture Richard Horden. The Study Gallery integrates exhibitions with educational practices spanning all ages and levels of experience.
07/01 Saturday 13th September 10am-4pm
07/02 Tuesday 16th September 10am-4pm
07/03 Wednesday 17th September 10am-9pm
07/04 Thursday 18th September 10am-4pm
07/05 Friday 19th September 10am-4pm
07/06 Saturday 20th September 10am-4pm

08
Wareham Town Museum
Open Day
East St, Wareham. Please use public car parks
Guide Dogs only
Photography Allowed With A Permit
Children welcome
Limited Disabled Access
Wareham Town Museum tells the story of Wareham's history with the aid of graphic displays and objects and artefacts from the museum collection.
08/01 Saturday 13th September 10am-4pm
08/02 Monday 15th September 10am-4pm
08/03 Tuesday 16th September 10am-4pm
08/04 Wednesday 17th September 10am-4pm
08/05 Thursday 18th September 10am-4pm
08/06 Friday 19th September 10am-4pm
08/07 Saturday 20th September 10am-4pm

09
St Clements Church, Bournemouth
Church Visit
St Clements Rd, Boscombe, Bournemouth
Parking available on-site. Entrance from Knole Road
No dogs allowed
No flash photography
Children welcome
A Grade I listed building featuring a display of vestments, visits up the church tower and live music throughout the day. Refreshments available.
09/01 Saturday 13th September 10am-4pm

10
Cabinets of Curiosity Weekend At The Priest's House Museum
Special Event
Wimborne Minster High St, opposite The Minster. Please use public car parks
Guide Dogs only
No photography allowed
Children welcome
Disabled access to Ground Floor only
Sample exotic foods from around the world - fun for all the family- and in a special exhibition on the 1st floor look at some of the museum's more unusual objects relating to travel, souvenirs and private collections.
10/01 Saturday 13th September 10am-4.30pm
10/02 Sunday 14th September 10am-4.30pm

11
Richmond Hill St Andrews United Reformed Church
Church Visit
Bourne Ave, Bournemouth, on the opposite corner to the Town Hall. Vehicular access from St Stephens Rd. Bournemouth. Parking available on-site
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
There will be services at 10.30 & 6.30 on both Sundays and weddings at 1pm on the 18th and 2pm & 4pm on the 20th. Visitors are politely requested to respect these services.
Full Disabled Access
This classic Gothic-style church, probably Bournemouth's largest, mainly dates from 1891. The warm interior features much attractive woodwork (including concentric pews), beautiful stained glass and a painting of 'The Good Shepherd'. It's beauty attracts many wedding couples (22 weddings booked for 2008 by April!). The 1950's St Andrew's Chapel also merits a visit.
On Saturday 13th there will be an Organ Concert at 3pm on the recently refurbished Lewis/Willis organ. Visitors are welcome to attend but donations would be appreciated. Please bring your copy of the DAHW booklet if you wish to attend the concert.
11/01 Saturday 13th September 10am-5pm
11/02 Sunday 14th September 10am-7.30pm
11/03 Tuesday 16th September 10am-5pm
11/04 Thursday 18th September 10am-5pm
11/05 Saturday 20th September 10am-5pm
11/06 Sunday 21st September 10am-7.30pm

12
Beaminster Museum
Open Day
Whitcombe Road, Beaminster. From the Town Square head 200m towards Bridport. 1st left along Whitcombe Rd, museum is 20m on the right. Please use public car parks
Dogs welcome
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access
A superb example of how a Grade II listed Congregational Chapel of the early 19th Century has been converted into a local museum and meeting room.
12/01 Saturday 13th September 10.30am-12.30pm & 2.30pm - 4.30pm
12/02 Sunday 14th September 2.30pm - 4.30pm
12/03 Tuesday 16th September 10.30am-12.30pm & 2.30pm - 4.30pm
12/04 Thursday 18th September 10.30am-12.30pm & 2.30pm - 4.30pm
12/05 Saturday 20th September 10.30am-12.30pm & 2.30pm - 4.30pm
12/06 Sunday 21st September 2.30pm - 4.30pm

13
Bournemouth Natural Science Society Open Days
Open Day and Exhibition
39 Christchurch Rd, Bournemouth. Near Derby Rd and Travel Interchange.
Parking available on-site but is limited
Not normally open to the public
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Supervised children only
Disabled access to Ground Floor only
An opportunity to examine the extensive collections of the Natural Science Society covering Natural History, Archaeology and geology specimens, all housed in a Grade II listed building dated 1880.Short special tours to view the building at 11.30am and 3pm
13/01 Saturday 13th September 10.30am-4.30pm
13/02 Sunday 14th September 10.30am-4.30pm

14
St James's Church, Poole
Church Visit
Thames St, Poole. From Poole Quay take Thames Street inland, this is 200 yards from the lifting bridge end of the Quay. The church is ahead of you. Please use public car parks
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
The church may restrict visits without notice due to services.
Full Disabled Access. Ramp for access and toilet available
Parish church with fine Georgian interior and many historic features, especially the pine pillars from Newfoundland, the 18th Century Reredos and a unique Gordon Webster stained glass window. Video available for visitors.
14/01 Saturday 13th September 11am-4pm
14/02 Sunday 14th September 2pm-4pm
14/03 Monday 15th September 11am-4pm
14/04 Tuesday 16th September 11am-4pm
14/05 Wednesday 17th September 11am-4pm
14/06 Thursday 18th September 11am-4pm
14/07 Friday 19th September 11am-4pm
14/08 Saturday 20th September 11am-4pm
14/09 Sunday 21st September 2pm-4pm

Bookable
15
Guided Tour of the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, Bournemouth
Guided Tour
Max No Allowed:15
Directions and meeting point available on tickets
Guide Dogs only
No flash photography or tripods
Children welcome
Partial Disabled Access. Upper floor is not accessible due to Listed Building status. A wheelchair tour is available by calling 01202 451858
The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum is one of the most fascinating museums in the world. It is housed in one of the last Victorian villas in Bournemouth, East Cliff Hall. Treat yourself to a fascinating insight into the house and the lives of Sir Merton & Lady Russell-Cotes.
15/01 Saturday 13th September 11am
15/02 Sunday 14th September 11am
15/03 Wednesday 17th September 11am
15/04 Thursday 18th September 11am
15/05 Friday 19th September 11am
15/06 Saturday 20th September 11am
15/07 Sunday 21st September 11am

16
Weymouth Town Walk
Guided Walk
Meet in front of Weymouth Pavilion, at the South end of Weymouth Esplanade. Please use public car parks
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children over 12 only
Partial Disabled Access Part of the route is unsuitable but a level variation is available.
A walk through the older areas of the town centre and harbour side lasting about 1 1/2 hours
16/01 Saturday 13th September 11am
16/02 Saturday 20th September 11am

17
Flower Festival At Woodlands Parish Church
Church Visit
The Church Of The Ascension, Church Hill, Verwood Rd, Woodlands
From Ringwood B3081 follow signpost to Woodlands. From Wimborne B3078 turn right at Horton Inn. Park on the Green next to the church
Dogs welcome
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access. Ramp to entrance
The church, designed by GF Bodley, is of architectural interest due to it's unique central pillars and arching.
17/01 Saturday 13th September 11am-6pm
17/02 Sunday 14th September 11am-6pm

18
The One And A Half Churches Of Fleet
New Event
Guided Walk
Meet by the New Church at Fleet. GR: SY 634 805.Parking available on-site
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Limited Disabled Access. Good for new church but ground is rough beyond old church
A walk between the two churches of Fleet, the second just a fragment of the original destroyed in the storm of 1824, as well as the site of the lost village of Fleet.
18/01 Saturday 13th September 2pm

19
St Laurence Church, Upwey
Church Visit
Off the end of Church St, the B3159 Weymouth to Martinstown road. Take left fork beyond Wishing Well Café. Parking available on-site
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access
This 13th Century church has additions to the fabric from the 15th, 19th and 20th Centuries. It contains some rare items including Tudor Rose wall paintings, painted texts, an ancient font built into the base of a pillar and a Green Man. The church is open throughout the day for general viewing and notes are available for visitors. A guide will be on-site to answer questions between 2 and 4pm.
19/01 Saturday 13th September 2pm-4pm
19/02 Sunday 14th September 2pm-4pm
19/03 Monday 15th September 2pm-4pm
19/04 Tuesday 16th September 2pm-4pm
19/05 Wednesday 17th September 2pm-4pm
19/06 Thursday 18th September 2pm-4pm
19/07 Friday 19th September 2pm-4pm
19/08 Saturday 20th September 2pm-4pm
19/09 Sunday 21st September 2pm-4pm

20
Church Of Our Lady Queen of Martyrs & St Ignatius Church & Museum Visit + Sacristy Opening
New Event
Church Visit
Chideock is on A35, 2 miles west of Bridport. Turn into North Rd by St Giles Parish Church and the church is 1/4 mile on the right. Parking available on-site
Some Areas Not normally open to the public
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Partial Disabled Access. Some steps. Ramps available
Built In 1874 by Charles Weld this delightful Italian Romanesque church is a gem of English Catholicism. It is also the shrine of the Dorset Martyrs and a Marian Shrine and has a small museum of local history. The Sacristy will be open to view the wall paintings and the site of the original barn chapel. Weld also built a Memorial Chapel close by the Parish Church in 1852, richly decorated with wall paintings, and this will also be open.
20/01 Saturday 13th September 2pm-4pm
20/02 Sunday 14th September 2pm-4pm
20/03 Monday 15th September 2pm-4pm
20/04 Tuesday 16th September 2pm-4pm
20/05 Wednesday 17th September 2pm-4pm
20/06 Thursday 18th September 2pm-4pm
20/07 Friday 19th September 2pm-4pm
20/08 Saturday 20th September 2pm-4pm
20/09 Sunday 21st September 2pm-4pm

21
A Level Walk Around Shaftesbury
Guided Walk
Meet at Shaftesbury Town Hall. From free car park take the pedestrian exit into Barton Hill, then straight over into Bell St, which then leads into High St. Please use public car parks
Dogs welcome
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access
An easy walk around Shaftesbury with plenty of time to ask questions about the history of the town. Strictly informal!
21/01 Saturday 13th September 2.30pm-4.30pm

22
The Treasures Of Poole
New Event
Begin at Poole Museum, 4 High St, Poole. Please use public car parks
Guide Dogs only
No flash photography
Children welcome
Partial Disabled Access
Discover some of Poole's hidden architectural treasures, now cared for by Poole Museum. Did you know Scaplen's Court is the town's most complete domestic medieval house, and has graffiti from the Civil War scribbled on its fireplace? Or that the Town Cellars, now home to the Local History Centre, is the oldest building in Poole Old Town and one of the most important medieval port buildings in Europe? Or that there is a reconstructed Romano-British Farmstead in Upton Country Park? Come and explore all these places for free as part of the Heritage Open Day experience. Shuttle buses will also be running from the Museum to Upton Romano-British Farm. There will also be a chance to meet some of our volunteers and find out how you can get involved in the Museum's work.
22/01 Saturday 13th September 9am-5pm

24
Castleton Waterwheel
Open Day
Oborne Rd, Castleton, Sherborne. 120 yards east of the turning to Sherborne Old Castle. GR: ST 646 169. Parking available on-site
Not normally open to the public
Dogs welcome
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access
The Castleton Waterwheel Museum has an extensive collection relating to the field of Victorian engineering. Central to the display is the 1869 pumphouse powered by a 26 feet diameter waterwheel which pumped clean water to Sherborne until 1959. Now fully restored to working order it drives a twin cylinder pumpset originally built in 1883 for a local tannery. Also on display are the remains of the Nether Cerne Manor Waterwheel built in 1819 - the oldest all-iron wheel in England.
24/01 Sunday 14th September 11am-5pm

25
Highcliffe Castle
Open Day
Off the A337 Lymington Road. Parking available on-site
No dogs allowed
No photography allowed
Children welcome
No Disabled Access. Unsuitable for visitors with mobility problems
Highcliffe Castle, a Grade I listed building owned by Christchurch Borough Council, was built between 1831 and 1835 by Lord Stuart de Rothesay. Restoration work has been ongoing since the 1990's and this Open day is a superb opportunity to see the results of all this hard work on a building described as "the most important remaining example of the Romantic and Picturesque style of architecture".
25/01 Sunday 14th September 11am-5pm

Bookable
26
Highcliffe Castle Tour
Guided Tour
Max No Allowed:15
Directions and meeting point available on ticket
No dogs allowed
No photography allowed
Children welcome
No Disabled Access. Unsuitable for visitors with mobility problems
An outdoor tour of the Castle including architecture, history, stonemasonry and it's owners.
26/01 Sunday 14th September 11am
26/02 Sunday 14th September 1pm
26/03 Sunday 14th September 3pm

Bookable
27
Christchurch Local History Society Walkaround No.1: The Saxon Town
New Event
Guided Walk
Max No Allowed:24
Directions available on ticket
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Please keep to footpaths to avoid traffic.
Full Disabled Access
The Saxon Burgh of Christchurch was given a wall about 878AD on the orders of King Alfred in an attempt to keep out the Vikings. Although the town street layout reflects the Saxon walled town no trace of the walls remain above ground, other than perhaps at the corner of the wall at Bank Close & Druitt Gardens. The walk takes approximately 2 to 2 1/2 hours and takes in the High St, Priory, Town Quay, Convent Walk and Millhams St.
27/01 Sunday 14th September 2pm

Also Featured Today
03 Old Crown Court & Cells
05 The Guildhall, Lyme Regis
10 Cabinets Of Curiosity
11 Richmond Hill St Andrews UR Church
12 Beaminster Museum
13 Bournemouth Natural Science Open Days
14 St James Church, Poole
15 Guided Tour Of The Russell-Cotes
17 Flower Festival At Woodlands
19 St Laurence Church, Upwey
20 Church Of Our Lady & St Ignatius

Bookable
29
Hawkers Farm
New Event
Open Day
Max No Allowed:20
Near Gillingham. Full directions available on tickets
Not normally open to the public
No dogs allowed
Exterior photography only
Children welcome
No Disabled Access
This listed Huntsman's Lodge, dating from the mid 16th Century, required extensive repairs which were carried out using traditional methods. A glass and oak structure links the house to a converted barn. Materials used were traditional, recycled or ecological, e.g limecrete, blown glass, heraklith, ziegel blocks and strawboards. Cream teas will be available in aid of Seafarers UK and nearby Duncliff Woods has nice walks.
29/01 Monday 15th September 2pm-3.30pm
29/02 Monday 15th September 3.45pm-5.15pm
29/03 Wednesday 17th September 2pm-3.30pm
29/04 Wednesday 17th September 3.45pm-5.15pm
29/05 Friday 19th September 2pm-3.30pm
29/06 Friday 19th September 3.45pm-5.15pm

Bookable
30
Kinson Village Walk
New Event
Guided Walk
Max No Allowed: 20
Bournemouth. Full directions available on ticket.
Dogs allowed only if kept on a lead
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access. Generally level ground, no unavoidable steps.
The smugglers of Bourne Heath worked out of Kinson, using tombs in the churchyard to hide contraband and wine-shops in the village to sell it. Gulliver the Smuggler lived and worked here. Although subsumed into modern Bournemouth, Kinson's independent character lies just under the surface.
30/01 Monday 15th September 2.30pm

Special Event
Monday 15th September
Official Opening of New Interpretation Scheme for the Roman Town House, Dorchester
Supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Dorchester Joint Heritage Committee. The completion of the second phase of conservation, protection and access works for the site. With the help of partners in the events taking place at the Town House the ceremony will dramatise the exciting potential of the site for future events, enjoyment and understanding.

Also Featured Today
02 Holy Trinity Church
08 Wareham Town Museum
14 St James Church, Poole
19 St Laurence Church, Upwey
20 Church Of Our Lady & St Ignatius

32
Christchurch Priory
New Event
Open Day
At the end of Christchurch High St Please use public car parks
No dogs allowed inside.
Photography Allowed With A Permit
Children welcome
Visitors are politely respected to respect normal church courtesies. Partial Disabled Access. No access to Quire due to steps
An introduction to the architectural wonders of this Norman church awarded 5 stars in Simon Jenkins book "1000 Best Churches". There will be guides and stewards on hand to answer any questions.
32/01 Tuesday 16th September 10am-12pm & 2pm-4pm

33
Bere Regis Church- A Guided Tour By A Local Parishioner
New Event
Guided Tour
Church is located in centre of village. Entrances from West St, Wool Rd and Elder Rd. GR: 847947. Please use public car parks
Guide Dogs only
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Partial Disabled Access. Steps to Chancel and North Aisle
One of the finest churches in Dorset dating from the 12th Century-refashioned and enlarged in the three succeeding Centuries. A fine tower of stone and flint chequerwork, dating from 1500. A unique 15th Century timber nave roof with carved figures and decoration, said to have been given by Cardinal Morton(of Morton's Fork fame) who was Archbishop of Canterbury and who was born nearby at Milborne Stileham (his mother being of the local Turberville family). Fine arcades with Norman carvings and font and interesting 16th Century monuments to the Turberville family (said to have inspired the Hardy novel Tess of the D'Urbervilles). Donations to the church would be appreciated.
33/01 Tuesday 16th September 11am
33/02 Thursday 18th September 3pm

34
Tudor House, Weymouth
Guided Visit
3 Trinity St, Weymouth. Close to Brewers Quay. Please use public car parks
No dogs allowed
No photography allowed
Children welcome
Only 10 people at any 1 time please.
Disabled access to Ground Floor only
One of Weymouth's few remaining Tudor buildings and furnished as the home of an early Seventeenth Century middle class family. Currently owned by Weymouth Civic Society who will lead tours explaining aspects of life at the time.
34/01 Tuesday 16th September 11am-3.45pm
34/02 Wednesday 17th September 11am-3.45pm
34/03 Thursday 18th September 11am-3.45pm
34/04 Friday 19th September 11am-3.45pm

Bookable
35
Poundbury Village Tour
Guided Walk
Max No Allowed:80
Dorchester. Full directions available on ticket
Some Areas Not normally open to the public
Dogs welcome
Photography allowed
Children welcome
A guided tour of the first phase of the Poundbury development, an urban extension to Dorchester, built between 1993-2000 in accordance with the Vision Of Britain principle promoted by HRH The Prince of Wales creating a walkable neighbourhood. The style is a modern interpretation of traditional Dorset architecture.
35/01 Tuesday 16th September 11.15am

Bookable
36
Blandford Forum Historic Town Centre
Guided Walk
Max No Allowed:24
Directions available on ticket
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
No children allowed
Some slight inclines and uneven pavements to contend with. A gentle stroll around Blandford's historic town centre with Blandford Civic Society, highlighting both the Georgian architecture and the fascinating social history.
36/01 Tuesday 16th September 2pm

Bookable
37
A Triumverate Of Dorset Churches
New Event
Special Event
Max No Allowed: 20
Full directions available on ticket.
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
You must have access to a car.
Partial Disabled Access. Some steps to negotiate
A car based tour around three of the finest churches in Dorset. Medieval Charminster, 18th Century Frampton and Victorian Cattistock.
37/01 Tuesday 16th September 2pm

38
The Chiswell Walled Garden, Portland
Open Day
Follow the A34 to Portland. At 2nd roundabout on Island take the right hand turn signposted Chiswell. Turn immediately right into Pebble Lane. Park in car park and walk 100m up Pebble Lane (next to fishmonger) to The Chesil Gallery
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access. Please ring 01305 822738 in advance.
The Chiswell Walled Garden on the Isle of Portland has been created from the ruins of 17th Century houses destroyed a century ago by the sea overtopping Chesil Beach. It is owned and maintained entirely by the community which has accepted the harsh maritime environment by planting suitable trees and shrubs in raised beds. A garden building made of wattle and daub with a lime mortar render houses a small tea room. An information leaflet is available for £1(proceeds to the Chiswell Community Trust).
38/01 Tuesday 16th September 2pm

Bookable
39
Shaftesbury Abbey & Museum Garden
Guided Tour
Max No Allowed:100
Park Walk, Shaftesbury
Directions and meeting point available on ticket
Dogs allowed only if kept on a lead
Exterior photography only
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access
Disabled parking available on Park Walk
An opportunity for a behind the scenes guided tour of the architectural remains spanning the six hundred year life of Britain's foremost women-only abbey.
39/01 Tuesday 16th September 6.30pm-8pm

Bookable
40
Making Light Work Of Conservation
Guided Visit
Max No Allowed: 25
Corfe Castle. Full directions and meeting point available on ticket
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Partial Disabled Access. Outer Bailey only
As the light fades over the dramatic ruins of Corfe Castle take a look at the recent conservation work and the discoveries made during it. A guided tour with Pam White. Donations to the Save Corfe Castle Appeal would be appreciated.
40/01 Tuesday 16th September 7pm
40/02 Thursday 18th September 7pm

Special Event
Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th September at 18.45
Bellringing at Wimborne Minster
A compact evening of presentation and demonstration of the Bells and Bellringing at St Cuthburga, Wimborne Minster, Dorset.
The evening will include presentations on the history of bellringing and the recent refurbishment of the bells.
There will also be opportunity to climb the tower to see the installation of the ring of ten bells and a live demonstration of bellringing given by members of the current band.
There is a limit of 30 persons for each evening. For entry to the tower, persons must be over 12 years of age and sufficiently fit in order to climb and descend the 72 step spiral staircase to the ringing chamber. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Tickets will be issued on a first come first served basis, and may be collected from the Parish Office, Church House, Wimborne. To check availability, please call 01202 884753. The office is open from 10.00 till 12.00 Monday to Friday.

Also Featured Today
02 Holy Trinity Church
07 The Study Gallery, Poole
08 Wareham Town Museum
11 Richmond Hill St Andrews UR Church
12 Beaminster Museum
14 St James Church, Poole
19 St Laurence Church, Upwey
20 Church Of Our Lady & St Ignatius
28 Swanage Town Hall
31 Marvell's Cottage

Bookable
42
Water Supply Museum At Sutton Poyntz Pumping Station
Guided Visit
Max No Allowed: 20
Weymouth. Full directions available on ticket
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Partial Disabled Access. Please phone to check details.
Weymouth's water supply since 1856, this site can trace its industrial past back 10,000 years. Built of Portland Stone, Sir Frederick Treves referred to the buildings as being exceptionally ugly so come and judge for yourself!
The Turbine House is an Industrial Ancient Monument.
42/01 Wednesday 17th September 1.30pm

Bookable
43
Christchurch Local History Society Walkaround No.2: St Catherine's Hill
New Event
Guided Walk
Max No Allowed:24
Directions available on ticket
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Please wear strong shoes and stout trousers or other leg coverings due to brambles and uneven ground.
The walk takes place on a Nature Reserve so please keep to gravel paths and No Smoking.
No Disabled Access
The Roman Signal Station on St Catherine's Hill was in use in 296 AD, during the reigns of Carausius and Allectus and the re-conquest by Constantius. The walk will also take in the Medieval Chapel site, and Neolithic and Bronze Age areas. The walk will take about 2 1/2 hours in total but the guide will leave you at the top of the hill where you are welcome to spend longer if you wish.
43/01 Wednesday 17th September 2pm

Bookable
44
Bournemouth's Blue Plaques
Guided Walk
Max No Allowed: 20
Directions and meeting point available on ticket
Please use public car parks
Dogs allowed only if kept on a lead
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access
Bournemouth's Blue Plaques celebrate some of its more interesting buildings and some of its more famous residents, including a world class boxer, the last queen of France, the woman who invented Science Fiction, and the original W. H. Smith.
44/01 Wednesday 17th September 2pm

Bookable
45
A Walk Through Seventeenth Century Dorchester
Talk
New Event
Max No Allowed: 60
Wimborne. Full directions available on ticket
No dogs allowed
No photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access
A 1613 pamphlet described Dorchester as, "One of the principall places of traffick for westerne merchants, by which means it grew rich and populous….maintained with a wise and civill government to the well deserving commendation of her inhabitants." But, what preoccupied the minds of the ordinary inhabitants of Dorchester? Using primary and secondary sources to guide us, we will take an illustrated walk through early 17th century Dorchester and discover how its people affected and were affected by great national events, as well as glimpsing the trials and tribulations, some tragic, some humorous, that made up the vagaries of everyday life at that time.
45/01 Wednesday 17th September 7pm

Bookable
46
A Twilight Tour Around Weymouth
Guided Walk
Max No Allowed: 25
Full directions and meeting point available on ticket
Dogs welcome
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled access. Some roads, kerbs etc to cross
A walk around the old town of Weymouth to view the architectural elements which contribute to the townscape with Colin Ellis, Conservation Officer of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council. 46/01 Wednesday 17th September 6pm

Also Featured Today
02 Holy Trinity Church
07 The Study Gallery, Poole
08 Wareham Town Museum
14 St James Church, Poole
15 Guided Tour Of The Russell-Cotes
19 St Laurence Church, Upwey
20 Church Of Our Lady & St Ignatius
28 Swanage Town Hall
29 Hawkers Farm
34 Tudor House, Weymouth
Special Event- Bellringing At Wimborne Minster

Bookable
48
The Buildings Of Christchurch Harbour & River Cruise
Guided Tour
Max No Allowed:55
Full directions available on ticket
Not normally open to the public
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
A minimum number of 20 people must be booked for the event to run
Full Disabled Access. Steps need to be used to embark
A pleasant cruise, of about 1 1/2 hours, to view the buildings, both ancient and modern, that contribute to the built environment around the rivers and harbour. If the conditions are favourable the cruise will continue further out to sea to view other buildings of interest along the coast.
48/01 Thursday 18th September 2pm

49
Chiswell Earthworks, Portland
Guided Walk
Follow the A34 to Portland. At 2nd roundabout on Island take the right hand turn signposted Chiswell. Turn immediately right into Pebble Lane. Park in car park and walk 100m up Pebble Lane (next to fishmonger) to The Chesil Gallery
Dogs welcome
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access. Please ring 01305 822738 in advance to make arrangements. A tour along the sea wall, now a part of the Jurassic Coast, to one of Dorset's most important public sculptures - The Chiswell Earthworks. The land sculpture, by John Maine RA, was made between 1987 and 1994 to celebrate the completion of the Chesil Sea Defences. Built on a half-acre sloping site at West Weares it consists of five retaining walls of Portland stone supporting undulating platforms of earth which reflects the changing form of the Chesil Beach as the sea breaks upon it. An information leaflet is available for £1(proceeds to the Chiswell Community Trust).
49/01 Thursday 18th September 3pm

50
George Viallis - Lyme Regis Architect
New Event
Talk
In the centre of Lyme Regis, on the River Lym. Follow the brown tourist signs from the town centre. Please use public car parks
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
This event is not bookable but is limited to 30 people.
Partial Disabled Access
Lyme Regis Museum, originally called The Philpot, was built in 1902 and opened 20 years later. It's architect, George Vialls, produced a stunning building in Northern European renaissance style, with a grand staircase. Join the museum curator in looking at the life and career of this wonderful architect.
In addition to this talk the museum will be open daily, 10am-5pm but regular admission charges will apply.
50/01 Thursday 18th September 6pm

Also Featured Today
02 Holy Trinity Church
07 The Study Gallery, Poole
08 Wareham Town Museum
11 Richmond Hill St Andrews UR Church
12 Beaminster Museum
14 St James Church, Poole
15 Guided Tour Of The Russell-Cotes
19 St Laurence Church, Upwey
20 Church Of Our Lady & St Ignatius
28 Swanage Town Hall
33 Bere Regis Church Tour
34 Tudor House, Weymouth
40 Making Light Work Of Conservation

Bookable
52
Hooke Park Tour
Guided Tour
Max No Allowed:40
West Dorset. Full directions available on ticket
Not normally open to the public
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access. Limited access in Refectory
Hooke Park is a 350 acre woodland site in the West Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and features three buildings of particular interest. The Workshop is an experiment in bending 'green' wood and carrying loads across large spans using small diameter roundwood beams. The Refectory is a house prototype in which the structure hangs like a tent on four A-frames. Westminster Lodge features a grassed roof and extensive use of unmilled and untreated timber.
52/01 Friday 19th September 11am-12pm

Bookable
53
Holdenhurst, Mother Of Bournemouth
New Event
Guided Walk
Max No Allowed:20
Full directions and meeting point available on ticket
Dogs allowed only if kept on a lead Photography allowed
Children welcome
Full Disabled Access. Some uneven ground
Holdenhurst is the ancient root of Bournemouth, with a history that stretches back to the Saxon settlers. In the 19th century the Holdenhurst yeomen became the builders of Bournemouth, although some of their tenants were left to languish in poverty. Historic Holdenhurst still survives as a polite cluster of cottages around a village green.
53/01 Friday 19th September 11.30am

Bookable
54
Conquer Maiden Castle-Accessible Tours At Maiden Castle
New Event
Special Event
Maiden castle, Dorchester. 2 miles south of Dorchester off A354/A35 interchange. Follow the brown signs along Maiden Castle Rd. GR SY669884. Parking available on-site
No dogs allowed
Photography allowed
Children welcome
The trailer will take a maximum of 6 people on each trip. Groups please ring 01202 888992 to book a slot in advance.
Full Disabled Access
Hourly tractor and trailer rides will allow disabled visitors to conquer this spectacular Iron Age fort. The ride will take in the complex entrance earthworks, view the deep ditch and Roman temple and will take approximately 1 hour.
54/01 Friday 19th September 10am
54/02 Friday 19th September 11am
54/03 Friday 19th September 12pm
54/04 Friday 19th September 2pm
54/05 Friday 19th September 3pm
54/06 Friday 19th September 4pm

Also Featured Today
02 Holy Trinity Church
07 The Study Gallery, Poole
08 Wareham Town Museum
14 St James Church, Poole
15 Guided Tour Of The Russell-Cotes
19 St Laurence Church, Upwey
20 Church Of Our Lady & St Ignatius
28 Swanage Town Hall
29 Hawkers Farm
34 Tudor House, Weymouth

56
Wimborne Civic Society At The Gazebo
Open Day
At the rear of the Town Hall, West Borough, Wimborne. Pass through the archway next to the Town Hall then go through the Jubilee Physick Garden. use public car parks. NO on-site parking please.
Not normally open to the public
Dogs welcome
Photography allowed
Children welcome
No Disabled Access. me steps to negotiate The building is a small restored two-storey gazebo, dating from 1750 which once formed part of the curtilage to Borough House in West Borough.
56/01 Saturday 20th September 10am-4pm

Bookable
57
Cavalcade of Costume Museum At Lime Tree House
Open Day and Exhibition
Max No Allowed: 40
Blandford Forum. Full directions available on ticket.
Guide Dogs only
No photography allowed
Supervised children only
Tea Room open 10am-4.30pm
Disabled access to Ground Floor only. Disabled toilet available.
The Cavalcade of Costume Museum is located in a lovingly restored Georgian Town House and a selection from over 250 years of historical costume and accessories is on display. There is also a pretty tearoom and shop for visitors. The current "Brides" exhibition features 18 beautiful brides' dresses, accessories and background tales from the 1870's to the 1960's.
57/01 Saturday 20th September 11am-4.30pm

Bookable
58
Wimborne Town Walk
Guided Walk
Max No Allowed: 30
Wimborne. Full directions and meeting point available on ticket.
Dogs welcome
Photography allowed
Children welcome
A steady 2 hour historical and architectural tour around Wimborne led by members of the Wimborne Civic Society.
58/01 Saturday 20th September 2pm-4pm

Also Featured Today
01 Walk Awhile With Me In Poole
02 Holy Trinity Church
07 The Study Gallery, Poole
08 Wareham Town Museum
11 Richmond Hill St Andrews UR Church
12 Beaminster Museum
14 St James Church, Poole
15 Guided Tour Of The Russell-Cotes
16 Weymouth Town Walk
19 St Laurence Church, Upwey
20 Church Of Our Lady & St Ignatius

Bookable
60
Roman Dorchester
Guided Walk
No Allowed: 20
Full directions available on ticket
Dogs allowed only if kept on a lead
Photography allowed
Supervised children only
Full Disabled Access
A stroll around the line of the Roman walls of the original town of Dorchester, built almost 2000 years ago.
60/01 Sunday 21st September 2pm

Also Featured Today
11 Richmond Hill St Andrews UR Church
12 Beaminster Museum
14 St James Church, Poole
15 Guided Tour Of The Russell-Cotes
19 St Laurence Church, Upwey
20 Church Of Our Lady & St Ignatius

 Return to top of page

 Return to DAHW Menu

  Return to EDHT Menu