Your truly comprehensive list of local events
Thursday, 30 April
Scottish Country Dancing St Michael’s Scottish Country Dancing Club, 7.30 – 9.30pm at the Davis Hall, Howell Hill, West Camel BA22 7QX. First two visits free, £2.00 per session, £1.50 for members. Always a fun evening – come along and give it a try – a warm welcome assured. No partner needed. Please bring a mug – tea, coffee, biscuits provided. See website www.stmichaelsscdclub.org or contact secretary Elspeth 07972125617 elspeth_a_wright@hotmail.com
Neil Brand’s Centenary Laurel & Hardy Show, 7:30pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets from £25.50 adv. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
Colyton town history walk leaving from Colyton Dolphin Car Park at 2 pm – Guided Walk approximately one hour. Cost £5, children under 16 free. No booking required, all weathers, Group bookings by arrangement – Contact 01297 552514 or 01297 33406.
Bride Valley Films will be showing The Choral ‘poignant and funny with excellent music’ As WW1 rages on, the Choral Society in a small English town has lost most of its men to the army. The Choral’s committee is determined to press ahead with new recruits. They engage a driven new chorus master, Dr. Henry Guthrie – recently returned from a career in Germany. As conscription papers start to arrive, the community discovers that the best response to the war is to make music together. Starring Ralph Fiennes and Roger Allam. Written by Alan Bennett. 1hr. 40” Cert.TBA Doors Open: 7.00 p.m. Films start 7.30 p.m. Tickets: £6.00 (to include a glass of wine) Tickets on the door: Litton Cheney Village Hall DT2 9AU.
Friday, 1 May
5am Sunrise on Giant Hill Trendle, on top of Giant Hill and inside the Giant’s enclosure. Please do not walk on the Giant. The Wessex Morris Men have been greeting the sunrise on 1st May for decades. The event takes place on the Trendle, a square earth-banked enclosure above the Giant’s head, where there used to be a maypole. They are joined by Cerne Abbas Brewery who give glasses of a special Beltane ale to thirsty revellers, brewed during the Festival. For both this and the Wessex Morris Men event below there is no charge but a hat is passed around for donations to Wessex Morris Men. approx 6.15am Wessex Morris Men Procession & Dancing by the Royal Oak Timings approximate! The Wessex Morris Men scramble down the hill from about 5.45am, then process south from the Village Hall along Duck Street to the square in front of the Royal Oak. Please make a donation to the Wessex Morris Men. about 7.30am May Day at the Silver Well. To get to the Well go through the Cemetery at the end of Abbey St. After the Wessex Morris Men have finished outside the Royal Oak we will have a short celebration of the season at the Silver (St Augustine’s) Well in the Celtic Christian tradition. Open to all faiths, and usually well-attended by followers of pagan religions such as Druidry and Wicca, as well as those from no faith tradition.
Zubieta and The Suaves channel the spirit of Brazil from the heart of the UK. Fronted by the captivating voice of Marta Zubieta, this six-piece band weaves a rich tapestry of bossa nova, Afro-Brazilian samba and Latin jazz — blending golden-age classics with fresh contemporary flair. 8pm Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NR. Box Office 01308 424204 Tickets £18/17/16/8.
Beaminster Museum Fire Flood Frost explores how Beaminster and the surrounding villages have battled the elements over the centuries – from floods and violent storms to bitter freezes – along with the three great fires that devastated the town. The exhibition tells the story of how local people pulled together in times of crisis and learned lessons for the future. Visitors will also find exciting new Pre-history and Geology displays, along with eye-catching graphics. The Museum is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Bank Holidays, 10.30am – 4.00pm, Sundays 2.00pm – 4.30pm. Admission is free, but donations are very welcome. Whitcombe Rd, Beaminster DT8 3NB. www.beaminstermuseum.co.uk.
My Ballet -Holistic ballet classes for all adults Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet to fabulous music. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. Everybody welcome! Do get in touch and come for a dance! Winsham Jubilee Hall, Church St, Winsham, Chard, TA20 4HU. Fridays 10am and 11.15am. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
Friday, 1 May – Saturday, 2 May
Bridport Allington Hill Country Fair Music and bar, country craft stalls, have-a-go activities, skittle alley and games, speakers tent, horse-logging demonstrations and guided walks, afternoon teas and hot food. 6-10pm on the Friday, main fair 10am-6pm on the Saturday. Allington Hill, Hospital Lane entrance. FREE entrance for all. Allington Hillbillies and Bridport Town Council www.allingtonhillbillies.org.uk.
Saturday, 2 May
Giants and Kings The Bards of Dorset 2.30 for 3pm St Mary’s Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7TQ Join Rebecca Danicic, Fourth Bard of Dorchester (Caer Dur 2025–26), and Peter Roe, Grand Bard of Dorset (2024–29), for an afternoon of poetry, stories and spoken word. The Bards will present a layered palimpsest of Cerne Abbas and the Giant – myth and history, Hercules and Eadwold, landscape and legend – woven through original verse and evocative retellings. Expect wit, gravitas and a living bardic tradition brought vividly to life beneath Dorset’s most iconic chalk colossus. Performance just under an hour. (Parental Guidance.) with afternoon tea £9 adult / £5 U18s / Family (2A+2C) £25.
Musbury Plant & Craft Sale 9.30am – 12noon. Musbury Village Hall, Seaton Road. Varied selection of vegetables, annuals and perennials for sale, plus a variety of craft items. Cash sales only. Refreshments available. Raffle. Free Parking and entry. More info: Mary – 01297 553325. Please bring your own bags/boxes!
Free Flower Farm Tour 2pm at Abbey Farm Flowers, Abbotsbury. Have a walk around our PYO flower farm and learn how and why we grow. More details at www.abbeyfarmflowers.co.uk.
Kane Brown Crowd work King, 8pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets from £19.50 adv. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
Saturday, 2 – 10 May
Dorchester Walking Festival featuring 51 guided walks, offering something for all abilities and interests. Due to strong demand, several walks have been added on additional dates. Newly added events include Discover Portland on Friday 8 May and Sunday Morning Circular from Sydling St Nicholas on Sunday 10 May. Details and tickets are available via Eventbrite by searching “Dorchester Walking Festival 2–10 May 2026.”
Sunday, 3 May
Riverflies Safari 2-3.30pm Vicarage Field, 4 Back Lane, Cerne Abbas, Dorchester DT2 7JW. The River Cerne contains many interesting invertebrates. Volunteers from the “Riverfly” project, will teach us how to observe and monitor the health of our river by catching, identifying and counting the variety of invertebrates which live in the river bed. They will provide equipment as well as expertise. Wellies are needed and warm/dry clothing if the weather is cold/wet. Children must be accompanied, and the accompanying adults are responsible for the safety of their children. 2-3.30pm Learn how to Cast a Fly (open to all ages, junior and adult) Vicarage Field, 4 Back Lane, Cerne Abbas, Dorchester DT2 7JW. Learn how to fish for the elusive trout in chalk stream or lake. This workshop will include fly casting lessons (no fish involved!) and an introduction into tackle, knots, and selecting the right artificial fly to imitate the real thing. Taken by Sir Jeremy Mackenzie, whose sixty years of fishing experience worldwide he is happy to share. All equipment provided – just turn up. Seen it on the BBC programme Countryfile? Come and learn more! Both workshops take place in the same location. The Riverflies workshop enables you to learn more about what lives in the river: all are potential trout food. The flycasting workshop will teach you more about the lifecycles and interactions of the organisms in the river. Combined cost £5 child, £8 adult Family (2A+1/2C or 1A+3C) £20.
Monday, 4 May
Rambling with Dorset Poetry 2.30pm. Meet outside Cerne St Mary’s Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7JQ Immerse yourself in the literature and music of Dorset. Join members of the William Barnes Society for this gentle ramble around Cerne and its immediate surroundings. We will stop at evocative spots to reflect with a relevant poem which will take you back into olde Dorset. Ends with afternoon tea at St Mary’s Church. Dress appropriately for the weather – the walk will mostly be around the centre of Cerne, with diversions to St Augustine’s Well and the river. In the event of terrible weather it will take place in the church. Tickets £8.50 which includes afternoon tea in the church.
Scottish Dancing in Chardstock An evening of Scottish dancing in Chardstock Village Hall EX13 7BJ 7.30 – 10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug if possible and wear soft soled shoes. No partner required. Cost £3.00 coffee/tea included. For more information contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishcountrydance.co.uk.
Tuesday, 5 May
Anglo-Saxon Riddle ‘Quiz’ Night 7 for 7.30pm. St Mary’s Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7JQ. How did those 10thC monks in Cerne Abbey while away long winter evenings? Surprisingly, ‘What am I?’ type riddles were rather popular! In fact St Aldhelm, bishop of Sherborne in the 7thC, was a renowned wit who wrote some. Many are ‘double entendres’ – can you spot the hidden meaning?! Modern translations of the riddles will be supplied in booklet form. Come and pit your puzzle-solving skill against those minds of a millennium ago. £8 including wine or soft drink.
A Bridport Railway walk, led by a Bridport museum guide, will explore what remains of the Bridport Branch Railway and station buildings, and participants will hear about their fascinating history. 11am starting from the Coop car park, Sea Road North, DT6 4RR. Tickets (£8) from the museum website include a single visit to the museum.
Dorchester Bayeux Society film night: La Vie En Rose. Starring the Oscar-winning Marion Cotillard, this is the wonderfully acclaimed biographical film depicting the life of the legendary French singer, Edith Piaf. Full of her songs and emotion, it is an unmissably beautiful epic tale of a life from humble beginnings to stardom. If you love French culture and a very special evening, this film is a must-see! Musical/Drama—Cert 12. In French with subtitles. £6 cash or card on the door (members £5). For more information see website at https://dorchester-bayeux-society.co.uk Doors open 6:45pm for 7:30pm. Corn Exchange, High East Street, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 1HF.
Wednesday, 6 May
My Ballet – since 2012 – Holistic ballet classes for all adults. Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet to fabulous music. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. 6:45pm to 8pm. Jubilee Hall , Church Street, Winsham, Chard, TA20 4HU. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
Thursday, 7 May
Community Coffee Morning 9.30 – 11.15am. Free bacon butties, cake and coffee. All welcome. St. Swithun’s Church Hall, Allington, Bridport, DT6 5DU. 07741457505.
What the Giant Sees? 7 for 7.30pm. St Mary’s Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7JQ. Garry Prescott has been a keen wildlife and landscape photographer for many years, and recently has become enthused by photographing the night sky. He was amazed to discover that there are relatively cheap and easy ways for a complete novice to do this. Much of his work has been done at the Giant Viewpoint. Relax and enjoy a whistle-stop tour of the moon, sun, more distant stars and nebulae in our galaxy, and galaxies beyond the Milky Way. If the sky is clear there will be a live demo of the equipment at the Giant Viewpoint after the presentation (ie when it is dark enough!). £8 including wine or soft drink.
Scottish Country Dancing. St Michael’s Scottish Country Dancing Club Annual General Meeting 7.30 -9.30pm. Davis Hall, Howell Hill, West Camel BA22 7QX. Members only this week.
Colyton Town History Walk leaving from Colyton Dolphin Car Park at 2 pm – Guided walk approximately one hour. Cost £5, children under 16 free. No booking required, all weathers. Group bookings by arrangement – Contact 01297 552514 or 01297 33406.
Friday, 8 May
Open rehearsal – Dances and Dalliance 11am. Open rehearsal supporting Dorchester Town Council’s Informal Annual Town Meeting at Dorchester Corn Exchange, High East Street, Dorchester DT1 1HF. Celebrating twinning between Dorset and Normandy.In this open rehearsal by musicians from Dorset and Cherbourg, you will hear dance music and love songs from medieval and Tudor times played in costume on period instruments. Free entry. More details at https://courtlyemusick.co.uk or call 01305 854915.
Cinechard at Chard Guildhall will show One Battle After Another (15), doors at 7pm, starts 7.30pm. This darkly funny action thriller won six Oscars and stars Leonardo Dicaprio and Sean Penn. Tickets in advance from Eleos and the PO for £6 (cash please) or on the door £7. Raffle and refreshments.
Flower Club at Abbey Farm Flowers, Abbotsbury. Have a guided tour of the beds, pick a bouquet and enjoy coffee and cake with flowery chat. £30 per person. More details at www.abbeyfarmflowers.co.uk.
Open Mic at The Millhouse Music is at the heart of The Millhouse. Join us for grassroots open mic — as a performer or audience. Come and celebrate local talent in our vibrant Somerset venue. 7 pm. The Millhouse, Rose Mills Industrial Estate, Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 9PS. 07980 946465 | www.millhousearts.co.uk.
My Ballet -Holistic ballet classes for all adults. Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet to fabulous music. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. Everybody welcome! Do get in touch and come for a dance! Winsham Jubilee Hall, Church St, Winsham, Chard, TA20 4HU. Fridays 10am and 11.15am. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
Saturday, 9 May
Bridport Choral Society presents Spring Chorus at Bridport United Church, East Street, Bridport. 7.30 pm. Tickets £15 (under 16s free) available from Bridport TIC (and online). Smith & Smith and on the door.
Plants and Car Boot Sale 10.00 – 1.00pm. Sellers pitch £12 each. Plus stalls Clothes, Bric a Brac, Tombola, Garden items, Jazz Cafe with Bacon Butties and refreshments. St. Swithun’s Church Garden and Hall, Allington, Bridport, DT6 5DU. 07887483228.
Kith and Kin 5.30 for 6pm. St Mary’s Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7JQ. ‘Under moon and under sun, thread by thread the web is spun, each strand laid our path is chosen, warp and weft our lives are woven.’ Step into the mead hall and join us for Kith and Kin – a warmhearted, delightful solo show that brings the everyday world of a 9th century Somerset woman vividly to life. Evocative, colourful and sharply humorous, this immersive and very unique performance transports you to the lively heart of a Wessex community, where the rhythms of daily life beat strong! Inspired by rich historical research and performed in an exciting mix of spoken and sung Modern English and Old English, Kith and Kin is a touching, playful, and powerful celebration of resilience, humour, and human connection. No previous knowledge of the period or the language is necessary. Come and listen, laugh, and lose yourself in a world both distant and deeply familiar. ‘A fabulously immersive trip back to Anglo-Saxon England presented by a talented performer who blends humour, pathos and scholarship in a uniquely enjoyable experience.’ Dr Richard Brunning, Senior Archaeologist, South West Heritage Trust. “It was funny. I loved it!” (age 7). Suitable for adults and young people 6+. 80min + interval. Adults £13 / under 18s £6 Family (2A+2C) £35.
Informal concert – Dances and Dalliance. 2:30pm. Broadmayne Village Hall, Cowleaze Road, Broadmayne DT2 8EW. Dance leads to dalliance and love—or a broken heart. Step back in time with Courtlye Musick and Ars Nova of Cherbourg as we whirl you through affairs of the heart with medieval and Tudor dance music and love songs played in costume on period instruments. Free concert with retiring collection. More details at https://courtlyemusick.co.uk or call 01305 854915.
Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 7 mile walk from Evershot. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340. New members/visitors welcome.
Uplyme and Lyme Regis Horticultural Society. Plant Sale and Coffee Morning. Uplyme Village Hall 10am to 12noon. Entry £2, includes a drink.
Lyme Bay Chorale presents Sacred Spring Music including works by Handel, JS Bach and Mendelssohn. Lyme Regis Parish Church at 7pm. Advance tickets £15 from tickettailor.com/events/lymebaychorale or £17.50 on the door. Under-18s free. Refreshments will be available. lymebaychorale.co.uk.
Saturday, 9 – 10 May
Makers’ Market at BlueBarn.Life Enjoy a day out in beautiful West Dorset. Handcrafted items by local makers and artists. Refreshments and lunches. BlueBarn.Life clothes, Lou Tonkin prints, Warriner Leather, Fruitbat Textiles, Martin Hazell spoons, Lorette Dare rag dolls, Jo Burnell pottery. 11am – 4pm. BlueBarn.Life, School House Farm, Blackdown, Beaminster, Dorset, DT8 3LE. What3Words: ///little.handyman.spud Google Maps: BlueBarn.Life. +44 (0)1460 30297.
Sunday, 10 May
Singing Bowl Soundbath 2PM Bridport Unitarians, 49 East Street, Bridport, DT6 3JX Lie down, relax, and allow the Pure Sounds of a crystal and Tibetan bowl soundbath plus sacred vocal overtoning give you a sonic deep-tissue massage, taking you into the deeper brainwave states of ‘the relaxation response’, while charging and balancing the aura and chakras of the subtle body, and detoxing the physical body. Booking £17 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com.
Salway Ash Village Cream Teas – 2-5 Strongate Farm Salway Ash DT6 5JD – Village Cream Teas, plant stall and raffle in aid of Holy Trinity Church Salway Ash. 2-5pm. Parking at the farm and dogs welcome on a lead, for more details contact Tess 07792 609617.
Monday, 11 May
St. Swithun’s Band Spring Concert 7.30 – 9.00pm. All welcome, donations are to be split between the band and church funds. Tea and biscuits on sale in the hall after the concert. St. Swithun’s Church Garden and Hall, Allington, Bridport, DT6 5DU. 07887483228.
Scottish Dancing in Chardstock An evening of Scottish dancing in Chardstock Village Hall EX13 7BJ. 7.30-10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug if possible and wear soft soled shoes. No partner required. Cost £3.00 coffee/tea included. For more information contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishcountrydance.co.uk.
Tuesday, 12 May
Lyme Regis Society invites you to the Annual Coffee Morning at the Alexandra Hotel 11.30 am to 1.00 pm. Come and find out more about the Society. Meet other members. Everyone is welcome. Entrance Free. Donations Welcome. Tea, Coffee and Biscuits provided. For more information on membership: Contact: membership@lymeregissociety.org.uk
Wednesday, 13 May
Kilmington Film Night “Song Sung Blue (12A) Two down-on-their-luck musicians (Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson) form a joyous Neil Diamond tribute band, proving it’s never too late to find love and follow your dreams. But what is apparently a fairly standard rags-to-riches story is ruptured by a tragic twist of fate. Based on a true story. Doors and bar open 6.45 film start 7.15 at Kilmington Village Hall EX13 7RF. Tickets £6 (Cash Only) can be ordered by contacting: John at wattsjohn307@gmail.com or Tel: 01297 521681.
Loders Local History Group 7.30pm-9.00pm in Loders Village Hall. Talk by Helen Doble “Loders Parish in the 1920s”. All Welcome £3/adult refreshments.
My Ballet – since 2012 – Holistic ballet classes for all adults.Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet to fabulous music. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. 10am,11:30am,1o’clock & 2:15. Bull Hotel ballroom, 34 East St, Bridport DT6 3LF Classes are currently held at Bridport Town Hall, East St, DT6 3LF due to building works at the Bull Hotel. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk.
My Ballet – since 2012 – Holistic ballet classes for all adults. Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet to fabulous music. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. 6:45pm to 8pm. Jubilee Hall , Church Street, Winsham, Chard, TA20 4HU. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk.
Thursday, 14 May
Chard History Group Eleanor of Aquitaine. A talk by Dave Tozer on the Queen who was the power behind The thrones of both France and England in the 12th century. 7 for 7.30 start. Chard Guildhall upstairs with lift available. Members £2.50 guests most welcome £3.50. For further details Tessa 07984481634.
Kilmington Film Matinee “Song Sung Blue (12A)” (See 13th May). Doors open 1.45pm film starts 2pm. Tickets £6 (Cash Only), cream-teas @ £4. served during the interval but must be pre-booked with your seats see above and www.kilmingtonvillage.com/other-organisations.html for more information.
Scottish Country Dancing St Michael’s Scottish Country Dancing Club, 7.30 – 9.30pm at the Davis Hall, Howell Hill, West Camel BA22 7QX. First two visits free, £2.00 per session, £1.50 for members. A warm welcome assured. No partner needed. Please bring a mug – tea, coffee, biscuits provided. See website www.stmichaelsscdclub.org or contact secretary Elspeth 07972125617 elspeth_a_wright@hotmail.com.
Bridport History Society will be welcoming Dr Robert Nantes who will give a talk on “Uriah Haddock and other Hapless Bristol Bankrupts.” The meeting will be held at the United Church Hall on East Street, Bridport. Doors open at 2.15 for a prompt 2.30 start. All are welcome. Members £1pp and visitors £5pp. Bridport History Society meets on the second Thursday of each month (except July and August). Membership is open to all (£12 individual/£18 couple). For more information visit https://www.bridporthistorysociety.org.uk.
Colyton Town History Walk leaving from Colyton Dolphin Car Park at 2 pm – Guided walk approximately one hour. Cost £5, children under 16 free. No booking required, all weathers. Group bookings by arrangement – Contact 01297 552514 or 01297 33406.
Friday, 15 May
Botanical Ceramic Tiles and Coasters Join Gemma Davis to create ceramic tiles and coasters decorated using plants and flowers from the flower farm. £45 per person. Abbey Farm Flowers, Abbotsbury. More details and booking at www.abbeyfarmflowers.co.uk.
My Ballet -Holistic ballet classes for all adults. Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet to fabulous music. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. Everybody welcome! Do get in touch and come for a dance! Winsham Jubilee Hall, Church St, Winsham, Chard, TA20 4HU. Fridays 10am and11.15am. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk.
The Comedy Store 7:30pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets £19.50 adv. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
Saturday, 16 May
Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 7 mile walk from Frampton. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340. New members/visitors welcome.
West Dorset Singers Concert In their 60th year, the West Dorset Singers will celebrate local composers in their upcoming concert with the Broadoak Choir. This event will bring together two choirs, two composers and two cantatas. The West Dorset Singers’ Musical Director, Matt Kingston, is an internationally celebrated composer who composes under the name Matthew Coleridge. His cantata, The Breath of Life is an uplifting celebration of the world around us. The music moves from ethereal stillness, through rhythm, drama and warmth as it takes the audience through thoughtfully selected text ranging from the sacred to the scientific. Esteemed local composer and singer with both choirs, Chris Reynolds, composed Aldhelm’s Bridge as a tribute to Aldhelm, the first Bishop of Sherborne. Legend has it that he would sit on the bridge (thought to be in Sherborne) singing songs of the Gospel to passersby in their own words to reach out beyond the less accessible Latin sung in the Abbey. This concert will be held at 7pm in the Bridport United Church. Tickets (£15, under 18s free) are available from Bridport Music Centre and online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/wds.
Jumble Sale with refreshments, 2pm – 3.30pm. Contributions gratefully received, & may be left at the hall between 10am & mid-day on the Saturday morning. Clapton & Wayford Village Hall. Further information from Mary (01460 74849) or Barbara (01460 74321).
Silver Rings and/or Bangles Workshop Join silversmith Elly Harvey to make unique stacking rings and bangles. £60 morning or afternoon, £110 all day. More details and booking at www.abbeyfarmflowers.co.uk.
Sunday, 17 May
The Occasional Singers: Choral Masterworks at 7pm. St Mary’s Church, Edward Road, Dorchester DT1 2HL. The Occasional Singers present a concert of short choral pieces for choir with chamber orchestra. They will be joined by the outstanding young Soprano Sumei Bao-Smith as they run the gamut of emotions from the joyful, energetic vigour of Handel’s ‘Let God Arise’ to the tender romantic passion of Mendelssohn’s Psalm 42. The programme includes the famous soprano aria ‘Scherza Infida’ from Handel’s Ariodante. Entrance is free. There will be a retiring collection for Weldmar Hospicecare. Everyone is most welcome.
Jazz by the Sea at the Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis. Django Chutney have been described as a virtuosic gypsy-jazz ‘manouche a trois’, with equal parts due respect for the genre, unruly chaotic energy and a huge dose of tongue-in-cheek humour. 8pm Marine Theatre, Church St, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3QB. £16 advance £18 on the door. Tickets available at www.marinetheatre.com. You can also purchase tickets from the Lyme Regis Bookshop and Bridport TIC (01308 424901).
Monday, 18 May
Hawkchurch Film Nights in association with Moviola.org, proudly presents ‘Hamnet’, 125 mins, Cert.12A (distressing scenes, brief moderate sex). A powerful study of grief, based on the bestselling novel by Maggie O’Farrell, who co-wrote the screenplay with director Chloe Zhao (Nomadland). William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) marries the free-spirited Agnes (Oscar-winning Jessie Buckley). William heads to London to pursue his career as a dramatist, leaving his family in Stratford, and tragedy ensues in his absence. Doors open 6.30pm, film starts 7.00pm at Hawkchurch Village Hall, EX13 5XD. Ticket reservations £6.50 from csma95@gmail.com or leave a message on 07753 603219; tickets also available in advance for £6.50 from Hawkchurch Community Shop or on the door for £7.00 (cash only). Subtitles for hearing-impaired patrons provided if available. Home-made cake, teas, coffees, soft drinks, wine and other refreshments available.
Tuesday, 19 May
Turn Lyme Green Talk ‘Shockingly Simple: 12 Years of Living with an Extension Cord’ Electric Cars- Simon West, an enthusuastic owner for 10 years reveals how simple and rewarding it is to own an EV. He will update on the current marketplace and what to look out for. 7pm Driftwood Cafe, Baptist Church, top of Broad Street, Lyme Regis FREE Refreshments available.
The Millhouse Writers Group A supportive peer group for writers of all kinds — poems, short stories, fiction, non-fiction, academic writing and more. Hold yourself to account and get friendly, interested feedback. 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. The Millhouse, Rose Mills Industrial Estate, Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 9PS. 07980 946465 | www.millhousearts.co.uk.
Wednesday, 20 May
Coffee Morning including cakes, scones & savouries, and bacon/egg rolls (made to order), 10.30am – noon; all welcome. Clapton & Wayford Village Hall. More details from Julia (01460 72769).
My Ballet – since 2012 – Holistic ballet classes for all adults. Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet to fabulous music. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Ages 18 to 82 plus! Join the fun and feel good. 10am-11:15 (some experience) 11:30 – 12:45 ( mixed ability) 1pm-2:15 (a Partly seated class with barre work for balance, confidence & fun) 2:15- 3.30 (mixed ability) Do get in touch and come and dance! Bull Hotel ballroom, 34 East St, Bridport DT6 3LF Classes are currently held at Bridport Town Hall, East St, DT6 3LF due to building works at the Bull Hotel. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
My Ballet – since 2012 – Holistic ballet classes for all adults. Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet to fabulous music. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. 6:45pm to 8pm. Jubilee Hall , Church Street, Winsham, Chard, TA20 4HU. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
Thursday, 21 May
Scottish Country Dancing St Michael’s Scottish Country Dancing Club, 7.30 – 9.30pm at the Davis Hall, Howell Hill, West Camel BA22 7QX. First two visits free, £2.00 per session, £1.50 for members. A warm welcome assured. No partner needed. Please bring a mug – tea, coffee, biscuits provided. See website www.stmichaelsscdclub.org or contact secretary Elspeth 07972125617 elspeth_a_wright@hotmail.com.
Colyton Town History Walk leaving from Colyton Dolphin Car Park at 2 pm – Guided walk approximately one hour. Cost £5, children under 16 free. No booking required, all weathers. Group bookings by arrangement – Contact 01297 552514 or 01297 33406.
South Somerset RSPB Local Group How Far Can Farming Be More Nature Friendly? An illustrated talk presented by Holly Purdey who runs an Exmoor 200 acre farm. Holly is England’s Vice Chair of the Nature Friendly Farming Network. Her farming model addresses biodiversity loss and creates climate resilience. At 7.30pm The Millennium Hall, Seavington St. Mary, Ilminster, TA19 0QH. Entry: Group members £4, non-group members £5, under 25’s Free. Tea/coffee & biscuits included – Wheelchair access. Further details from Denise Chamings on 01781473846 or www.rspb.org.uk/groups/southsomerset. Everyone welcome.
Friday, 22 May
Open Mic at The Millhouse We encourage original and spontaneous collaboration at our open jam session. Jump in and see what magic happens. Extended showcase slots available (book in advance). 7 pm The Millhouse, Rose Mills Industrial Estate, Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 9PS 07980 946465 www.millhousearts.co.uk.
My Ballet -Holistic ballet classes for all adults. Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet to fabulous music. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. Everybody welcome! Do get in touch and come for a dance! Winsham Jubilee Hall, Church St, Winsham, Chard, TA20 4HU Fridays 10am and 11.15am. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
Saturday, 23 May – 7 June
Open Studio for Dorset Art Weeks Venue230 – vibrant paintings of the local landscape, prints, cards and more by Hilary Buckley. Brooklands, Ware Lane, Lyme Regis DT7 3EL. Open daily 11.00am to 4.00pm (closed 1 and 2 June. Free admission. Contact: 01297 444111. Website: Dorset-artist.uk.
Sunday, 24 May
Dalwood Jazz Club presents La Vie en Rose with Rebecca Willson – violin, Nick White – clarinet, David Jones – guitar, Laurie Light – guitar and Yann Mahdjoub – d/bass. at 3pm Dalwood Village Hall, EX13 7EG (near Axminster) Bar for beer/wine/soft drinks and tea/coffee/cake etc. Parking at the Village Hall £12.50p If possible, please book in advance and pay (cash or card) at the door. Thank you! t.mackenney111@btinternet.com
Monday, 25 May
Stockland Country Fair – Gates open 1.30pm For a thoroughly entertaining afternoon,Uncle Tacko’s flea circus,Dan’s Marvellous Magic show,Fangs and Feathers, The Misadventures of Thor, Traditional games,Country Crafts & Plants,cream teas,BBQ with local venison burgers & Veggie fare,fab bar with local brews and all for good causes,so come! EX149EF.Adult £5 children Free.
Burton Bradstock Spring Fayre The hugely popular Burton Bradstock Village Fayre will be held in the delightful Rectory Walled Gardens from 2.00 pm to 4.30pm. An event for the family not to be missed. Entry is £1 for Adults, children under 12 enter free. For further information see posters around the area or contact the organiser on 07791870778. Please note that a section of Church Road, Burton Bradstock outside the Village Hall will be temporarily closed from 09:00 to 18:00 on the day of the Fayre.
Tuesday, 26 May
Bridport U3a Talk is at 2.00 pm at Bridport United Church Hall, East Street, Bridport, DT6 3LJ. Talk lasts for up to 1 hour followed by Q&A, then refreshments. The speaker is Alex Leger. Title of talk is The Disappearing Islands of the Solomons. Members are free, Guests are £3.00.
Foyer Sessions: Linde Nijland 7pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets £16, ticket incls drink. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
Wednesday, 27 May
Uplyme and Lyme Regis Horticultural Society. Talk ‘Getting to Grips with Peat-Free Compost’ by Kate Turner. Uplyme Village Hall 7.30pm. Doors open 7pm. Members free; guests £3. More information https://ulrhs.co.uk.
Thursday, 28 May
Scottish Country Dancing St Michael’s Scottish Country Dancing Club, 7.30 – 9.30pm at the Davis Hall, Howell Hill, West Camel BA22 7QX. First two visits free, £2.00 per session, £1.50 for members. A warm welcome assured. No partner needed. Please bring a mug – tea, coffee, biscuits provided. See website www.stmichaelsscdclub.org or contact secretary Elspeth 07972125617 elspeth_a_wright@hotmail.com.
Colyton Town History Walk leaving from Colyton Dolphin Car Park at 2 pm – Guided walk approximately one hour. Cost £5, children under 16 free. No booking required, all weathers. Group bookings by arrangement – Contact 01297 552514 or 01297 33406.
Free Flower Farm Tour 2pm at Abbey Farm Flowers, Abbotsbury. Have a walk around our PYO flower farm and learn how and why we grow. More details at www.abbeyfarmflowers.co.uk
Thursday, 28 – 31 May
Broadwindsor Oak Apple Festival Broadwindsor holds its second Oak Apple Festival over four days at the end of May. Held to coincide with the day Charles II was restored to the throne in 1660, the event recalls the monarch’s six-week escapade in 1651 after escaping from the Battle of Worcester. The king not only hid in the famous Boscobel Oak in Shropshire, he spent a night at the old Castle Inn, which is now King Charles Cottage. A just-for-fun ‘Where’s Charlie?’ Trail will take place over the weekend when families are invited to spot knitted King Charles figures all around the village. Organisations from all over the village will be involved in the four days of activities, which include a family fun evening with live music at the cricket ground, the Oak Apple Fair on the village green – with stalls, sideshows, live music and refreshments – a flower festival in Broadwindsor Church, classic cars, an art project, cream teas and a storytelling picnic walk to Lewesdon Hill. There is also a scarecrow competition with the theme of ‘Favourite Books / Characters from Fiction’, to tie in with 2026 being the National Year of Reading. Maps will be available at the village shop.
Friday, 29 May
The Eras Experience Taylor Swift tribute, 7pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets from £23. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
Saturday, 30 May
Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 7 mile walk from Kilmington. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340. New members/visitors welcome.
Saturday, 30 – 31 May
Angels of Sound: Dowsing the chakras, Divine Names and mantras Module 2 10am-5pm Oborne Village Hall, Oborne, nr. Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4LA Day 1 offers further refinements with on Toning and Overtoning the chakras and such as learning the Bija Mantras of the elements, toning/overtoning the Skt names of the chakras, and multi-syllable Divine Names. Day 2 (morning) students give a whole group vocal soundbath healing alongside the Chakra Tones CD in the correct key of each student using all the techniques and knowledge gained. Chakra dowsing is practised by students in this Module so by this stage student should be equipped with their own pendulum dowser. £128/64 deposit. Price includes attendance at our Singing Bowl Soundbath also open to the public on the Sunday afternoon. Booking: ahiahel@live.com, 01935 389655.
Sunday, 31 May
Netherbury Repair Cafe 10:00-12:00 at Netherbury Village Hall. We have two new volunteers who have added to our expertise in mending clothing and textiles, electric goods, wooden and metal items and garden tools. Geoff specialises in fine wood and metal work and Tony does upholstery. Bring your items along and we’ll do our best. Remember to bring any spare parts if they are needed. As always, we have a selection of lovely homemade cakes and good coffee and tea.Lisa Willis on 07870 950 666 or info@repaircafenetherbury.org. www.repaircafenetherbury.org
