Your truly comprehensive list of local events
Saturday, 1 November
Mozart’s Requiem 10.30 am to 16.30 pm at Thomas Hardye School Dorchester. Weymouth Choral Society warmly invites you to an exciting singing day, featuring the much loved Mozart Requiem, with special guest director Victoria Ely. Cost: £20 per singer, to include music hire, morning refreshments, afternoon tea and cakes. For further information and to book your place, please visit: weymouthchoralsociety.org.uk, email philip.wise76@gmail.com or telephone 07762 416590.
Charity Ceilidh, fun night of dancing with caller and live music from the Wyld Band. Bar and hot snacks available. 7pm-11pm. Dancing 7.30pm. Wootton Fitzpaine Village Hall, DT6 6ND. Tickets: £10 (£5 under 14). To book email saintandrewsmonkton@gmail.com.
Faure Requiem For All Souls, 5pm at St Peter’s Church Dorchester, DT1 1XA. Admission free. More information at www.musicatstpetersdorchester.org.
Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 8 mile walk from Musbury. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340. New members/visitors welcome.
West Dorset Ramblers 8 mile walk. 10.30 Musberry. To book and for details please phone Ian 07826 150114.
FOWL talk at Weymouth Library. Julian Halsby, author of a book of modern ghost stories, entitled. “When Reason Dreams”, will be the speaker for the Friends of Weymouth Library (F.O.W.L.) talk at 10-30a.m. in the Library. The stories are set in the modern world, in places where you would not expect to encounter the supernatural. Tickets are available in the Library @£2 for members and £3 for non-members. Contact nos. are the Library on 01305 762410 or 01305 832613. Everyone welcome.
Saturday, 1 – 2 November
Winsham Art Group 2025 exhibition The Jubilee Hall, Winsham, TA20 4HU. Saturday and Sunday 10am – 4pm. Email : suzyna48@gmail.com for further details. Step into a world of colour, texture, and expression—an annual exhibition of new, original art by our talented members at affordable prices.
Sunday, 2 November
Choral Eucharist 10.30am at St Peter’s Church Dorchester, DT1 1XA, with Will Todd’s Mass in Blue as the setting (accompanied by jazz ensemble). The service is free to attend and all are welcome. More information at www.musicatstpetersdorchester.org.
‘In Real Life’ A live experiment in influencing, connection, and chaos! Totnes Fringe Audience response :‘Bats*** crazy!’ ‘An absolute hoot!’ For more info checkout www.villagesinaction.co.uk. 5pm. Show Tickets £10-£12. suitable 16yrs + Bar open and book a lush roast dinner preshow! King’s Arms Skittle Alley, Stockland, nr Honiton, EX14 9BS.
Sunday, 2 – 8 November
Bridport Literary Festival – see www.bridlit.com for individual events. for individual events.
Monday, 3 November
Scottish Dancing in Chardstock. An evening of Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Village Hall 7.30-10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug and wear soft soled shoes. No partner required. Cost £3.00. For more information contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishcountrydance.co.uk.
Scandinavian art course, 6wks, starts 2pm-3.30pm, finishes Dec 8th. Also Online on Fridays 2pm. Artists included: Edvard Munch, Anders Zorn, Nikolai Astrup Norwegian landscape, Carl Larsson, Karin Bergoo Akswli Gallen-Kallela, The Skagen Painters: Scandinavian Impressionism. United Hall Bridport, East Street, DT6 3LJ. Full course, 6 lectures, £65. Fridays on line, 2pm start, 6 lectures £60. Individual lectures, £13 per lecture per person. The course is booking now if you would like to reserve a place email: chris.pamsimpson@btinternet.com Tutor: Pam Simpson MA, Pam spent her career as an Art & Design Historian working in London Art Colleges.
Hawkchurch Film Nights, in association with Moviola.org, proudly presents ‘Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy’, 124 mins, cert.15 (strong language, sex references). 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 £7.00 on the door (cash only). Subtitles for hearing-impaired patrons provided if available. Home-made cake, teas, coffees, soft drinks, wine and other refreshments available.
Dance Connection – open class, holistic movement practice, 11:30am, Bridport St Mary’s Church House Hall, DT6 3NN, 07787752201, https://www.dance-connection-wessex.co.uk/
Wednesday, 5 November
West Dorset Community Orchestra meet for rehearsal in the Christian Fellowship hall, East Street car park, Bridport DT6 3PL from 6-30p.m. to 7-45p.m. Contact 01308 456297 www.westdorsetmusic.org.uk.
Dance Connection – open class, holistic movement practice, 7pm, Uplyme Village Hall, DT7 3UY, 07787752201, https://www.dance-connection-wessex.co.uk/
Art Workshop 10 until 12.30 cost £17. At the URC church Chard St, Axminster. Painting Birds and Birds in Flight. Using stencils/coloured wash and pastels.Enjoy trying different techniques to depict Birds and their surroundings. ( materials supplied but bring some paints if you have them). To book a place contact:gina.youens@btinternet.com.
My Ballet All adults 18-80 plus Holistic ballet for all adults Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. Complete beginners welcome! 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) (Also on Zoom 10:30 am )Bull Hotel ballroom, 34 East St, Bridport DT6 3LF. Do get in touch and come and dance! Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
Thursday, 6 November
Dancing at Combe St Nicholas Village Hall alternate Thursdays from 1930 to 2130 hrs (Postcode TA20 3NY). Admission is £4.00 per person and includes a cuppa and a piece of cake! Group is friendly and inclusive and welcomes everyone who wants to do a bit of dancing and social chat. The Dancing Keys provide the music and John is calling. For further information, please contact Neil Arnold (neil.j.arnold@gmail.com) or 01460 234693.
Memoir of a Snail (2024, Australia, 15, 95 mins, Director: Adam Elliot). Animation. A bittersweet memoir of a melancholic woman called Grace Pudel – a hoarder of snails, romance novels, and guinea pigs. Doors 7:00 pm, 7:30 pm start. Clapton & Wayford Village Hall (TA18 8PS). Membership £30, guests £5 per film. For more information/book guest tickets, please email mickpwilson53@btinternet.com or k_everard@live.com. Alternatively, ring Mick Wilson on 01460 74849 or Julia Borland on 01460 72769.
West Dorset Ramblers 7.5 or 8.5 miles walk Bridport Airport & the Brit Valley. Start 10am Pymore To book and for details please contact Ian 07826 150114.
Dance Connection – open class, holistic movement practice, 5:15pm, Bridport St Mary’s Church House Hall, DT6 3NN, 07787752201, https://www.dance-connection-wessex.co.uk/
Dance Connection – block start, holistic movement practice, 7:15pm, Bridport St Mary’s Church House Hall, DT6 3NN, 07787752201, https://www.dance-connection-wessex.co.uk/
Friday, 7 November
My Ballet All adults 18-80 plus .Holistic ballet for all adults Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. Complete beginners welcome! 10am – 11:15 with experience 11:30 – 12:30 Mixed ability. Find out about our beginners courses. Jubilee Hall, Church street, Winsham, Chard TA20 4HU. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
Saturday, 8 November
Choral Matins 11am at St Peter’s Church Dorchester, DT1 1XA, with music by Stanford, Seal, Ireland, Holst and Patterson. The service is free to attend and all are welcome. More information at www.musicatstpetersdorchester.org
Lunchtime Concert 12.30-1pm at St Peter’s Church Dorchester, DT1 1XA with Maddie McCoubrie (alto sax) and Rob Taylor (piano). Admission free. More information at www.musicatstpetersdorchester.org.
Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 7.25 mile walk from Athelhampton House. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340. New members/visitors welcome.
Sunday, 9 November
Singing Bowl Soundbath 2PM Bridport Unitarians, 49 East St., Bridport DT6 3JX £17 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 please 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com.
Lyme Bay Chorale’s Remembrance Concert including Fauré Requiem. Lyme Regis Parish Church at 4pm. Admission free with a retiring collection in aid of the Royal British Legion. lymebaychorale.co.uk.
Screening: Royal Ballet – La Fille Mal Gardee (12A TBC) 210mins, 2pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets from £11.50. To book electricpalace.org.uk
Monday, 10 November
Scottish Dancing in Chardstock An evening of Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Village Hall. 7.30-10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug and wear soft soled shoes. No partner required. Cost £3.00, For more information contact David on 01460 65981. www.chardscottishcountrydance.co.uk.
Dance Connection – open class, holistic movement practice, 11:30am, Bridport St Mary’s Church House Hall, DT6 3NN, 07787752201, https://www.dance-connection-wessex.co.uk/
Tuesday, 11 November
Singing Bowl Soundbath 9PM Digby Memorial Hall, Digby Rd, Sherborne DT9 3LN £17 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. 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com.
Bridport Film Society – Ernest Cole: Lost and Found by Raoul Peck. Cole, a South African photographer was first to expose the horrors of apartheid to a world audience. His book House of Bondage, published when he was only 27, led him into exile for the rest of his life, never to find his bearings. The film recounts his turmoil as an artist and his anger at the silence or complicity of the West in the face of the Apartheid regime. 7.45pm Bridport Arts Centre. Members and Guests (£5) only.
New Arts Group The History of the Castle Speaker: John Goodall, Architecture Editor of Country Life. Bridport Town Hall 1.30 for 2.00pm. All welcome £10.00.
Wednesday, 12 November
Kilmington Film Night “Four Letters of Love” (12A) Starring Helena Bonham Carter, Pierce Brosnan. Heartfelt adaptation of Niall Williams’s novel. Gorgeous, sun-dappled Irish locations provide the backdrop to a sweeping narrative propelled by destiny. Doors and bar open 6.45 film start 7.15 at Kilmington Village Hall EX13 7RF. Tickets £6 can be ordered by contacting: John at wattsjohn307@gmail.com or Tel: 01297 521681.
West Dorset Ramblers 10 mile walk Beaminster to Lewesden Hill. Start 10am Yarn Barton. To book and for details please contact Philip 07874 198660.
West Dorset Community Orchestra meet for rehearsal in the Christian Fellowship hall, East Street car park, Bridport DT6 3PL from 6-30p.m. to 7-45p.m. Contact 01308 456297 www.westdorsetmusic.org.uk.
My Ballet All adults 18-80 plus Holistic ballet for all adults Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. Complete beginners welcome! 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) (Also on ZOOM at 10:30am) Bull Hotel ballroom, 34 East St, Bridport DT6 3 LF. Do get in touch and come and dance! Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk.
Thursday, 13 November
Kilmington Film Matinee “Four Letters of Love” (See 12th November). Matinee, doors open 1.45pm film starts 2pm, cream-teas served during the interval but must be pre-booked with your seats @ £4. see above and www.kilmingtonvillage.com/other-organisations.html for more information.
Chard History Group Present the History of Hats by Sue Owthwaite from the Bridport Hat shop. 7 For 7.30. Upstairs Chard Guildhall (with Lift). Members £2.50 visitors very welcome £3.50. For further details Tessa 07984481634.
Dean Carter live 7pm Durbervilles Cafe, 90 Cheap St, Sherborne DT9 3B suggested donation £10 Having spent the previous year playing around the Wheel of the Year album the guitarist singer-songwriter whose use of a loop pedal makes him sound like a whole ensemble or band will be making a selection from favourite songs and instrumentals from all his four albums on release, plus previewing as yet unreleased and unheard material–also giving the Yule/Xmas single track Standstill-Sol Invictus a play!
Dance Connection – open class, holistic movement practice, 5:15pm, Bridport St Mary’s Church House Hall, DT6 3NN, 07787752201, https://www.dance-connection-wessex.co.uk/
Bridport History Society will be welcoming Dr Mark Forrest who will give a talk about the Black Death in Dorset in the fourteenth century. The talk will be held at the United Church Hall on East Street, Bridport. Doors open at 2.15pm for a prompt 2.30pm start. All are welcome, members £1pp, 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: www.bridporthistorysociety.org.uk.
Friday, 14 November
Ile Valley Flower Club Demonstration by Lucy Ellis from Bratton. Titled The Colours of Christmas. Broadway Village Hall close to Ilminster. 2.30 pm start. Refreshments on arrival. Tickets £15. Available from 01460 75025 – 01460 67149.
Netherbury Nature Group West Dorset Wilding Project by Sam Rose. Netherbury Nature Group was set up to make Netherbury a more wildlife-friendly village. We’re a friendly, informal, group that holds regular meetings, puts on talks and other events as well as engaging in a variety of field work and projects. Open events with more events for members only – but it is free to join and so what not join! The Village Hall events are generally £3.00 for admission and have a cash bar. All meetings start at 7.00pm and doors open 6.30pm See here for more details: http://netherburynature.org/nature2/menu.php.
Renowned lutenist Matthew Nisbet will present ‘After Sunset Fadeth’, a historically-informed programme of early music to be performed by candlelight at 7pm in St Peter’s Church Dorchester. Matthew will perform on a variety of lutes and baroque guitar, introducing these beautiful period instruments and the music written for them. The concert will be performed without interval and last around 75 minutes. Tickets are priced £10 and available to purchase online at: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/st-peters-church-dorchester. For more information visit www.musicatstpetersdorchester.org.
The Comedy Store 7:30pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets £19. To book electricpalace.org.uk
My Ballet All adults 18-80 plus. Holistic ballet for all adults Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. Complete beginners welcome! Find out about our beginners courses. 10am – 11:15 with experience 11:30 – 12:30 Mixed ability. Jubilee Hall, Church street, Winsham, Chard TA20 4HU. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
Saturday, 15 November
Craig Milverton Trio 2025 marks 100 years since the birth of Oscar Peterson — one of the most dazzling, soulful and technically gifted pianists in jazz history. And who better to honour that legacy than Craig Milverton, the UK’s leading exponent of Peterson’s style and swing? St Michael’s Church, Church Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3DB. Opening / performance times: 7pm doors/ 7.30pm show. £21 advance/£10 under 18s. https://jazzjurassica.co.uk/
Axminster and District Choral Society present a programme of contemporary British music by Sir John Rutter, Bob Chilcott and Andrew Millington. 7.30 pm at the Minster Church, Axminster. Tickets £16 and £14 from axminsterchoral.co.uk or 01404 43805.
Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 7 mile walk from Hardy Monument. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340. New members/visitors welcome.
Comedy: Geoff Norcott – Basic Bloke 2, 8pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets £20.50. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
Christmas Fair at St Mary’s Church, Charminster, DT2 9RD. 11.00 am to 3.00 pm. All are welcome to come along. Lots of Stalls to browse & buy from – Cakes, Nearly New, Gifts, Christmas items, Cards, Tombola, Books, Puzzles and Games, Kids’ Corner, Toys, Bric-a-Brac, Refreshments and much more.
Saturday, 15 – 16 November
Chardstock Art Exhibition An eclectic collection of works by over a dozen well-known local artists in support of our community shop. 11.00-5.00 both days, Chardstock Village Hall EX13 7BJ (next to the school); Free entry; refreshments available. Further information 01460 220115 or 07526 505559.
Sunday, 16 November
Jazz by the Sea 8pm at the Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis. The Fabulous Red Diesel. The Fabulous Red Diesel’s refreshing take on jazz and soul has been lauded by fans and critics alike. Having released their eighth studio album, ‘Goddess the Seahorse’ in 2024, and a new live album in 2025, they are fast becoming one of the most talked about bands on the circuit, with Barbara Streisand/Eartha Kitt style vocals, beautiful original songs, and sublime arrangements. £16 advance/£18 otd.
Screening: John Cleese Packs It In (12A) 81 mins, 7pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets from £10. To book electricpalace.org.uk
Monday, 17 November
Scottish Dancing in Chardstock. An evening of Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Village Hall 7.30-10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug and wear soft soled shoes. No partner required. Cost £3.00. For more information contact David on 01460 65981. www.chardscottishcountrydance.co.uk.
Dance Connection – open class, holistic movement practice, 11:30am, Bridport St Mary’s Church House Hall, DT6 3NN, 07787752201, https://www.dance-connection-wessex.co.uk/
Tuesday, 18 November
West Dorset Ramblers 7 mile walk. The Three Melburys circular walk. Start 10am To book and for details please contact Heather T 07798 732252.
Beaminster Museum’s winter programme of events begins with To Win the Day, a powerful folk drama performed by Dorset-based group Time & Tide. While the story of the six Tolpuddle Martyrs is well known, this moving production asks: what became of the women and families they left behind? Blending 19th-century songs, historical documents and real-life stories of endurance, To Win the Day offers a stirring portrayal of courage in the face of adversity. Tickets are £8 on the door, and the performance starts at 2pm. Please note: seating is limited. Beaminster Museum, Whitcombe Rd, Beaminster DT8 3NB. www.beaminstermuseum.co.uk.
A Turn Lyme Green Talk The Dorset Bee Helen Bolter-Griffin from The Dorset Bee will illustrate which pollinator-friendly plants and flowers to grow for year round bee foraging. “Sow the right seeds to improve food for bees.” She will also highlight solitary bees and the Bridport Bee Hotel project. Driftwood Cafe, Baptist Church, top of Broad Street, Lyme Regis 6.45 for 7pm. Refreshments available. Donations welcome.
Wednesday, 19 November
West Dorset Community Orchestra meet for rehearsal in the Christian Fellowship hall, East Street car park, Bridport DT6 3PL from 6-30p.m. to 7-45p.m. Contact 01308 456297 www.westdorsetmusic.org.uk.
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).
Dance Connection – open class, holistic movement practice, 7pm, Uplyme Village Hall, DT7 3UY, 07787752201, https://www.dance-connection-wessex.co.uk/
Colyton & District Garden Society ‘The Return Of Saul Walker’ Head Gardener, Stonelands House, Dawlish —’All Things Orchids’. Venue : Colyford Memorial Hall, EX24 6QJ , start 7.30 pm. Members free, guests £3.00. Parking in the hall car park. Information : Peter Clark : 01297 553341.
My Ballet All adults 18-80 plus Holistic ballet for all adults Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. Complete beginners welcome! 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) (Also on Zoom at 10:30 am) Bull Hotel ballroom, 34 East St, Bridport DT6 3 LFDo get in touch and come and dance! Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
Thursday, 20 November
Dancing at Combe St Nicholas Village Hall alternate Thursdays from 1930 to 2130 hrs (Postcode TA20 3NY). Admission is £4.00 per person and includes a cuppa and a piece of cake! Group is friendly and inclusive and welcomes everyone who wants to do a bit of dancing and social chat. Fresh Aire are providing the music and Ali is calling. For further information, please contact Neil Arnold (neil.j.arnold@gmail.com) or 01460 234693.
Dance Connection – open class, holistic movement practice, 5:15pm, Bridport St Mary’s Church House Hall, DT6 3NN, 07787752201, https://www.dance-connection-wessex.co.uk/
Film: I Swear (15) 121 mins, 7:30pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets £8.50. To book electricpalace.org.uk
Friday, 21 November
West Dorset Ramblers 8 mile walk. Ringstead coast & country. Start 10am Ringstead NT c.p. To book and for details please contact Jill & Simon 07974 756107.
Illustrated talk – popular speaker and local author Anne Mosscrop will give a lively and humorous account of her trip from her early days of travelling – ‘Safari cycling in Kenya’. £6 includes wine/soft drink and nibbles. Please book and pay in advance. Proceeds to be shared between Village Hall and Christian Aid. 7.30pm, at Clapton & Wayford Village Hall. Further information from Mary (01460 74849) or Julia (01460 72769.
Music: An Eve with Don Letts (Screening, Q&A, DJ Set) 7pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets £20. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
My Ballet All adults 18-80 plus Holistic ballet for all adults Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. Complete beginners welcome! Find out about our beginners courses. 10am – 11:15 with experience 11:30 – 12:30 Mixed ability. Jubilee Hall, Church street, Winsham, Chard TA20 4HU. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
Saturday, 22 November
Thee Men of Cerne will be presenting a concert on Saturday 22nd November in St Mary’s Church Cerne Abbas .Dsoors open 6pm for 7pm. Bar available.Charities supported are Prostate Cancer and Breast Cancer. Tickets free at Cerne Stores but donations requested after concert.
Choral Evensong 4.30pm at St Peter’s Church Dorchester, DT1 1XA, with music by Reger, Bruce Payne, Howells and Finzi. The service is free to attend and all are welcome. More information at www.musicatstpetersdorchester.org.
Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 8 mile walk from Abbotsbury Swannery. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340. New members/visitors welcome.
Music: Bridport Big Band 7:30pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets £11.50. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
I Am Dram Artsreach presents this hilarious and touching one-woman show by Hannah Maxwell about her family’s involvement in amateur dramatics. 7.30pm. Powerstock Hut, School Hill, Powerstock DT6 3TB. Tickets £12.50 (Under 18s £6). www.artsreach.co.uk, 07755 590579 or on the door.
Saturday, 22 – 23 November
Forde Abbey Charity Christmas Fair With 40 local artisan stalls spread throughout the house for all your Christmas Gifts. Join our Christmas festivities and explore a wonderful selection of products from some of the Southwest’s finest artisans, crafters, and food producers. Tickets:£5 (free to under 15s). To book: www.fordeabbey.co.uk.
Sunday, 23 November
Candles on St Catherine’s Hill Abbotsbury. 1.15pm till dusk. A wheel lit by decorated candle bags (led tea lights) will be formed on the hill below St Catherine’s chapel together with a pathway to the door. Many of the bags will have been created by children from local schools. Candle Bags on sale £2 each in Abbotsbury shops, Bridport Tourist information centre and from the Abbotsbury Village hall on the day from 1.15pm (where there will be an art workshop available for decorating the bags). Volunteers will assist you in placing your bags on the path to the chapel and at 3pm an A cappella group will be singing in St Catherine’s chapel . At 3.45 there will be a dedication to St Catherine and to those loved ones remembered in messages and images on the candle bags. As you leave the chapel and dusk falls, the lights become more and more visible and can be seen for miles around. All are welcome to enjoy this special event.
Advent Concert given by The Occasional Singers at 3.00pm. St Mary’s Church, Edward Road, Dorchester DT1 2HL. St Mary’s Church in Dorchester will be filled with the glorious sounds of choral music, as the Occasional Singers perform a programme of Advent songs and carols. Admission is FREE with a retiring collection in aid of Citizens Advice. Everyone is most welcome.
Dalwood Jazz Club presents Bruce Adams with the Martin Dale Quartet with Bruce on trumpet, Martin – sax, Gavin Martin – keyboard, Denis Harris – drums and Kevin Sanders – bass. 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.
‘No One is Listening’ (A Ghost Story). In this chilling tale, master storyteller Vic Llewellyn takes us on a joyful, funny and heartbreaking ride through a landscape of ghosts, forgetfulness and fading memories. 7.30pm. For more info checkout www.villagesinaction.co.uk. Tickets £15. Suitable 11yrs +.Licenced Bar. 15 min interval. At Stockland Village Hall, Stockland, EX14 9EF.
Monday, 24 November
Scottish Dancing in Chardstock. An evening of Scottish dancing in Chardstock Village Hall 7.30-10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug and wear soft soled shoes. No partner required. Cost £3.00. For more information contact David on 01460 65981. www.chardscottishcountrydance.co.uk.
Winsham Art Club 2pm at Jubilee Hall TA20 4HU. The theme this practical session is Lithino Printing. It is a 2.5 hr. session led by a visiting tutor. Small friendly group of mixed abilities. Members £5, non-members £7. Annual membership £15. All welcome. Contact: Email : suzyna48@gmail.com for further details.
Dance Connection – open class, holistic movement practice, 11:30am, Bridport St Mary’s Church House Hall, DT6 3NN, 07787752201, https://www.dance-connection-wessex.co.uk/
Tuesday, 25 November
Bridport U3A talk at The Bridport United Church Hall, East Street, Bridport, DT6 3LJ. The speaker is Colin Divall and the talk is entitled ‘Do you really call that progress, Mr Marples’. It is a study of the railway closures 1950 – 75, featuring the Abbotsbury & Bridport lines. The talk starts at 2.00 pm, lasts for up to 1 hour followed by Q & A and then refreshments.Members free, visitors £3.00.
Bridport Film Society – Unmoored by Caroline Ingvarsson. A Swedish TV presenter’s life unravels when she confronts her domineering husband about an accusation against him. Her subsequent flight precipitates a chain of lies and paranoia. The suspense builds slowly and almost imperceptibly tightening, until you suddenly realise you’ve been holding your breath. 7.45pm Bridport Arts Centre. Members and Guests (£5) only.
Marking the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, Beaminster Museum’s second seasonal talk focusing on how this pivotal campaign affected the West Dorset town. While the skies over Dover may be the enduring image of the battle, our speaker will explore its local impact and legacy. The talk begins at 2pm, and tickets are £5 on the door. Beaminster Museum, Whitcombe Rd, Beaminster DT8 3NB. www.beaminstermuseum.co.uk
Wednesday, 26 November
Uplyme and Lyme Regis Horticultural Society Talk, ‘The R-Word: Rewilding Unwrapped; by Dr Sam Rose. Uplyme Village Hall 7.30pm. Doors open 7pm. Members free; guests £3. More information https://ulrhs.wordpress.com.
West Dorset Rambler 8 mile walk. The Cerne Valley via Upcerne and Minterne Parva. To book and for details please contact Philip 07874 198660.
West Dorset Community Orchestra meet for rehearsal in the Christian Fellowship hall, East Street car park, Bridport DT6 3PL from 6-30p.m. to 7-45p.m. Contact 01308 456297 www.westdorsetmusic.org.uk.
My Ballet All adults 18-80 plus HolisticBallet class for fitness, fun, posture, balance,strength, friendship and fabulous music. Bull Hotel ballroo’My Ballet ‘ All adults 18-80 plus. Holistic ballet for all adults . Supportive & Non-judgemental classical ballet. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. Complete beginners welcome! 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) (Also on Zoom at 10;30am) Bull Hotel ballroom, 34 East St, Bridport DT6 3LFDo get in touch and come and dance! Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
Thursday, 27 November
Dance Connection – open class, holistic movement practice, 5:15pm, Bridport St Mary’s Church House Hall, DT6 3NN, 07787752201, https://www.dance-connection-wessex.co.uk/
Film: I Swear (15) 121 mins, 2pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets £7.50. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
Screening: NTLive – The Fifth Step (15), 7pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets from £17.50. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
Bob Ward will be at Sladers Yard, West Bay, at 7pm to deliver an informative and engaging talk followed by a Q&A where he will answer your burning questions about Dorset’s path to net zero. Tickets at Bridport Tourist Information Centre. https://bridportandwestbay.co.uk/tickets/talks
Join authors Jeni Bell and Karen Heaney for an entertaining journey through some of the county’s most fascinating hidden corners, inspired by their new book 111 Places in Dorset That You Shouldn’t Miss. From secret beaches and curious landmarks to tucked-away tearooms and extraordinary local stories, their lively talk will reveal a side of Dorset you’ve never seen before. Whether you’re an established local, or new to the area, they’ll give you plenty of ideas for your next exploration. The Talk & Book Signing with Jeni and Karen, which is in support of the West Bay Discovery Centre, takes place at 2.30pm at the Bridport Town Hall. Tickets are £7.00
Friday, 28 November
Axminster Flower Club Christmas Demonstration Magical, Mystical Christmas Floral Demonstration with Angie Blackwell of Cottage Flowers, Ilminster. The Minster Church, Axminster EX13 5AH. 2.30pm. Tickets: £10. Contact: 07742964895.
Kilmington Film Night “The Salt Path” (12) Doors and bar open 6.45 film start 7.15 at Kilmington Village Hall EX13 7RF. Tickets £6 can be ordered by contacting: John at wattsjohn307@gmail.com or Tel: 01297 521681.
La Vie En Rose Bridport Arts Centre 8pm. The heartfelt wail of the blues; the sultry heat of the campfire; the crazy swirl of the bal musette, all fused together with virtuosity and passion in the melting pot of 1930s Paris: the result was gypsy jazz. Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NR. Box Office 01308 424204 £18/17/9 http://www.bridport-arts.com.
Film: Good Fortune (15) 97 mins, 7:30pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets £8.50. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
My Ballet All adults 18-80 plus Holistic ballet for all adults Supportive & Non – judgemental classical ballet. For posture, flexibility, strength, balance, fitness, friendship. Join the fun and feel good. Complete beginners welcome!Find out about our beginners courses. 10am – 11:15 with experience 11:30 – 12:30 Mixed ability. Jubilee Hall, Church street, Winsham, Chard TA20 4HU. Whatsapp 07866896978. email: myballetuk@gmail.com www.my-ballet.uk
Saturday, 29 November
Stockland Christmas Craft Market Victory Hall, 10am – 12 noon. Monica.parris@outlook.com. 01404 881535.
Advent Carol Service 4.30pm at St Peter’s Church Dorchester, DT1 1XA sung by University Music Bournemouth Chamber Choir. Traditional Advent carols alongside glorious choral settings by composers including Anna Lapwood, Bruckner, Sally Beamish and John Tavener. The service is free to attend and all are welcome. More information at www.musicatstpetersdorchester.org.
Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 6.5 mile walk from Came Wood. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340. New members/visitors welcome.
WI Christmas Fayre Come along for a warm welcome, tasty lunch, interesting stalls and produce. Free entry! 12noon -3pm at Chideock Village Hall DT6 6JW.
Cantamus presents ‘Magnificat’ a concert of beautiful choral music for Advent. St Mary’s Church, Cerne Abbas, at 7pm. Tickets £12 from the village shop or on the door. Refreshments available. cantamus-dorset.org.
Beginners Sewing Workshop. At the URC church, Chard St, Axminster ( car park opposite) 10 am until 2 pm. Cost £18. Come and learn more about your sewing machine. Make a small project: bag, placemat, fabric box etc. To book a place contact : gina.youens@btinternet.com.
Music: The Skids + Support, 8pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets £31. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
Bridport Dance Festival Tango Day ‘Celebrate Tango’ A Day of Argentine Tango, art, poetry & performance. 10am – 12pm Beginners Tango with Barrio de Tango. £16 earlybird/£20 thereafter Tea/coffee included. 3.00 – 5.00 Beginners & all levels with Tango Fandango. £20 Earlybird/£25 thereafter Tea/coffee included. 7:30 – 10:30 Evening Milonga, dancing for everyone, Tango dance, poetry readings & performance woven together. By Leo & Tracey Tango Fandango. £20 Earlybird/£25 thereafter – All day Earlybird £50pp £65 thereafter. Earlybird tickets are limited. Bookings: Bridport TIC Phone: 01308 424901 or arrive at the door on the day – Booking recommended. www.bridportdancefestival.org.uk
Saturday, 29 – 30 November
Mapperton’s Christmas Market 2025 Saturday: 10am–6pm | Sunday: 10am–4pm. Get into the festive spirit at Mapperton’s Christmas Market 2025 – a magical weekend of Christmas cheer in the heart of the Dorset countryside. Your £5 entry includes free parking, access to the beautiful Mapperton Gardens, and helps support Weldmar Hospice. Under-15s go free. Santa’s Grotto: £5 per child. The site is wheelchair-friendly and dogs are welcome in the market and café (gardens excepted). Join us for a weekend filled with festive charm, delicious food, and the warmest of Mapperton welcomes.
Sunday, 30 November
Netherbury Repair Cafe 10:00-12:00 at the Village Hall. Why not bring your broken items and see if one of our lovely team can fix them. And while you are waiting you can sample what the cafe offers: home-made cakes, delicious coffee and a range of Clipper teas. Vegan and vegetarian-friendly. We are always looking for new volunteers and so if you love fixing things, baking or being part of a fun community event then come and join us.
Choral Eucharist 10.30am at St Peter’s Church Dorchester, DT1 1XA, with music by Karenza Briggs, James MacMillan and Grayston Ives. The service is free to attend and all are welcome. More information at www.musicatstpetersdorchester.org.
Singing Bowl Soundbath 2PM Oborne Village Hall, Oborne, nr. Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4LA £17 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. Please book 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com.
Music: Wessex Military Band 4pm, Bridport Electric Palace, DT6 3NY. Tickets from £10. To book electricpalace.org.uk.
