Bring history to life with this epic, free drop-in and self-service event at the Dorset Museum & Art Gallery (with ticket entry—kids go free!) Step into the world of ancient Rome:
• Make and decorate your Roman helmet and shield to wear proudly or take home as a keepsake!
This is your chance to experience Roman history like never before. Perfect for all ages – get ready to step back in time and have some legendary fun!
A British Museum Partnership Exhibition with Colchester + Ipswich Museums will delve into the lesser-known history of gladiatorial contests in Roman Britain. Launching at Dorset Museum & Art Gallery in January 2025, the exhibition will tour four UK venues, tracing the footsteps of gladiators who once fought in Britain’s amphitheatres.
Mon 21st Apr - All day
and 20 future schedules
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Step into the thrilling world of gladiators with our Gladiator Trail, a fun-filled family activity that will take you on an exciting journey through the museum!
Mon 21st Apr - All day
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Join us this Easter for an exciting adventure on our “GLADI-EGG-TOR” Trail!
Mon 21st Apr - All day
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Join our trained guides to step back in time and immerse yourself in the historic Roman town of Durnovaria...
Tue 22nd Apr - 10:30am
and 4 future schedules
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Come and join us for fun-filled Storytime where you can listen to some amazing tales in our Community Space at Dorset Museum & Art Gallery!
Thu 24th Apr - 10:00am
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Join Dr John Pearce for a talk that explores the reality of gladiatorial spectacles and reveals the grim truths behind these celebrated events at Dorset Museum & Art Gallery on Thursday 24 April, 6:00pm – 7:00pm.
Thu 24th Apr - 6:00pm
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This free event is a celebration of all things wedding-related, featuring a selection of local vendors, interactive displays and live performances - all designed to inspire couples as they plan their big day.
Sun 27th Apr - 11:00am
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Join our Collections Team for an opportunity to explore behind the scenes in Dorset Museum & Art Gallery's Collections Discovery Centre.
Wed 30th Apr - 2:00pm
and 8 future schedules
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Explore the Museum and take part in drop-in activities during our Quiet Openings. Especially suitable for visitors with autism or other sensory conditions, and their siblings, parents and carers. The sessions are also suitable for any group or individual who would like to visit our museums and galleries at a quieter time.
Sat 3rd May - 10:00am
and 6 future schedules
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Thinking about becoming a volunteer? Come along and find out more about volunteer opportunities in Dorchester
Tue 20th May - 11:00am
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Step into the enchanting world of Dorset folklore and immerse yourself in the magical tale of "The Singing Barrows at Bincombe Bumps".
Tue 27th May - 10:00am
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Join Paula Byrne for a talk exploring Hardy Women which offers a fresh perspective on Hardy’s life, exploring it through the lens of the women who shaped him—his formidable mother, devoted sisters, first loves, long-suffering wives, and inspiring muses. Through their eyes, we see the man behind the novels, a figure both enthralled by and at odds with the women around him.
Fri 30th May - 6:00pm
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Event in partnership between the Thomas Hardy Society and Dorset Museum & Art Gallery
Fri 30th May - 7:30pm
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This joint talk explores the British Empire's impact on the West County, examining Dorset's colonial connections, imperial wealth, and literary responses, including Thomas Hardy's portrayal of global influences in Wessex.
Fri 4th Jul - 6:00pm
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Join Mark Damon Chutter, the Chairman and Academic Director of the Thomas Hardy Society, for this special talk as part of our Festival of Archaeology programme.
Wed 23rd Jul - 11:00am
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This talk presents new work by archaeologists from Bournemouth University, that has used radiocarbon dating to arrive at new conclusions regarding the dead of Maiden Castle and why they were laid to rest within the ramparts of this iconic site.
Thu 24th Jul - 6:00pm
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Join Jane Austen's House Director Lizzie Dunford for this illustrated talk exploring the connections of Britain's greatest writer with the coast that surrounds our islands.
Fri 1st Aug - 6:00pm
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Join bestselling author, Gill Hornby for a captivating evening as she discusses her writing inspired by the world of Jane Austen with writer Tracy Chevalier.
Fri 5th Sep - 6:00pm
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