BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Dorchester Festival - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Dorchester Festival REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/London BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20250330T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20251026T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20260329T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20261025T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20270328T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20271031T010000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260501 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260511 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220105T144036Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T141532Z UID:3879-1777593600-1778457599@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Drawn to Imperfection – an exhibition by Dave Nevard DESCRIPTION:This exhibition is FREE to visit \nThere will be a free preview and Q&A with the artist and David Painting (the author of the book about the exhibition) at 7pm in Dorchester Abbey on Thursday 30th April.  Please do come! \nDrawn to Imperfection is a collection of 21 large scale contemporary portraits offering an engaging invitation into the story of the Bible.  These portraits offer a unique window into the humanity and vulnerability of those found in the pages of the Bible\, giving audiences the opportunity to meet these characters face to face. \nCreated as a collaboration between artist Dave Nevard and author David Painting\, the exhibition is accompanied by a book of the same name.  This immersive collection of work has been featured on BBC 1 and tours around the UK. \nDave Nevard creates portraiture rich in empathy that explores the complexity of our humanity.  Blending influences from street art and traditional realism\, Dave’s wider work is often deeply informed by the lives of those found in the margins of society. This has led to collaborative work with charities and NGO’s around the world. \nInstagram: @dave.nevard \n  \nRevd Dr Harriet Harris will be facilitating a morning of prayer and reflection based on the exhibition on Thursday 7th May 9am-12noon.  Find out more about it here. \nSince graduating with a BA(Hons) in Fine Art\, Dave has developed a rich practice of socially engaged work. \nFrom leprosy communes in China to the homeless communities of Buenos Aires\, Dave has had the opportunity to create site-specific work in diverse cross-cultural locations around the world. Blending traditional painting and drawing with strong influences from street art and muralism\, Dave’s practice has been deeply informed by the lives of those found in forgotten places. \nParticularly drawn to those pushed to the fringes of society\, Dave’s work is often initiated by the relationship formed with those inhabiting these spaces. Exploring themes of identity\, belonging and social injustice within the cracks of contemporary urban life\, the circumstances\, stories and personalities of these individuals characterize the identity of his work. \nA passionate storyteller\, Dave loves to explore the medium of portraiture to provide thought provoking work that celebrates the beauty and complexity of our shared humanity. \nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements – we’d love to help you! \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/drawntoimperfection/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Art,Art, History, Film & Literature,Free!,Spiritual ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/DTI-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Dorchester Festival":MAILTO:festival@dorchester-abbey.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260501 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260511 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220107T053308Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T092709Z UID:3964-1777593600-1778457599@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Scarecrow Trail - Historical Figures DESCRIPTION:The 2026 Scarecrow historical figures are listed below.  Congratulations to the Line family for their winning scarecrow – Howard Carter and Tutankhamun \n\n\n\nDorchester Festival 2026 Scarecrow Trail Answers (most popular scarecrow: Howard Carter and Tutankhamun)\n\n\nNo\nAddress\nWho is the historical figure?\n\n\n1\nDorchester Abbey Museum \nGeoffrey Chaucer\n\n\n2\nVillage Hall\, Queen’s St (Dorchester Historical Society)\nSir George Gilbert Scott \n \n\n\n3\nDorchester St Birinus Primary School \nSt Birinus\n\n\n4\nDorchester Pre-school\, Queen’s Street \nAmelia Earhart\n\n\n5\n3 Manor Farm Road \nNeil Armstrong\n\n\n6\n7 Monks Close\nEmmeline Pankhurst\n\n\n7\n11 Monks Close \nFriar Tuck (and Robin Hood)\n\n\n8\n17 Page Furlong\nSt Francis of Assisi\n\n\n9\n2 Page Furlong\nAlbert Einstein\n\n\n10\n7 Jemmetts Close\nHelen Sharman\n\n\n11\n3 The Limes\nKing Henry VIII\n\n\n12\nSnug\, Bishop’s Court Farm\, High St\nJulius Caesar\n\n\n13\n72 High Street\nSteve Jobs\n\n\n14\nHigh St Bus Shelter (Knit n Natter) \nWilliam Shakespeare\n\n\n15\nFortnums Estates\, 65 High Street \nMarilyn Monroe\n\n\n16\n55 High Street \nRosa Parks\n\n\n17\n51 High Street\nCleopatra\n\n\n18\n30 High Street \nAnne Boleyn\n\n\n19\n6 Beechcroft \nHoward Carter and Tutankhamun\n\n\n20\n8 Malthouse Lane \nGandhi\n\n\n21\n19 Watling Lane \nMarie Curie\n\n\n22\n7 Tenpenny\nCleopatra\n\n\n23\n2 Haven Close\nBeatrix Potter\n\n\n24\n13 Tenpenny\nQueen Matilda\n\n\n25\n22 Bridge End \nFrida Kahlo\n\n\n26\n15 Meadside (just 10 mins’ walk from village centre)\nMary Anning\n\n\n27\nDorchester Abbey porch\nJoseph and his Technicolour Dreamcoat\n\n\n28\n13 High Street\nBlackbeard\n\n\n\n  \nScarecrow entry for scarecrow makers: £5. \nDorchester Folk can enter a scarecrow for the Scarecrow trail or you can simply stroll around the village and see if you can work out what they are during Festival week \nThe theme is Historical Figures!\nIf you’d like to enter a scarecrow – they can be really simple\, pulled together at the last minute or super creative\, planned way in advance – up to you\, as long as they resemble a historical figure(s). Completed entry forms must be received by Saturday 25 April latest. Scarecrows must be in place by Thursday 30 April 2026. \nTwo ways to enter: \n\nfill out the form below & buy a ticket from the boxoffice for your £5 entry fee\nprint out this form\, fill it in and post it through the letterbox at either 73 High St or 3 Manor Farm Road with £5 entry fee (cheques can be made out to Dorchester Festival)\n\nName / FamilyEmail AddressPhoneAddress (where the scarecrow will be seen)Where will the scarecrow be?What historical figure will your scarecrow represent? Submit Form\nOr simply buy a map and take to the trail during Festival week.  Maps (minimum donation) £4 from the Coop or the Festival Big Tent during Festival week. \nTake a walk around the village\, peek into windows and gardens to guess which historical figures are lurking. Some will be easier to identify than others but it’s all good fun for all ages. Vote for your favourite scarecrow; the makers of the winning scarecrow get a prize! \nScarecrows are all visible from the street so this event is fully accessible to wheelchairs. If you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements – we’d love to help you! \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/scarecrow-trail/ LOCATION:Dorchester\, High St\, Dorchester on Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX107HN\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Family,Family & Children ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/scarecrow-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Dorchester Festival":MAILTO:festival@dorchester-abbey.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260501 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260511 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20251230T061330Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260411T171946Z UID:5057-1777593600-1778457599@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:The Hallidays Community Art Installation - Impressions of Dorchester DESCRIPTION:This event is FREE and available for viewing throughout the Festival week \n \nA collaborative installation of small artworks created by a variety of groups within the local community and by the young people of our charity partner\, Be Free Young Carers. Designed and led and by Oxford-based artist Emma Coleman-Jones\, individual responses to The Abbey\, the village and the local landscape are displayed together in an innovative design inspired by the windows and arches within the Abbey itself. Through the generous support of locally-based and internationally-renowned sculptor David Harber\, the supporting arches used to create the display in the People’s Chapel will be auctioned through the festival to provide additional funds for our charities.  Bid for an arch here! \nThe Installation is now closed to new pieces and we have over 420!  Emma will now collate these into the exhibition for everyone to view through the Festival. \nAt 11am on Saturday 2nd May it will be formally opened by the artists who have created it and we are hoping all the community artists who have contributed will come and see their work in place. \n  \nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements – we’d love to help you! \nThis event is sponsored by Hallidays \n \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/the-hallidays-community-art-exhibition-impressions-of-dorchester/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Art,Art, History, Film & Literature,Family,Family & Children,Free! ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/art-installation.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Dorchester Festival":MAILTO:festival@dorchester-abbey.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260502 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260511 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220106T172138Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T145844Z UID:3956-1777680000-1778457599@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Local Artists Exhibition DESCRIPTION:The work will be available to view 11am-5pm Weekends & BH Mon \nDorchester Artists including \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSophia Stewart-Liberty\nTracy Lester\nEd Metcalfe\nCarol Golding\nSimon Clements\nBill Maish\nEmma Coleman-Jones\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nwill be exhibiting their work in the Dorchester Abbey Guest House.  25% of all sales will go to the Festival Charities – Dorchester Abbey and Be Free Young Carers \nMore details of their work will be posted here closer to the event \nThe Abbey Guest House upper room has a stair lift but there is a single step up from the path to get into the building.  If you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements – we’d love to help you! \n  \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/local-artists-exhibition/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey Guest House\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Art,Art, History, Film & Literature,Free! ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/tracyweb.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Dorchester Festival":MAILTO:festival@dorchester-abbey.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260508T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260508T123000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20260320T092422Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T092422Z UID:5293-1778234400-1778243400@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Yoga and Wellbeing for schools DESCRIPTION:Emma Horwill\,  a yoga teacher with a decade of experience\, introduces yoga to pupils in our local primary school\, Dorchester St Birinus\nThis is a private class and is already pre-booked.  If your school would like to be involved in future Festivals with events like this\, then do get in touch! \n \nEmma Horwill  is a Charity Ambassador for Be Free Young Carers\, working with the young carers & their families as the Health & Wellbeing expert.  It was through getting involved with Be Free Young Carers that she discovered that she had actually been a young carer herself! \nTeaching with an open heart\, warmth and a sense of humour\, she loves sharing the joy of yoga with all humans. (And even sometimes with her dog Mabel) \n \nHer passion is sharing the value and joy of yoga with children and young people\, hoping they will continue their own journey of self care for a lifetime.  This includes teaching girls\, teens & women yoga and wellbeing for hormonal health\, menarche and menopause. \nHer classes are a blend of hatha\, vinyasa\, yin\, meditation\, mindfulness\, sound healing & essential oils; gentle\, healing classes\, but not without challenges! \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/yoga-and-wellbeing-for-schools/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom ORGANIZER;CN="Dorchester Festival":MAILTO:festival@dorchester-abbey.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260508T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260508T140000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220106T170834Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260121T141954Z UID:3951-1778241600-1778248800@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Music for Autism DESCRIPTION:This event is FREE! \nWith Hannah Frazer Mackenzie. Soprano \nThis is a free concert to which all are invited!  Local autistic schools will come to enjoy the therapeutic effects of music live in the Abbey with professional musicians associated with the Orchestra of St John’s (OSJ) as part of their Music for Autism programme. \nFor over 20 years\, under the committed leadership of John Lubbock\, Music for Autism has provided a programme of accessible workshops delivered in special schools and designed specifically for young people with autism. OSJ Music for Autism engages with over 6\,000 young people each year\, and is offered entirely free of charge to participating schools. \nMany people like to listen to music sitting absolutely still and silent\, without any distractions\, so that they can focus on the music.  But a significant number of other people\, in particular young people with autism\, prefer to move about\, perhaps dancing or responding physically to the music\, vocalising or whatever.  The consequence is that such people are usually unwelcome at formal ‘concert hall’ performances. As a result\, their access to live classical music is limited – sometimes impossible. This is where Music for Autism makes such a difference. \nThe important difference is that the students can respond to the music exactly as they wish. They can sit up\, lie down\, move around or stand and stare. They can fidget if they wish – and some children use fidgeting as a strategy to help them concentrate\, not as an indication of their boredom as is often assumed.  Nothing is forced; yet\, with John Lubbock gently facilitating and encouraging throughout\, the interaction between the children\, the music and the musicians is very often a deeply moving experience. \nPeople of all ages and abilities are welcome to come to this event. \nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements – we’d love to help you! \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/music-for-autistic-schools/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Family & Children,Free!,Music,Older children,Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/music-for-autism-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Dorchester Festival":MAILTO:festival@dorchester-abbey.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260508T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260508T213000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220105T150550Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T035802Z UID:3884-1778268600-1778275800@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Pour My Bluff! DESCRIPTION:This event is SOLD OUT! \nTickets £27 incl 8 x 60ml glasses of wine \nPlatters made up by Snug cafe are available to buy alongside tickets \nThink you know your wine? Want to both taste some fine wines and also understand more about them? Fancy some fun and competition whilst learning? Then this event is for you.  Think of it as Call My Bluff meets Would I Lie to You lubricated by wine. \nThe wonderful Pierre Le Vin team\, wine suppliers to the festival\, have selected 8 special wines for us all to taste. And to make it more interesting and fun a panel of local ‘experts’ will talk to you about each wine. But only one is telling the truth\, can you work out who is telling the truth and who is bluffing?  Add in a wine quiz to test your knowledge and a platter of bread\, cheeses and nibbles to give you a good thirst and we’ll have a great evening. With prizes for those who can see through the lies and find the truth. \nPlatters provided by Snug will be available to buy in advance alongside your tickets:\n(all serve 2 as a sharing plate/appetizer)\n– Warm Spinach and Artichoke Dip\, tortilla chips £9.75 (GF-vegetarian)\n– Cheese Board – three cheeses\, cheese biscuits\, grapes\, farm honey £14.50 (GF on request)\n– Charcuterie Board: Cured meats\, olives\, pickles and mini baguette £14.50 (GF on request)\n– Mediterranean Plate: a seasonal platter of raw veggies & dips (vegan\, GF) £12.50\n– Chocolate Sweet treats: A platter of bite size chocolate treats £9.50\n– Wine Teasers: a sample plate of different flavors to try with the wines. Think salty\, sweet\, tangy\, acidic\, sour\, creamy and citrus. £7.95 \nOur wine experts practicing their bluffs are…\nPaul Fritz-Johnson – Paul is our expert from Welch & Co\, wine suppliers to the Festival as a whole. \n  \n  \n  \nMary Galer – Mary started in hospitality at 14 years old and has never left!  Following training she managed hotels in France for 4 years\, came back to run The Fleur in Dorchester with her husband Nick\, and then went to run The Goose Restaurant during which time it won its first Michelin star.  Mary then went on to work at The Hinds Head\, Bray for 4.5 years (also a Michelin star was achieved) until they took on their own public house and hotel\, The Miller of Mansfield\, Goring on Thames.  Mary and Nick ran The Miller from 2014-2022 while Mary completed her WSET and created a virtual wine business ‘Virtual Vines’.  She was the GM of Wilding in Oxford and is now GM of The George at Upton \n  \nKeith Ives – the proprietor of Bishops Court Farm is never short of a opinion on a bottle of wine. So we can expect some forthright views from Keith in his usual inimitable style \n  \n  \n  \nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements. \n  \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/pour-my-bluff/ LOCATION:Snug Barn\, Bishops Court Farm\, High St\, Dorchester on Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HP\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Events with Food & Drink,Food & Drink,Workshops & Demos ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/wine-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260508T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260508T213000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20260103T141742Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T092017Z UID:5106-1778268600-1778275800@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Liza Pulman Sings Streisand DESCRIPTION:Tickets £30/£22/£15\nThere will be a section of seats reserved at the very front of the nave for Festival Friends at this concert.  Festival Friend privileges include early booking and the best seats in the house!  Do consider becoming a Friend – find out more about it here. \nAn evening of sparkling entertainment…a sound of Streisand with a large delicious slice of Liza\nBritish Theatre ★★★★★                 \nFresh from three sell out concerts at Chichester Festival Theatre Fascinating Aida’s acclaimed singer and comedienne Liza Pulman celebrates the legend of Barbra Streisand in concert with her fabulous band and musical director Joseph Atkins.\n“Renowned as one of the very few artists that can truly emulate the vocal skills of the iconic Barbra Streisand” – Liza’s STREISAND show has played London’s West End to packed houses and five-star reviews. \nThis ‘world class show’ (Encore Radio) brings Liza’s personal slant on Streisand’s life and music\, with warmth\, humour and compelling storytelling.\n Featuring glorious new arrangements of classic songs …THE WAY WE WERE\, SECOND HAND ROSE\, YOU DON’T BRING ME FLOWERS\, PEOPLE and many more. \nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements – we’d love to help you! \n\nThe love child of Neil Diamond and Barbra Streisand\nSuzy Klein\, BBC Radio 3 In Tune \nPulman may look bright and beautiful and demure\, but she knows how to wield a flick-knife   \nThe Times ★★★★ \n Incredible performances of classic numbers……delivered with humour\, grace and class\nTheatre Weekly ★★★★★       \nBewitches us with sheer vocal virtuosity and emotional expression \nBritish Theatre.com ★★★★★ \nThe whole audience are on their feet and seldom has a standing ovation been better earned.\nStage Talk\, London\, Cadogan Hall\, ★★★★★ \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/liza-pulman-sings-streisand/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Music,Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/liza.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260509 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260510 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220107T062301Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T093235Z UID:3968-1778284800-1778371199@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Mad Hatter's Tea Party DESCRIPTION:Tickets : £15 children under 10 / £20 adults / £25 with Prosecco\nChildren too young for their own seat may sit on a parent’s lap and share their tea. \n1 hour teas starting at 2pm / 3.15pm / 4.30pm \nTumble down the rabbit hole to enter the world of Alice in Wonderland and eat a delicious cream tea with incredible cakes and surprising sandwiches in the Rectory Garden.  An hour full of fun whatever your age! \nChildren (or young at heart) can play croquet with the Queen of Hearts\, meet the White Rabbit and other characters and help Alice find her way home…\nOr you can simply sit and eat the most fantastic afternoon tea!\n(with many thanks to Dorchester Amateur Dramatics Society for their character performances through the afternoon!) \nAlways a sellout so do buy an advance ticket!\nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements. \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/mad-hatters-tea-party/ LOCATION:Dorchester Rectory\, Enter by Dorchester Abbey Tower gate\, Dorchester on Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX107HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Events with Food & Drink,Family,Family & Children,Food & Drink,Theatre & Comedy ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/mad-hatter-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T110000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220106T112053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T092145Z UID:3920-1778320800-1778324400@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Quintessential - children's concert DESCRIPTION:Tickets £8 adults / £6 children (under 16) \nA fun family concert!\nWould you like to take your children to a concert but you’re worried in case they make a noise during the performance?  Would you like to know more about wind instruments and ask the players questions?  This is the concert for you!\nFeaturing timeless classics such as ‘The Teddy Bear’s Picnic’ and Frozen alongside interactive numbers\, the Oxford-based quintet will present music to educate and entertain.  Suitable for all ages. \nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements. \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/quintessential/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Classical,Family,Family & Children,Music,Younger children ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/quintessential.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T150000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220115T112606Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T101923Z UID:4175-1778320800-1778338800@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Latte Art Masterclasses & Professional Throwdown DESCRIPTION:A morning dedicated to Latte Art!\nLearn new skills and give it a go. Or simply watch and donate to drink as much specialty coffee as you want!\nOrganised and sponsored by the team at Horsebox Coffee Co. & Dark Horse Roastery.\nThey’ll be mixing it up with their ‘Delicious decaf’ and plant based milks to cater for all and really put the baristas through their paces. \nThe timing of these classes has changed slightly from the printed programme. \n10am & 12noon Latte Art masterclasses\nTickets £25\nJoin a one and a half hour intensive but fun workshop for non coffee professionals – delivered by professional barista trainers.\nLearn how to pour some simple latte art so you are ready to give it a go yourself!\nEach class finishing with a mini latte art throwdown competition.  All participants will receive a bag of Emily’s signature Dark Horse coffee to take home! \n2.30am Latte Art Throwdown competition\nWatch the professionals from local coffee shops battle it out to see who will be crowned the Festival Latte art champion!\nIf you are a professional barista with a talent for latte art and would like to take part in the Latte Art throwdown\, please do complete the form below: \n\nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements – we’d love to help you! \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/latte/ LOCATION:Festival Big Tent\, Dorchester Abbey\, Dorchester on Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Art,Art, History, Film & Literature,Events with Food & Drink,Food & Drink,Workshops & Demos ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/latteart.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T160000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20240113T101641Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T092213Z UID:4706-1778320800-1778342400@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Pet portraits with Personality! DESCRIPTION:Tickets £70 \nLunch available for purchase from the food and gift fair in the Cloister Garden open 10am-5pm \nAll levels of painter are welcome to work with Lucy Burton on a stage by stage process to create a Pet Portrait in Oils or Acrylics  You’ll use an ‘islands to oceans’ method of working\, aiming to make the eyes come alive and give the animal and your painting lots of personality! Lucy will inspire you with some new ideas and techniques to take away with you and apply to your own work. \nYou will be working from your own image\, either from an I-pad OR you can use a photograph at least 5” x 5”.  The animal’s eyes must be clear and in focus. Crop your image so that it is square.  The head of the animal should take up most of the frame. For good (free to use) reference images see www.pixabay.com \nThe better the reference image – the better the painting! \nLucy Burton is an oil painter and tutor based in Leamington Spa\, who takes commissions and runs many workshops at home and across the Midlands and South West.  She offers a wide selection of painting workshops from ‘still life’ and ‘landscapes’ to ‘portraiture’\, ‘abstraction’ and experimental techniques\, using oils\, acrylics and collage. Workshops are suitable for beginners and practicing artists alike\, the critique is individually focused with no ‘right’\, ‘wrong’ or ‘expected’ outcome\, but rather a goal of individual development and original expression. \nAvailable to buy on the day £5:  8” x 8” Ampersand gessoboard or buy here \nWhat to bring: (with links to where to buy)\nA colour photograph of your animal or an image on an ipad / tablet.\nA black and white print out of your square cropped image as large as you can make it on an A4 piece of paper\nA selection brushes eg. Rosemary Ivory Short Flats nos. 2\,3\,5\, Ivory Filbert size 0\nA selection of artist quality paints – acrylics or oils oils or acrylics eg. Daler Rowney starter set.\nPalette knife – eg. Winsor and Newton size 22\nPaper Palette and a box to take your work home in \n Oils only: A jar and some low odour thinners/ white spirit substitute for cleaning your brushes\, some rags or plenty of tissues to wipe brushes clean. \nOptional extra items \n‘Liquin’ painting medium if working in oils\nA ‘Stay-wet’ palette if working in acrylics \nIf you need disabled parking or access contact us here – we’d love to help! \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/pets-with-personality/ LOCATION:Festival Little Tent\, Dorchester Abbey\, Dorchester on Thames\, Oxon\, OX107HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Art,Art, History, Film & Literature,Workshops & Demos ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/pets.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T170000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20260320T104810Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T140451Z UID:5297-1778320800-1778432400@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Live Music on the Cloister Stage DESCRIPTION:On the second Festival weekend we’ll have FREE live music on the Cloister Stage in the Cloister Garden behind Dorchester Abbey \nEverything from choirs to bands\, singer songwriters to cover bands – it’ll all be there surrounded by lovely food and drink stalls!  So just turn up\, buy a pint or a coffee and some gorgeous lunch or snacks and sit and enjoy the fun and chilled vibes! \nSaturday 9th May \n10.30am Rock Choir\n11am The Greenway Project\n12noon Rock Choir\n12.45 Wally Ukes\n2pm Merlin Bateman-Paris\n3pm Only The Brave \nSunday 10th May \n12noon Aled Bath\n1pm Jody Prewett\n2pm Pandemonium\n3pm Oxford Gospel Choir \nDidcot Rock Choir\nOur local Didcot Rock Choir is run by singing teacher Krisha Kaye and performs at local Oxfordshire music\, food and fireworks festivals and joins other Rock Choirs for national and regional events\, giving members unrivalled performance opportunities and experiences beyond compare\, ranging from appearing at Wembley Stadium to singing at the Rugby!  It’s new friends\, performance achievements\, socials\, an incredible choir leader Krisha and above all – singing beautiful pop song arrangements! \n  \n  \nThe Greenway Project\nThe Greenway Project are a local 5-piece covers band\, featuring sax\, duelling guitars\, bass and their eponymous drummer (you may even spot the Curate!). They play a wide mix of genres\, including rock\, soft rock\, hard rock and sing-along rock. Think Abba to AC/DC. You can judge them by their covers. \nWally Ukes\nWally Ukes is a super friendly local group with a songbook spanning the last 60 years. They play everything from timeless classics to modern hits\, offering something for everyone. With bass\, percussion\, harmonica and more alongside our ukes\, join us for an upbeat session of great songs!  \n  \n  \n  \n Merlin Bateman-Paris\nNow performing solo following his time with The Bartenders covers band\, Merlin Bateman-Paris @mbparismusic plays guitar and harmonica while singing mesmerising songs inspired by folk\, gypsy jazz\, and the blues. \n \nOnly The Brave\nOnly The Brave are a six-piece band from South Oxfordshire. Formed in 2024 the band plays self-penned songs that tell stories of longing and dog-legged lives. Influences range from classic artists like Stephen Stills to the contemporary Jamestown Revival\, Midlake and Waxahatchee. We hope our music dwells with you like an old friend offering bittersweet vignettes for life’s unpredictable path.\nIan Salisbury\, Steve Eyre\, Tara Eyre\, James Arbuckle\, Ian Wild and Chris Baines. Photo: Chris Baines \n  \n \n  \nAled Bath\nThe Still Cans is the solo project of Dorchester-based singer-songwriter Aled Bath\, whose acoustic and electric songs explore life’s universal experiences through the lens of nature and human connection. With memorable hooks and thoughtful lyricism\, his music draws comparisons to Bruce Springsteen\, Tom Petty\, Damien Rice\, and Glen Hansard.\nIn this intimate acoustic performance\, Aled will perform original songs from his forthcoming album “50:50”\, including singles ‘The Ocean In Between Us’\, ‘Amy’\, and ‘Edge of the River’\, alongside fan favourites from his repertoire. Mixing acoustic guitar with lush layered live loops to build rich soundscapes\, he creates a dynamic solo performance that brings depth and texture to each song.\nLinks to songs:Amy – release date 6th March 2026  The Ocean In Between Us – release date 6th February 2026\nYouTube: Edge of the River (live @ The Snug in September 2025) \nJody Prewett \nAs the former lead singer and guitarist of the critically acclaimed band Trophy Wife\, Jody has a varied and rich musical background.\n​The band’s single “Microlite\,” released on Moshi Moshi Records\, became a cult favourite; championed by Zane Lowe\, Mark Riley and Tom Ravenscroft amongst others. Extensive touring followed alongside heavyweights such as Bombay Bicycle Club\, Foals\, Two Door Cinema Club and No Age at venues such as Brixton Academy\,  The Troxy\, Amsterdam Paradiso\, London Koko and Kentish Town Forum. The band also appeared at many prodigious festivals including Pukkelpop Belgium\, Lowlands Holland\, Dockville in Hamburg\, Latitude and Bestival\, promoted a debut album release in Japan and  landed a slot opening for Ed Sheeran in Paris.\n​After this whirlwind of success and the bands demise\, Jody took a wholly necessary step back from the music industry\, pursuing his other passion for working in education\, a field he has worked in for many years. Jody is now a well established and in demand music educator.\n​However\, his creative impulses never evaporated and his recent album of guitar instrumentals\, inspired by time spent in nature\, entitled “Trails\,” showcased his fledgling brand of cinematic folk. A set of intricately arranged neo-classical and folk pieces that unfold “like the evolving landscape of a walk” (Joyzine).  \nHis most recent release\, River Songs\, is a collection of intimate\, imagistic folk ballads that draw upon his love for artists such as John Martyn\, James Taylor and Sufjan Stevens. The album has a nostalgic\, fantasy-tinged sense of romance that “brings to mind a minstrel traversing the fields of Albion” (​No Transmission).  \n​Both releases have at their core a deep love for being in nature and finding solace and peace through feeling connected and indebted to the wild.\n2026 is set be a busy year as Jody releases a new album called ‘Places Beyond’. The 10-songs are see Jody exploring a more expansive sound with greater depth of textures\, ambience and more detailed instrumentation than previous releases. The album could be described as ‘sci-fi folk’; a narrative of unexplained phenomena runs throughout\, from crop circles and UFO’s to clairvoyants and standing stones. With the album approaching the final stages of completion\, more details will follow soon. \nPandemonium \nPandemonium is a versatile music group based in Wantage\, Oxfordshire\, who sing and play a variety of instruments\, including: melodeon\, recorder\, English concertina\, bodhran (Irish hand drum)\, guitar\, bass\, violin\, piccolo\, Irish banjo and mandolin. Their repertoire includes tunes\, monologues\, recitations\, and poetry – serious and light-hearted – and they sing popular songs with an emphasis on fun and informality. \nThe Oxford Gospel Choir \nThe Oxford Gospel Choir\, now celebrating its 21st year\, is a vibrant community choir where everyone is welcome to join in singing an uplifting repertoire of Gospel and popular music that inspires and uplifts. In 2024\, they celebrated our 20th year.   A friendly and diverse group of singers from Oxfordshire\, embracing all beliefs\, ages\, and abilities with rehearsals as much about community and fun as they are about music\, coming together each week to share in the joy of singing. \nThey follow traditional Gospel teaching methods\, learning by listening and copying rather than using music scores. This approach allows the songs to become part of them\, so they can sing from memory\, freeing them to dance\, groove\, and fully express the joy in the music.  They are joint holders of the Guinness World Record for the largest-ever Gospel choir performance\, singing alongside 1\,200 other voices. They’ve also twice been finalists in the BBC Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year competition. \n​ \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/live-music-on-the-cloister-stage/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Free!,Music,Other ORGANIZER;CN="Dorchester Festival":MAILTO:festival@dorchester-abbey.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T123000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20260122T121004Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T155602Z UID:5230-1778322600-1778329800@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Imma Bakery sourdough demo DESCRIPTION:This event is SOLD OUT but you can add yourself to the waiting list by going to the box office.  We will contact the waiting list in order if customers drop out and want to resell their tickets. \nTickets £25 – limited so book early! \nTona Erreguin Head Chef of Imma Bakery\, an award-winning artisan bakery in Stoke Row\, Oxfordshire\, brings her passion for bread and sourdough to Dorchester!  Tona will demonstrate how to achieve the perfect sourdough loaf and craft some of the delicious pastries that make Imma famous.  This 2 hour demo takes place in a stunning private kitchen with limited tickets so there are lots of opportunities to taste and ask questions. \nFrom studying philosophy in Argentina to becoming a renowned chef\, Tona shares her unique path and passion for creating the UK’s best plain sourdough. 2025 Baking Industry Awards Baker of the Year and Winner of ‘Britain’s Best loaf’ 2024\, Tona is the absolute expert on all things bread. \n \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/imma/ LOCATION:57 Abingdon Rd\, 57 Abingdon Rd\, Dorchester on Thames\, Oxon\, OX10 7LB\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Cookery Demos,Food & Drink,Workshops & Demos ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/immaSO.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T153000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220106T135029Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T090652Z UID:3937-1778335200-1778340600@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Dorchester Houses and History DESCRIPTION:This event is SOLD OUT but you can add yourself to the waiting list by going to the box office.  We will contact the waiting list in order if customers drop out and want to resell their tickets. \nTickets: £17 \nProfessor Malcolm Airs FSA\, FRHistSoc \nRenowned architectural historian Malcolm Airs will lead a 90 minute walk through the heart of the village to explore Dorchester’s fascinating architectural history and to explain the development of its houses from the Middle Ages to the present day. This will be a unique opportunity to discover the history of the buildings which line the High Street\, in some cases seeing the backs of the houses from their gardens for the first time! \nThis walk will almost all be on pavements and can be done in a wheelchair but some help may be needed for cobbled areas and kerbs.  Do get in touch if you have any questions about accessibility and we will do our best to help. \nThese walking tours sell out very quickly so book early!  If you’re interested in other walking tours you might like to try one of the Birdsong Walks – Dawn Chorus or Evensong \n  \n  \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/dorchester-houses-and-history/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey Porch\, Dorchester Abbey\, Dorchester on Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Art, History, Film & Literature,History ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/sold-out-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T160000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220122T162544Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T085012Z UID:4260-1778335200-1778342400@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Secrets of the Best Curry in Dorchester-on-Thames DESCRIPTION:This event is SOLD OUT but you can add yourself to the waiting list by going to the box office.  We will contact the waiting list in order if customers drop out and want to resell their tickets. \nTickets £25 – limited so book early! \nCurry Masterclass with Sanjay Dhrona\, The White Hart Hotel \nJoin Sanjay Dhrona\, owner of The White Hart in Dorchester-on-Thames\, for a special two-hour curry masterclass revealing the Secrets of the Best Curry in Dorchester.  Known for its vibrant Thali nights and food-forward dining experience\, The White Hart has become a destination for bold\, flavour-packed dishes. Now\, Sanjay is lifting the lid on his much-loved traditional “desi” curry sauce – the heart of a proper homestyle curry. \nThe session begins with a tasting of marinated and grilled tandoori chicken and paneer\, served with a rich\, comforting curry sauce. Sanjay will then guide you through all the key ingredients\, sharing techniques and tips in a live cooking demonstration. \nThere will be plenty of time for questions\, foodie chat\, and – for this event only – a few very special family secrets. \nShhh… just don’t tell the rest of the village. \nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements – we’d love to help you! \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/curry/ LOCATION:The White Hart Hotel\, High St\, Dorchester on Thames\, Oxon\, OX107HN\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Cookery Demos,Food & Drink,Workshops & Demos ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/currySO.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T213000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220106T112926Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T092344Z UID:3922-1778355000-1778362200@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Symphonic Abba - The Thames Valley Festival Orchestra DESCRIPTION:Tickets £30/£25/£20\nChildren 16 and under half price\nThere will be a section of seats reserved at the very front of the nave for Festival Friends at this concert.  Festival Friend privileges include early booking and the best seats in the house!  Do consider becoming a Friend – find out more about it here. \nThe Thames Valley Festival Orchestra returns to Dorchester Abbey with their 65 piece symphony orchestra and a brand new programme: ‘An Evening of Symphonic ABBA’.  This follows their sold out performances of ‘An Evening of Symphonic Prog Rock’ in September 2025 and ‘A Symphonic Tribute to Queen’ in April 2024.  They fill the Abbey with the sounds of these amazing orchestral arrangements by Louis Clark of the most popular music of the legendary band\, ABBA. \nTo celebrate 52 years since ABBA won the Eurovision Song Contest in the UK\, the orchestra will perform perennial favourites such as SOS\, Mamma Mia\, I Have a Dream\, Money Money Money\, Chiquitita\, Dancing Queen\, Super Trouper and many more. \nLouis Clark was legendary for his work as keyboard player and string arranger with The Electric Light Orchestra\, ELO Part II and The Orchestra and for creating the Hooked on Classics series of recordings.  These superb arrangements show off the orchestra in its full range of colour and sound. \nConductor: Stephen Ellery                            Leader: Guy Haskell \nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements – we’d love to help you! \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/tvfo/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Music,Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/tvfo-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T200000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260509T213000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220111T061621Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T092433Z UID:4077-1778356800-1778362200@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Birdsong Walk - Evensong DESCRIPTION:Tickets £15 limited numbers! \nBird song is at its best in May\, so join local naturalists Richard Tilley and Roger Seabrook for a guided evening amble around Dorchester’s three water meadows\, courtesy of the Hurst Water Meadow Trust. Relax into a gentle walk listening to the birds sing their final songs of the day and pick up tips on how to identify birds by their calls. \nIf you can get up early in the morning you might like to try the Dawn Chorus Walk! \nWalk starts at the Hurst Water Meadow bridge: what3words ///dissolve.redefined.inflation or grid reference SU5813294311 \nPlease dress warmly.  Not suitable for dogs unless reliably quiet and well behaved. \nOne and a half to two hours walk with two stiles to cross. \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/birdsong/ LOCATION:Hurst Bridge CATEGORIES:Family,Family & Children ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/ChatGPT-Image-Jan-7-2026-08_03_00-PM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T110000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20260113T062701Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T092525Z UID:5158-1778407200-1778410800@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Gardener's Corner for Families DESCRIPTION:Tickets £8 for children\, Adults free! (but please book a free ticket) \nBring your outdoor obsessed children and encourage their green fingers!  A fun filled hour learning about planting seeds with Head Gardener Matt and kids get to take their own seed pot home to nurture!  Children must be accompanied by a parent \nChildren will get up close with different sorts of seeds\, talking through how they germinate and what makes them grow and stay healthy.  They’ll get to plant their own seed in a pot to take home and get tips on how to keep it alive.  If time allows they’ll also plant sunflower seeds and make their own labels to be transplanted on in the farm market garden which they’ll be able to see from the path.  Will their sunflower grow the biggest?! \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/family-gardeners-corner/ LOCATION:Snug Cafe\, Bishop’s Court Farm\, 91 High Street\,\, Dorchester-on-Thames\,\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HP\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Family & Children,Younger children ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/kids-gardeners.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T130000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20260108T190921Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T131922Z UID:5148-1778407200-1778418000@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Scandi Baking workshop DESCRIPTION:This event is SOLD OUT but you can add yourself to the waiting list by going to the box office.  We will contact the waiting list in order if customers drop out and want to resell their tickets. \nRoll your sleeves up for an afternoon of baking delicious Scandi goods including the ultimate perfect cinnamon bun or the Nordic favourite cardamom bun!  Expert Scandi chef\, Claire Andersson\, chef owner of Skogen Kitchen\, will guide you through the process of bun making and other Scandi baking treats in the delightful surroundings of a Dorchester kitchen.\nIngredients\, coffee and ‘testing snacks’ included\, recipe cards a batch of your very own buns to take home!\nBring a friend!  There’s a 10% discount for 2 or more tickets \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/scandi-baking-workshop/ LOCATION:Blakemead\, 61 Abingdon Rd\, Dorchester on Thames\, Oxon\, OX10 7LB\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Cookery Demos,Events with Food & Drink,Food & Drink,Workshops & Demos ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/claireSO.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T113000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220106T164611Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260108T104345Z UID:3947-1778409000-1778412600@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Dorchester Abbey Festival Service with Guest Speaker Revd Dr Malcolm Guite DESCRIPTION:Come to this special Dorchester Abbey Festival service with Guest Speaker poet Malcolm Guite\, and 2023’s Junior BBC Chorister of the year Belinda Gifford-Guy \nThis service will be packed with favourite hymns and a lovely anthem from our amazing Dorchester Abbey choir.  A bit of peace and quiet in the middle of the Festival madness! \nMalcolm Guite is a poet\, priest and rocker! His passion for poetry started in his childhood since when he has become a much-published author\, lecturing widely in England and USA on poetry and theology.  He is Chaplain of Girton College Cambridge\, author of 21 books and plays in Cambridge rock band Mystery Train\, \nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements – we’d love to help you! \nDorchester Abbey is a beautiful historic Church of England parish church and event venue. It was formerly a Norman abbey church and was built on the site of a Saxon cathedral.  Find out more here \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/dorchester-abbey-festival-service/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Free!,Spiritual ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/malcolm-guite-event.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Dorchester Festival":MAILTO:festival@dorchester-abbey.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T130000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20260115T142108Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T085958Z UID:5201-1778409000-1778418000@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Basque Cookery Demo with Nick Galer DESCRIPTION:This event is SOLD OUT but you can add yourself to the waiting list by going to the box office.  We will contact the waiting list in order if customers drop out and want to resell their tickets. \nTickets £25 – limited so book early! \nNick Galer has been cooking in and around South Oxfordshire since 2005 and now is the Head Chef at The Pot Kiln\, Frilsham. Nick & his wife Mary were married in Dorchester Abbey in 2010 and maintain strong links with the village.  Nick’s cooking at The Pot Kiln is inspired by the Basque country and open fire cooking. Nick will be showcasing seasonal small plate dishes perfect for intimate supper parties. \nDishes will include: Red Tuna Tartare & Ponzu dressing & Corn Ribs with Smoked Paprika seasoning. \nThis intimate cookery demo in a medieval home kitchen gives you a birds eye view of a professional chef at work with every opportunity to ask questions – tasting encouraged! \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/basque-cookery-demo-with-nick-galer/ LOCATION:Willoughby House\, 73 High St\, Dorchester on Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX107HN\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Cookery Demos,Food & Drink,Workshops & Demos ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/nick-Gso.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T113000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T130000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20260113T201635Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T092612Z UID:5168-1778412600-1778418000@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Head Gardener's Planting Masterclass DESCRIPTION:Tickets £12\nMeet at Snug Cafe \nAn intimate gardening experience with Bishop Court Farm’s head gardener Matt Ditchburn\, RHS Level 2 with merit. Learn about planting seeds\, soil mixes\, spacing and germination tricks. Container planting and organic pest protection. With general Q & A session afterwards\, with water\, tea\, coffee and cookies \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/planting-masterclass/ LOCATION:Snug Cafe\, Bishop’s Court Farm\, 91 High Street\,\, Dorchester-on-Thames\,\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HP\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Food & Drink,Workshops & Demos ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/planting-masterclass.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T153000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220106T144516Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T092751Z UID:3944-1778421600-1778427000@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Revd Dr Malcolm Guite - 'Take Up the Tale’\, Why should we turn again to the tales of Galahad?” DESCRIPTION:Tickets: £15 / £10 (Children under 16 free) \nThere will be a section of seats reserved at the very front of the nave for Festival Friends at this event.  Festival Friend privileges include early booking and the best seats in the house!  Do consider becoming a Friend – find out more about it here. \nMalcolm Guite reads from his poetry collections\, including his latest book ‘Galahad and the Grail‘ and reflects on how the poetic imagination can express and deepen our spiritual lives. \nAyodeji Malcolm Guite is many things. A few of his credentials include poet\, academic\, Anglican priest\, and singer-songwriter. Born in Nigeria to British expatriate parents\, Guite’s early years were split between Africa\, Canada\, and England. He studied at Cambridge University for his B.A. in English Literature and Durham University for his PhD. His work focuses on the intersection of the arts and religion. \nGuite is the author of many books\, ranging from reflections on faith to collections of poems and songs. His books of poetry\, of which there are five\, including chapbooks\, have often been categorized as modern psalms. His blog contains a wealth of literary treasures and thoughts. As well as being an accomplished writer\, Guite is a self-proclaimed rock’n’roller. He is the lead singer and guitarist for blues-rock band Mystery Train. \nBeyond his accomplishments and accolades\, who exactly is this poet-priest? From a quick glance at his social media profiles\, one can discern a few important details. First\, he has a magnificent beard. Secondly\, he is often holding a pipe\, even more often in conjunction with a pint of beer. He seems to wear many tweed vests or blazers\, and is frequently in the woods. Could this man be a real-life Hobbit? Or\, given his books reflecting on the works of C.S. Lewis\, are we simply making an unconscious association with the Inklings? \nWhatever the case\, Guite is a thoroughly charming\, talented\, and enthusiastic follower of Christ. \nIf you need disabled parking or access contact us here – we’d love to help! \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/malcolmguite/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Art, History, Film & Literature,Literature,Spiritual ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/malcolm-guite-event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T160000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220106T102839Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T092637Z UID:3910-1778421600-1778428800@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Lego Master Builders Club DESCRIPTION:Tickets £21 \nJoin Master Builders Club for a two hour adventure with 1000’s of LEGO bricks\, Minifigures and LEGO components. The Village Hall will be turned in to a LEGO fans dream with colour coded boxes of bricks that allow ‘ little brickies’ to explore\, design and build creatively. This story led immersive brick building experience is suitable for LEGO fans aged 5-15. Those new to the brick and experienced LEGO Masters are all welcome. Just bring your imagination. \nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements.  We’d love to help! \n \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/lego-master-builders-club/ LOCATION:Dorchester Village Hall\, 7 Queen St\, Dorchester on Thames\, Oxfordshire\, ox107HR\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Family & Children,Older children,Workshops & Demos,Younger children ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/masterbuilders-3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260510T213000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220106T071400Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260219T053926Z UID:3898-1778441400-1778448600@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:Shall we Dance? - The BBC Elstree Concert Band and The Oxford Collutorium Choir DESCRIPTION:Big Band tickets £22 / £17 adults Children (under 16) half price\nThere will be a section of seats reserved at the very front of the nave for Festival Friends at this concert.  Festival Friend privileges include early booking and the best seats in the house!  Do consider becoming a Friend – find out more about it here. \nShall We Dance? : From Strauss to Stage & Screen \nThe BBC Elstree Concert Band are excited to be back in Dorchester and this time will be whisking you onto the dance floor. From the waltz to the tango\, as well as a commemoration of 200yrs of Johann Strauss\, music for dance takes many forms and styles. They will showcase well-known dances from the musicals and also a tribute to American ragtime. The BBC Elstree Concert Band\, celebrating its 40th Anniversary\, has established a reputation for entertaining the Dorchester Festival audience with diverse and varied programmes from the wind band repertory. This year\, they will be joined again by Oxford Collutorium who will be making their own vocal tribute to the world of dance. \nThe BBC Elstree Concert Band was founded by flautist Ian Marshall and gave its first public concert at the BBC’s Elstree Studios in July 1986.  The audience was a modest one but included\, crucially\, the Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood and the Town Council’s Entertainments Officer.  Their support over subsequent years has been vital to the band’s development.  Indeed\, Elstree and Borehamwood remains very much the band’s spiritual home\, where it regularly gives concerts.\nOver the thirty plus years of the band’s existence\, it has played at a wide range of venues in and around London\, including the Elstree and Maida Vale Studios\, St James’s Church Piccadilly\, The Proms at St Jude’s in Hampstead Garden Suburb\, Millfield Theatre\, Allum Hall\, Dorchester and Westminster Abbeys.  The ensemble has also given concerts further afield in Belgium\, Germany and France.\nThe band’s performances have been broadcast nationally as well as globally through the BBC World Service.  The band provided the music for a major BBC 1 documentary and has made several recordings\, the most recent of which was for a Radio 3 programme on the music of Charles Ives\, as part of the “Discovering Music” series.  The group has also given concerts in aid of The Voice of the Listener Trust\, the North London Hospice\, St Luke’s Hospice and several other charitable organisations. \nOxford Collutorium was founded in 1996 by a group of doctors from the John Radcliffe Hospital\, aiming to channel their extensive musical experience and enthusiasm into creating innovative and memorable concerts which could at the same time raise significant amounts of money for local medical charities. Under Will Orr’s direction since then\, they have performed a wide range of works from acapella renaissance motets through to premieres of new works with full orchestra. \nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements – we’d love to help you! \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/the-bbc-elstree-concert-band-and-the-oxford-collutorium-choir/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Music,Other ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/becb-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260531T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260531T170000 DTSTAMP:20261027T124020 CREATED:20220106T095525Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T083212Z UID:3900-1780221600-1780246800@dorchesterfestival.com SUMMARY:John Rutter Come & Sing DESCRIPTION:This event is now SOLD OUT! \nSir John Rutter\, one of the UK’s foremost choral composers\, leads a Come & Sing day in Dorchester Abbey.  He explores some of his favourite treasures of English church music – and brings along some of his own well-loved shorter choral favourites.  Copies will be provided!  Enthusiastic singers of all levels are welcome to a hugely enjoyable day with this inspirational teacher. The singing day is aimed primarily at singers with some choral experience\, but all are welcome. \nThe timetable for the day will be:\nRegistration & coffee 10.00am\nSinging 11am – 4.45pm\nLunch 12.45 – 2pm (book lunch with your singing ticket)\nAfternoon tea break 3.25-3.45pm \nAccomplished soloist and accompanist Anita D’Attellis will be the accompanist for the day. \n  \n  \n  \nIf you’re not a singer do drop by the Abbey & listen at the back – completely for FREE! \nLunches bookable in advance through our ticketing website will be:\n– a roll with either pulled pork salad or Pecan Apple Chickpea Salad (Vegan )\n– a carton of fruit juice and/or tea/coffee\n– a piece of fruit\nGluten and other dietary requirements can be catered for on request – just contact us! festival@dorchester-abbey.org.uk \nIf you need disabled parking or access do contact us here with your requirements – we’d love to help you! \n \n  \n  \nShare this:\n Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)\n Facebook\n \n Share on X (Opens in new window)\n X URL:https://dorchesterfestival.com/event/john-rutter/ LOCATION:Dorchester Abbey\, High Street\, Dorchester-on-Thames\, Oxfordshire\, OX10 7HH\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Classical,Music,Workshops & Demos ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dorchesterfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/rutter.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR