BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Blandford Town Museum - ECPv6.17.3.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Blandford Town Museum X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Blandford Town Museum 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;TZID=Europe/London:20260913T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260913T110000 DTSTAMP:20260830T171534Z CREATED:20250611T082638Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260830T171534Z UID:5680-1789297200-1789297200@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Blandford Heritage Walk DESCRIPTION:Discover some of the history of our unique Georgian town with town guides from the Blandford Civic Society. \nHeritage walks tell the story of the town up to the Georgian rebuilding of the town centre. \nMeet at the flood wall in the Marsh & Ham car park behind Morrisons. The Walk starts at 11 am and lasts approximately two hours. There is no charge\, but donations are welcome! \nThere’s no need to book\, but for more details contact Nicci Brown (details below). \nFor more information about the activities of the Civic Society\, please visit their Group page. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/blandford-heritage-walk-4/ LOCATION:Marsh and Ham\, Between Morrisons car park and the river Stour\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AW CATEGORIES:Walks ORGANIZER;CN="Nicci Brown":MAILTO:niccitab15@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260912T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260912T120000 DTSTAMP:20260830T171348Z CREATED:20250402T165134Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260830T171348Z UID:5388-1789207200-1789214400@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Coffee Morning and Plant Sale DESCRIPTION:Everyone is welcome to join us during the changing seasons of our Victorian Garden\, and enjoy delicious homemade cakes and proper coffee (or other drinks). You’ll also find a wide range of plants for sale at reasonable prices\, including garden and houseplants grown on site by Garden Volunteers. \nAlthough we have some shelter in the Garden\, the coffee morning may not take place if the weather is particularly unpleasant. Or we may relocate into the Museum! Check this page for up-to-date information. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/coffee-morning/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ CATEGORIES:Social END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T120000 DTSTAMP:20260830T171252Z CREATED:20250825T162940Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260830T171252Z UID:5952-1788951600-1788955200@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:DBA Blind Book Club DESCRIPTION:At these monthly meetings organised by the Dorset Blind Association\, we chat about books\, objects from Blandford’s history\, or any other ideas around sight loss and blindness. We also have coffee or tea and biscuits! Everyone who is dealing with vision impairment\, and their family members and carers\, are very welcome to join us. \nIn 2026 we are delighted to welcome guest authors from Dorset to give us a flavour of their books. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/dba-blind-book-club/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260828T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260828T203000 DTSTAMP:20260827T163221Z CREATED:20260731T081503Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260827T163221Z UID:7409-1787941800-1787949000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:CANCELLED: "Last Friday" in the Victorian Garden DESCRIPTION:A rather unsettled weather forecast\, coupled with a slight shortage of volunteers\, has led us to reluctantly decide to cancel this event. Hopefully conditions will be better for the Last Friday in September! \nWe are always in need of more volunteers to help with running our fundraising events. Please click here to find out how you can get involved. \nThese summer social events take place from June to September (weather permitting) on the Last Friday of the month\, starting at 6:30. Although we have some shelter in the Garden\, the Last Friday event will not take place if the weather is likely to be wet. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/last-friday-in-the-victorian-garden-4/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260823T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260823T110000 DTSTAMP:20260731T081926Z CREATED:20260414T104016Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260731T081926Z UID:7028-1787482800-1787482800@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Blandford Perimeter Walk DESCRIPTION:Discover some of the history of our unique Georgian town with town guides from the Blandford Civic Society. \nPerimeter walks show how Blandford has developed since it was rebuilt following the Great Fire. \nThe Walk starts at 11 am and lasts approximately two hours. There is no charge\, but donations are welcome! \nThere’s no need to book\, but for more details contact Nicci Brown (details below). \nFor more information about the activities of the Civic Society\, please visit their Group page. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/blandford-perimeter-walk-4/ LOCATION:In front of Greyhound House\, 2 Market Place\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7EB\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Walks ORGANIZER;CN="Nicci Brown":MAILTO:niccitab15@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260816T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260816T110000 DTSTAMP:20260731T081836Z CREATED:20250606T133221Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260731T081836Z UID:5375-1786878000-1786878000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Blandford Geology Walk DESCRIPTION:Discover some of the history of our unique Georgian town with town guides from the Blandford Civic Society. \nGeology walks examining the history of the stones making up the town’s architecture \nThe Walk starts at 11 am and lasts approximately two hours. There is no charge\, but donations are welcome! \nThere’s no need to book\, but for more details contact Nicci Brown (details below). \nFor more information about the activities of the Civic Society\, please visit their Group page. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/blandford-geology-walk/ LOCATION:In front of Greyhound House\, 2 Market Place\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7EB\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Walks ORGANIZER;CN="Nicci Brown":MAILTO:niccitab15@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260805T130000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260805T163000 DTSTAMP:20260722T161500Z CREATED:20260416T155859Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T161500Z UID:7032-1785934800-1785947400@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Woodland Crafts day in Angus Wood DESCRIPTION:Blandford Museum Civic and Sustainability Group and The Blandford Environmental Trust are hosting this Family Crafts day\, featuring woodworking of different types\,  a tree quiz\, children’s activities\, refreshments and music. Entry is free\, everyone is welcome. \n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n\nwww.facebook.com/BlandfordEnvironmentalTrust \n \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/woodland-crafts-day-in-angus-wood/ LOCATION:Angus Wood\, St Leonards Avenue\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7PJ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260731T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260731T203000 DTSTAMP:20260731T081121Z CREATED:20260621T152409Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260731T081121Z UID:7282-1785522600-1785529800@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:"Last Friday" in the Victorian Garden DESCRIPTION:Make the most of the long summer evenings at our social event in the Museum’s Victorian Garden. Wine\, beer\, soft drinks and delicious homemade food are available to buy\, and we are able to take cash or card payments. There may also be entertainment from our resident musicians\, Clara and Colin. \nThis month’s theme is “Summer Picnic”: think quiches\, salads\, sandwiches and sausage rolls. \nThese events take place from June to September (weather permitting) on the Last Friday of the month\, starting at 6:30. Although we have some shelter in the Garden\, the Last Friday event will not take place if the weather is particularly unpleasant. But it’s looking good for this evening! (Updated 31/7). URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/last-friday-in-the-victorian-garden-3/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260730T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260730T130000 DTSTAMP:20260621T152858Z CREATED:20250120T170840Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260621T152858Z UID:4285-1785405600-1785416400@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Ask an Archaeologist DESCRIPTION:The Portable Antiquities Scheme is a national\, voluntary scheme to encourage people to report finds for recording. \nEvery year\, many thousands of archaeological objects are discovered in England and Wales. People using metal detectors unearth most of these\, but chance finds are also made by those out walking\, digging in their gardens\, or just out and about in the countryside. \nIn the past\, very little of this material was recorded by museums or archaeologists\, and lots of important information was lost. Now\, under the Portable Antiquities Scheme\, events are held around the country where finds can be brought in and help given with identification. \nClaire Pinder\, Dorset Council’s Senior Archaeologist\, and Ciorstaidh Hayward Trevarthen\, Finds Liaison Officer for Dorset\, will be available to answer your questions about Dorset’s Historic Environment and identify your finds. By appointment only from 10 – 11:40 am; please contact her@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or finds@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk. Drop-ins are welcome from 12 am to 1 pm. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/ask-an-archaeologist/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260721 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260906 DTSTAMP:20260803T070803Z CREATED:20260713T110528Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260803T070803Z UID:7351-1784592000-1788652799@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Around Blandford in 20 Objects DESCRIPTION:Explore Blandford in the past and present with the Museum’s free summer trail to discover what was in the town centre in 1900. The trail follows 20 locations around East Street\, West Street\, Salisbury Street and the Market Place and includes chemists\, boot makers and printers. Each location will display a poster showing an artefact related to the shop\, along with a simple question. When you have visited them all\, come to the museum to see the artefacts\, check your answers and collect a free badge. \nYou can collect your free passport from the museum\, or Click Here to download it\, and enjoy your summer exploring! \nHere are the addresses covered in the trail\, with their occupants in 1900 and 2026. This list is also included in the downloadable passport. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/around-blandford-in-20-objects/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260715T150000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260715T163000 DTSTAMP:20260712T131737Z CREATED:20260630T163439Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260712T131737Z UID:7313-1784127600-1784133000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:CANCELLED: Tea in Angus Wood DESCRIPTION:This event has been cancelled because of the very hot weather.\nThe Blandford Environmental Trust are hosting a Tea Party in Angus Wood. If you’d like to help\, or know anyone who would like to come along\, with or without a carer or mobility scooter\, please ring 01258 459346. Entry is free\, by reservation. \nwww.facebook.com/BlandfordEnvironmentalTrust \n \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/tea-in-angus-wood/ LOCATION:Angus Wood\, St Leonards Avenue\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7PJ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260711T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260711T120000 DTSTAMP:20260709T131929Z CREATED:20260706T162219Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T131929Z UID:7322-1783764000-1783771200@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:CANCELLED: Coffee Morning and Plant Sale DESCRIPTION:Because of the very hot weather forecast for this weekend\, we have decided to cancel Saturday’s coffee morning and plant sale. We hope for cooler conditions next month! \nAlthough we will not be selling plants from outside the Museum door during this hot weather\, the Garden Group have propagated lots of plants which can be purchased directly from the Victorian Garden on Tuesday mornings 1030-1300\, when the gardeners will also be available. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/cancelled-coffee-morning-and-plant-sale/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ CATEGORIES:Social END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260704T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260704T170000 DTSTAMP:20260621T151007Z CREATED:20260506T123320Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260621T151007Z UID:7166-1783166400-1783184400@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:CANCELLED: The Green Fair at the Arches DESCRIPTION:Unfortunately this year’s event has been cancelled. \nHere are some pictures from previous events… \n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/the-green-fair-2026/ LOCATION:Marsh and Ham\, Between Morrisons car park and the river Stour\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AW END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260628T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260628T110000 DTSTAMP:20260526T154706Z CREATED:20250606T133504Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T154706Z UID:5663-1782644400-1782644400@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Blandford Perimeter Walk DESCRIPTION:Discover some of the history of our unique Georgian town with town guides from the Blandford Civic Society. \nPerimeter walks show how Blandford has developed since it was rebuilt following the Great Fire. \nThe Walk starts at 11 am and lasts approximately two hours. There is no charge\, but donations are welcome! \nThere’s no need to book\, but for more details contact Nicci Brown (details below). \nFor more information about the activities of the Civic Society\, please visit their Group page. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/blandford-perimeter-walk-3/ LOCATION:In front of Greyhound House\, 2 Market Place\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7EB\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Walks ORGANIZER;CN="Nicci Brown":MAILTO:niccitab15@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260626T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260626T203000 DTSTAMP:20260622T141719Z CREATED:20250606T135919Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T141719Z UID:5665-1782498600-1782505800@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:"Last Friday" in the Victorian Garden DESCRIPTION:Come and join us for the first of 2026’s Summer evening social events in the Museum’s Victorian Garden. Wine\, beer\, soft drinks and delicious homemade food are available to buy\, and we are able to take cash or card payments. There may also be entertainment from our resident musicians\, Clara and Colin. \nThis month’s food theme is Tapas – always popular so be sure to arrive on time. \nAlthough we have some shelter in the Garden\, the Last Friday event will not take place if the weather is particularly unpleasant. However\, we don’t think this will be a problem this month – we’d all welcome a cooling rain shower (updated 21 June)! URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/last-friday-in-the-victorian-garden/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260607T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260607T170000 DTSTAMP:20260503T163331Z CREATED:20260503T163331Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260503T163331Z UID:7128-1780830000-1780851600@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Blandford's Hidden Gardens DESCRIPTION:Come and visit our beautiful Victorian Garden as part of the Hidden Gardens event organised by Blandford Environmental Trust and sponsored by Colten Care. There will be plants for sale and the Museum will also be open. \nBlandford’s Hidden Gardens is an opportunity to explore not only the gardens but also rarely-seen areas of the town itself. This is the 18th year that owners have opened their gardens to share their secrets with the public in support of local and national charities and community organisations. \nThe gardens range in size from courtyard to expansive and from all ages from Georgian to contemporary – some with sculptures\, ponds\, wildlife havens\, all with a wide variety of plants and some with refreshments on sale. \nTickets are £7.00\, which covers entry to all the participating gardens\, and will be on sale from May 25 from the Museum or the Blandford Information Centre. You can help to support the Museum by buying your tickets from us\, as we receive a donation for every ticket sold. \nFor more information please visit the Open Gardens website and BET’s Facebook page\, or email blandfordhiddengardens@gmail.com to enter your garden. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/blandfords-hidden-gardens-2026/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260529T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260529T210000 DTSTAMP:20260501T170559Z CREATED:20260501T154715Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260501T170559Z UID:5529-1780079400-1780088400@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Museum AGM and Social event DESCRIPTION:The 2026 Annual General Meeting will be held at the Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, starting at 6:30 pm. Everyone is welcome. \nThe AGM will be followed at 7 pm by several short talks from Museum volunteers\, with light refreshments provided (sandwiches\, cakes and drinks). There is no charge\, but donations are always welcome! \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/museum-agm-and-social-event/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260528T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260528T210000 DTSTAMP:20260505T081756Z CREATED:20260501T171032Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260505T081756Z UID:7126-1779996600-1780002000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Archaeology Group Lecture: Barrows and burials: two prehistoric sites in Wiltshire DESCRIPTION:Our last lecture before the summer will be given by Clare Randall from Cotswold Archaeology. \nExcavations by Cotswold Archaeology on two sites over the last few years have added to our understanding of the burial practices in Wiltshire during the Bronze Age\, Iron Age and Roman period. Burials and bodies from Wroughton and Netherhampton Road near Salisbury have provided archaeological and scientific information which complements the current developing understanding the people of later prehistory. \nThe Museum Archaeology Group lectures take place on the fourth Thursday of the month (usually)\, starting at 7:30. Tea and coffee are available to buy before the talks. \nAdmission to the talks is free for museum members (donations welcome)\, £3 for non-members. \n\nPlease see the Museum Events Calendar for the dates and details of all this year’s talks\, and the Archaeology Group page for more information about our activities. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-lecture-barrows-and-burials/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260513T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260513T210000 DTSTAMP:20260414T102931Z CREATED:20260414T101057Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260414T102931Z UID:7006-1778698800-1778706000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:People's Emergency Briefing: film and discussion DESCRIPTION:Blandford Museum Civic and Sustainability Group and The Blandford Environmental Trust will present this new film from the National Emergency Briefing – a public information initiative to ensure that the UK is fully briefed on the climate and nature crisis. \nThis 45-minute film\, and the discussion to follow\, will look at the ways in which we can act now to offset the consequences of Global Climate Change. This is a step on the pathway to action: \n \nFor more information about the aims of the National Emergency Briefing\, please visit their website: https://www.nebriefing.org/ \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/peoples-emergency-briefing/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Hall\, The Corn Exchange\, Market Place\, DT11 7AG\, Blandford Forum\, United Kingdom END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260424T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260424T210000 DTSTAMP:20260405T072633Z CREATED:20260405T072633Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260405T072633Z UID:6594-1777059000-1777064400@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Friday Talk: The history and craft of Rushwork on the River Stour DESCRIPTION:In this illustrated talk\, Anna Lewington will give an overview of the history of rush cutting and rushwork as practised historically on the River Stour in the vicinity of Marnhull. She will also describe the project ‘RushWorks’ she set up in 2006 in order to try and keep the local knowledge and practise of working with rushes alive\, an activity still continued today with an annual rush harvest and workshops run from her home in Sturminster Newton. \n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n\nAnna is an ethnobotanist and writer who has been researching and writing about importance of plants to people for many years. Her interest developed as an undergraduate student and led to her study of Amerindian languages and culture at St Andrews university\, and her thesis on the importance of the root crop manioc to the Matsigenka Indians of the Peruvian Amazon. She is the author of two editions of ‘Plants For People’\, a comprehensive study of the ways in which products from plants support our daily lives\, first written at the invitation of the Royal Botanic Gardens\, Kew\, and subsequently described as ‘a complete inspiration to the Eden Project’. She has also co-authored ‘Ancient Trees: Trees that Live for Thousand Years’\, studied the cultural importance of birch trees (‘Birch’ 2018) and written several educational books on rainforests and the importance of plants for children. \nAnna’s interest in the history of rushwork began following involvement with a Kew project to evaluate the commercial importance of plant resources in Britain. Alongside much local research she has taken part in numerous basketry courses\, been inspired by rush cutter and maker Felicity Irons and is a member of the Basketmakers’ Association. \nTea and coffee will be available from 7 pm\, the talk will start at 7.30 pm and finish at around 9 pm. \nAdmission £8 (£5 for Museum members\, free to Friends and Patrons) \n \nWe have a variety of talks about our history and heritage from a range of expert speakers lined up for Autumn 2025 and Spring 2026. These will take place on Fridays (usually\, but not always\, the last Friday of the month) at the Parish Centre in Blandford. Please visit our Calendar for information about future talks. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/friday-talk-the-history-and-craft-of-rushwork-on-the-river-stour/ LOCATION:Blandford Parish Centre\, The Tabernacle\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7DW CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260423T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260423T210000 DTSTAMP:20260420T100119Z CREATED:20260414T102510Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T100119Z UID:7019-1776972600-1776978000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Cancelled: Archaeology Group Lecture DESCRIPTION:Unfortunately our speaker for Thursday evening is unwell and is not able to come to Blandford to give our monthly lecture. He is very sorry and we will reschedule him for the Autumn. \nWe look forward to seeing you next month for our last lecture before the summer. \nThe Museum Archaeology Group lectures take place on the fourth Thursday of the month (usually)\, starting at 7:30. Tea and coffee are available to buy before the talks. \nAdmission to the talks is free for museum members (donations welcome)\, £3 for non-members. \n\nPlease see the Museum Events Calendar for the dates and details of all this year’s talks\, and the Archaeology Group page for more information about our activities. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-lecture-the-durrington-anomalies-hiding-in-plain-site/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260327T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260327T210000 DTSTAMP:20260305T093406Z CREATED:20260305T092944Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T093406Z UID:6931-1774639800-1774645200@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Friday Talk: Blandford's Corn Exchange Renvovation DESCRIPTION:Linda Scott-Giles\, Town Clerk to Blandford Forum Town Council\, will deliver a talk on the Corn Exchange project and the works undertaken to this stunning Grade I listed building managed by the Town Council. Linda will present an overview of the scheme\, outlining the rationale behind the project\, the key objectives\, and the outcomes achieved. The presentation will explain how the works have carefully restored and preserved original architectural features in keeping with the building’s historic significance\, while also improving accessibility to ensure the space can be more widely used and enjoyed by the community. In addition\, it will highlight the measures introduced to enhance environmental performance\, creating a more energy-efficient and sustainable building without compromising its heritage value. \nPlease note that this event will take place in the Town Hall\, on the first floor of the Corn Exchange – a venue befitting the subject of the talk! \n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n\nTea and coffee will be available from 7 pm\, the talk will start at 7.30 pm and finish at around 9 pm. \nAdmission £8 (£5 for Museum members\, free to Friends and Patrons) \n \nWe have a variety of talks about our history and heritage from a range of expert speakers lined up for Spring 2026. These will take place on Fridays (usually\, but not always\, the last Friday of the month) at the Parish Centre in Blandford. Please visit our Calendar for information about future talks. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/friday-talk-blandfords-corn-exchange-renvovation/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Hall\, The Corn Exchange\, Market Place\, DT11 7AG\, Blandford Forum\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260326T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260326T210000 DTSTAMP:20260306T153056Z CREATED:20260306T153056Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T153056Z UID:6958-1774553400-1774558800@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Archaeology Group Lecture: Social and genetic transformation in southern England\, 2500 BC DESCRIPTION:In this talk\, Edrys Lupprian of the Blandford Museum Archaeology Group presents a biosocial model arising from her research into the arrival of Beaker-using peoples and metal technology between 2500-2200 BC. \nAround 2500BC Britain moved out of the Stone Age with the appearance of metal technology\, Beaker style pottery and a change in lifeway. Genetic evidence shows that the Late Neolithic lifeway and genome was replaced by that of people carrying Steppe Ancestry. Edrys will explore how and why this social and genetic might have taken place\, using information from Cranborne Chase and Stonehenge. \nThe lectures take place on the fourth Thursday of the month (usually)\, starting at 7:30. Tea and coffee are available to buy before the talks. \nAdmission to the talks is free for museum members (donations welcome)\, £3 for non-members. \n\nPlease see the Museum Events Calendar for the dates and details of all this year’s talks\, and the Archaeology Group page for more information about our activities. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-lecture-social-and-genetic-transformation-in-southern-england-2500-bc/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260316T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260316T160000 DTSTAMP:20260301T175150Z CREATED:20260127T102211Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260301T175150Z UID:6811-1773669600-1773676800@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:"Blandford in Stitches" meeting DESCRIPTION:After completing the Stour Valley Sampler\, a huge embroidery telling the story of medieval women on the Stour Valley\, the Museum’s Blandford in Stitches group is now turning its attention to the Great Fire of Blandford in 1731. With the 300th anniversary approaching\, the group are planning a Georgian dress embroidered with scenes of the fire and the rebuilding of Blandford. In this meeting we will be discussing fabrics and thread for Fire Dress\, and looking at patterns for making a toile of the dress. \nFor more information\, please see our recent blog post or contact Elaine Lofthouse on 07779732233. \nParticipation in Museum Groups is open to all members of the Museum. If you would like to be involved\, but are not yet a member\, please visit our Membership page. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/blandford-in-stitches-meeting/ LOCATION:Museum Annex meeting room\, Bere's Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260302T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260302T160000 DTSTAMP:20260301T175742Z CREATED:20260301T175742Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260301T175742Z UID:6917-1772460000-1772467200@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:East Street Research Project meeting DESCRIPTION:Members of the Blandford Museum Research team are documenting the history of East Street\, using information from published records\, local museums and archives as well as personal recollections. As the Project is nearing conclusion\, this meeting will focus on discussion on possible publications and presentations. Please click here for more information about the project. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/east-street-research-project-meeting/ LOCATION:Museum Annex meeting room\, Bere's Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260227T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260227T210000 DTSTAMP:20260217T164827Z CREATED:20260101T142941Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T164827Z UID:6590-1772220600-1772226000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Friday Talk: The Voyages of Molly DESCRIPTION:London\, Liverpool and Bristol are well known for their involvement in the trading of enslaved people\, but many smaller British ports were also engaged in this trade. Some of Dorset’s ports saw slaving voyages\, with one such voyage taking place in 1758 by a ship called Molly sailing from Poole. This voyage lasted for more than half a year\, delivering a number of slaves to a port in America\, and then returning to Britain with a cargo of valuable commodities. Molly made several voyages over the decade of the 1750s and using Lloyd’s Lists for the period it is possible to piece together some of Molly’s journeys. But Molly was just one ship making a handful of voyages out of a total of more than 12\,000 voyages by British flagged ships. What was Molly’s fate\, how was it procured and how did Molly’s voyages fit into the wider “triangular trade?” \n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\nThe talk will be given by Steve Richardson\, who has taught Geography in Skipton\, Vancouver\, Lyme Regis\, Bristol and Blandford\, and more recently has been researching Dorset’s maritime heritage. His previous talk: “A Ship\, a Gate\, and a Country Estate” opened a window into some of Dorset’s imperial connections. \nTea and coffee will be available from 7 pm\, the talk will start at 7.30 pm and finish at around 9 pm. \nAdmission £8 (£5 for Museum members\, free to Friends and Patrons) \n \nWe have a variety of talks about our history and heritage from a range of expert speakers lined up for Spring and Autumn 2026. These will take place on Fridays (usually\, but not always\, the last Friday of the month) at the Parish Centre in Blandford. Please visit our Calendar for information about future talks. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/friday-talk-the-voyages-of-molly/ LOCATION:Blandford Parish Centre\, The Tabernacle\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7DW CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260226T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260226T210000 DTSTAMP:20260202T113346Z CREATED:20260202T113346Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T113346Z UID:6842-1772134200-1772139600@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Archaeology Group Lecture: In the Shadow of the Church DESCRIPTION:In the summer of 2025\, Context One Heritage & Archaeology excavated over 80 burials a short distance from St Mary’s Church in Iwerne Minster. The remains form part of an extensive Anglo-Saxon cemetery that may have been in use for over 400 years and likely relate to a minster that it is believed to have been founded in the late 7th century. In this talk\, Context One director Richard McConnell presents the initial findings of the excavation and proposes some thoughts on what they might mean. \nThe lectures take place on the fourth Thursday of the month (usually)\, starting at 7:30. Tea and coffee are available to buy before the talks. \nAdmission to the talks is free for museum members (donations welcome)\, £3 for non-members. \n\nPlease see the Museum Events Calendar for the dates and details of all this year’s talks\, and the Archaeology Group page for more information about our activities. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-lecture-in-the-shadow-of-the-church/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260207T141500 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260207T154500 DTSTAMP:20260201T180518Z CREATED:20260201T180518Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260201T180518Z UID:6830-1770473700-1770479100@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Folklore\, legends & Myths DESCRIPTION:Discover the world of Folklore\, Legends & Myths! This free\, family‑friendly event is organised by Blandford Library in partnership with Blandford Town Museum. \n\n2:45pm: Introduction\n2:30 – 3pm: Folklore\, Legends & Myths talk and slideshow\n3:15 – 3:45pm: Creative crafts\n\nThere will also be snacks and drinks\, a book display\, a library Folklore trail\, and a fun quiz with small prizes. \nChildren under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. \nFor more information\, please email blandfordlibrary@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or phone 01258 452075. \n \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/folklore-legends-myths/ LOCATION:Blandford Library\, The Tabernacle\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7DW END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260130T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260130T213000 DTSTAMP:20260118T134540Z CREATED:20241206T154811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260118T134540Z UID:4140-1769797800-1769808600@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:New Year Quiz DESCRIPTION:We’re pleased to announce the return of our popular New Year Quiz\, to help raise funds for the Museum and to have some fun in the dark days of winter. \n\nEnter as a whole team (6 people) or individual/couple to be allocated to a team\n£10 per head entry\, including a light supper of sandwiches and cakes\nDrinks will be available to buy\, and there will be a raffle.\n\nDoors open at 6:30\, and the quiz starts at 7:00. \nNumbers will be limited\, so to avoid disappointment you will need to reserve your place(s). Please fill in our on-line form or contact Clara on 07975 797790 (text or WhatsApp) or 01258 450639. Payments in advance\, please\, preferably by BACS transfer to Blandford Forum Museum\, Heritage & Arts Trust\, Sort Code 30-98-97\, Account Number 20009262\, reference -QUIZ\, or call Clara for other payment options. \n*** Note added 18/1/26: there are only a few places left in the quiz now. Please wait until you have received confirmation of your reservation before sending payment. Thank you. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/new-year-quiz/ LOCATION:Blandford Parish Centre\, The Tabernacle\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7DW ORGANIZER;CN="Blandford Town Museum":MAILTO:contact@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260122T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260122T210000 DTSTAMP:20260108T134216Z CREATED:20260108T134216Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260108T134216Z UID:6778-1769110200-1769115600@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Archaeology Group Lecture: Waddon Hill: A Roman Fort in West Dorset DESCRIPTION:Our first lecture of 2026 will be given by Dr Jon Milward\, Bournemouth University’s Archaeology Project Officer. \nWaddon Hill\, west Dorset\, has a Roman fort sited on the Ridgeway. Does it represent a hostile and violent conquest by the Romans? Did it supplant an Iron Age hill fort? What were the military actually doing in the roughly 10 years they occupied it and how does it relate to other near by forts? \n\nThe Archaeology Group presents lectures on a range of facinating archaeological topics by local experts and academics. Everyone is welcome! \nThe lectures take place on the fourth Thursday of the month (usually)\, starting at 7:30. Tea and coffee are available to buy before the talks. \nAdmission to the talks is free for museum members (donations welcome)\, £3 for non-members. \n\nPlease see the Museum Events Calendar for the dates and details of all this year’s talks\, and the Archaeology Group page for more information about our activities. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-lecture-waddon-hill-a-roman-fort-in-west-dorset/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR