Through February at Dorset Museum and Art Gallery-‘Gladiators of Britain’, a fascinating exhibition explores the lesser-known history of gladiatorial contests in Roman Britain The exhibition will showcase remarkable artefacts, including the iconic Colchester Vase, which vividly depicts a real gladiatorial battle, and the Hawkedon Helmet, the only confirmed gladiatorial armour from Roman Britain. These extraordinary objects, alongside other key finds, shed light on the violent spectacles that captivated audiences and the vital role gladiators played in Roman society. Highlights also include discoveries from Maumbury Rings in Dorchester, a site originally a Neolithic henge that was repurposed as a Roman amphitheatre nearly 2,000 years ago. This transformation highlights the profound cultural impact of the Romans on Britain and offers a rare glimpse into the world of ancient gladiatorial contests.
4th February: Populaireat @The Corn Exchange. 7.30 Presented by Dorchester-Bayeux Twinning Society. The Society celebrates the enduring friendship between Dorchester and Bayeux, France. Established in 1959, this twinning promotes cultural exchange and fosters relationships through shared events, visits, and educational programs. The society encourages community engagement, hosting joint activities like art exhibitions, concerts, and culinary festivals, highlighting the towns’ historical and cultural ties. It also facilitates exchanges for schools and organisations, strengthening international understanding and collaboration. With our rich Roman heritage and Bayeux’s medieval charm, the twinning underscores the value of cross-cultural connections, uniting two vibrant communities through shared history and mutual appreciation.
5th February: Dorchester & District Gardening Club Talk Summer Flowering. Meetings held 1st Wednesday of the month at 7.30 pm at St George’s Church Hall, High Street, Fordington, Dorchester DT1 1LB
14th February: St Valentine’s is a celebration of love and many restaurants have special menus to entice lovers and friends
22nd February: Hardy and Architecture Study Day at The Kings Arms 11am. Before becoming a writer, Hardy trained as an Architect and had very strong beliefs that buildings should be preserved not only for their historical interest but also for their human associations.
Join interesting talks in a friendly atmosphere for a different perspective of Thomas Hardy. There will be poetry after the Study Day between 6pm and 7pm and an invitation to stay on for a delicious 3-course meal (Charges apply) – hardysociety.org.
22nd, 23rd February: Down the road in Swanage the Community Weekend provides visitors with insights into the workings of a heritage railway.
27th February: Talk: An Archaeological Medley by Dr Clare Randal at The Dorford Centre. 2.30pm start.
18th March: The Art of Sand from the Isle of Wight to Iowa: Part 2: Iowa. 7pm Dorford Centre, Bridport Road