- An extraordinary celebration throughout 2026 that unites the community through arts, heritage and creativity, Wimborne is the local ‘Town of Culture’ 2026
- Building on a vibrant cultural hub, where historic charm meets contemporary creativity, organisers reveal plans for new events and projects to reach more people
- Initiative marks significant investment into local arts and culture by The Arts Development Company, Dorset Council and Wimborne Minster Town Council
Plans are afoot to transform how residents and visitors experience arts, culture and community in Wimborne as it is crowned Dorset’s ‘Town of Culture’ 2026.
A new youth festival and sculpture trail are among the things planned for this momentous year for the Dorset market town known for its nationally-renowned folk festival, Town Crier and model town – which recently was the backdrop for a music video by The Last Dinner Party.
The ‘Town of Culture’ crown shines a spotlight on arts, culture, sports, recreation and leisure in Wimborne – and helps fuel more of it under the banner ‘The Culture Catalyst’ with a series of bold new projects that include:
Wimborne Culture Guide – a new digital platform will launch in April, providing a free events directory, shared branding and resources for event management, accessibility and environmental sustainability.
New Culture Fund – micro-commissions will be available for local artists, schools and community groups to deliver their own arts, heritage, sports and culture projects during 2026.
UPLIFT Youth Arts Festival – made by young people for young people, UPLIFT will bring new perspectives to the Wimborne events calendar
Eco-Heritage Sculpture Trail – in partnership with the River Allen Landscape Recovery project, a public art installation will be created by local artists and schoolchildren using sustainable materials to celebrate the River Allen’s ecology and heritage.
Wimborne Town of Culture 2026 is led by Wimborne Minster Town Council, who have appointed award-winning producer and project manager Emma Kerr. Under the theme ‘Bridging The Past and the Future’, they want to raise the profile of arts, culture, sports, recreation and leisure that already exist – and are yet to exist – in Wimborne.
“Wimborne’s story began over a thousand years ago,” explains Emma, “and this year it’s being told in a new voice. From Roman roads to digital creativity, from folk festivals to contemporary performance, we’re celebrating what makes Wimborne special. This is about connection – be it generational, geographical or cultural.”
The town has produced notable talents, including King Crimson guitarist Robert Fripp, who famously declared ‘Wimborne is the centre of the universe’ in his 1980s film, and the Rock’n’Roll Town Crier Chris Brown, who has opened stages for acts like The Flaming Lips and The Polyphonic Spree.
It follows Bridport as Town of Culture in 2024, and Weymouth & Portland in 2025. Inspired by the European City of Culture project, Dorset’s Towns of Culture initiative was devised by the Arts Development Company and Dorset Council to bring communities together through cultural events and projects. There will be a particular focus on engaging young families, isolated residents and those in newer housing developments on the town’s edges.
The programme is supported by the town’s cultural organisations, including the Allendale Community Centre, East Dorset Heritage Trust, Museum of East Dorset, Millstream Theatre, Walford Mill, Wimborne Community Theatre, Wimborne Minster Folk Festival, The Minster (St Cuthburga’s Church), National Trust: Kingston Lacy, Radio Wimborne and Wimborne Model Town & Gardens.
“This isn’t just a calendar of events,” added Emma “It’s a catalyst for community empowerment, creativity and connection. We’re addressing social isolation, supporting young people’s wellbeing and celebrating the incredible talent that exists in Wimborne and encouraging more of it – we hope everyone gets involved.”
Wimborne Town Mayor Jeff Hart added: “This is a life-changing opportunity for Wimborne Minster. Our program of events will create lasting positive change while celebrating our remarkable heritage and creative talent.”
