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September and October in Dorset

The kids may be back to school but there is still plenty going on at weekends and after-school between now and half term for families across Cornwall. See our featured local businesses below or see our frequently updated online listings guide here for more tips and ideas

Coming soon to Lighthouse Poole

Lighthouse is bursting with family fun this autumn. From cheeky animals in The Zoo That Comes To You (27 Sep) to the enchanting Very Hungry Caterpillar Show (4–5 Oct), little ones will be wide-eyed with wonder.

Half term brings even more excitement. Join Franky (25 Oct) for a heartwarming Halloween tale, party with Ursula and friends in Villains Unleashed (28 Oct), and discover mind-blowing experiments in Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science Show (29 Oct). Then, round off the week with a musical party with CBeebies superstar Justin Fletcher (30 Oct).

With puppets, science, songs and spooky surprises, there’s something to spark every child’s imagination.

Find out more at www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

 

 

 

With the kids back to school, could you spare a few hours a week to help local families?

Families charity Home-Start Wessex is excited to be opening its first ever children’s charity shop in Christchurch and is looking for volunteers to help in the shop. Home-Start Wessex offers friendship, practical support, and emotional advice to parents in Dorset with at least one child under 5 who are in crisis, providing specialist groups and one-to-one home visits. Over the last year, the charity has transformed 1,682 lives, helping a record 501 families.

Flexible hours are available, along with the opportunity to learn new skills, meet new friends and make a real difference to local families. Contact carla@homestartwessex.org.uk or call 01202574877 to find out more.

 

 

Free events at family-friendly arts festival

Inside Out Dorset, the biennial international outdoor arts festival, is set to return this autumn with a series of free-to-see installations and performances in five extraordinary locations.

Hosted by Dorchester-based outdoor arts producers Activate, over two weeks in September (12th-21st) these special and distinctive landscapes will be transformed by magical art and dramatic interventions: Christchurch Quay, Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, Summerhouse Hill in Yeovil, Corfe Castle and Weymouth beach.

 

The diverse and inventive programme includes a new Giant for the Dorset landscape, the county’s response to the international River of Hope project, a remarkable new sound trail, four astonishing performance pieces from the Catalan region in one of Dorset’s most iconic villages, and an amazing, site- specific promenade performance against the backdrop of a Georgian seafront.

 

‘Farm-tastic’ Fun with the Winter Pass!

Have you ‘herd’ the news? Farmer Palmer’s has launched the return of their very popular Winter Pass!

Valid from 1st September to 13th March, that’s 173 days of indoor and undercover fun (at just under 23p per day)! Enjoy access to the farm park over three key holiday periods; Halloween, Christmas & February half term! Perfect for children aged 0-8 years old, whatever the weather! With so many indoor & undercover activities to do, and delicious food in the Hen House, Farmer Palmer’s, the award-winning farm park is the place to be!

They can’t wait to see you soon!

Find out more at www.farmerpalmers.couk

 

This October half-term, discover Halloween Magic at Mapperton.

From Sunday 26th to Friday 31st, children can follow a spellbinding trail through the gardens, uncovering magical creatures, hidden spells and curious surprises.

New for this year is Mapperton’s enchanted Potion Room, where young witches and wizards can mix ingredients and conjure their own brew.

Set against the backdrop of one of Britain’s finest manor houses, this Halloween experience is perfect for families seeking fresh air, autumn colour and a little seasonal wonder.

Children in fancy dress are most welcome and entry for kids is completely free.

Visit mapperton.com for details.

 

Message from Matthew Cornes Guitar Tutor

“I'm Matthew; a Poole based private guitar and bass teacher.

This October, I'm taking on new students (kids and adults) in the BCP and East Dorset area!

I will show you how to rock with my decade's experience of performing music live!

I teach for fun, and I also teach RSL & ABRSM graded material.

The best way to contact me is on my teaching page ‘Matthew Cornes: Guitar and Bass Teacher’. My charges are visible on my page.

Alternatively, contact me via my email matthewliamcornes@hotmail.co.uk, or my mobile number 07522185161, and leave a voicemail.”

 

Weymouth Drama Club at The Harbour Theatre, Hope Street offers a great theatre experience for players and audience whatever the age.

 

“Join our drama group, where creativity meets fun! As a charity, we offer the lowest fees in town, making it more accessible for everyone. This is your chance to make new friends, boost your confidence, and learn teamwork—all while having an absolute blast on stage! Whether you're a budding actor or just want to try something new, our welcoming community is here to support you. Come along and discover the joy of performance, where the main goal is to have fun!”

 

Wimborne Model Town

Discover Wimborne’s Little Treasure since 1952. Walk around the Town in 1/10 scale andview the Model of the Model in 1/100 scale. Take a quiz to guide you through over 100 miniature shops, homesand businesses, in beautiful gardens. Enjoy the sensory gardens and make music on their outdoor Musical Instruments.

Meet the Wareham Bears, drive a train in the Model Railway, discover “Life Before Lego” and wonder at the Beryl Dade Dolls’ House Collection. Play a round of Crazy Golf and our cafe offers drinks, delicious cakes and lunches.

 Visit www.wimborne-modeltown.com for details of their monthly events, opening times and prices. Your entry ticket is valid for 12 months!!

 

Does your child dream of the spotlight?

Whether it’s acting, singing, dancing — or all three — Swish Theatre School is where young stars shine. With our Dorset classes in Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and Dorchester, your child can discover their passion close to home.

Their weekday and weekend sessions for ages 3–14 spark creativity, build confidence, and help every child perform to their full potential. Led by warm, industry-qualified teachers, each class blends skill-building with fun, friendship, and exciting performance opportunities.

For over 30 years, Swish has been the trusted choice for parents seeking a supportive, inspiring environment for artistic growth. They believe the performing arts give children lifelong skills - from teamwork to self-belief - as well as unforgettable memories.

✨ 2-Week Trial Available ✨
Watch their class videos to discover more and book your trial today at www.swish.school