Events & Entertainment, Ferndown | Posted on November 4th, 2026 | return to news

Barrington Centre open day to celebrate 40 years

The Barrington Centre, Ferndown’s main community centre and theatre, is celebrating its fortieth anniversary.

Originally opened by Princess Margaret in 1986, the Barrington Centre has been at the heart of Ferndown’s community and culture for four decades. Now in its fortieth year, it continues to host a wide range of events from live music gigs to theatrical productions, dance shows and comedy evenings.

In celebration of this momentous milestone, the Barrington Centre is hosting a free-entry Open Day on Saturday 14 November, from 10am to 4pm. The High Sheriff of Dorset and the Mayor of Ferndown are scheduled to open the event, which will include an exhibition of local artwork by Ferndown Art Society, a showcase of Ferndown local history by Ferndown and District Historical Society, and a fayre highlighting the many community groups, organisations and activity providers that call the Barrington Centre home. The Café will also be open throughout the day for visitors to enjoy, run by King’s Kiosk.

In the evening, the Barrington Theatre will play host to a spectacular variety show, hosted by the wonderful Lea Martin and with contributions from such talented groups as Phoenix Musical Theatre Society, Ferndown Drama Society, Poole and Parkstone Productions and the Bourne Free Adult Panto troupe. Tickets are a very reasonable £5; doors open 19:00, the show begins at 19:30. The evening’s entertainment is suitable for all ages.

Mayor of Ferndown, Lawrence Wilson, said: “It is my great pleasure to invite residents and members of the wider community to join us in celebrating 40 years of the Barrington Centre.”
“For four decades, the Barrington has been at the heart of Ferndown, providing a much-loved home for community activities, the arts, entertainment and local events. I hope you will join us in marking this wonderful milestone and celebrating the contribution the Barrington has made to our community over the past 40 years.”

For more information, visit the Barrington website (www.barringtoncentre.co.uk) or call the Box Office at 01202 894858.