Events & Entertainment, Wimborne | Posted on March 12th, 2026 | return to news

It’s time to Discover Wimborne

Throughout April, there will be a whole raft of activities taking place throughout the town, many of them free.

The 10th Discover Wimborne festival launches on 1 April.

What began as a small idea a decade ago has grown into a vibrant, month-long celebration of everything that makes Wimborne special. This year’s 10th anniversary programme brings together 150 events, 50 local businesses, and something happening every single day in April.

Organised by Wimborne BID, Discover Wimborne shines a spotlight on the town’s rich history, creativity, culture and community spirit, offering residents and visitors the chance to explore Wimborne in new and unexpected ways, with many of the events on offer free to enjoy.

From guided tours of Deans Court, Wimborne’s private 1,300-year-old manor house, to hands-on craft experiences, museum tours, wine and food tastings at local retailers, and even a food walk with Salamander Cookshop, the festival showcases the best of Wimborne’s heritage, hospitality and creativity.

Just some of the other events visitors can enjoy in April include historic town walks hosted by Gulliver’s Bookshop, special offers on local dining, tap room events at Eight Arch Brewery, exhibitions at Walford Mill, free family films at the Allendale Community Centre, quizzes, bingo, live music in many of Wimborne’s pubs, and eco-friendly experiences with Planet Wimborne, including a community plant swap.

This year also sees the launch of two exciting new additions to Discover Wimborne as part of the Town of Culture 2026 programme. The Wimborne Youth Festival (6–19 April) will celebrate the town’s young talent with a vibrant mix of art, performance and sculpture, all free to attend.

Meanwhile, on Sunday 19 April, Willow Walk will host the first-ever Festival of Sport and Active Leisure, a fun and inclusive showcase of local sport, fitness and leisure opportunities for all ages and abilities – with free entry for everyone.

There are plenty of Easter activities to hop along to and enjoy. Families can enter an Easter card competition and ‘Guess the Name of the Easter Bunny’ challenge with Present Company and Card Gallery, plus free Easter bonnet and card-making workshops in the Museum of East Dorset Garden Tearoom.

Daniel Lee, owner of Present Company and Card Gallery, said: “Being part of Discover Wimborne allows us to shout about what we do in a way we couldn’t achieve on our own.

“Running small events helps us engage with new audiences while strengthening relationships with existing customers.”

The free festival guide will be available from 20 March at the Museum of East Dorset Information Centre and participating businesses. The full programme, including dates, times and booking details, will also be online at www.wimborne.info.