Wimborne | Posted on February 23rd, 2026 | return to news

New season starts at Wimborne Minster’s Chained Library

The library, which was founded by Roger Gillingham and the Rev William Stone, opens for the season on 30 March.

The shelves have been cleaned at Wimborne Minster’s Chained Library; the books dusted and examined for any deterioration that may need restoration or repair; new editions to the library have been catalogued and listed; new books have been selected for the display cabinet; and new volunteers have been recruited and trained.

The new season runs from 30 March to 31 October, with opening hours Monday to Friday, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 4pm. In addition, it will be open from 10.30am to 12.30pm on the first and third Saturday mornings of April, May, June and October. New this year, it will also open every Saturday morning from 10.30am to 12.30pm in July, August and September.

The library is also open during the various festivals held in Wimborne.

Last year was a record year, with nearly 9,000 visitors, as well as schools and scout groups. Academics and researchers also used the library to further their studies and understanding of the past, which is the historic purpose of the library as envisaged by its founders, Roger Gillingham and the Rev William Stone, two Wimborne boys and pupils at Queen Elizabeth’s School.

The season also starts in April for the Minster Guides, who will show visitors all the wonders, the historic importance, the architecture and the fascinating characters associated with the Minster’s 1,300-year history.