In the 16th century Christopher Hatton acquired an estate and land in Purbeck. Both as a record of his new assets and as a status symbol he commissioned a series of maps of his estate which later became the basis of the Bankes estate which became part of the National Trust. The National Trust archaeologist ... Read more

Nearly 90 years ago the Townsend Centre was opened in Swanage to offer underprivileged children from London's East End the opportunity to experience fun and fresh air on the coast of Purbeck. The original buildings are still in use and the charity Wide Horizons continues this very worthwhile cause, including hosting families and children affected ... Read more

The Christmas social is at Seventh Wave cafe, Durlston Castle. It's a coffee morning with festive refreshments (hot drinks, cakes, mince pies etc), and entertainment from Purbeck Art Weeks choir 'Mixed Media'. Please let Karen know in advance that you'd like to come to help planning - 01929 425049. £5 a head for members and ... Read more

There will be a formal AGM, where the Agenda papers will be presented and the new committee will be formed. The AGM will be followed by a break for refreshments. We are hoping to have a brief presentation from Civic Voice which is the national charity for the civic movement in England. Free to members, ... Read more

A talk by local woodsman and furniture maker Toby Hoad who has access to some 40 acres of woodland on the Rempstone estate in north Purbeck. In a greenwood workshop set amongst the trees near Rempstone Hall Toby produces furniture and smaller items from the wood taken from the estate. He also produces charcoal and ... Read more

Businessman Geard made his fortune from the manufacture of coloured printing inks at the end of the 19th century as a result of developments in printing, packaging and advertising. He recorded much through photography and built up a large collection of slides for projection, many of his family and friends. David Gerry owns some 300 ... Read more

Roger Bond will give a presentation about the Dorset Fingerpost Project. Fingerposts are a common feature of the Dorset countryside and their design, (metal 'polo mint' shape) is thought to be unique. Along with other roadside features like traditional phone boxes and bridge plates they contribute to local character. Many of the originals have now gone, ... Read more

Mark Woolston, who  works at the brickworks, will give a guided tour and information about this increasingly rare form of brick manufacture using local clay. The bricks produced are sent for use throughout the country. Full details to be confirmed. Free.

This walk will highlight the history and industrial past of the northern side of the Isle of Purbeck. Our guide will be Pam White, National Trust Educations officer. The meeting place is Greenlands farm, off the Ferry road, north of Studland,  grid ref SZ 0184 - there is parking. Pam will cover the Goathorn Penisular ... Read more

This is a nationally important early 16th century building in Charminster. The stone building was constructed to be a centre for 'haute école', the precision schooling of horses, and its upper floor was also used for archery. The building was acquired by the Wolfeton Riding Trust in 1997 and we will be shown around by ... Read more