01202 887247 info@theallendale.org
Welcome to Wimborne's best and busiest venue for theatre,
music, activities, room hires and more -
we have something for everyone!
Keep up to date with events & news - join Allendale Newsletter here
What's on at the Allendale, Wimborne?
Discover a variety of live entertainment, films, markets, fairs and more on this page.
We're home to the Allendale Theatre, Allendale Studio and Allendale Café, all of which host events.
See Live Shows only. See Regular Activities for daily, weekly and monthly activities.
Wimborne Minster Market
Fridays 8am - 2pm
Wimborne Minster Market offers stalls throughout two Halls, plus outdoor areas. You're likely to find fruit and veg, plants and flowers, local meat, eggs, cheese, olives, cakes, pies, wholefoods, antiques, Indian textiles, vintage and retro items, jewellery, homewares and so much more!
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The Town Mayor's Charity Quiz and Raffle
Wednesday 21st October, 7.30pm
An evening of fun, friendly competition, great prizes and a raffle - all in aid of the Town Mayor's charities. Teams of 6; entry £6 per person.
In support of the Town Mayor's charities: Lewis-Manning Hospice Care and Waggy Tails Rescue.
Access Wellbeing
Fridays 23rd & 30th October
Access Wellbeing spaces offer easy access to free mental health and wellbeing support. Our services are open to anyone aged 18 and over, with no referral or appointment usually needed.
We have over 30 drop-in services that offer a safe, welcoming space to find support. When you visit, we’ll take the time to listen and explore what matters to you, and can connect you to other support if that’s helpful too. Read more
Quo Connection
Friday 23rd October, doors 7.30pm, music from 8.15pm
The authentic and approved sound of classic 70s QUO! Watch video
Formed by ex-Status Quo drummer John Coghlan, the band has existed for twenty-five years in various forms. Mick Hughes, Rick Chase and Pete Mace have reformed John Coghlan’s Quo under the name of QUO CONNECTION.
Playing many of Status Quo’s hits plus some incredible album tracks, Quo Connection are eager to bring their high-octane show to you. The band proved very popular when they played here previously and are very welcome to return in 2026! Raising funds for Allendale Community Centre.
20 To 1 Big Band presents
Dance The Night Away
Saturday 24th October, 7.30pm
20 To 1 Big Band return to the Allendale with their ever-popular Dance The Night Away - an evening of LIVE music for you to get up and dance to!
Music styles include Swing, Jive, Latin, Waltz and Rock & Pop. Also featuring live vocalists.
Wimborne Model Railway Exhibition
Sunday 25th October. 10am - 4pm
The Central Southern Gauge O Group (CSGOG) will be holding their Annual Model Railway Exhibition on Sunday 25th October. £8 per adult with accompanied children free. On display will be O gauge models (that’s twice the size of the more common Hornby Trains). There will be numerous operational layouts; the group’s own large test track; model engineering demo; model railway traders; a bring & buy stall and railway societies. Our show has been described as ‘the show to go to’ and ‘it ticks all the boxes’. See www.csgog.org or Facebook: Central Southern Gauge O Group.
Dorset Team October Makers Market
Saturday 31st October, 10am - 4pm
Join the Dorset Team for the October Makers Market, showcasing independent makers, artists and creatives from right across Dorset. You will find high quality stalls set across two rooms of the Allendale Centre, with over 60 stalls in total. Expect a carefully curated mix of crafts and stalls with something for everyone and every budget. FREE ENTRY.
Accessible Venue. Café overlooking the river serving hot and cold food and drink all day. Dogs on leads are welcome. Set over two rooms
Follow Dorset Team for trader previews and event updates. Enquiries dorsetteam@outlook.com
DanceAway Social Dance Evening
Saturday 31st October, 7.30pm
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Ballroom/Latin American
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Popular Sequence
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All abilities welcome
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Bar open
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Admission £8 per person, on the door
Little Pickles Markets
Sunday 1st November, 10am - 11.30pm
Baby and Children's nearly new sales.
The Bossa Definitiva Trio
Sunday 1st November, 1pm
Paris-born vocalist Véronique Joly, together with Canadian saxophonist Terry Quinney and guitarist Rob Palmer, present BOSSA DEFINITIVA, a trio celebrating the cool Bossa Nova sounds of Stan Getz and Astrud & João Gilberto. Drawing inspiration from the classic Getz/Gilberto recordings, the trio's repertoire also includes songs by artists such as James Taylor and Sting, as featured on their recently released eponymous debut album.
Together, the trio brings warmth, lyricism and understated virtuosity. Their repertoire moves effortlessly between classic Bossa Nova and contemporary song, capturing the intimate, timeless appeal of Brazil's most enduring musical style. Watch video
Raising funds for Allendale Community Centre.
Evening with Dan Clarke
Tuesday 3rd November, 7pm
The incredible Spiritual medium Dan Clarke presents an evening of readings from spirit delivered in the compassionate and yet entertaining way that only he can. Join us and see why Dan Clarke is known for being the most accurate medium touring the UK today.
Over 16s please.
High Contrast Cinema presents
In a Lonely Place
Friday 6th November, 8pm
High Contrast Cinema continue their Bogart season with In a Lonely Place, Nicholas Ray’s 1950 noir masterpiece starring Humphrey Bogart and Gloria Grahame. Adapted from Dorothy B. Hughes’ novel, it follows screenwriter Dixon Steele, whose volatile temper and proximity to a murder place him under suspicion — even as he begins a fragile romance with his neighbour, Laurel Gray.
Though not a commercial hit on release, the film has since been hailed as one of Bogart’s greatest performances: a raw, unsettling portrait of charm, insecurity and self‑destruction.
Ray’s direction brings a haunting intimacy to the story, making it one of the most emotionally complex noirs ever produced. In a Lonely Place is rated PG for mild violence and threat.
Absolute U2
Saturday 7th November, 8.15pm
Absolute U2 are an authentic UK-based tribute to one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
Delivered with the energy and honesty the music deserves, Absolute U2 are four musicians who care about getting it right - from the chiming guitars, the driving rhythm section, the soaring vocals, and exciting moments that lift a room!
AUTHENTIC. HEARTFELT. UNMISTAKABLY U2.
Hansons Auctioneers:
FREE Antiques, Jewellery, Fine Art & Watch Valuations
Friday 13th November, 10am - 12pm
Richard Smith UK Tour 2026
(supported by Bob Carter)
Friday 13th November, 7.30pm
We welcome Richard Smith back to the Allendale this November! If you've seen Richard here before, you'll know he's one of the world's top guitar players. Born in the UK, now resident in the US, he's back in this country for an autumn tour. If you appreciate top-level musicianship and great entertainment, don't miss this date! Watch video
Richard is very ably supported by the more-local Bob Carter, himself a consummate musician. Two excellent guitarists at a very reasonable ticket price - limited tickets available.
Raising funds for Allendale Community Centre.
Wimborne Musical Theatre Society presents
The Magic Behind The Curtain
Saturday 14th November, 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Join us for a heartwarming musical journey where stories awaken and the past comes alive... filled with songs you know and love, including:
Luck Be A Lady (Guys and Dolls)
Consider Yourself (Oliver!)
Pure Imagination (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory)
Journey to the Past (Anastasia)
Seasons of Love (Rent)
Good Morning Baltimore (Hairspray)
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Prama Carers' Rights Day
Thursday 19th November, 9am - 12.30pm
On 19th November, Prama will be holding their annual Carers' Rights Day at the Allendale Centre.
It’s a great opportunity for carers to gain information and advice from over 30 different organisations, on many different topics to help them with some of the challenges that they might be facing now or in the future as a carer, and to find out more about the support that is available.
Christmas Wreath Making Workshops
sponsored by Poole & Wimborne Woodland Burial Ground
Friday 20th November, sessions at 3.30pm & 7.30pm
This popular event returns for 2026. Learn how to make a beautiful Christmas Wreath - and take your handmade creation home with you!
Two sessions available, at 3.30pm and 7.30pm. Early booking advised as both sessions are likely to sell out.
Allendale Christmas Craft Fair
Saturday 21st November, 10am - 4pm
The ever-popular Allendale Christmas Craft Fair returns for 2026. Quality craft items and gift ideas galore! Free entry for customers.
Stallholders booked in offer items including bunting, decorations, craft kits, cards, coasters, bags, clothes, earrings, art works, Christmas gifts, fused glass, jewellery, woodwork items and much more.
The Wimborne Wellbeing Fayre
Sunday 22nd November, 10am - 4pm
The Wimborne Wellbeing Fayre is back at the Allendale Centre on Sunday 22nd of November. Join us for a day of soulful wellness and inspiration, and discover a fantastic mix of wellbeing practitioners, holistic therapies, beautiful products, expert talks and experiences, all under one roof. Come along and try something new and take a little time for yourself before the Christmas rush begins.
The Little Craft Shack Cozy Christmas Artisan Fayre
Saturday 28th November, 10am - 4pm
Visit The Little Craft Shack's event for a range of gift items.
FREE ENTRY for customers.
DanceAway Social Dance Evening
Saturday 28th November, 7.30pm
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Ballroom/Latin American
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Popular Sequence
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All abilities welcome
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Bar open
-
Admission £8 per person, on the door
Grandma's Attic Antiques & Collectors Fairs
Sunday 29th November, 10am - 4pm
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Ever-popular event returns to the Allendale, admission just £2
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Around 50 traders, in two halls
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Plenty of parking in adjacent pay and display car park
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The Allendale Café open all day
Bob Barter's 99th Birthday Jazz
Monday 30th November, 6pm
This November, Bob Barter will be celebrating his 99th Birthday with an evening of his favourite jazz music in The Allendale Café, and he invites you all to come and celebrate this special day with him and his band.
Bob Barter is a veteran musical arranger and director. He took a degree in music at Birmingham (piano/clarinet) and first appeared on the BBC in 1958. Bob moved into dance and then jazz in the 60s, conducting big bands from the piano. He developed links with American jazz musicians through Humphrey Lyttleton, before becoming musical director and pianist to the great Kathy Kirby in the late 70s and 80s. READ MORE
High Contrast Cinema presents
Casablanca
Friday 4th December, 8pm
High Contrast Cinema conclude their Bogart season with Casablanca, the 1942 classic starring Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman and Paul Henreid. Directed by Michael Curtiz, it centres on cynical nightclub owner Rick Blaine, whose carefully controlled life in wartime Morocco is upended when former lover Ilsa Lund walks back through his door.
A critical and commercial triumph, the film won three Academy Awards including Best Picture, and has endured as one of Hollywood’s most beloved romances. Its blend of political intrigue, unforgettable performances and iconic lines remains as potent today as it was on release — a timeless story of love, sacrifice and moral courage. Casablanca is rated U.
Dorset Team Christmas Fair
Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th December, 10am - 4pm both days
The Dorset Team Christmas Fair brings together a curated mix of independent makers and small businesses for a festive weekend of Christmas shopping in Wimborne. The event brings 60 stalls by local makers each day set across two rooms of the Allendale Community Centre.
Expect a wide range of handmade products and different crafts including jewellery, ceramics, textiles, art, illustrations, Christmas cards and decorations and much more! FREE ENTRY.
Accessible Venue. Onsite Café overlooking the river serving hot and cold food and drink all day. Dogs on leads are welcome. Set over two rooms.
Follow Dorset Team for updates. Enquiries dorsetteam@outlook.com
Best Ever Christmas Panto
Friday 11th - Thursday 24th December 2026,
various times
Best Ever Christmas Panto is a Magical Christmas Adventure!
Christmas is bursting into life in Toytown! With the big day fast approaching, the elves are racing against the clock, the workshop is overflowing with toys, but will they finish in time for Christmas or will they need extra help?
Get ready for a spectacular festive adventure packed with side-splitting laughter, dazzling magic, toe-tapping fun, mischievous mayhem and surprises around every corner. Bring the whole family and join us for a Christmas treat bursting with sparkle, joy and the true spirit of Christmas!
Adult, Child & Family tickets available. Group booking: 1 in 10 tickets free.
FREE ice cream for every child.
Chris Hill's Dirty DC
Sunday 27th December, doors open 7pm
This isn’t just another tribute band - this is a full-throttle AC/DC experience!
Chris Hill’s Dirty DC deliver the raw power, attitude, and unmistakable sound of one of the greatest rock bands in history, with relentless precision and energy. Engineered for serious fans and live music audiences alike, this is high-voltage rock ‘n’ roll done properly.
Fronted by Chris Hill, a performer who has spent over 26 years mastering the voice, presence and grit of Brian Johnson, the band recreates both the Bon Scott swagger and the Johnson-era stadium dominance with spine-tingling accuracy. Raising funds for Allendale Community Centre.
2027
Ratrace Live at the Allendale
Saturday 23rd January,
doors 7.30pm, music from 8pm
Allendale favourites Ratrace are back in January 2027! Forget the January blues and come down for some top ska and a cracking night out. PLUS live support from Four T Five RPM.
Raising funds for Allendale Community Centre.
Cheaper Than Therapy Improv
Saturday 30th January, 7.30pm
An evening of short form, improvised sketch show-style comedy, created by a cast of talented actors in front of a live audience in The Allendale Café. Each scene is created on the spot, entirely from audience suggestions and the actors' own imaginations.
No two shows are ever the same!
Strictly Murder:
For Home and Country
Sunday 7th February, 2pm
It is Wednesday, 3rd September 1924, and the women of Pucklechurch gather proudly under the banner of the Women’s Institute. What began during the war as a patriotic effort has become a cornerstone of village life — a place of recipes, remedies, and resolute opinions.
But beneath the jam jars and committee minutes, disputes over money, medicine and morality threaten to unravel the harmony of this quiet Dorset village. When tragedy strikes at the heart of the Institute, suspicion spreads quickly — and loyalty to “home and country” is tested in deadly ways. Ticket price includes a 2-course meal of Lasagne with Garlic Bread (or optional Vegetable Lasagne with Garlic Bread), followed by cheesecake and ice cream.
The WOW Bubble Show
Wednesday 17th February, 11am
Award winning comedy performer and popular children's entertainer/bubble magician Richard Welsh is bringing "The Wow Bubble Show For Kids" back to The Allendale!
Allendale Theatre Company presents
The Good Life
Friday 7th, Saturday 8th &
Sunday 9th May, various times
Allendale Theatre Company is delighted to present an in-house production of the classic BBC sitcom The Good Life. Join Tom, Barbara, Jerry and Margo on stage for an afternoon or evening of warm hearted, nostalgic and hilarious comedy.
Raising funds for Allendale Community Centre.
Cydonia Knights
Friday 21st May, 8.15pm
Cydonia Knights are a regular favourite at the Allendale, following superb performances in recent years. A tribute to one of the world's biggest rock bands, 'MUSE', Cydonia Knights are a band formed by Muse fans, for Muse fans, performing an unparalleled Muse experience as close to the real thing as possible. The band take pride in their meticulous attention to detail. Supermassive Black Hole, Uprising, Algorithm, Reapers, Compliance and many, many more of the very best Muse tracks are performed with unprecedented accuracy. A night to look forward to!
Kate Garner's Vintage Songbook
Sunday 30th May, 2pm
Songs & stories at the piano with the daughter of Chas from 'Chas & Dave'.
Music Hall, 1920s & 30s, Parlour Songs & Wartime Singalong!
Raising funds for Allendale Community Centre.
Friday 11th - Sunday 13th June 2027
Wimborne wouldn't be Wimborne without the Folk Festival!
Headline events are now on sale - see more here
StevieMac
Saturday 18th September 2027, 7.30pm
Fronted by vocalist Fi Channon, StevieMac is more than a Fleetwood Mac tribute. Backed by a talented live band, the show combines the biggest Fleetwood Mac hits with songs from Stevie Nicks' remarkable solo career and celebrated collaborations, offering audiences a deeper journey through one of rock music's most enduring legacies.
From Fleetwood Mac classics such as Dreams, Rhiannon and The Chain to Stevie Nicks' solo hits including Rooms on Fire and Stand Back, plus iconic collaborations such as Stop Draggin' My Heart Around, StevieMac delivers a show that celebrates the full musical journey of one of rock's most distinctive and influential artists. Watch video