Things That Go Bump in Dorchester: Halloween Events This Weekend
Before you dismiss Halloween as an American import, let’s spend a moment with Dorchester's own dark history. This is a town where, in 1685, Judge Jeffreys sentenced scores of Monmouth rebels to be hanged, drawn and quartered — their remains boiled, tarred, and displayed on poles and church railings as a public warning.
Where Maumbury Rings, the 5,000-year-old earthwork on the edge of town, was converted by the Romans into an amphitheatre for gladiatorial combat, and where legionaries are still said to be heard on quiet evenings. Where Thomas Hardy, aged sixteen, witnessed the public execution of Martha Brown outside the County Gaol — and where her ghost is said to appear still, near the Millstream of the River Frome, in a black Victorian silk dress.
We are on the edge of one of England's most haunted towns and this weekend, Dorchester is definitely leaning into it.
This weekend’s highlights
On Friday 30th October, the Pavilion in the Park is offering a free Halloween Craft Coffee Morning.
Also on Friday , Captain Connie’s pirate-themed Halloween party at Crafty Cuppa, Brewery Square is perfect for younger children (11am–12pm) — crafts, a treasure hunt and “top-secret crew training.” And the Plaza Cinema on Trinity Street is showing the original 1978 Halloween at 8pm (rated 15), followed at 9:15pm by the 4K remastered Dracula (1958, rated 18), and there’s even more spookiness to see over the weekend.
For families, Kingston Maurward is hosting its Halloween Trail until Saturday October 31st — a final chance to navigate spooky gardens, a zombie-themed trail, and meet the magnificent 3-meter spider, Boris. And Brewery Square is host to Brewery Scare Trick or Treat Fun, with plenty to do and a perfect excuse to get your costumes out!
On Saturday — Halloween itself, there’s something for everyone: Dark Dorset with Jeni Bell and Karen Heaney at the King’s Arms Hotel explores the town’s folklore and ghost stories from 10:30am. The Children’s Halloween Disco at Dorchester Trinity Club kicks off at 6pm for ages 3–10. And for the adults, Tom Brown’s on High East Street is hosting a spooky evening from 5:30pm.
Slightly further afield, the Weymouth Haunted Zombie Storytelling Cruise offers 2.5 hours on the water with ghost stories, music and coastal views.
Whatever you're doing this weekend — have a wonderfully spooky one.
Check listings at discoverdorchester.co.uk and visit-dorset.com.