The Old Granary

Monkey World and the UK Primate Pet Trade For more than 30 years, Monkey World has been battling the legal UK primate pet trade! Since the park opened, as well as dealing with the worldwide illegal wildlife trade, Monkey World needed the UK government to address the home-grown issue of legal pet primates. From Monkey World’s first rescue of a female capuchin from a pet home in Leicestershire in 1989, to the 123rd pet trade rescue of a marmoset from Halifax in 2022, ... Read more...

A Drop of Snow to Herald Spring Belinda Fewings, Unsplash Whilst meteorological spring doesn’t start until 1st March this year, the first sight of snowdrops, which bravely push their way up through the cold ground in January and February, can certainly put a spring in our step! Determined to put on one of the first flower shows of the year, these hardy white blooms are a welcome reminder that warmer days are just around the corner. Galanthus nivalis (snowy milk flower) ... Read more...

You'll find the perfect present while Christmas shopping in Dorset, find unique gifts, local art, Dorset food and drink and much more. We've put together a few ideas to help get you started! 1 – Have you got a tank enthusiast in the family? Take a look at the Tank Museum online shop: from baubles to model kits and themed T-shirts, their shop has something for everyone. 2 – Cheeeeeese! A Christmas staple, get ... Read more...

Whether you call him Santa Claus, Father Christmas, St Nicks or simply Santa, your little one will want to meet the real Santa in Dorset this year. Lucky for you, many of Dorset's businesses have arranged magical experiences and Santa's Grottos throughout Dorset for you and your family to do just that. Maybe you're looking for breakfast with Santa, a winter wonderland, a meet and greet Santa, or a SEN Santa visit. We are building up all the best local events, so ... Read more...

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and you will be when you discover the fantastic selection of Christmas markets and festive fairs that are set to be held around Dorset in the coming weeks. If you’re getting organised with your shopping, these events are a great way to find those perfect gifts. If delicious food and drink is on your wish list, then you’ll love the tasty selection available from local producers; or maybe you’d like a day out to get you in the ... Read more...