The Olive Branch

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...

For families looking for sen-friendly christmas events, we have compiled a list of what's on in Dorset from attractions and businesses who are hosting sensory-friendly events. Read more...

Escape to the Dorset countryside and breathe in the fresh air as you gaze over a landscape that looks untouched by time; you can just imagine days gone by, when horses pulled the plough and milk churns were left at the farm gate awaiting collection. Rural Dorset sits to the north and east of the county and is made up of rolling hills, chalk downlands, flower meadows, heathlands, and fertile farmland that produces a variety of crops. The Dorset Wildlife Trust has a number of ... Read more...

Top things to do in Dorset this Summer! Here is a snapshot of some of the great things to do taken from Resort Dorset. 1. Hop on the Swanage Railway, sit back and let your senses take you back in time! 2. Take a break from the beach and visit one of Dorset’s delightful gardens, Sherborne Castle, Mapperton Estate, Athelhampton and Abbotsbury Gardens have some of the most beautiful grounds. Take a leisurely stroll and build up the appetite for tea and cake! 3. For ... Read more...

Celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee with us here in Dorset. Dress for the occasion in red white and blue and join in the fun to be had at events right across the county (scroll down for events listings). Little ones can dress up as princes and princesses and head for Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park where, as well as all the animals to see, there’ll be cream teas to enjoy – just be sure to pre-book! Fancy a celebratory picnic lunch with sea views? Then ... Read more...