People are invited to step back in time today for a fair celebrating the era and life of one of Dorset's most prolific writers.

Today Dorchester will remember its Victorian past and celebrate the life and times of the famous writer at The Thomas Hardy Victorian Fair.

The annual festival is held to celebrate the birthday of the literary giant Thomas Hardy. Visitors are encouraged to dress up for the occasion.

Dorchester's High West Street and High East Street will be closed to traffic from 11am to 4pm for the fair.

Dorchester’s exuberant town crier will announce the day’s events as they happen, including the annual wreath-laying procession to Thomas Hardy’s statue, accompanied by the delightful sound of St Peter’s Church bells.

There will be:

  • Penny Farthing Displays
  • The Ragged Victorians
  • Punch & Judy Show
  • Traditional Dance & Performances
  • Victorian Traction Engines
  • Thomas Hardy Talks & Tours
  • Nothe Fort Garrison
  • Victorian Craft Demonstrations
  • Morris Dancers
  • Pop-up Ceilidh
  • Victorian Market

The street fair will build on the success of the 2019 event which drew over 5,000 visitors to the town.

The event has been funded by headline sponsors, Kingston Maurward College, Sculptures by the Lake and Dorset Hideaways, Dorchester Town Council, Thomas Hardy Society and other local sponsors.

To find out more THVF2023 see the website www.thomashardyvictorianfair.co.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheThomasHardyVictorianFair

Read more: Thomas Hardy Victorian Fair to be held in Dorchester