More people are being encouraged to visit Dorset's museums this October.

This autumn Dorset Council is celebrating artists who have been ‘inspired by Dorset’ and 12 museums across the county are hosting special creative hands-on activities or celebrating artworks and local artists.

Whether you want to discover more about Alfred Stevens, ‘the Michaelangelo of Great Britain’, Corfe Castle-based artist Amy Krauss, who created a beautiful miniature artwork for Queen Mary’s dolls house in Windsor Castle, or the 200 year-old cottage industry of Dorset Button making, there’s plenty of amazing stories to discover this month and plenty of fun, hands on experiences to get involved with.

There’s something for all ages and all interests. Follow in the footsteps of Dame Elisabeth Frink and become a ‘Wire Warrior’ and have a go at making your own costume armour, make a hobbyhorse, miniature masterpiece, origami lion or even have a go at stone carving on Portland.

Visit Dorset, Dorset Council’s tourism team is working with the Dorset Museums Association and Wimborne based agency, Fathom, to deliver the Shared Prosperity Government Funded campaign which aims to encourage local residents and visitors to explore the county's amazing range of museums.

Cllr Ryan Hope Dorset Council’s cabinet member for customer, culture and community engagement said: “This autumn, we’re encouraging people to visit some of Dorset’s gems.

"The initiative, led by the Visit Dorset team and supported with funding from the Shared Prosperity Fund, is a fantastic opportunity to showcase some of Dorset’s amazing museums and their remarkable collections.

"The innovative digital approach and partnership working will enable the museums to strengthen their profiles across the county and reach new audiences across the region.”

Dorset Council was allocated just over £6 million via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for use within the Dorset Council county area, with funds available until March 2025.

Funds totalling £4.4 million has already supported communities, local business, people and skills in the area thanks to grants awarded.

Projects are funded or part funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025.