November Events on Portland
Posted November 11th, 2010 | No Comments
Though most focus mainly on the Guy Fawkes night and bringing in November with a very literal bang, there are many other events which take place throughout the month on Portland. Known as the downtime leading up to the Christmas season, mid-November is a time to pause and reflect with some quiet and peaceful functions.
On Sunday, the 14th of November, also known as Remembrance Sunday in honour of those that gave their lives in the two world wars, they will be holding a special service at the Portland Cenotaph, New Ground. The cenotaph, which literally means ‘empty tomb’ in Greek, is inscribed with the names of all those from the island that did not return from the wars.
Also on that Sunday, at the RSPB Radipole Lake Nature Reserve there will be a special ‘Heron Roost Watch’ from 15:00-17:00. Join in at the North Hide as they keep the lookout for Grey Herons, Little Egrets, and the rare and elusive Bittern. Other possible guests include the odd otter or two! There is a charge of £3 for adults and £1.50 for children; this fee includes a free binocular hire. Booking is essential, so call ahead on 01305 778313.
For those more interested in culture than nature, the Portland Museum will be having a ‘Hardy Poetry Readings’ gathering on the 20th of November. Thomas Hardy, one of the most famous English authors of all time, was known equally for his novels and his poems. He was one of the best known contributors to the naturalist movement. He was a lifelong resident of Dorset, and even used the original cottage that the museum is housed in as the home of Avice in his novel “The Wellbeloved”.
Autumn Events at Portland Museum
Posted October 30th, 2010 | No Comments
If you happen to be visiting the isle of Portland with your children this autumn, be sure to make your way over to the Portland Museum for a couple of their highly anticipated events. Though the museum is typically closed after the 1st November, it is still open some weekends during the winter.
There will be a local art exhibit featured within the museum between the dates of Thursday the 28th October- Sunday the 31st October. The hours of operation will be from 11am-4:30pm. Normal admission charges will apply.
On Saturday, the 20th November, the children are welcome to take part in a Christmas Cracker make and take. Learn how to make your very own cracker, stuffed with your favourite little prize and you will be able to decorate your dinner table this holiday season.
The museum, which was founded by well-known birth control pioneer Dr. Marie Stopes, is the area’s homage to the rich historic life that Portland has to offer. It is housed in two thatched Portland stone cottages located just above Church Ope Cove. Recently renovated, it now features four displays which centralise around the themes of Stone, Sea, Famous People and Local Archaeology.