Dorchester and District

Return to Dorchester and District u3a

Dorchester and District u3a Groups

1st Monday Meeting     

Meets 1st Monday of the Month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre - Hall - map
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Contact chair@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Our Monthly Meetings are held in the Holy Trinity Centre Main Hall on the first Monday of each month except for August. Doors are open at 10.00 for members to chat and have a cup of tea or coffee. We start the talk and update from our Groups at 10.30 ​This is an opportunity to meet your committee members, socialise with other members and be entertained by our visiting speakers.

Antiques and Collectables     

Meets 2nd Friday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Sandringham Court - SC - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Contact antiques@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details The Antiques and Collectables Group is a very friendly group of like-minded people. Each meeting we bring along a few items relating to the topic for the month and tell other group members what we know about the items. Sometimes these are inherited items with interesting family histories and other times they have been acquired simply because they liked the item. Occasionally a member may know nothing about the item apart from what they have found on-line. If you have nothing to bring for a particular topic that is fine. Come along anyway and see the fantastic range of items presented each month! Potential new members please contact the group leader before attending a meeting.

Archaeology     

Meets 4th Monday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Dorchester Community Church Hall - DCCH
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact 01305 549300
Details The group meets to listen to talks about local and worldwide archaeology topics provided by both invited speakers and group members who have some previous knowedge. There is usually the opportunity to ask questions and engage with the speaker over tea and biscuits. During the summer months we have outings to local digs, museums, archaeological walks and interesting sites. At Christmas we have treats such as a quiz or a film. The programme is organised by a steering group of 4 members.

Architecture Appreciation     

Meets 2nd Monday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 11:00 to 12:30
Contact architec@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Autumn, Winter and Spring meetings are held at Holy Trinity Centre. Meetings are usually led by members of the group who contribute their own interests in architecture, hence we cover a wide range of topics related to this subject. In the summer months we have outside visits, often led by group members. All welcome, no architectural expertise is needed, just an enthusiasm to explore the subject.

Art     

Meets 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 11:00 to 13:00
Contact art@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We are a very friendly and informal group of artists of very mixed experience and expertise, who tend to choose our own preferred style of art and media. New members will greatly appreciate the support and encouragement of the group in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Members are to provide their own art materials and may bring their own refreshments. As well as each session being primarily an active painting/drawing period, some sessions are set aside for en-plein-air outings, guest speakers and exhibitions.

Art - Portraiture     

Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month; Attendance £0
Venue Member's Home - MH
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Contact portrait@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details A small group of up to 7 in a real studio with tables and some easels. Bring your favourite materials. Pencil, charcoal or neopastels are recommended for the fairly short poses that we usually set up. No experience necessary.

Art - Still Life Painting     

Meets 2nd & 4th Monday of the month; Attendance £0
Venue Member's Home - MH
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Contact portrait@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details A small group of up to 7 in a real studio with tables and some easels. Bring your favourite materials. Pencil, charcoal or neopastels are recommended.

Backgammon     

Meets 1st Friday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue - YMCA - map
Normally starts 10:00 to 11:30
Contact Backgam@dorchesteru3a.org.uk 07527 435043
Details We are a friendly small group who play by local rules (explained). We swap partners after games to enable experiencing different strategies. Members can be beginners and soon learn quickly the rules but it is the strategies counterbalanced by the throw of the dice that gives it that element of surprise and enjoyment.

Badminton     

Meets 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Charminster Community Hall - CCH - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact badminton@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We are a friendly group open to all abilities. However, everyone has played before and to a good standard. All are welcome but please contact GL first. We meet at Charminster Community Hall. See webpage for more information.

Birdwatching     

Meets Last Tuesday of the month; Attendance £0
Venue - Various locations
Normally starts 09:00 to 11:00
Contact birds@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Let’s share our knowledge of birds and also flora and fauna. South West England encompasses a wonderful variety of habitats, locally around Dorchester and Weymouth and more widely in Dorset, East Devon, Hampshire, Somerset and beyond. We will meet at a different outdoor location each month.

Booktalk     

Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month; Attendance £0
Venue Junction Hotel - Junc - map
Normally starts 14:30 to 15:30
Contact John Calvert 01305251144
Details Books come from the Library and so the numbers are limited. The books are chosen by the group once a year. For list of books contact group leader. It is possible to have tea coffee etc at the Junction Hotel

Bridge     

Meets Every Wednesday; Attendance 50p
Venue Sandringham Court - SC - map
Normally starts 09:30 to 12:00
Contact Niall Simpson, bridge@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We are a sociable group of players with a range of skills from novice to experienced. The emphasis is on enjoying playing bridge in a pleasant and friendly atmosphere, and beginners are very welcome. We draw for partners for the first round and we begin at 0930 hrs.

Calligraphy     

Meets 4th Tuesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact callig@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Calligraphy can bring much creativity and pleasure into the lives of those who practise and who appreciate it. The group meet to share this interest - some with experience, some complete beginners. We work individually from a choice of nearly thirty different scripts; sharing experience and learning from each other. There is also time set in each session for exploring ideas in the use of various materials and tools, as well as ideas for sharing our skill in the form of gifts, greeting cards and display material.

Card Games For Fun     

Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays; Attendance 50p
Venue Dorchester Community Church - DCC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact cards@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details A relaxing activity in which you'll learn some of the most interesting and fun card games in the world. As well as variations on classic English and American games, we will sample the delights of top games from around Europe, including those played with traditional packs quite different from our own. Card games are excellent for the brain, great for relaxing with friends, family and grandchildren, and good for our mental health - what's not to like! No experience needed - just turn up and have fun!

Chess     

Meets 4th Thursday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Upper Classroom- UC - map
Normally starts 14:30 to 17:00
Contact Ken Pickering: kp1917@btinternet.com
Details We welcome players from beginners through to those who may have played for many years. We play without the formality of tournaments and it is up to the individual players whether they use a clock. Our aim is simply to have an enjoyable afternoon over a game of chess.

Coffee Club     

Meets as announced; Attendance £0
Venue - Various locations
Normally starts 10:30 to 11:45
Contact Peter Scaife
Details We meet at one of Dorchester's many Coffee shops to have a social get-together and informal chat. If you would like to meet up with members for a pleasant morning, please join us but contact the Group Leader in the first instance.

Computing     

Meets 1st Thursday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 15:00 to 16:30
Contact arh@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We are a group of people of varying levels of expertise, but all interested in computing. Every 3 or 4 months we decide on a list of topics to cover in the following meetings. Before we start the main topic of the meeting, members are able to talk about any problems they are having and often someone else has had a similar issue. Members can also raise any current topic of interest.

Country Walks Friday     

Meets Last Friday of the month; Attendance £0
Venue - Various locations
Normally starts 09:30 to 13:30
Contact walkfri@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Monthly walks (with the exception of December) take place in various locations anywhere in Dorset. The walks are circular and between 8 and 10 miles. The maximum number of walkers is 25 on each occasion. In the Summer months we normally take a picnic lunch, but in other months there is a pub lunch option, for after the walk. No dogs are allowed on the walk.

Country Walks Thursday     

Meets 2nd Thursday of the month; Attendance £0
Venue - Various locations
Normally starts 10:00 to 13:00
Contact patdes33@hotmail.com
Details Monthly walks taking place in various locations around Dorchester. Each walk is lead by a walk leader for that month. Walks are between 5-6 miles and circular and normally within 15 miles from Dorchester . The maximum number of walkers on each occasion is 25. A lunch venue is organised for each walk with the option of booking a lunch. No dogs are allowed on the walk.

Country Walks Tuesday     

Meets 3rd Tuesday of the month; Attendance £0
Venue - Various locations
Normally starts 10:00 to 13:00
Contact Walktue@Dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Monthly walks taking place in various locations around Dorchester. Each walk is lead by a walk leader for that month. Walks are between 5-6 miles and circular and normally within 15 miles from Dorchester . The maximum number of walkers on each occasion is 25. A lunch venue is organised for each walk with the option of booking a lunch. No dogs are allowed on the walk.

Creative Writing 1     

Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month; Attendance £1
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 11:15 to 12:45
Contact 01305 250347
Details We are a friendly, informal and supportive group and we enjoy exercising our minds and writing skills. We start with coffee and tea and then read out what we have written, usually from homework set in the previous class. There are often discussions about writing and occasionally we do some improvised writing in the class. We write mainly for pleasure but do discuss entering competitions and some people are aiming at publication.

Creative Writing 2     

Meets 3rd Tuesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:00
Contact 07583704782
Details Creative Writing 2 welcomes anyone who enjoys writing and who is keen to develop their writing skills. Our meetings provide opportunities to exercise our imagination and creativity. They are fun, friendly and supportive. We discuss ideas and seek inspiration. We explore methods and techniques that encompass a broad range of genres. We share and critique each other’s work. Wherever possible, we aim to do a little bit of writing in most meetings.

Cryptic Crosswords     

Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Contact 07812003975
Details An introduction to solving cryptic crosswords in a group environment. Encouragement to get the correct answer with hints and pointers. Reinforcement of method by round table explanation of each clue.

Dining Club     

Meets Varies; Attendance £0
Venue See details for Meeting Place
Contact dining@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Each month a club member volunteers to organise a group meal at a restaurant of their choice. Members are emailed details and contact the meal manager to make a booking. This is a very sociable club united by a passion for tasting global cuisines.

Early Music - Playing     

Meets 2nd and 4th Wednesdays; Attendance 50p
Venue Durnovaria Band Hall - DBH - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact earlymus@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Early Music encompasses music from about the 1600s in four parts, SATB, by composers such as Byrd, Tallis, Gervaise, Dowland, Monteverdi, Gibbons, Widman, etc. Instruments would include all sizes of recorders, violins, flutes, cello, etc. Music access will be provided via gDrive download so you can print out your own copy with mp3s. A playing list will be sent prior to each meeting. Participants will need the ability to sight read music and to hold a part so it is not suitable for beginners. You will probably also need a good sense of humour as we hope this will be a journey of learning for all participants rather than tuition. We do know that we are not going to be the leading group of players of early music on authentic instruments, but that is not the point – we want to give ourselves the experience of the qualities which go with “Early Music" If you think you might be interested then please email: earlymus@dorchesteru3a.org.uk

English Country Dancing     

Meets 2nd and 4th Mondays; Attendance 50p
Venue Durnovaria Band Hall - DBH - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact engdance@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Dances will be Playford and Playford style from the 1600s to present day. You don't need to bring a partner and the dances will be walked through and called throughout. Soft flat shoes and comfortable clothes are best. Bring your own refreshments for the half time break. It's suitable for most people as the steps are simple and at a moderate walking pace. It is a very enjoyable way to spend an afternoon while getting gentle exercise. No previous knowledge necessary as instructions are given throughout the dance.

Family History     

Meets 3rd Tuesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact Les Mould: 01305262302
Details All aspects of Family History covered, mainly online but don't let that bother you we have booklets to help you get started. Meetings involve presentations with projects built in. We have access to the internet so any questions or brick walls can be investigated.

Folk Music - Playing for fun     

Meets 2nd & 4th Thursdays of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Durnovaria Band Hall - DBH - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact folkmusic@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We play a wide range of folk music mainly from the UK, Ireland and America. Currently we have violins, accordion, melodian, percussion, guitars, ukulele, recorders, flutes, concertina and mandolin. Music is provided on line and can be downloaded for printing with mp3s of each tune also available. If you would like to join our friendly group you will need to contact the group leader first in order to obtain the link to the music and the list of tunes for the current session. Please email folkmusic@dorchesteru3a.org.uk.

French Conversation     

Meets 2nd and 4th Fridays of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Dorchester Community Church - DCC - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:00
Contact frenchc@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We are a friendly group who want to practise our French conversation. We welcome all abilities and help each other . There is usually a topic for each meeting and you are welcome to prepare something on that topic before coming to the meeting.

French for the Rusty     

Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Dorchester Community Church - DCC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 15:30
Contact frenchr@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details French for the Rusty is aimed at those who would like to revisit some French both written and spoken. The Group is very popular so please contact the Group Leader to check for spaces and if you wish to add your name to the waiting list.

Gardening     

Meets 1st Wednesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 11:15 to 12:45
Contact garden@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Gold club members, 2 talks per year, discount vouchers and plants and bulbs to grow on. summer garden visits - talks and demonstrations.

Geology     

Meets 2nd Friday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Dorset Youth Association - DYA - map
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Contact geology@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We are so lucky to live in an area renowned for its fantastic geology. Not only are we close to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, Dorset was effectively where the subject was born in the 19th century. At that time, the county was visited by geologists such as William Smith, Murchison, Sedgwick, Buckland, Conybeare and of course was the home of Mary Anning. Geology draws on several subjects including geography and the sciences. Our sessions usually consist of a presentation and discussion. The subject matter is extremely varied and focuses on the study of rocks, fossils, and minerals. All our sessions are member-led with no outside speakers, reflecting the u3a ethos. We also run a series of local field trips during the Summer Term. No previous knowledge is assumed so any member is welcome to join us. Refreshments are available during the break. Cost:40p

German Beginners     

Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Dorchester Community Church - DCC - map
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Contact 07714 323267
Details From absolute beginners to those who feel they are not quite ready to move on to Intermediate German. The sessions are split into two halves so that we can accommodate a range of members, from the absolute beginners through to “very sound”. All participate in both halves. The beginners start from scratch and expand their knowledge quickly, while the more advanced enjoy re-visiting material and reinforcing their knowledge. It is all working well! Above all, the group is mutually supportive and newcomers quickly become regular group members.

German Conversation     

Meets 1st and 3rd Wednesday, Attendance £0
Venue Member's Home - MH
Normally starts 10:00 to 11:30
Contact germanc@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details This is a group for people with a good foundation who wish to maintain or improve their fluency without following a set course. If you are not sure the level will suit you then please get in touch, come along and see what you think. You will find us a relaxed and supportive group. 
At the end of each meeting we decide the topic for the next meeting. It could be ‘German autumn poems’ or ‘bring an object to talk about’ or ‘my favourite place in the German-speaking world’ etc. (Not everyone has time to prepare something and that’s fine). Often we choose a topic in the news to discuss or we find a short story or article to share. Sometimes we play German Scrabble or verbal circle games, and we enjoy contributing questions to a quiz. We end each meeting with extended coffee and biscuits and the chance to chat informally in small groups.

History     

Meets 1st Wednesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 09:30 to 11:00
Contact 01305 853026
Details We continue to research subjects that appeal to each member ie.an epic, a personality, a century. We have a varied programme - all research projects are on the Blog on the History page on the Web Site.

History of Art     

Meets 1st Wednesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Dorset Youth Association - DYA - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact histart@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details The History of Art group was formed in the summer of 2013, so we are an established group, led by Kelvin, Mike, Clive and David. Like many other groups we run the sessions ​co-operatively, with different members contributing. We have decided on an approach which covers individual artists and art movements. We have also organised several residential trips to 'art cities', both home and abroad. Each session consists of a presentation which includes a refreshment break. Refreshments include tea or coffee and a biscuit, cost 40p.

Italian Beginners +     

Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Upper Classroom- UC - map
Normally starts 09:15 to 10:45
Contact 01305 261494
Details In September we shall be completing our beginners’ survival Italian. Topics will include travel and eating out. We are using BBC Talk Italian 1, 3rd edition. The group we be starting Talk Italian 2 in January. Please email me for further information.

Italian Level 3     

Meets Every Thursday; Attendance £1
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Classrooms - UC-LC - map
Normally starts 11:00 to 12:30
Contact italianl3@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details This is an informal group, with the emphasis on communication, as we take the opportunity to learn or improve our grasp of the Italian language. We do a variety of activities, including conversation around topics often agreed beforehand, listening comprehension passages, grammar and associated exercises, and reading.

Italian Pre-Intermediate     

Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Upper Classroom- UC - map
Normally starts 11:00 to 12:30
Contact 01305 261494
Details This autumn term we shall be reading, hearing and discussing a story that consolidates language encountered in Al Dente 1. We shall be covering some conversation topics at a higher level,, meeting new language in situ at pre- intermediate level, prior to encountering it in Al Dente 2 in 2025. Learners for this course should be familiar with the passato prossimo and we shall be meeting the Imperfect tense and learning how to use it.

Jazz Appreciation     

Meets 2nd Monday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Sandringham Court - SC - map
Normally starts 10:15 to 12:15
Contact Alan Mcleish 01305 835569
Details We meet on the second Monday of the month at Sandringham Court DT1 2BL which is close to the Trumpet Major Public House in Dorchester. Each month we have a different speaker who talks about and plays the music of a particular type of Jazz or Blues. We are a very friendly Group and when you arrive you will be greeted with a cup of coffee or tea. Do come along and try us, you will be very welcome.

Kings Cribbage     

Meets 3rd Monday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 17:00
Contact kingscrib@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Kings cribbage is a board game based on the card game cribbage but played on a board similar to Scrabble. Whether you have played cribbage or not, you are very welcome to join the group. We will teach you how to play - it is easy to pick up. Do get in touch if you are interested.

Latin     

Meets 2nd & 4th Thursdays of the month; Attendance £0
Venue Member's Home - MH
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Contact latin@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We are a small group having completed the Cambridge Latin Course, we are over half way through translating 'A 100 Latin stories'.

Local History     

Meets 4th Thursday of the month; Attendance £1
Venue United Church - UCH - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Contact 01305 269059
Details Everyone welcome to attend meetings in the United Church. If there is a site visit, we may need to limit numbers and it will be on a first come/first served basis. The attendance fee includes a donation to pay for our external speakers. Contact the leader for information.

Mah Jong Western     

Meets 4th Thursday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 17:00
Contact mahjong1@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details The Mah Jong Group is thriving with about 20 members. Most of our members are new to this game and are coming to terms with pongs, kongs, chows and goulashes. We are lucky to have five experienced players who are happy to lead each game so that everyone is able to have individual support when necessary. Full instructions are given, so if you would like to come along and find out about wriggly snakes, dragonflies and knitting (without needles) we would love to welcome you to the group.

Mah-Jong BMJA Rules     

Meets Every Thursday; Attendance £1
Venue Frank Reynolds Community Centre - FRCC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact 01305816642
Details MAH-JONG (BMJA rules): This is an ancient Chinese game which can be played with 2, 3 or 4 players, with the basic aim of forming 4 sets of tiles plus 1 pair of tiles. It is not the computer game where you match two tiles against the clock. We are a very friendly group and you do not need a partner to play, so if you are looking to try something new with a challenge and have fun at the same time you are most welcome to come and join us. Do not worry if you have never played before, you will taught in easy steps by Martin and Debbie.

Maths and Physics     

Meets 2nd Wednesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 09:30 to 10:45
Contact mathsphys@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We hold a monthly meeting where normally a member gives a talk on a subject of their choice, but other events (e.g. video, brainstorming session, experiment) may also occur.

MOTO     

Meets Mondays except 1st; Attendance £0
Venue Vivo Lounge - V - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:00
Contact moto@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We meet every Monday except the first one in the month, in 'The Snug' at The Vivo Lounge in Brewery Square for coffee and chat. Check the schedule for other events happening throughout the month. Members on their Own is suitable not just for solo people but also those who have partners with different interests, or are housebound. If you would like to enjoy our very sociable programme that each month includes Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Sunday Lunch, a Walk, Cinema, Skittles any anything else that we might fancy doing, please come along to one of our Monday Coffee Mornings or email the contact above to be included on our mailing list.

Music Appreciation     

Meets Second Tuesday of the month; Attendance £0
Venue Signature House - SH - map
Normally starts 10:15 to 12:00
Contact kp1917@btinternet.com
Details Whether you like to discover new pieces of music or just enjoy listening to some of the best-known classics, the Music Appreciation Group is the place for you. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month. The website has venue details and the latest updates. You will also find an archive of programmes which will give you a flavour of the range of music on offer.

Petanque     

Meets Every Wednesday; Attendance £0
Venue Sandringham Sports Centre - SSC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact Roly Wilkinson 262505
Details We normally play each Wednesday afternoon throughout the year unless the weather persuades us otherwise.

Philosophy     

Meets 1st Tuesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Dorset Youth Association - DYA - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 13:00
Contact philosoph@dorchesteru3a.org.u
Details It is interesting that Plato (c. 427 – 347 BCE) urged people not to get involved with philosophy until later in life, after 50. Before that they should just get on with work, family and general living, but after that it was time to stand back and reflect. So now is, perhaps, the perfect time to join the u3a philosophy group. All are very welcome, including those that would like to just sit and listen, though most attendees will inevitably find that they have thoughts of their own to volunteer. Between us, we have little formal education in philosophy so it is a case of group learning and sharing of knowledge and ideas, in the spirit of the u3a.

Pickleball Monday     

Meets Mondays; Attendance £1
Venue St Osmund's Sports Centre - StO - map
Normally starts 17:00 to 18:00
Contact pickleb@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Pickleball is a paddle sport for all ages that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. Please email the contact if you would like to find out more information. The Monday PB group will have two courts normally booked but I will try to book additional courts if there are sufficient numbers to do so and if there are courts available. We play outside from April to October (weather permitting) and inside from October to April. We have paddles that can be borrowed so new players can try before they buy.

Pickleball Saturday     

Meets Saturdays; Attendance £1
Venue St Osmund's Sports Centre - StO - map
Normally starts 10:00 to 11:00
Contact pickleb@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Pickleball is a paddle sport for all ages that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. Please email the contact if you would like to find out more information. The Saturday PB group will have one court normally booked but I will try to book additional courts if there are sufficient numbers to do so and if there are courts available. We play outside from April to October (weather permitting) and inside from October to April. We have paddles that can be borrowed so new players can try before they buy.

Pins and Needles     

Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month; Attendance £0
Venue Member's Home - MH
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact Libby Wood
Details The Pins and Needles group is a mixture of knitters and embroiderers and we enjoy chatting about (and admiring) each other’s projects (as well as putting the world to rights) over a cuppa and while we stitch.

Play Reading 1     

Meets 1st Tuesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:30
Contact playread1@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details The plays we read are chosen from Dorset County Library stock. We consider the length of the play to read in the available time and select a balance of genre each month - classic, crime, modern, humour etc. We read the whole play during the afternoon.

Play Reading 2     

Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:30
Contact playread2@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details At the Play Reading Group we read a play in its entirety during our afternoon meeting, taking parts as required. We try to have a mix of genres: comedy, tragedy, crime, historical etc.

Poetry Appreciation     

Meets 3rd Thursday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 13:00 to 15:00
Contact 07890588881
Details Poetry appreciation involves recognising and appreciating in a positive way the skill that went into crafting it. There are no right answers when you respond to a poem, and very few wrong ones, and one person's opinion is just as valid as another's. We read and discuss the poems as a group (which is frequently easier than as an individual).

Quiz     

Meets 3rd Wednesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue St George's Church Hall - StGCh - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact quiz@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We know how essential it is to keep as physically fit as we can, but it's also as important to regularly exercise the brain....and a quiz does just that...and it's fun! Join up with others to make a team and answer a few questions. You may be surprised at what you do know....and anyway, we learn more when we don't know all the answers. We cover a variety of topics, and the style varies from question and answer, to multiple choice and sometimes a picture or music round. There are no prizes - it's just for fun. Free parking is available at the hall, which is behind the church. New members are always welcome.

Reading for Pleasure 1     

Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Dorchester Library - Lib - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 15:30
Contact Julia Denham 01305 852626
Details A group of keen readers who enjoy lively and friendly discussion about books. We borrow sets of 10 books from the library so have to limit our membership to that number. We try to choose a wide range of genres - fiction in all its forms of course but also biography, travel, history, even a bit of science!

Reading for Pleasure 3     

Meets 3rd Thursday of the month; Attendance £0
Venue Dorchester Library Space - LibS - map
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:00
Contact reading3@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details Our books are chosen from selected titles supplied by the Library and have a lively discussion each month. Unfortunately we are limited by the number of books which can we receive from the Library. Please check with the Group Coordinator which reading group has spaces.

Rummikub     

Meets 1st Wednesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:30
Contact rummikub@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details A fast moving game requiring both strategy and luck played with numbered tiles from 1-13 in four different colours together with 2 jokers. Easy to learn and fun to play. Beginners welcome.

Science     

Meets 3rd Wednesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 09:30 to 11:30
Contact 01305813935
Details The U3A Science group has a broad remit. As well as revisiting topics that people will have experienced at school or later in life, from a modern perspective, we also aim to keep abreast of recent subjects of contemporary interest.

Scottish Country Dancing     

Meets Every Tuesday; Attendance £1
Venue Dorchester Rugby Club - RC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact scotdance@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details This popular and sociable group meets weekly to dance Scottish. Scottish Country Dancing has particular advantages over many other forms of dance. The steps and basic formations are easily learned but can build into dances of considerable complexity as dancers become more adept. It makes no gender distinction in its movements. You do not need to come along with a partner. It is very sociable. There is always someone to dance with and it encourages teamwork. It is full of patterns that help with and encourage memory. The music for dancing is wonderful and the dancing is good for body, mind and the soul. It is also great fun. You do not need any special “gear” just a pair of flat soft shoes and comfortable clothes. You do NOT need a sword (it is country dancing not sword dancing) and the men do NOT have to wear a kilt (that is optional).

Scrabble     

Meets 2nd Monday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 17:00
Contact scrabble@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details With a wide variety of skills, we are a lively, friendly group who enjoy an afternoon of fun playing Scrabble.

Short Tennis     

Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Stratton Village Hall - SVH - map
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Contact shortten@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details A small friendly group, beginners very welcome. Lifts from Dorchester can be arranged if required. If playing for the first time you may borrow a racket and balls are supplied. We have just the one court so an opportunity to sit out, rest and chat. If interested in joining please contact Group Leader, Peter Scaife.

Singing for Pleasure     

Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Dorchester Bowls Club - SBC - map
Normally starts 09:45 to 11:30
Contact singing@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details This is a friendly group where we sing for enjoyment and have fun in our sessions. Our songs range from popular music to traditional airs. New members are always welcome.

Spanish Conversation     

Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month; Attendance £1
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Upper Classroom- UC - map
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:00
Contact spanishc@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We are an informal group which meets twice a month to practise our Spanish by discussing a range of topics. We can cater for a broad range of levels of fluency, from intermediate onwards, but the group is not suitable for beginners or anyone looking for formal tuition.

Table Tennis     

Meets 2nd & 4th Fridays of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue United Church Hall - UCHh - map
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact steveghowes@outlook.com
Details All welcome from beginners to accomplished players. We have 2 tables and we are looking for a third. The session is very friendly with a tea and biscuits at half time.

Theatre Visits     

Meets 3 or 4 Outings per year. Attendance £0
Venue - Various locations
Contact theatre@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details See event details for list of outings. Members may bring along a non member friend who pay an extra £1.00. We have in the past visited theatres in Bath, Salisbury, Exeter, Southampton Chichester and Newbury. We go to matinees and usually arrive at the venue at least 2 hours before the performance starts. We go to plays and musicals. Suggestions of events always welcome. We usually support the Weymouth Youth Theatre and obtain tickets for their show in November at the Weymouth Pavilion.

Topical Issues     

Meets 2nd Thurs (Zoom), 4th Thurs HTP LC; Attendance 50p
Venue - Various locations
Normally starts 09:30 to 10:45
Contact topical@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We discuss issues of the day which have been circulated in advance to those on the mailing list. Group Leader: Ian Blaby

Travel Tales     

Meets 4th Monday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Holy Trinity Parish Centre Lower Classroom - LC - map
Normally starts 15:00 to 17:00
Contact travelt@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details At Travel Tales we hear about interesting destinations all over the world as seen through the eyes of our speakers and fellow members.

Weaving     

Meets 2nd Wednesday of the month; Attendance 50p
Venue Dorchester Community Church - DCC - map
Normally starts 09:30 to 13:00
Contact 07748730399
Details We use rigid heddle looms in this weaving group, but you are welcome to bring your table loom if you have one. If you are a beginner, equipment can be provided and members weave scarves, bags, rugs and wall hangings. New weavers are welcome to try out this popular craft with us, and you’ll find in our small friendly group there is as much conversation as weaving!

Wildlife and Conservation     

Meets 3rd Monday of each month Attendance 50p
Venue Dorchester Community Church Hall - DCCH
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Contact 07748730399
Details The Wildlife and Conservation meets monthly with talks from members and visiting speakers on a variety of topics. We have had talks on the Osprey project at Poole, Beavers at Kingcombe, Hedgehogs in Dorchester and workshops on bird and butterfly identification. In addition, members are involved in practical activities such as butterfly transects, conservation tasks and the Poundbury Swift survey. After our successful Poole Harbour safari we hope to have more group visits to our beautiful Dorset countryside. Members are welcome to come and share their experience and enthusiasm for nature!

Wine Appreciation     

Meets 3rd Tuesday of the month; Attendance (£12.50)
Venue Member's Home - MH
Normally starts 19:30 to 21:30
Contact wine@dorchesteru3a.org.uk
Details We get together to sample various wines and exchange information about wines, suppliers and prices.