Top Picks
Good local plans needn't cost the earth. This page keeps an eye on the stronger free events nearby, so you can skip the faff and get straight to the promising stuff.
10 picks around Poole, from 7 local venues. The map pin is doing actual work here.
We don't just scoop up anything with a £0 next to it. These picks still need to be nearby, useful, and properly explained, because 'free' is lovely but 'free and baffling' is less of a selling point.
1Free! (worth double-checking)REVOLUTION’S BIRTHDAY BASH! SATURDAY 25TH JULY Join us at the end of the month for a belated birthday boogie celebrating DJ, Revolution! Music across 2 rooms, with Topsy Turvey providing the decor! DOWNSTAIRS: (DNB, jungle, 4×4 + more) – Ordos Mk.0 – Majestikbreaks – Addzy – Revolution (2 hour set) UPSTAIRS : (reggae, dub, ska + more) – Blackboard Soundsystem VOID SOUNDSYSTEM 9PM – 2AM FREE ENTRY Come party!
2Free! (worth double-checking)at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton
Following last year’s sell-out concert, ROKiT Choir returns with ROKiT From the Musicals, bringing another unforgettable evening to The Exchange. Bigger and better than ever, this year’s show promises all the energy, heart, and entertainment that made the last performance such a huge success. Featuring over 100 singers from one of the area’s fastest-growing independent choirs, the performance will also proudly include the brand new Sturminster Newton ROKiT Choir group—making this a truly special local celebration of music and community. Audiences can look forward to a fantastic selection of songs from some of the most loved musicals around. From the powerful drama of Les Miserable to the feel-good anthems of We Will Rock You, alongside hits from Rock of Ages, Ghost and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. ROKiT are known for their vibrant performances, big sound, and welcoming atmosphere, making this the perfect night out whether you’re a musical theatre enthusiast or simply after some top-quality live entertainment. Adding an extra splash of fun, the evening will also feature special guests Opera-lele—a unique comedy duo combining opera, ukulele, and a brilliantly British sense of humour. Expect laughs, surprises, and something a little bit different. With last year’s show selling out, tickets are expected to go quickly—so don’t miss your chance to be part of another fantastic night of music, laughter, and community spirit.
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3Free! (worth double-checking)About Join the English Civil War Society in an historically accurate re-creation of what happened in and around Chippenham during the summer of 1643. Watch four hundred soldiers with cannon and horses as The King's Army and The Roundhead Association battle to decide whether the town will be Royalist or throw in its lot with Parliament. Enjoy a glimpse of 17th Century life when visiting the encampment of Townsfolk and watch displays by Musketeers, Pikemen, Cavalry, and artillery throughout the day. For more information and to see the full timetable, please visit bit.ly/BoC2026. This is a free event delivered by The English Civil War Society in partnership with Chippenham Town Council
4Free! (worth double-checking)About A traditional Summer Fayre is set to bring the community spirit back to St Peter's Church in Fugglestone, Wilton. Step back in time into a celebration of community, tradition, and summer charm. Play traditional games like Cornhole, Ring Toss and "Walk the trail". A programme of entertainment will enhance the festive atmosphere, featuring traditional Morris dancing alongside performances by local musicians. Visitors will also have the opportunity to enjoy recitals on a hand-pumped pipe organ, a rare and historic musical treasure in the church. To complete the experience, a selection of cream teas and other refreshments will be available throughout the event. The event is organised by the Fugglestone St Peter Trust, a community-led initiative working to secure lottery funding for the restoration and revitalisation of the church building. Trustees will be on hand throughout the afternoon to discuss plans for expanding the church's role as a community space—and visitors can even take aim at them with wet sponges in a traditional pillory. Whether you come with family, friends, or simply a curiosity for local heritage, there will be something to please everyone. The Fayre is free to attend with all proceeds supporting the restoration project
5Free! (worth double-checking)at Tonic Rooms
Come and join us for a FREE event. No payment or booking required, just Rock-Up. Come along and dance and be entertained.
6Free! (worth double-checking)Across the weekend of the 25th & 26th of July Bowlore will be performing two shows per day - one archery, one weapons (both approximately 45 mins+) showing the use of a range of arrowheads and edged hand/pole weapons from the whole medieval period, including choreographed combat and sharp-sword cutting demonstrations. The shows will be fully commentated and include plenty of history, humour and audience participation elements. Show Times: 12 noon & 3pm both days Between shows there will be have-a-go archery and sword-school (suitable for all ages, for a small fee) plus a hands-on display of weapons and armour, talks and Q&A, set within their medieval tented encampment. This event is included with the cost of admission and Glastonbury Abbey members can enjoy it free of charge (additional charges apply for have a go activities). Save on the cost of admission by ordering in advance online. Buy Admission
7Free! (worth double-checking)Across the weekend of the 25th & 26th of July Bowlore will be performing two shows per day - one archery, one weapons (both approximately 45 mins+) showing the use of a range of arrowheads and edged hand/pole weapons from the whole medieval period, including choreographed combat and sharp-sword cutting demonstrations. The shows will be fully commentated and include plenty of history, humour and audience participation elements. Between shows there will be have-a-go archery and sword-school (suitable for all ages, for a small fee) plus a hands-on display of weapons and armour, talks and Q&A, set within their medieval tented encampment. This event is included with the cost of admission and Glastonbury Abbey members can enjoy it free of charge (additional charges apply for have a go activities). Save on the cost of admission by ordering in advance online. Buy Admission
8Free! (worth double-checking)Across the weekend of the 25th & 26th of July Bowlore will be performing two shows per day - one archery, one weapons (both approximately 45 mins+) showing the use of a range of arrowheads and edged hand/pole weapons from the whole medieval period, including choreographed combat and sharp-sword cutting demonstrations. The shows will be fully commentated and include plenty of history, humour and audience participation elements. Between shows there will be have-a-go archery and sword-school (suitable for all ages, for a small fee) plus a hands-on display of weapons and armour, talks and Q&A, set within their medieval tented encampment. This event is included with the cost of admission and Glastonbury Abbey members can enjoy it free of charge (additional charges apply for have a go activities). Save on the cost of admission by ordering in advance online. Buy Admission
9Free! (worth double-checking)at Milton Park Childrens Centre
SailGP’s international sailing event returns to Southsea seafront on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July. To safely set up and host the event, there will be temporary closures along parts of the promenade from Thursday 10 July to Thursday 31 July, along with other changes for some attractions and roads in this area during this...
10Free! (worth double-checking)The Winchester Makers Market returns to The Arc this summer, bringing together a curated selection of local artists, designers and makers under one roof.
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