Dorchester BID logo
     

What’s on in Maumbury Rings this Summer

Thursday, July 30th, 2026

Full of history, beauty and lush outdoor space, Maumbury Rings is one of those places that feels special the moment you arrive. Once a Roman amphitheatre, it’s now a striking green arena in the heart of Dorchester, home to some of the town’s best summer events. From outdoor performances to pop-up markets, there’s plenty happening here this season to help you make the most of the summer outdoors in one of Dorchester’s most historic spots. Here’s a roundup of what’s on at Maumbury Rings this summer.

As You Like It (The Handlebards)

As you like it

Wednesday 17th June | Maumbury Rings | 7:00pm – 8:30pm (£20 / £18 concessions)

Get settled in for a cosy evening at Maumbury Rings as The Handlebards, currently touring the UK, roll into Dorchester with a fantastically funny bicycle-powered production of Shakespeare’s As You Like It.

Gather your tribe, arrive early to pick your spot, bring your camping chairs and settle in for an evening of laughter and entertainment in this brilliant outdoor setting. For more information and to book your tickets, head over to the Discover Dorchester website.

Dorchester Vegan Market

Dorchester Vegan Market

Sunday 9th August | Maumbury Rings | 10am – 4pm (Free entry)

After a string of successful pop-ups at Maumbury Rings, the Dorchester Vegan Market is back, showcasing a wide variety of treats, goods and all things vegan. Open your taste buds to new flavours, locally produced by your favourite artisans and makers. You’ll find over 50 stalls, each bringing something unique to discover. Once you’ve found your perfect treat, lay out a blanket and make a little picnic to soak up the summery festivities in the historic amphitheatre.

It’s not just food on offer either. Find something special among the locally made, vegan-friendly products, from beauty and jewellery to ethical clothing. It’s an event for everyone and not one to miss. Even if you’ve been before, there’s always something new to find, so pop on down and see what catches your eye.

The Pickwick Papers

Pickwick papers

Sunday 16th August | Maumbury Rings | 6pm, gates open 5pm (£20 / £18 members and concessions / £64 family)

Get ready to fully immerse yourself in the wonderfully chaotic Victorian world of The Pickwick Papers. Follow this outdoor play at Maumbury Rings, where misadventure and merriment collide in a whirlwind of Dickensian absurdity. Everything goes wrong, and it’s far too hilarious not to enjoy. Expect to be laughing in your deckchairs as the characters bumble their way through confusing courtships, courtroom shenanigans, questionable duels and carriage rides gone terribly wrong. If you love a good comedy, this is one to join.

Arrive early, pick your spot, set up your seats and enjoy the entertainment of this delightfully chaotic world.

Enjoying Summer in Dorchester

Summer is when Dorchester really comes alive, especially across its outdoor spaces. There are so many parks and open green spots to enjoy through the warmer months, with plenty of them hosting events, festivals and activities all season long.Take a look at our recent blogs on summer events and festivals in Dorchester to start planning your season in the county town of Dorset.

A few not to miss include the Anonymous Festival, Cider Festival, One World Festival and the Dorset Food and Arts Festival. Discover more on the Dorchester BID website.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latest Blog Posts