Merley House

Trial by Jury - In Concert & 'G&S Favourites' - Bournemouth GaSP
2025-04-05 14:30 - 19:30 (Europe/London) | Merley House, Merley House Lane, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 3AA, United Kingdom
Act 1 – ‘Trial By Jury’ – In Concert
Synopsis
The defendant has broken his vow and left the claimant at the altar. The trial is full of humour and chaos, and the jury is divided. Will they side with the charming yet swindling defendant, the captivating claimant, or will the Judge intervene?
Act 2 – G & S Favourites – In Concert
Sit back and enjoy favourites from:
‘Pirates Of Penzance’
‘Iolanthe’
‘HMS Pinafore’
and more…
Set in the beautiful Merley House, this Concert will be sure to leave you with a smile in your face and a song in your heart.
Performances at 2:30 and 7:30pm.
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The Wimborne Fashion Show - Wimborne Rotary Club
2025-04-08 19:00 - 22:00

The Darkening - Paranormal Magic Show
2025-04-12 15:00 - 22:00
The Darkening is a fully immersive ghost tour and paranormal magic show which uses all the latest techniques of magic, suggestion and trickery to make it appear that you have actually contacted the dead!
It’s a ghost tour, ghost hunt, magic show and fright night all rolled into one!
“A stunningly engaging show ending in a terrifying climax that left us all screaming” – Scaretour.
“5 out of 5! If you’re a fan of the supernatural, it doesn’t get much better than this!” – Creepy Attractions.
Your ticket includes:
– Ghost Hunt
– Ghost tour of the house, including access to the basement and attic
– Paranormal Workshops
– Extensive buffet meal
– Bar available throughout
– Paranormal Magic Show
– Séance finale
*Please note – This experience is designed to scare you! All guests must be over 15yrs old. Strobes/flashing lights may be used, and certain areas of the house are only accessible via stairs. If you have any questions about accessibility or have a food allergy, please email: thedarkeninguk@gmail.com you can also read our venue accessibility guide here.
Dare to join us?
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To find out more about The Darkening click here.
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The Dorset Cello Classes - Celebration Concert
2025-04-26 14:30 - 16:30
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Merley House Echoes of the Past - GC Paranormal
2025-04-26 19:30 - 2025-04-27 02:00
We have the absolute privilege of returning to this absolutely beautiful and stunning location.
Grade I I Myrle House, or better known now as Merley House is a building of historical significance and has stood strong since construction in 1756. Originally the Merley estate was purchased in 1751 by Ralph Willet after inheriting a large fortune at just 21. As lover of books and pictures, Ralph wanted a property grand enough to accommodate his vast collections, which he would eventually outgrow, building a further 2 wings which were an impressive 84 feet long, 23 feet wide and 23 feet high.
Throughout the years Ralph would marry and divorce a few times and sadly have no children of his own so upon his death in 1795, his adopted son John Willett Adye inherited his property, possessions and even took the family name.
In 1878, The house changed families and was bought by the Wienholt family who were made up of many siblings. For many years it was home to two unmarried sisters, Mary and Ellen, who made major renovations to Merley House. Sadly, Mary died in 1896 and with her sister moving to Pool, the house was sold to Ivor Bertie Guest. Ivor brought the residence mainly as a rental property where between 1896 and 1946 the house was home to many different families.
The outbreak of the war in 1939 meant a change in use for the house as it was requisitioned by the War office. Angus Valdemar Hambro a politician and a notable amateur golfer held residence at the house until 1960s when it was purchased by the present owners, and opened as a hotel, wedding and function venue.
There are records of dwellings and settlements pre-dating the current home, so is there any wonder that countless visitors have reported ghost sighting and regular paranormal activity. Figures have been seen walking through walls, and children have been seen on the stairs and even physical contact in the dark and foreboding cellars!
The current owner lives on the estate but will no longer enter the house!! Want to know why? Then come along and find out!!
Our last investigation in October was incredible!!
*OVER 18s ONLY AND NO PREGNANT WOMEN.
To book your place, please call GC Paranormal on 07703 798174 or email: chandlergreig@gmail.com for more information.

Hurn Court Opera's 2025 John Seldon Masterclass
2025-06-08 15:00 - 17:00
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Cancelled - Merley House presents An Evening with Ruby Sinclair
2025-06-14 19:00 - 23:00
Join us for an unforgettable evening of fun, glamour and sass with the show-stopping latin and ballroom dancing drag queen as seen on Britain’s Got Talent!
What’s on:
• DJ spinning all your dancefloor favourites.
• Best dressed competition, with a chance to win a bottle of champagne!
• Glitter Face Painting & Tattoos by Diamond Faces (additional charge applies)
• Signature Cocktail bar
• Delicious street food by restaurant Seventy Four
Dress to Impress – Sparkles, Sequins!
We can’t wait to see you there!
*This event is 18+ adults only. Please note – there is a small booking fee applied when purchasing tickets via Eventbrite. Alternatively, you can book your tickets over the phone: 01202 885024. (Monday to Friday 10am-2pm).

Ghost Hunt - Ghostly Nights
2025-09-20 20:00 - 2025-09-21 02:00
Beneath its grand Georgian façade, Merley House holds chilling secrets. A spectral Victorian woman glides near the staircase, her presence icy and sudden. Laughter and tiny footsteps echo in empty halls, lights flicker, and unseen eyes watch from the shadows.
Ghostly Nights presents to you Merley House, Wimborne.
For nearly 300 years, Merley House has watched over the rolling Dorset countryside, its grand Georgian façade concealing whispers of a turbulent past. Built with Portland stone and crowned with towering Ionic columns, it exudes timeless elegance—but step inside, and the air thickens with something far older and far darker.
Visitors speak of a spectral Victorian woman, her figure gliding near the grand staircase, the swish of her gown followed by an icy chill. Elsewhere, laughter echoes in empty halls—the playful, disembodied giggle of a child who was never seen but is never truly gone. Lights flicker, doors creak open on their own, and unseen eyes seem to watch from shadowed corners.
Merley House doesn’t just hold history—it lives it. And for those who dare to explore its depths, the question remains: are you alone, or is someone—or something—watching?
Merley House. Where history lingers, and the past refuses to rest.
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Merley House Silent Disco
2025-10-04 19:00 - 22:00
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*Please note – there is a small booking fee applied when purchasing tickets via Eventbrite. Alternatively you can book your tickets over the phone: 01202 885024.

Autumn Wedding & Events Fair
2025-10-11 11:00 - 15:00, 2025-10-12 11:00 - 15:00
Join us this October for our Autumn Wedding & Events Fair.
Whether you’re planning a wedding, celebrating an anniversary, or hosting a children’s party, it’s the perfect way to find inspiration for your special celebration! You’ll have the opportunity to explore our beautiful venue, meet top local suppliers and chat to our friendly events team.
To register your interest or to book a private viewing, please contact us.

2026 Wimborne Business Awards - Breakfast Launch Event
2025-11-04 08:00 - 09:30
Welcome to the launch of the 2026 Wimborne Business Awards. This year we are holding a special breakfast launch event at Merley House!
We start with a light breakfast buffet plus teas and coffees at 08.00 and then we hear from speakers made up of previous Wimborne awards winners, telling us how the awards helped their business. After that we have a Wimborne awards sponsor covering how being a sponsor helped their business. After that there’s a chance to ask questions and meet new business contacts.
*Please note – Bookings close at 12.00 on Saturday, 1st November ’25. COST £10 PP PLUS VAT – YOU WILL BE INVOICED ON BOOKING AND ANY CANCELLATION WITHIN 72 HOURS WILL BE CHARGEABLE AS WE WILL BE CHARGED
Register now

Christmas Wreath Workshop - Peacock & Gilt
2025-11-23 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-11-27 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-12-04 19:00 - 21:00
Join us for an elegant, festive evening at Merley House.
Create your own hand-crafted Christmas wreath using locally foraged foliage and biodegradable materials. All supplies included,
What you’ll do:
Using locally foraged foliage and eco-friendly materials, you’ll design your own wreath, with expert guidance every step of the way.
The team at Peacock & Gilt will share tips from their many years of experience in botanical design and crafting, so you can make a wreath that’s uniquely your own.
Why join us?
• A perfect way to get into the festive spirit in beautiful surroundings
• A relaxed, friendly environment, come with a partner, a friend, or a sibling
• No experience needed; all ages 16+ welcome
• Eco-conscious crafting: biodegradable materials, zero plastic waste, and foliage gathered with care
Important details:
• Everything is supplied simply show up
• Maximum group size to ensure personalised attention (so early booking is wise)
• Dress for a little mess (clippers, twine, pine needles and holiday magic!)
• Merley house is accessible, with parking nearby. View our accessibility guide.
• Spaces are limited reserve your spot soon to make sure you don’t miss this special workshop.
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Autumn Hug - Yoga & Wellbeing Retreat
2025-11-30 09:30 - 16:30
Wake up your energy and heal your mind, body and soul. Give yourself the gift of an Autumn Hug.
Start your day by shaking off tension with Cath from SoulJive, then ease into a gentle yoga practice with Vicki. Enjoy a nourishing homemade soup for lunch.
The afternoon invites deep rest with Vicki as she guides a Yin Yoga and Yoga Nidra practice, mindful mandala art with Katie, and a calming massage with Lindsay or Chelsea in the Grand Entrance Hall.
You’ll leave feeling grounded, lighter, and fully restored.
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In the Stillness - The Orlando Singers
2025-12-07 18:00 - 19:30
The Orlando Singers return to Merley House this December with their Christmas Concert, ‘In the Stillness’, Featuring lots of wonderful Christmas choral music from across the ages! We do hope you’ll be able to join us. Tickets available on the door (cards accepted) or in advance via Ticketsource.
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Retreat and Brighten Your Day - Winter Yoga and Wellbeing Retreat
2026-01-18 09:30 - 16:30
Para: Nurture, restore and fill up until Spring. This yoga retreat will help you navigate through the months of January & February with greater ease. Winter is a time for acceptance, or as the yogis say ‘Santosha’. Take this opportunity to snuggle in, as Vicki holds your space allowing you to just let go. You’ll leave feeling warm inside, physically & mentally lighter, vibrant and full of sunshine.
Pack your favourite blanket, snuggly socks, a bolster, yoga mat, and eye pillow—and get ready to settle in for a day of comfort and joy.
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Burns Night @ Merley House
2026-01-24 19:00 - 23:00
Join us for a truly unforgettable Burns Night filled with music, culture, great food, and plenty of good company! Whether you’re a long-time lover of Scottish tradition or simply fancy a unique night out, this event promises an incredible evening.
Three-Course Scottish-Inspired Meal
Savour a delicious, freshly prepared three-course meal crafted especially for the occasion. A perfect complement to an evening steeped in culture and celebration.
Taxi Driver Poet
Enjoy captivating live spoken word and poetry, bringing the spirit of Robert Burns to life in a modern, entertaining way.
Ceilidh Band
Get ready to dance! Our lively ceilidh band will have everyone on their feet, whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a first-timer.
Bagpipes
No Burns Night is complete without the stirring sound of the pipes—expect a grand entrance full of atmosphere and tradition.
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Merley House Silent Disco
2026-02-28 19:00 - 22:00
We are excited to announce that our Silent Disco is back next February!
Get ready to dance the night away at this unique event taking place at the beautiful Merley House. Put on your headphones and choose from different music channels to groove to your favourite tunes.
Join us for a night of fun, laughter, and of course, dancing! Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking to have a good time, this event is perfect for everyone.
Don’t miss out, our last Silent Disco sold out so grab your tickets now before they’re gone!
*Please note – there is a small booking fee applied when purchasing tickets via Eventbrite. Alternatively you can book your tickets over the phone: 01202 885024.
Book tickets

Spring Equinox Yoga & Wellbeing Retreat - Hatha Yoga with Vicki
2026-03-21 10:00 - 13:30
You will leave the retreat with a plan and a spring in your step!
Join Vicki for a nurturing journey into the new season. This retreat is designed to help you shed the “winter coat” of hibernation and align with the gentle vitality of spring.
Through a blend of Hatha and Yin yoga, mindful breathwork, and deep relaxation, you will find space to reset your nervous system and cultivate a sense of inner calm.
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Paranormal Investigation - Weird & Wonderful Whispers
2026-04-17 20:30 - 2026-04-18 01:30
Join the Little Paranormal Investigation Team as we venture back to explore the spirits said to reside at Merley House
A night of mystery, whispers from the past, and perhaps a bump or two as we turn the lights off…. The question is, are you brave enough to join us?
To book, please message Weird & Wonderful Whispers directly via their Facebook page.
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Merley House Spring Wedding Fair
2026-04-25 11:00 - 15:00, 2026-04-26 11:00 - 15:00
More details coming soon!

The Haunting of Merley House - GC Paranormal
2026-04-25 19:30 - 2026-04-26 02:00
