Welcome to Wessex Society, the cultural society for the land of Thomas Hardy, King Alfred, Broadchurch, Hot Fuzz and The Wurzels. Here you can buy merchandise, learn about the region, and read our blog.
Wessex Chronicle (Blog)
Wessex Attractions: Stoney Littleton Long Barrow
Stoney Littleton is an example of an easily accessible neolithic long barrow near the village of Wellow in Somerset. Dating from around 3500 BC, it is a barrow of the Cotswold-Severn type, measuring around 100 feet by 40 feet. The barrow was first excavated around 1760, though perhaps raided would be a better word. The …
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Wessex Attractions: The Needles
The Needles, at the far west of the Isle of Wight, are one of Wessex’s most dramatic natural attractions. Three stacks of chalk, each about 30m high, stretch out into the English Channel. A fourth stack, named Lot’s Wife after the biblical character who was turned into a pillar of salt for looking back, collapsed …
Wessex Attractions: Tintinhull Garden
Tintinhull Garden, near Yeovil, was created by Phyllis Reiss after the Second World War, in memory of her nephew, who gave his life in that conflict. After her death in 1961, she left the garden, and the 17th century Grade I listed house to which it belonged, to the National Trust. In 1981, the house …
Contact Us
The Society holds events on the closest Saturday to Barnes Night (22nd February), St Ealdhelm's Day (25th May) and King Alfred Day (26th October). However, all events are currently suspended due to the coronavirus lockdown. The next event will be announced once the lockdown is lifted.