The Thomas Hardy Society

The Thomas Hardy Society was founded in 1968 to promote understanding and appreciation of the life and works of the novelist and poet Thomas Hardy (1840-1928).

One of the largest literary societies in the world, the Thomas Hardy Society is a community of general readers and enthusiasts as well as students and academics.

Based in Dorchester, the Society organises a lively programme of public engagement and academic events including lectures, Study Days, guided walks through Hardy’s Wessex and in London and elsewhere, concerts, poetry readings, and more. With an international membership, three journals a year, a biennial festival and conference, and strong links to other organisations promoting Hardyan themes, the Thomas Hardy Society acts as a hub for the education and enjoyment of anyone with an interest in Thomas Hardy.

"At once a voice arose among The bleak twigs overhead In a full-hearted evensong Of joy illimited;" The Darkling Thrush by Thomas Hardy

Upcoming events

Before and After Summer

From 21/05/2023 until 25/06/2023
Starts 14:00 until 16:00

Finzi's Song Cycle from Hardy's Texts
LOCATION: Various

May2023

Thomas Hardy Birthday Weekend 2023

From 03/06/2023 until 04/06/2023
All day event

Hardy, Dorchester and World War I
LOCATION: Dorford Centre, (opposite Top O'Town Car Park), Dorchester DT1 1RR

Jun2023

Thomas Hardy Victorian Fair 2023

On 04/06/2023
Starts 11:00 until 16:00

A Dorset Celebration!
LOCATION: High East Street, Dorchester

Jun2023

Dorchester Through the Lens of Thomas Hardy

On 04/06/2023
Starts 14:00 until 15:00

A Talk by THS Chairman Mark Chutter Hosted by Dorset Museum
LOCATION: Dorset Museum, High West Street, Dorchester DT1 1XA

Jun2023

Latest news

A Modern Hardy Pilgrimage by Nancy Powell

As published in The Belting Zodiac

May2023

The Egdon Heath Walk by Elizabeth Manus

The THS 'Return of the Native' Walk Experienced by an Overseas Visitor to Dorset

May2023

William Barnes - Region and Nation

The William Barnes Society Summer Talk

May2023

Wessex Love Songs - Created by Arthur Keegan

Celebrating Hardy's Poetry and Music

May2023