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.

The Thomas Hardy Society is completely co-ordinated by volunteers. We are a charity and we are not remunerated for our work. Please treat our volunteers with the courtesy and respect that you would wish to be treated . Abusive behaviour will not be tolerated . Thank you.

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"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

Dates for your Diary

From 14/09/2024 until 01/08/2026
Starts 09:00 until 18:00

Dates for your diary

Sep2024

10th DORCHESTER LITERARY FESTIVAL

From 12/10/2024 until 19/10/2024
Starts 12:00 until 19:30

10th DORCHESTER LITERARY FESTIVAL 2024 - Literary festivals are such a pleasure, for both readers and writers.
LOCATION: Dorset County Museum, High West Street, DT1 1XA

Oct2024

MARK CHUTTER A LITERARY WALK – WESSEX WRITERS

On 13/10/2024
Starts 12:00 until 14:00

A guided walk with Chairman and Academic Director of the Thomas Hardy Society, Mark Damon Chutter, through Dorchester and Fordington to explore the world of architect, writer and poet Thomas Hardy
LOCATION: Thomas Hardy Statue, Dorchester DT1 1UT

Oct2024

Alan Hollinghurst

On 16/10/2024
Starts 18:00 until 21:00

Alan Hollinghurst will be in conversation with Mark Chutter about his new book Our Evenings
LOCATION: 2 Bridport Rd, Dorchester DT1 1RR

Oct2024

Latest news

Thomas Hardy Society visit to Stourhead

The Thomas Hardy Society visited Stourhead on Saturday, 28th September, with a private viewing of the original letters

Sep2024

Neolithic site found under Max Gate

A Neolithic site discovered under author Thomas Hardy’s house has been protected as a scheduled monument. The circular enclosure is almost 100 metres in diameter and comprises ditches and pits.

Sep2024

A Hedgehog Hospital for Dorset

The raffle at the 2024 Conference Dinner was in aid of hedgehog conservation.  After discussion about the possible impact the Hardys’ unruly terrier, Wessex, might have had on Hardy’s description of the Max Gate hedgehogs as being ‘furtive’, £204.32p was raised

Aug2024

Thomas Hardy Society Schools Outreach

Would you like a Hardy specialist in school to discuss this local and international writer with your students?

Aug2024