We had our first trip to The Plaza Cinema in Dorchester today and we all loved every part of our experience.

The cinema has been delighting audiences since 1933 when it first opened as a single screen cinema.  Now, there are 4 screens with a blend of modern amenities and timeless Art Deco charm.

The welcoming grand entrance and staff make a great first impression and as I’d pre-booked online I was able to pick my seats and collect my tickets on arrival.  I love a paper ticket and keep every single one, be it cinema or theatre, and when I’m home I add a note on it to say who we went with.

There’s plenty of snack options to purchase in the foyer and I thought The kids Combo was really great value with popcorn, drink (water/fruitshoot/fizzy) and sweets all for £4.50.  Or you could upgrade for 50p and turn the drink into a slushie.

We were in Screen 1 to see Lola & Stitch and I couldn’t have been happier.  The roof lighting is stunning and this stayed on for the trailers and then switched off for the film.  The seating was really comfy, acoustics were great and the leg room was so spacious.  It was possibly one of the only few times I’ve been to the cinema and not had little legs kicking my back the whole time haha.

Whilst we had a brilliant cinema experience, I think the best bit of all was the ticket price which is considerably lower than the multiplex chains.  3 tickets and car parking for the day cost me just over £20 which I thought was excellent.

Good to know:

• Booster seats are available for children if needed.

• Autism and Sensory Friendly Screenings of popular family films are shown on a regular basis.  These are presented without adverts or trailers, with lower volume and the lights are left on low.

• Subtitled Screenings are held regularly with clearly display dialogue and essential sound cues on screen.

• Screen sizes differ with 2 of the screens having disabled access and spaces.  As the front of the building is stepped, disabled access to the foyer is via the side door on the left hand side of the building.

• Baby changing facilities can be found in one of the downstairs toilets.

• The cinema can easily be reached by train or bus.  If driving, you’ll find numerous car parks nearby.

For more information on upcoming films and tickets, please visit The Plaza Dorchester.

Fancy’s Farm is located on the Isle of Portland and this family friendly community farm offers free entry however all donations are hugely appreciated for the upkeep of the farm and animal feed.

You’ll find free parking near the entrance and as you go in you’ll be greeted by a mob of wallabies and whilst we’re not certain, we’re pretty sure we saw a baby snuggled in a pouch.

We went indoors first to have a look around and to use the toilet.  We found a lovely play room with some toys, books and chalkboard plus seating for the café when open.

Some of the animals are rescues for various reasons but they are all very friendly and love attention.  I was pleased I remembered to get lots of change for food because the sheep were very cheeky and the second you were near them with a cup they were very excited.  It took a while for my daughter to feel brave enough to feed them but once she realised they were gentle she found her confidence.  We went back to the main building for more cups numerous times and tried to remember which one’s we’d already fed and we made sure to save a cup for the goats.

The sea views are just incredible and while we were feeding the animals the boys went off for a walk around.  We also found 2 beautiful horses, ducks, geese, chickens and pigs, plus a small play area which is suitable for younger children.

The site is mostly within an area of SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) and has many rare plants and native wildlife.  I’d definitely recommend a visit if you’re in the area and if you’re not feeding the animals then please do leave them a donation so they can continue looking after the animals and opening to the public.

To keep up to date with news, please visit the Fancy’s Farm Facebook page.

Good to know:

• Animal feed for the sheep and goats is £1 per cup.

• Open days may vary out of season and therefore it is best to check the farm is open before visiting.

• The Café offers drinks and is open during busier periods.

• Free parking can be found at the entrance to the farm.

• The farm is mostly pushchair friendly.

• Toilets are located in the main building.

• Fancy’s Farm run occasional special events and camping.  Details will be shared on their socials.

Nearby you will also find the High Angle Battery which is a very interesting site to explore.  If you would like to read more, please visit the Dorsetmums Blog.