A visit from The King and Queen celebrates the reopening of Blandford Forum's historic civic building after major restoration project.
Blandford Forum Town Council was honoured to welcome Their Majesties, The King and Queen, to the Corn Exchange on Thursday 16 July 2026, providing an opportunity to showcase the remarkable transformation of the Grade I Listed building that has served as a focal point of community life for generations. Long recognised as needing significant repair and modernisation, the building had faced a range of challenges, including deteriorating roof coverings, water ingress, limited accessibility and outdated facilities. Through an ambitious refurbishment programme, Blandford Forum Town Council has restored and revitalised this historic landmark, designed and built by the Bastard brothers in 1734, following the Great Fire of 1731, preserving its architectural heritage while creating a warm, welcoming and functional venue fit for the future.
During the visit, Their Majesties saw first-hand the improvements that have been delivered in response to extensive community feedback and the Design Team explained how the project evolved and was delivered. For the first time in the building's 300-year history, the magnificent first-floor rooms, including the historic Town Hall, are fully accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these important civic spaces. The refurbishment has also included the sensitive restoration of the Corn Exchange (1858), including the reinstatement of its Victorian tiles, alongside new accessible facilities, enhanced environmental performance, and improved heating, lighting and acoustics throughout and a stunning portrait of Their Majesties is proudly displayed in the entrance lobby, along with a plaque recording the official opening of the venue. The building is now licensed to host civil ceremonies, creating a unique and historic setting for weddings and other important life events. Together, these enhancements have given the Corn Exchange a new lease of life, securing its place at the heart of Blandford Forum’s community and town centre for generations to come.
The main hall hosted a variety of Dorset-based charities and organisations selected by the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Michael Dooley LVO FRCOG HON.DSC, which included Blandford Fashion Museum, Blandford Town Museum, Mosaic and SSAFA. They were thrilled to have the opportunity to talk to Their Majesties about the wonderful work they do across the county.
Cllr Colin Stevens, Mayor of Blandford Forum, said: "It was a tremendous honour to welcome Their Majesties to the Corn Exchange and showcase a project that has transformed this historic building for future generations. The refurbishment has created a more accessible, sustainable and welcoming space for our entire community."
Upon exiting the building, Their Majesties were greeted by cheering crowds who filled the Market Place along with local produce stalls, including Sweetpea Florist and From Dorset with Love, Tarrant Valley Honey, South Paddocks Ltd., The Veg Lady and The Book & Bucket Cheese Company. Laura Sweetland of Blandford Forum’s Sweetpea Florist added that, “We were delighted to be involved in such a special occasion. It's been a pleasure to be part of welcoming this important visit. Having created bouquets for The Royal Family previously, it is an honour and we are incredibly proud to be able to present our flowers alongside other wonderful local producers, and to share with visitors in Blandford Forum today.”
