WIMBORNE Tourist Information Centre has reopened as the East Dorset Information Centre as part of a £700,000 restoration project.

The building’s revamp has had a major upgrade at the neighbouring Priest’s House Museum, which owns and operates the centre, and opened its doors again on Monday July 20.

Changes include a new entrance with easier access, modern facilities and a combined shop and visitor reception.

James Webb, Director of Priest’s House Museum and the East Dorset Information Centre, said: “We’re thrilled to be relaunching Wimborne Tourist Information Centre as the East Dorset Information Centre, following on from the outstanding renovations at the Priest’s House Museum’s historic Grade II* listed building.

The volunteers of the information centre are very excited to have the chance to assist visitors again, using their expert local knowledge to provide a better experience for all.

“East Dorset Information Centre is as much for local people as it is for visitors from further afield. There is so much unknown information about Wimborne and East Dorset and so many hidden gems; we hope that many will visit us to experience it.

The information centre, located on the High Street in Wimborne, has a team of knowledgeable volunteers available to provide a wealth of free local information surrounding activities in East Dorset, local attractions, scenic destinations, shopping advice and dining.

Dorset-sourced food and drink, handcrafted gifts, a wide variety of books, and maps are available to buy, with all proceeds raised used for the upkeep and maintenance of the Priest’s House Museum, which is reopening later in the year.

Staff have put all of the necessary safety measures and precautions in place to ensure visitor and volunteer safety.

Wimborne BID, a business-led initiative to invest money into the local economy of Wimborne Minster, are in full support of the East Dorset Information Centre launch.

Tammy Sleet, Manager of Wimborne BID, said: “Businesses in Wimborne are delighted at the prospect of having a revamped, exciting, and engaging information centre.

“It’s exactly what we need right now – an information hub to draw visitors in and inform them of all the fantastic things that Wimborne has to offer.”

The reopening also coincides with the information centre celebrating its 40th birthday this year, originally founded in 1980 in Wimborne.