Blandford Forum Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, activities, accommodations, and cultural customs in Blandford Forum, England.


Introduction to Blandford Forum

Nestled in the county of Dorset in West Country, England, lies the charming town of Blandford Forum. Known for its stunning Georgian architecture, lively market square, and beautiful countryside, Blandford Forum offers a unique experience for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination.

With plenty of cultural and historical attractions, outdoor activities, and a vibrant food and drink scene, Blandford Forum is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the United Kingdom.

List of Places to Visit in Blandford Forum

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Blandford Forum is home to many culturally significant attractions, including a variety of museums and historical landmarks. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Blandford Fashion Museum: Located in the heart of the town, this museum showcases a collection of clothing and accessories from the Georgian era to the present day.
  • Blandford Town Museum: This museum provides an insight into the town’s history and showcases various artefacts from the Georgian era to the modern day.
  • Blandford Forum Parish Church: A stunning example of Georgian architecture, the parish church of Blandford Forum is a must-visit attraction.

Natural Attractions of Blandford Forum: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Blandford Forum is surrounded by stunning countryside, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top natural attractions to visit:

  • Hod Hill: This Iron Age hill fort offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a perfect spot for a picnic or hike.
  • Trailway: A 14-mile walking and cycling trail that follows the old railway line from Sturminster Newton to Blandford Forum.
  • Riverside Park: Located on the banks of the River Stour, this park offers stunning views and is an excellent spot for a relaxing walk.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a great location for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • Hod Hill: The Iron Age hill fort offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a great spot for a hike or bike ride.
  • Trailway: A 14-mile walking and cycling trail that follows the old railway line from Sturminster Newton to Blandford Forum
  • The North Dorset Trailway: A gentle cycling trail that passes through picturesque villages and peaceful farmland.

Best Things to Do in Blandford Forum: Activities and Tours

In addition to the natural and cultural attractions, Blandford Forum offers a range of activities and tours to keep visitors entertained. Here are some top things to do in Blandford Forum:

  • Blandford Forum Market: A lively market held every Thursday and Saturday on the town’s market square.
  • The Corn Exchange: A venue that offers a variety of events, including concerts, plays, and exhibitions.
  • Blandford Brewery Tour: Take a tour of the local brewery and sample some of their award-winning ales.

Week-Long Itinerary for Blandford Forum

If you’re planning a longer trip to Blandford Forum, here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay:

Day Activity
1 Explore Blandford Forum's historic market square and visit the Blandford Fashion Museum.
2 Take a hike to Hod Hill and enjoy a picnic with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
3 Visit the Trailway and go for a bike ride or walk along the old railway line.
4 Explore the local breweries and try some of the award-winning ales
5 Take a tour of the Blandford Town Museum and learn more about the town's rich history.
6 Visit the Riverside Park and take a leisurely walk along banks of the River Stour.
7 Participate in a local event at The Corn Exchange or attend a concert or play.

Food and Drink Scene of Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum’s food and drink scene is diverse and offers something for everyone. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to sample when visiting:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dorset Blue Vinney: A traditional blue cheese produced exclusively in Dorset, made from unpasteurized cows’ milk and has a unique taste.
  • Dorset Apple Cake: A scrumptious cake made with apples and cinnamon and is often served with custard or cream.

Local Beverages

  • Badger Ale: A locally brewed ale that offers a variety of flavours and strengths.
  • Dorset Cider: Produced with apples grown in the region, Dorset Cider is a refreshing drink with a distinctive taste.

Where to Stay in Blandford Forum: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Blandford Forum offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to luxury. Here are some of the best options:

  • The Crown Hotel: A Georgian-style hotel located in the heart of Blandford Forum.
  • The Charlton Inn: A charming inn located a few miles outside of Blandford Forum with great food and comfortable rooms.
  • The Footman’s Inn: A cosy inn that serves great food and offers comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.

What to Buy in Blandford Forum: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Blandford Forum offers a range of locally-produced products that make for great souvenirs. Here are some of the top things to buy:

  • Dorset Blue Vinney: A traditional blue cheese produced exclusively in Dorset.
  • Dorset Tea: A locally-produced tea that offers a range of flavours and is packaged in unique tin designs.
  • Blandford Forum Honey: Produced by local beekeepers, Blandford Forum Honey is a delicious addition to any meal.

Local Culture and Customs of Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum has a rich cultural heritage, with Georgian architecture, local food and drink, and a strong community spirit. Visitors should be aware of the local customs and etiquette, including:

  • Respect local customs: Blandford Forum has a strong sense of community, and it is essential to respect local customs and traditions.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings: Blandford Forum is a quiet, peaceful town, and visitors should be mindful of noise levels and disturbing the local community.

Best Time to Visit Blandford Forum

The best time to visit Blandford Forum is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the countryside is in full bloom. However, visitors should be aware that this is peak tourist season, and accommodations may be more expensive.

Do’s and Don’ts of Blandford Forum

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs: Blandford Forum has a strong sense of community and is proud of its traditions and heritage.
  • Explore the local countryside: Blandford Forum is surrounded by stunning countryside and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking.

Don’t:

  • Be loud and disruptive: Blandford Forum is a peaceful town, and visitors should be mindful of noise levels and disturbing the local community.
  • Leave litter: Blandford Forum prides itself on its clean and tidy streets and visitors should respect this by disposing of their litter appropriately.

Safety and Health

Safety in Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum is a safe destination, with low levels of crime. However, visitors should take normal safety precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum has a range of medical facilities, including a hospital and several GP clinics. Visitors should ensure that they have appropriate medical travel insurance before arriving in the town.

Getting to Blandford Forum: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Blandford Forum

The closest airports to Blandford Forum are:

  • Bournemouth Airport: Located 25 miles from Blandford Forum.
  • Southampton Airport: Located 45 miles from Blandford Forum.

Bus Stations Near Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum has a centrally located bus station that offers services to surrounding towns and villages. National Express also provides services to London and other major UK cities from Bournemouth.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Blandford Forum by car or train. The nearest train stations are located in Salisbury, Gillingham, and Poole.

How to Get Around in Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum is a small town, and many of the attractions are within walking distance. Visitors can also rent a bike or take a taxi if they prefer not to walk.

Where to Go Next from Blandford Forum: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’ve had your fill of Blandford Forum, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are some of the top options:

  • Sturminster Newton: A small market town located a few miles from Blandford Forum.
  • Shaftesbury: A charming town known for its picturesque cobbled streets and beautiful views.
  • Lulworth Cove: A stunning natural cove located on the Jurassic Coast, and a popular destination for hiking and swimming.

Conclusion

Blandford Forum offers a unique and authentic travel experience, with stunning countryside, rich heritage, and a vibrant local community. Whether you’re interested in exploring the local history, hiking in the countryside, or sampling the local food and drink, Blandford Forum has something for everyone.

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