Shaftesbury Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, eat, and shop in Shaftesbury, Dorset with our complete travel guide.


Introduction to Shaftesbury

Located in the picturesque county of Dorset, Shaftesbury is a charming town that boasts stunning natural beauty, a rich history, and a vibrant cultural scene. Its cobblestone streets, bustling markets, and beautiful landmarks attract thousands of visitors every year.

List of Places to Visit in Shaftesbury

Here are the top places to visit when in Shaftesbury:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

From ancient churches to interactive museums, Shaftesbury has several cultural hotspots that transport you back in time.

  • Shaftesbury Abbey Museum and Garden: Experience the remains of the once-great abbey and its historic gardens. This museum provides an insight into Shaftesbury’s rich history.
  • Gold Hill Museum: A fascinating museum showcasing the town’s fascinating past, including its ancient hilltop settlements, Roman influences and Saxon history.
  • St. Peter’s Church: Visit the oldest church in Shaftesbury, boasting beautiful stained glasswork and an impressive 12th-century sculptural font.

Natural Attractions of Shaftesbury: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Blackmore Vale, Shaftesbury is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

  • Compton Abbas Airfield: Soar above the hills of Shaftesbury in a glider or light aircraft while taking in the stunning views from above.
  • Hambledon Hill: A magnificent chalk hill offering beautiful walks and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Fontmell Down Nature Reserve: Hike through this nature reserve and witness wildlife such as the Adonis Blue butterfly, marsh fritillary butterflies and wildflowers unique to this area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury offers numerous hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • The Wessex Ridgeway: A stunning walking trail that runs for over 100 miles along the crest of the Dorset Downs and Cranborne Chase, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Garston Wood: An ancient woodland with picturesque walking paths and idyllic picnic spots that offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the town.
  • The North Dorset Trailway: A scenic route that follows the old railway line connecting Sturminster Newton, Shillingstone and Blandford along the picturesque meadow of River Stour.

Best Things to Do in Shaftesbury: Activities and Tours

From guided tours to artisan workshops, Shaftesbury offers a range of activities to keep visitors entertained.

  • Shaftesbury Arts Centre: A vibrant cultural hub that hosts a range of performances, exhibitions, and workshops throughout the year.
  • Cobbles and Clay: A craft workshop where visitors can try their hand at pottery, jewelry-making, and other artisanal crafts.
  • Shaftesbury Tour Guides: Discover the town’s fascinating history and hidden gems through a guided tour by knowledgeable locals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shaftesbury

Here is a week-long itinerary to explore Shaftesbury:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Shaftesbury Abbey Museum and Garden
Day 2 Explore Hambledon Hill
Day 3 Take a pottery class at Cobbles and Clay
Day 4 Walk along the Wessex Ridgeway
Day 5 Visit Gold Hill Museum
Day 6 Hike through Fontmell Down Nature Reserve
Day 7 Take an aerial tour of Shaftesbury at Compton Abbas

Food and Drink Scene of Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury boasts a thriving food and drink scene that offers everything from gourmet cuisine to traditional pub fare.

Must-Try Dishes

Here are some dishes you must try when in Shaftesbury:

  • Dorset Apple Cake: A classic, country-style cake made with fresh local apples and served with freshly whipped cream. A true Dorset delicacy.
  • Dorset Blue Vinny Cheese: A locally made blue cheese that has been an essential part of the region’s cheese-making heritage for over 300 years.
  • Shaftesbury Sausage: A tasty and unique sausage made with pork, sage, and lemon zest, which is a traditional recipe of the area.

Local Beverages

When it comes to drinks, Shaftesbury has many local beverages to choose from:

  • Badger Beer: A renowned and award-winning beer brewed in Dorset that comes in a wide range of delicious varieties.
  • Black Cow Vodka: One of the most exclusive spirits to come out of the UK, this vodka is produced from milk sourced from local Dorset cows.

Where to Stay in Shaftesbury: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxurious boutique hotels to affordable hostels, Shaftesbury has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Shaftesbury:

  • The Grosvenor Arms: A stylish and elegant hotel located in the heart of the town, featuring luxurious rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and a cozy bar.
  • The Mitre Inn: A traditional, country-style pub with comfortable rooms and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
  • The Bakehouse Bed and Breakfast: A charming bed and breakfast located in a historic building in the town center, serving fresh, homemade breakfast every morning.

What to Buy in Shaftesbury: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Shaftesbury is known for its local produce, crafts, and antiques. Here are some items to consider bringing back from your visit:

  • Shaftesbury Handmade Crafts: From pottery, jewelry, and textiles to beautifully crafted wood items, there are plenty of locally-made souvenirs on offer throughout the town.
  • Dorset Truffles: The surrounding woodlands are a source of one of the world’s most expensive delicacies - truffles. You can buy local truffle products such as oil, butter and grated truffle to take home.
  • Antiques and Curiosities: Shaftesbury has numerous antique dealers and curiosities shops offering an array of unique souvenirs to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury is a friendly and welcoming town with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors should be mindful of the traditional values of this community and should be respectful to local traditions and customs.

Best Time to Visit Shaftesbury

The best time to visit Shaftesbury is during the autumn & winter seasons when the town is less crowded and the scenery is at its most beautiful. However, Shaftesbury is beautiful all year round and it’s perfect for any season!

Do’s and Don’ts of Shaftesbury

Do:

  • Do explore the countryside and hills of Shaftesbury.
  • Do visit Shaftesbury’s famous photogenic location - Gold Hill.
  • Do attend one of the town’s numerous festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the natural environment with your actions.
  • Don’t touch historical artifacts in museums and historic places.
  • Don’t make loud noise or behave in a disrespectful manner in public.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury is a safe and peaceful town to explore, with a low crime rate. However, visitors are advised to be vigilant of their surroundings and take necessary precautions as required.

Health in Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury has multiple hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies in case of any medical emergency or illness. Ensure you have health insurance when traveling to the UK.

Getting to Shaftesbury: Transportation Options and Logistics

Shaftesbury is well-connected to all major towns and cities in the UK through a range of transportation options, including:

Airports Near Shaftesbury

The closest airport to Shaftesbury is the Bournemouth Airport, boasting several international flight options.

Bus Stations Near Shaftesbury

There are multiple bus stations and terminals around Shaftesbury that provide bus services to nearby towns and cities like Salisbury, Gillingham, and Poole.

Other Options

Visitors can also opt to arrive by train at the Gillingham or Tisbury train stations, or drive along the well-connected road networks leading up to Shaftesbury.

How to Get Around in Shaftesbury

The best way to explore Shaftesbury is by a combination of walking and cycling. Visitors can also use taxis or public buses to get around the town.

Where to Go Next from Shaftesbury: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations to explore after visiting Shaftesbury:

  • Stonehenge: A prehistoric monument located just an hour away from Shaftesbury which is a must-see with its famous ancient stone circle.
  • Longleat Safari Park: A wildlife park located in Warminster, which is a unique experience for visitors of all ages.
  • The Jurassic Coast: A rugged coastline with stunning scenery, rock formations, and fossils spanning the length of the southern coast of England.

Conclusion

Shaftesbury is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and unique towns in the UK. With its captivating countryside, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene, it has something for everyone. From stunning natural wonders to interesting museums and galleries, there’s always something new to discover in Shaftesbury.

Gold Hill in Shaftesbury Gold Hill in Shaftesbury