Shaftesbury is a hidden gem in Dorset; although small, the town offers a lot in the way of history, iconic streets and beautiful natural surroundings.
Whether it’s a day out visiting the famous Gold Hill or a pub lunch in a traditional countryside pub, there’s lots to see, do and explore.
Discover 11 exciting things to do that will make your trip to this charming town unforgettable.
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Shaftesbury Abbey Museum and Gardens
Shaftesbury Abbey was founded in AD 888 by King Alfred the Great, and his daughter was the first Abbess.
The museum holds a lot of history and offers beautiful views over the Blackmore Vale; the ruins rest in tranquil, walled gardens near Gold Hill.
Though dismantled in 1539, the remains still tell a compelling story. Visitors can explore the excavated foundations and view artefacts recovered through archaeological efforts.
The peaceful walled garden, filled with traditional roses, herbs, and fruit trees, creates a serene atmosphere. Visitors can also purchase herbs and plants in the museum shop.
Events are often held at the museum such as herbs and herbal remedies workshops.
Meanwhile, volunteers led by the director of gardens maintain the space, preserving its historic charm.
📌 Good to Know:
- Free admission
- Dog friendly
- Disabled access
- Museum shop
📍 Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Garden Park Walk, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 8JR
Gold Hill
Gold Hill is one of Shaftesbury’s most charming spots. This steep, cobbled street became famous in the 1970s Hovis bread advert.
One look down Gold Hill, and you’ll see why it’s often called one of the most spectacular sights in England.
The view is picture-perfect, capturing the beauty of Thomas Hardy’s Blackmore Vale.
The iconic scene at the top of Gold Hill has graced book covers, calendars, and even chocolate boxes; photographers also like to come here to capture the beautiful scenery.
📌 Good to Know:
- Free to visit
- Very uneven and steep terrain
- Dog friendly
📍 Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8LY
Gold Hill Museum
Gold Hill Museum, located at the top of the iconic Gold Hill in Shaftesbury, is a charming spot and a great place to learn about the history of the area.
Visitors can explore six permanent display rooms over two floors, showcasing the rich past of Shaftesbury and its surroundings. Two rooms hold temporary exhibitions, ensuring fresh experiences with every visit.
For younger visitors, the museum offers an Explorer’s Quiz and activities. They can also hunt for Dorset Button Mice hidden in display cases.
Visitors can enjoy the award-winning garden, which provides stunning views over the Blackmore Vale.
📌 Good to Know:
- Disabled access
- Free admission (donations welcome)
- Museum shop and second-hand book corner
- Family-friendly
📍 Gold Hill, Shaftesbury SP7 8JW
The Grosvenor Arms
The Grosvenor Arms is a charming boutique hotel that perfectly blends Georgian features with contemporary design.
This establishment offers 17 elegantly decorated bedrooms, each uniquely furnished with a mix of modern and vintage pieces.
Guests can enjoy a cosy bar with a wood burner, a light-filled conservatory, and an inviting outdoor terrace.
The hotel’s bar and restaurant serve award-winning food crafted from the finest local ingredients. The service runs all day, giving you lots of opportunities to enjoy their delicious meals.
Dating back to medieval times, the building is full of history. Originally named The New Inn, it was renamed by Earl Grosvenor in the early 18th century.
The hotel has played many roles, from a political assembly point to a meeting spot for local volunteers during the First World War.
📌 Good to know:
- Dog friendly
- Disabled access
📍 The Commons, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8JA
Black Pig Retreats
Escape to the countryside at Black Pig Retreats, located at Bittles Brook Farm in Motcombe.
Open since 2017, this charming glamping site offers three luxurious safari tents, each with its own unique inspiration and design.
Visitors can immerse themselves in nature, with access to woods, meadows, and fields. There’s even a shallow brook running through the farm, perfect for outdoor adventures.
The farm is also home to horses, sheep, chickens, and, of course, the lovely black pigs. It’s a perfect spot for families, couples, and groups of friends.
📌 Good to Know:
- Dog friendly
- Family-friendly
- Accommodation is not open all year round.
📍 Bittles Brook Farm, Motcombe, Shaftesbury SP7 9NX
Ye Olde Two Brewers
Ye Olde Two Brewers sits at the base of the famous Gold Hill. This historic pub, dating back to the 18th century, is celebrated for its cosy atmosphere, delicious home-cooked meals, and exceptional real ales.
With a history tied to the old tanneries and laundries of St James, this pub has evolved into a beloved community hub with a friendly and welcoming vibe.
Visitors can enjoy locally sourced daily specials, making it a perfect spot for a hearty meal or a refreshing drink.
📌 Good to Know:
- Dog friendly
- Family-friendly
📍 24 St James’s St, Shaftesbury SP7 8HE
Castle Hill
Castle Hill is an exciting spot for nature and history lovers, and it stands on the site of an old Saxon hillfort.
The area is a haven for wildlife, boasting 130 types of plants and 40 species of birds. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful walk, with park benches and open green spaces.
📌 Good to Know:
- Breathtaking views across the vale, sometimes reaching as far as Glastonbury Tor.
- Dog friendly
📍 Shaftesbury SP7 8GG
Alpaca Adventure
For those seeking a unique experience near Shaftesbury, Alpaca Adventure should be at the top of the list.
Located at Hugglers Hole, this activity allows visitors to walk with friendly alpacas in a peaceful, rural setting.
Visitors start by meeting the alpacas, including the cute baby alpacas. Walks are guided and by appointment only, ensuring a personal and relaxed visit.
After a brief introduction, guests set off on a 30-40-minute walk around the fields, learning about and interacting with these gentle animals.
Refreshments, including tea, coffee, and juice, are provided free of charge after the walk. Safety notes are provided, and suitable footwear is recommended.
📌 Good to Know:
- No dogs allowed
- Walks by appointment only
- Refreshments included
📍 Hugglers Hole, Shaftesbury SP7 9HG
Melbury Vale Vineyard
Melbury Vale Vineyard offers breathtaking views of the Dorset countryside. This family-run vineyard, established by Clare and Glynn in 2003, turned neglected farmland into a thriving winery.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours featuring wine tastings and local produce lunches. The sessions take place every Friday and Saturday and need to be booked in advance.
The vineyard produces wines from cool climate grapes like Pinot Noir and Seyval Blanc. Their Grace sparkling white and Decadence sparkling rosé are popular choices.
Two cedar lodges on the property accommodate up to six guests each, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
📌 Good to Know:
- Guided tours with wine tastings
- Disabled access
📍 Foots Hill, Cann, Shaftesbury SP7 0BW
Shaftesbury Carnival
Every year, Shaftesbury Carnival lights up the high street with a burst of colour and joy. Celebrated for over 147 years, this event features a week of festivities.
The town comes alive with lots to do for everyone, including children’s fancy dress afternoon, an illuminated evening procession and even a fun fair.
Markets, food stalls and entertainment bring the community together and offer an excellent day out.
The entire event is organised by dedicated volunteers who raise thousands for local charities.
📌 Good to Know:
- Held once a year
- The high street is closed all day for the event
More details are available on the Shaftesbury Carnival website.
📍 Shaftesbury Highstreet, SP7 8JE
North Dorset Cycle Ride
The North Dorset Cycle Ride is a thrilling event that brings together cyclists of all ages and abilities to raise money for local charities.
Starting just off Park Walk in Shaftesbury, participants can choose between a 25-mile or 50-mile route, finishing on the iconic Gold Hill.
The Shaftesbury Rotary Club organises this event. It offers a scenic ride through the beautiful Blackmore Vale and beyond. The rides are fully marshalled, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
📌 Good to Know:
- Yearly event
- Various routes for different abilities
For more details, check the North Dorset Cycle Ride.
📍 Park Walk, Shaftesbury
