Shaftesbury is a hilltop market town in the heart of green and pleasant Thomas Hardy country, overlooking an idyllic sea of rural meadows, medieval ruins and gently rolling hills. Our pick of the best places to stay in Shaftesbury is situated right in the centre of town, perfectly located for exploring this countryside gem.

Shaftesbury’s history traces back to the Saxon period, when it was a significant hilltop fort. At the top of the hill you'll now find the remains of Shaftesbury Abbey. And right next to it is Gold Hill, an extremely picturesque, steep cobbled street and the reason that many visit the town. Most of the town you’ll see today was built during the 18th century and if you’re interested in its history there’s a very good museum on the abbey grounds, and another at the top of Gold Hill.

To the east of Shaftesbury are Cranbourne Chase and the West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so the town makes a great base for keen walkers. Duncliffe Hill is a natural destination to head towards, and a beautiful one at that. Wardour Castle, about three kilometres to the west, is another famous local sight. One of the busiest times for the best places to stay in Shaftesbury is the Snowdrop Festival, which is a magical display of snowdrops held in February. Another popular time to visit is the Gold Hill Fair, an arts and food fair held on the first weekend in July.

The Best Places to Stay in Shaftesbury

Best pubs-with-rooms

• The Grosvenor Arms is a charming Georgian-built inn with 16 elegant rooms and suites. It’s been completely revamped, and today, as well as having fresh, country-chic decor, the restaurant is first rate, and very popular with locals too. Expect odd, sloping ceilings and exposed beams, but also feather pillows and Tassimo coffee machines.

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Travel Information

• Shaftesbury’s closest airport is Bristol Airport, which is about an hour away by car or taxi. Smaller Southampton International Airport is around the same distance by road. If you’re travelling via London, it’s a a two hour journey by car, or around three and a half by public transport.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Shaftesbury hosts a number of popular annual events, and these are the times the town is busiest: Shaftesbury Fringe Festival was set up in 2016, to capture performers on the way to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and has been held every July since. The local Agricultural Show is held annually in August, and carnival is at the end of September. Shaftesbury hosts a charming Christmas Market too. Outside the events, Shaftesbury is a year-round destination, with both indoor and outdoor appeals. But the prettiest time to visit is spring, when the surrounding hills and dales are sprinkled with wildflowers.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Dorset
• Consider one of Shaftesbury’s neighbours Blandford Forum, Salisbury or Yeovil
• Focus your search by the type of accommodation you’re looking for, and consider Dorset’s best country house hotels, the best pubs-with-rooms in Dorset, Dorset’s best B&Bs or the best hotels for families in Dorset
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.