Shaftesbury, Dorset, England

Where do you go when you’re desperate to escape the city and see some of the British countryside? We decided that on this occasion the answer was Dorset.

I’ve spent time in the South and North East of England visiting a number of different National Parks but hadn’t spent much time in Dorset, so it felt like the perfect opportunity to visit. Just over a two hour drive from where we live we embarked on our road trip and left the city behind heading into the peaceful rolling hill landscape of the British countryside.

We stayed in the historic town of Shaftesbury. A quaint and quiet town, which is more the size of a village than a town. It consists of a number of cafes, tea rooms, pubs and hotels. When I arrived it was exactly as I’d had pictured it. Like a post card image.

When we first checked in to our hotel, we instantly had a great feeling and knew that we’d chosen the right place. With the cosy and stylish interior design, friendly staff and great atmosphere we didn’t want to leave! You’ll find a review on the hotel at the bottom of this page, but in summary I’d highly recommend staying here if you’re looking for a cosy get away.

There’s lots to do in the Shaftesbury area, and it makes for the perfect location for a micro-adventure in Dorset. Situated in the heart of the County you’re a short drive away from all of the great attractions and points of interest. The picturesque Dorset coastline is just an hour’s drive to the South.

The main attraction in Shaftesbury itself is the famous Gold Hill. Better known as the steep, cobbled hill from the 1970’s Ridley Scott Hovis advert. International tourists flooded with their Nikon cameras to get the postcard snap! It’s definitely worth a visit and a great exercise after walking up it! There’s a small cafe situated right at the top of the hill called the Salt Cellar. If you manage to get a window table you’ll have a great view of Gold Hill and the rolling hills that go on for miles on end. A spot of tea and cake would be the perfect treat after walking up Gold Hill.

There’s a number of walking trails available in and around the town. I always find that a walk in the countryside is sometimes all thats needed to make you feel energised again. Breathe in the fresh air and make sure you’ve earned that beer on your next pub pitstop. Most of the places in Shaftesbury are dog-friendly, so if you like to bring your pet on your travels this place will suit you just fine.

I’d recommend following @adventuredorset on Instagram for more information about what to do in the local area.

Choose from the categories below to read more about what to do whilst in Shaftesbury.

Things to see and do

• Hovis Hill
• Wardour Castle
• Woodland walks
• Shaftesbury Abbey

Surrounding areas

• Longleat Safari Park
• Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre
• Stonehenge
• Durdle Door, Jurassic Coast (nr. Lulworth)

Recommended Eateries

• The Grosvenor Arms
• The Mitre
• The Salt Cellar

Instagram Spot

From the top of Hovis Hill with the view of the cottages that line the steep, cobbled hill.

Hotel Review – The Grosvenor Arms, Shaftesbury

(1-5* with 5 being the highest)

Ambience *****

Service ****

Room *****

Food ****

Location *****

www.grosvenorarms.co.uk