The Blackmore Vale Inn
11 January 2023
A traditionally styled 17th Century inn that features in Thomas Hardy's 'Tess of the D'Urbervilles'.
Things to do near Shaftesbury
1
The Blackmore Vale Inn
A traditionally styled 17th Century inn that features in Thomas Hardy's 'Tess of the D'Urbervilles'.
2
Aerosaurus Balloons
See the South West from the air with hot air balloon flights over Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset. Flight meeting locations include Exeter, Tiverton, South Brent and Lee Mill in Devon; Launceston and Bodmin in Cornwall; Taunton, Castle Carey and Yeovil in Somerset, and Sherborne, Blandford Forum and Shaftesbury in Dorset.
3
Gillingham
Noted for its connections to the famous oil painter John Constable, Gillingham is Dorset's most northerly town. You will find a good selection of independent shops and cafes here and easy access to Shaftesbury which is just five miles away.
4
Gillingham Country Market
A dedicated group of small producers sell a variety of home made, home grown items including baked goods, preserves, garden produce, fresh meat, flowers, plants and gifts every Friday morning from 8.30am - 11.30am.
5
Gold Hill Museum
In two historic buildings, this museum has eight galleries which tell the story of life in the area, dating back to before Alfred the Great. The museum is run by volunteers and a visit will support their good works.
6
Gold Hill Museum and Garden
This museum is quite unusual as it lies within a tradtional sandstone cottage! It is brimming with local history and has a stunning garden with fabulous views. Usually open April until October, please check to avoid disappointment.
7
Judge Wyndhams Oak Walk
Thanks to walkdorset.com for this delightful circular walk to the historic Judge Wyndhams oak. Take a look at their website for full details and other fabulous walks in the area.
8
Marnhull
Deep in the heart of Blackmore Vale, the quaint village of Marnhull can be found just three miles north of Sturminster Newton. There's an assortment of architectural sytles including some houses dating as far back as Tudor times and a variety of small shops.
9
Melbury Beacon and Downs
A National Trust area of Natural Beauty taking in chalk downland. This three mile, quite challenging circular walk has some lovely views of the surrounding area but take note, it gets muddy after wet weather and although dogs are allowed on a lead, you may need to lift them over a stile.
10
Things to do near Shaftesbury
A few years ago, the Classic Cottages team started writing about where we live and why we love it. Over time these have evolved into the Classic Guide.
Aerosaurus Balloons
See the South West from the air with hot air balloon flights over Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset. Flight meeting locations include Exeter, Tiverton, South Brent and Lee Mill in Devon; Launceston and Bodmin in Cornwall; Taunton, Castle Carey and Yeovil in Somerset, and Sherborne, Blandford Forum and Shaftesbury in Dorset.
Gillingham
Noted for its connections to the famous oil painter John Constable, Gillingham is Dorset's most northerly town. You will find a good selection of independent shops and cafes here and easy access to Shaftesbury which is just five miles away.
Gillingham Country Market
A dedicated group of small producers sell a variety of home made, home grown items including baked goods, preserves, garden produce, fresh meat, flowers, plants and gifts every Friday morning from 8.30am - 11.30am.
Gold Hill Museum
In two historic buildings, this museum has eight galleries which tell the story of life in the area, dating back to before Alfred the Great. The museum is run by volunteers and a visit will support their good works.
Gold Hill Museum and Garden
This museum is quite unusual as it lies within a tradtional sandstone cottage! It is brimming with local history and has a stunning garden with fabulous views. Usually open April until October, please check to avoid disappointment.
Judge Wyndhams Oak Walk
Thanks to walkdorset.com for this delightful circular walk to the historic Judge Wyndhams oak. Take a look at their website for full details and other fabulous walks in the area.
Marnhull
Deep in the heart of Blackmore Vale, the quaint village of Marnhull can be found just three miles north of Sturminster Newton. There's an assortment of architectural sytles including some houses dating as far back as Tudor times and a variety of small shops.
Melbury Beacon and Downs
A National Trust area of Natural Beauty taking in chalk downland. This three mile, quite challenging circular walk has some lovely views of the surrounding area but take note, it gets muddy after wet weather and although dogs are allowed on a lead, you may need to lift them over a stile.
Milestones Tea Rooms
Indulge in a Dorset cream tea.