If you want to make the most of spring or summer in the UK, a trip to Dorset is a must. With its blooming countryside, easy coastal access, and charming towns to explore, it’s perfect for a weekend (or longer) escape.
I recently visited Shaftesbury, Dorset and fell in love with the town, the surrounding countryside, and the cosy cottage where we stayed.
Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON shares the ultimate getaway in Shaftesbury, Dorset!
Shaftesbury in Dorset
It took us just two hours to reach Shaftesbury from London on a Friday evening.
Sometimes, even as London lovers, we all need to escape to the countryside to recharge and find a little inspiration. Hitting the road, we were ready to trade city streets for Dorset’s rolling hills and charming towns!
A bit of history
Shaftesbury is one of England’s most historic towns. Settled since Celtic and Saxon times, it became famous when King Alfred the Great founded Shaftesbury Abbey in 888 AD, one of Britain’s first monasteries for women.
The town thrived in the medieval era with bustling markets and fairs, and today visitors can wander its charming streets, admire historic buildings, and soak in stunning views over the Blackmore Vale.
A picturesque town
Shaftesbury, Dorset isn’t just home to the iconic Gold Hill, one of England’s most famous and photographed streets with panoramic views over the Blackmore Vale.
The town also boasts charming winding lanes, historic cottages, and a High Street full of inviting places to eat, drink and relax.
You’ll find great local favourites like The Salt Cellar for brunch or lunch right on Gold Hill, and cosy cafés like The Ugly Duckling Cafe and Black Cactus Cafe for coffee and cake.
Traditional pubs such as Ye Olde Two Brewers and The Mitre serve hearty British classics and local ales, while stylish spots like The Grosvenor Arms blend historic charm with creative cuisine.
With plenty of great places to eat, drink and explore, it’s exactly the kind of town that makes for a comfortable and memorable stay.
After soaking up Shaftesbury’s charm, we headed to Stourhead, one of the most stunning estates in the area, to explore its gardens, lake, and historic house.
Visiting Stourhead: a National Trust gem
Just 11 miles from Shaftesbury, Stourhead (part of Wiltshire) is an easy, scenic drive to one of England’s most stunning estates.
Spanning around 2,500 acres, Stourhead is one of England’s most celebrated landscape gardens, and truly one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever visited.
At its heart is a magnificent man‑made lake framed by rare and exotic trees, with a one‑mile walking route that reveals classical highlights like the Palladian Bridge, the Pantheon, the Temple of Apollo and atmospheric grottoes, all set within gently rolling greenery.
The views change beautifully with the seasons, from blooming spring colour to dramatic autumn reflections, making it perfect for refreshing walks, picnics and soaking up nature and history in equal measure!
We spent a couple of hours wandering the gardens, but with a picnic, we could have happily stayed all day!
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply in need of a peaceful escape, Stourhead promises a truly memorable experience that lingers long after your walk ends.
Exploring the Ruins of Old Wardour Castle
From Shaftesbury, you can enjoy Dorset’s countryside and easily venture into Wiltshire to uncover fascinating historic sites, including Old Wardour Castle.
Old Wardour Castle in Wiltshire is a dramatic slice of English history frozen in time. Built in the 14th century, this stunning medieval ruin sits amidst rolling countryside and leafy parkland, offering a perfect mix of adventure and history.
The castle’s picturesque setting makes it ideal for photography, picnics, and scenic walks.
Every corner here feels like stepping into a storybook. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a unique day out, Old Wardour Castle is a must-visit gem tucked away in Wiltshire.
Dorset & Wiltshire highlights
There’s no shortage of attractions to explore from Shaftesbury, and here are my top four picks to inspire your next adventure!
Poole (26 miles, 42mn):
Poole, a charming coastal town in Dorset, is famous for its vast natural harbour and sandy beaches. Just a short trip away lies the Blue Lagoon, also known as the Blue Pool Nature Reserve, a magical pool renowned for its ever-changing colours.
I highly recommend visiting on a sunny day to fully experience its enchanting beauty.
Durdle door (32 miles, 52mn)
Durdle Door is an iconic landmark along the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most photographed spots on the coast!
To truly enjoy its beauty, I recommend visiting outside the peak summer season: spring or autumn offer a more peaceful experience.
Corfe Castle (32 miles, 47mn)
This thousand-year-old royal castle boasts a rich history and a stunning coastal setting. It’s another fascinating National Trust estate to explore and pairs perfectly with a visit to Poole.
Stonehenge (25 miles, 33mn)
Stonehenge needs no introduction. Conveniently located on the way to Shaftesbury (or back to London) it’s impossible to miss. You can admire it from the road, or, once restrictions ease, stop by to experience the site up close and soak in its ancient mystery.
Of course, Dorset has even more to offer, and I’m sure you’ll find it exciting to explore the map and uncover all its hidden gems!
Frog Cottage, Shaftesbury, Dorset
If you’re after accommodation full of charm and character, with the warmth of a true home away from home, Frog Cottage is the perfect choice!
Located in the heart of Shaftesbury, close to shops and restaurants, it’s the perfect spot for anyone who prefers to park the car and enjoy everything on foot.
A cosy, welcoming house in a charming town was all we needed for a perfect weekend escape from London. Add in the endless toys and games for the kids, and you’ve got what they declared “the best place on earth”! A little dramatic, maybe, but there’s definitely some truth in it!
We had an absolute blast at Frog Cottage! With space for up to 8 guests (4 bedrooms, 5 beds, and 1.5 bathrooms), it was perfect for our family stay. I can only recommend booking early so you don’t miss out!
I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and found inspiration here. If you are planning to visit some of the places mentioned in this post, please share your experience and opinion on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON!
Check out my other top getaway picks across England here!
To go further:
Stourhead National Trust: near Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6QD
Website
Old Wardour Castle: Tisbury, Salisbury SP3 6RR
Website
Frog Cottage: Shaftesbury
Website
