Panoramic view over the Blackmore Vale from the Abbey Gates

Wimborne

A small market town dominated by the twin towers of the imposing Minster church. The Minster (mainly Norman and up to l5th century), includes the famous Quarterjack clock, l4th century astronomical clock, tablet recording King Ethelred's burial in 871 and a chained library.  Other attractions include the Model Town and gardens.

The famous Wimborne Folk Festival takes place in June each year (see Events).

Distance: 20 miles, about 40 mins’ drive.

Wimborne Minster

Dorchester

The county town of Dorset.  Lots of Roman history, including the Roman Town House.  County museum with interesting collections, exhibitions and events.  Many Hardy links (Dorchester was Hardy’s Casterbridge).  Attractive old buildings.  Good shopping. 

 

And just 2 miles south: Maiden Castle, the largest hillfort in England, dating from 3000 BC.

 

Distance: 20 miles, about 40 mins’ drive

 

 

Corn Exchange

Town Pump

Hillyground Cottage Holidays

Self-Catering Holiday Cottages in the Heart of the Blackmore Vale

Self-catering holidays

in Dorset

Gold Hill

- the ancient cobbled street made famous by the Hovis ads

Shaftesbury

Perched on a hill high above the Blackmore Vale, Shaftesbury was founded 1100 years ago as the home of King Alfred’s citadel Benedictine Abbey.

 

Highlights include Gold Hill, the Abbey ruins and Museum, panoramic views along Park Walk, St James and Pump Yard. 

 

Shaftesbury was Hardy’s ‘Shaston’ and there are lots of associations for Hardy-lovers, including the schoolmaster’s house in Jude the Obscure.

 

Distance: 9 miles, about 30 mins’ drive.

 

 

Sherborne

Sherborne is one of the most beautiful towns in England, with an abundance of medieval buildings, a superb Abbey, world-famous Almshouse and two castles. 

Distance: 12 miles, about 20 mins’ drive

Sherborne Abbey

Almshouse of St John the Baptist and St John the Evangelist