Shaftesbury Hotels

Top reasons to visit Shaftesbury

• Historic Attractions: Visit iconic sites like Shaftesbury Abbey and the Abbey Museum, rich in history and culture.
• Picturesque Streets: Stroll through charming streets and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this delightful Dorset town.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in various outdoor activities, including golf and exploring scenic recreational areas.
• Cultural Experiences: Enjoy performances at the Shaftesbury Arts Centre and the Shaftesbury Theatre, perfect for art enthusiasts.
• Inviting Accommodations: Choose from charming bed and breakfasts and inns, offering a comfortable stay for all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, primarily featuring charming bed and breakfasts and inviting inns. Whether you're travelling with family, seeking a pet-friendly stay, or on a business trip, you'll find the perfect lodging to suit your needs. Discover unique venues like Rebels Apartments and Holbrook Bed, or enjoy a cosy retreat at Bakers Cottage, all equipped with modern amenities such as screen TVs for your comfort and convenience.

• The Keep: The Keep is a charming 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast located 30.6km from Shaftesbury, ideal for adventurous travellers. With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, this accommodation offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a focus on outdoor activities. Guests can indulge in various adventure sports, including birdwatching, horse riding, fishing, and sailing, making it a perfect base for exploring the breathtaking surroundings. The friendly staff are on hand to assist with local recommendations to enhance your adventurous getaway.
• The George Hotel: Situated 24.1km from Shaftesbury, The George Hotel is a 3-star establishment with a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, catering to those seeking a pet-friendly experience. This historic hotel allows pets onsite and is known for its warm hospitality. The property features amenities such as a pet policy that permits service animals and waives fees for them. Guests can appreciate the charming interiors and convenient facilities, making it a comfortable choice for those wishing to travel with their furry companions.
• The George Inn: The George Inn, a delightful 4-star inn located 25.7km from Shaftesbury, boasts a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This welcoming establishment is also pet-friendly and provides a range of amenities tailored for animal lovers, including food and water bowls and specific policies for dogs. The inn prides itself on its cosy atmosphere and attentive service, ensuring a memorable stay for both guests and their pets. Visitors can enjoy the historic charm while exploring the local area with their four-legged friends.

Where to stay in and around Shaftesbury

Exploring Shaftesbury offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Nestled in the heart of Dorset, the town centre boasts charming streets, friendly locals, and a relaxed atmosphere. Venture east to discover serene retreats, while nearby areas promise family-friendly activities and secluded spots for unwinding. With its stunning scenery and welcoming vibe, Shaftesbury is the perfect base for your vacation, inviting you to immerse yourself in its unique charm and beauty.

• Fontmell Magna: Nestled in the picturesque countryside near Shaftesbury, Fontmell Magna is a charming village that offers a delightful escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is known for its stunning scenery and recreational opportunities, making it a perfect destination for adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy activities such as golf at nearby courses, or explore the natural beauty of national parks and beaches in the vicinity. While the traveller numbers peak in the spring and early summer, Fontmell Magna’s tranquil atmosphere provides a year-round retreat for those looking to unwind amidst nature.
• Stour Provost: A quaint village also located within the Shaftesbury area, Stour Provost is rich in culture and history. It attracts families and culture-themed travellers with its array of historic monuments and buildings. The village has a warm community vibe, making it an inviting stop for visitors wanting to immerse themselves in local traditions and heritage. Peak travel occurs in the summer months, particularly in July and August, when families often visit to enjoy the outdoor spaces and local events that showcase the village’s cultural offerings.
• Silton: Located approximately 9.7km from Shaftesbury, Silton is a hidden gem that offers a unique cultural experience. The village sees a seasonal influx of visitors, particularly in the spring and autumn months. Silton is home to an arts centre and nearby galleries and museums, making it ideal for art enthusiasts. The local landscape adds to its charm, inviting exploration of both the village and surrounding countryside. With its rich cultural heritage, Silton provides a delightful experience for those seeking a quieter yet fulfilling visit.

Things to do near Shaftesbury

Shopping

Shaftesbury offers quaint shops and local boutiques perfect for unique gifts and souvenirs. For a larger selection, if you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Castlepoint Shopping Park, located around 25.7km away, featuring a variety of high street shops and dining options.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Shaftesbury Spa, where you can indulge in soothing treatments and rejuvenating therapies. For outdoor enthusiasts, the stunning Gold Hill offers scenic walks with picturesque views, ideal for a peaceful stroll and reflection amidst nature.

Adventure

At Go Ape in Moors Valley Ringwood, 30.6km from Shaftesbury, you can tackle exhilarating zip lines and challenging rope courses amidst stunning woodland scenery. Alternatively, Altitude High Ropes Adventure, located 38.6km away, offers more thrilling zip lines and high-altitude challenges for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Nightlife

Enjoy a lively evening at The Shaftesbury Arms on Bell Street, where you can savour local ales and engage in a friendly game of darts. For a more relaxed vibe, visit The Grosvenor Arms on Salisbury Road, featuring cosy seating and a selection of wines and spirits.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shaftesbury

When planning your visit to Shaftesbury, aim to travel during the cheaper months of January to February and October, with Tuesday being the most cost-effective day for accommodation. Avoid weekends, especially Saturdays, when prices are higher. Use Expedia to search for affordable hotels and consider package deals that combine accommodation with flights and activities for added savings. Exploring free attractions in the area will also help keep costs down, allowing you to enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Shaftesbury are January to February and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Shaftesbury is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Shaftesbury is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Shaftesbury hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury, a charming destination in England, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Visitors can explore historic attractions such as Shaftesbury Abbey, the Abbey Museum, and the scenic Shaftesbury Avenue. The town also boasts the Shaftesbury Arts Centre and the Shaftesbury Theatre, making it ideal for those looking for a romantic getaway or adventure-filled vacation amidst stunning scenery.

• Salisbury Cathedral: A stunning example of Early English Gothic architecture, Salisbury Cathedral features the tallest spire in the UK and a remarkable collection of historical artefacts, including the Magna Carta. The serene surroundings and beautiful grounds offer a tranquil atmosphere for reflection.
• Gold Hill Museum: Nestled in Shaftesbury, this charming museum showcases the rich heritage of the town. Visitors can explore local history through engaging exhibits, including artefacts, photographs, and stories that bring Shaftesbury's past to life.
• Center Parcs Longleat Forest: Just a short drive away, this expansive forest is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With activities such as cycling, hiking, and wildlife spotting, visitors can immerse themselves in nature and enjoy adventure in a picturesque setting.

Best time to go to Shaftesbury

The best time to visit Shaftesbury can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Shaftesbury falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Shaftesbury falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Shaftesbury

Reaching Shaftesbury is convenient with access to several major airports. London Heathrow (LHR) is 132.0km away, with nearby hotels like the Sheraton Heathrow Hotel, only 3.2km from the airport. SOUthampton Airport (SOU) is closer at 59.5km, featuring excellent hotel options such as the Leonardo Hotel Southampton , located 4.8km away. London Gatwick (LGW) is 143.2km from Shaftesbury, with hotels like Langshott Manor just 3.2km from the airport. Each hotel provides easy access to their respective airports, making your journey to Shaftesbury seamless and enjoyable.