Shaftesbury

Introduction :
Nestled in the heart of Dorset, Shaftesbury is a charming market town known for its picturesque views and rich history. Home to the iconic Gold Hill, made famous by the Hovis bread advert, Shaftesbury offers a mix of independent shops, cafes, and historic buildings for visitors to explore. With a history dating back to Saxon times, this town exudes a quintessentially English charm that attracts tourists and locals alike.

This website is not affiliated with any product, service or brand. Data has been gathered from a variety of sources. It is provided "as is" without warranty. Please do your own research and check with primary information sources before making decisions.

Advantages :
  • Shaftesbury has a rich history and charming medieval architecture.
  • The town offers a peaceful and picturesque countryside setting.
  • Shaftesbury has a strong sense of community and friendly locals.
  • There are good schools and educational opportunities in the area.
  • The town has a variety of shops, restaurants, and amenities to enjoy.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living
  • Higher crime rates compared to surrounding areas
  • Limited educational opportunities
  • Lack of tourist attractions
Points of interest :
Shaftesbury is known for its iconic Gold Hill, a steep cobbled street featured in the Hovis bread advert. Visitors can explore the ruins of Shaftesbury Abbey, founded in the 9th century. The town offers picturesque views from Castle Hill and the historic St. Peter's Church. Shaftesbury has a rich history dating back to Saxon times and is mentioned in the Domesday Book. The town hosts various events throughout the year, including the Shaftesbury Fringe Festival. Visitors can enjoy shopping in the independent shops and sampling local cuisine in the cafes and restaurants.


Facts and figures

Type : Town.
Shaftesbury is a historic market town in Dorset, known for its picturesque setting and traditional market square. With a range of shops, cafes, and attractions, it offers a vibrant community atmosphere.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The exact population size of Shaftesbury is currently unknown. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the accurate population figure for this market town.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Shaftesbury is currently unknown. It is recommended to consult local real estate websites or agencies for the most up-to-date information on housing prices in the area.
Crime : .
Crime in Shaftesbury is relatively low compared to other towns. The community is tight-knit, and the town has a strong police presence, contributing to a safe environment for residents and visitors.
🟢 Education : Good.
Education in Shaftesbury is well-regarded with a range of primary and secondary schools offering quality education. The town also has a college providing further education opportunities for students.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Shaftesbury offers average employment opportunities with a mix of local businesses, shops, and services. While there are some job prospects within the town, residents may also commute to nearby cities for additional work options.


Geographical features

Elevation : 650 feet
Shaftesbury is situated at an elevation of approximately 650 feet above sea level, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside in the heart of Dorset.
Topology : Hilly and picturesque
Shaftesbury is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Blackmore Vale, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The town's steep and winding streets add to its charm and character.
⚪ Coastal : Unknown.
Shaftesbury is located inland in Dorset, England. While it is not a coastal town, it is situated approximately 20 miles northwest of the nearest coastline along the English Channel.
🟢 River : Yes.
Shaftesbury has the River Stour running through it, adding to the town's picturesque charm. The river provides a tranquil setting for residents and visitors to enjoy nature and outdoor activities.
🟢 Lake : Yes.
Shaftesbury is situated near the beautiful Fonthill Lake, a short drive away. The lake provides a peaceful escape for residents and visitors to enjoy nature and outdoor activities.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Shaftesbury's waterways are primarily natural, with no known man-made reservoirs or canals in the town. Further research may be needed to confirm the presence of any such features.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Shaftesbury has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Angus in 2016. The town is situated near the River Stour, which can contribute to flood risk.


Local facilities

🟢 Train station : Yes.
Shaftesbury has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access for both residents and visitors to travel to other destinations in the UK.
Transport links :
Shaftesbury has good transport links to other areas with the A350 running through the town, connecting to major roads and motorways such as the A303 and M3 for easy access to surrounding towns and cities.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Shaftesbury has a primary school called Shaftesbury Primary School, providing education for children in the local area. The school has received positive feedback from Ofsted for its teaching and facilities.
Secondary school : .
Shaftesbury has one secondary school called Shaftesbury School. It has a good reputation and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students in the area.
🟢 College : Yes.
Shaftesbury has a college called Shaftesbury Sixth Form, providing post-16 education for students in the area. It offers a range of courses and opportunities for further education and training.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Shaftesbury has a tourist information facility/office to assist visitors with information about the town's attractions, accommodations, events, and more. It is a helpful resource for tourists exploring the area.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Shaftesbury has a post office located in the town, providing postal services to residents and visitors. It is a convenient facility for sending and receiving mail and packages.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Shaftesbury has a public library available for residents and visitors to access a wide range of books, resources, and services for educational and recreational purposes.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Shaftesbury has a police station, providing essential law enforcement services to the local community and ensuring public safety and security in the town.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Shaftesbury has an NHS hospital, providing healthcare services to the town's residents and surrounding areas. The hospital plays a vital role in the community's healthcare infrastructure.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Shaftesbury has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to residents and visitors in case of emergencies.