Shaftesbury hotels and self catering cottage accommodation in Shaftesbury

Dorset » Shaftesbury accommodation

One of the highest towns in the country, Shaftesbury is located over 750 feet above sea level. The Celtic tribes called it 'Caer Palladur', and its towering position over the whole region drove the Saxons to settle on top of it.

King Alfred, in the 9th century, made it a defended town and built an Abbey there, which would become a place of pilgrimage during the Middle Ages and bring wealth to the town. Only part of it has survived, after Henry VIII dissolved monasteries in the 16th century, inside a walled garden, product of an excavation.

Outside the Abbey lies the medieval St Peter's Church, featuring a vaulted porch and an ancient crypt and right at the top of Gold Hill, the famous cobblestone street which runs along the Abbey's walls. Numerous old cottages and great views can be had from this steep road, which also gives its name to the annual fundraiser Gold Hill Fair.

The market charter was received in the 13th century, but it wasn't until the 18th century that five important roads intersected here, making Shaftesbury a vital staging post and centre for coaches. Unfortunately, the town was later omitted from the railway's path, greatly diminishing its transit.

The Old School House stands out among the many beautiful historical buildings, while the Museum, behind the Town Hall, displays locally manufactured Dorset Buttons from the 19th century as well as other historic objects. Zigzag Hill, not far from town, offers some striking views of the nearby chase, while a variety of bars, cafés and restaurants make Shaftesbury an almost forgotten but great spot from where to discover Dorset.