Shaftesbury Hotels

Top reasons to visit Shaftesbury

• Scenic Outdoor Adventures: Shaftesbury boasts beautiful countryside perfect for hiking and exploration, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
• Historic Attractions: Discover the rich history at sites like Shaftesbury Abbey and the Abbey Museum, showcasing the town's cultural heritage.
• Charming Town Centre: Enjoy quaint shops and delightful cafés in the friendly atmosphere of Shaftesbury’s town centre.
• Unique Accommodation: Choose from a variety of charming bed and breakfasts and cosy inns for a memorable stay.
• Local Markets and Events: Engage with the community through local flea markets and unique visitor experiences.

Find great hotels near Shaftesbury

Discover a charming selection of accommodation options in Shaftesbury, perfect for every type of traveller. From delightful bed and breakfasts to cosy inns, you’ll find pet-friendly and family-oriented services to ensure a memorable stay. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing escape at Holbrook Bed or a self-catering experience at Rebels Apartments, Shaftesbury offers a welcoming atmosphere with modern amenities, including screen TVs and comfortable beds, for a truly enjoyable holiday.

• George Hotel: The George Hotel is a charming 4-star inn located 27km from Shaftesbury, known for its pet-friendly atmosphere that welcomes furry companions. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this hotel offers amenities like food and water bowls, making it an excellent choice for animal lovers. The hotel’s rustic decor and warm hospitality provide a homely feel, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're exploring the beautiful countryside or simply enjoying the comfort of your room, the George Hotel is an inviting base for your travels.
• Mercure White Hart Hotel Salisbury and Apartments: Situated 29km from Shaftesbury, the Mercure White Hart Hotel is a stylish 4-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This accommodation caters to business travellers and holidaymakers alike, offering pet-friendly options for those who wish to travel with their pets. The hotel features modern amenities, including conference facilities, alongside its comfortable rooms. With its ideal location, guests can easily access local attractions while enjoying a blend of comfort and convenience during their stay.
• Legacy Rose and Crown Hotel: The Legacy Rose and Crown Hotel, also 29km from Shaftesbury, boasts a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This 4-star hotel is a great choice for business travellers looking for a professional atmosphere combined with comfort. The hotel features well-appointed rooms and facilities for meetings, ensuring a seamless experience for work. Guests will appreciate the traditional charm and picturesque surroundings, making it an ideal retreat after a busy day of meetings or exploring the nearby attractions.

Where to stay in and around Shaftesbury

During your visit to Shaftesbury, you'll uncover a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and charming scenery. The town centre offers a friendly atmosphere with quaint shops and cafés, perfect for relaxation. Explore the beautiful countryside to the east of Shaftesbury, where secluded retreats await. With its rich culture and welcoming locals, Shaftesbury promises a memorable escape for every traveller seeking both adventure and tranquillity.

• Gillingham: Located approximately 6km from Shaftesbury, Gillingham is a vibrant town that offers a delightful mix of outdoor and cultural experiences. With a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, peaking in April, July, and September, it's an ideal spot for adventure seekers. Gillingham boasts a variety of attractions including a shopping centre, arts centre, and several historical landmarks. You can explore monuments and historic buildings that tell the rich story of the area. The town's community spirit and local events add to its charm, making it a perfect stop for tourists looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
• Motcombe: Nestled in the vicinity of Shaftesbury, Motcombe is a quaint village that captures the essence of rural England. While it sees a consistent flow of visitors, it particularly attracts tourists in the spring and summer months. Known for its cultural offerings and outdoor pursuits, visitors can enjoy scenic walks and explore striking historic houses and buildings. The village’s peaceful atmosphere and stunning countryside views make it a lovely retreat for those seeking a quieter experience in Dorset.
• Fontmell Magna: This picturesque village, also located near Shaftesbury, is a hidden gem for those who appreciate nature and stunning scenery. With visitor numbers peaking in the warmer months, especially in April and July, Fontmell Magna is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The village offers access to recreational areas, including golf courses, and is close to national parks that provide breathtaking landscapes. Ideal for a leisurely escape, Fontmell Magna invites you to explore its charming streets while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding countryside.

Things to do near Shaftesbury

Shopping

Shaftesbury offers charming local shops along the High Street, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby town of Gillingham, where you can explore larger retail options and a bustling market atmosphere.

Recreation

Shaftesbury boasts the tranquil Gold Hill Spa, where you can unwind with holistic treatments and soothing therapies. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers stunning landscapes, ideal for leisurely walks and mindfulness in nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Go Ape at Moors Valley Ringwood, located 31km from Shaftesbury, where you can conquer zip lines and high ropes courses amidst stunning natural surroundings. Alternatively, take on the Altitude High Ropes Adventure, 39km away, for exhilarating aerial challenges and breathtaking views.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant atmosphere at The Salt Cellar on High Street, known for its eclectic cocktails and friendly vibe. For a more laid-back evening, visit The Royal George, where you can enjoy a range of ales and a delightful pub quiz on select nights.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shaftesbury

For a budget-friendly visit to Shaftesbury, consider travelling during the cheaper months of January, February, or October, and aim for a Tuesday stay to save on accommodation. Avoid weekends, particularly Saturdays, when prices peak. Use Expedia to search for hotels within your budget, filtering for eco-friendly options and comparing rates for the best deals. To maximise savings, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into a package. Additionally, explore free local attractions and utilise affordable public transport options to save further during your holiday.

• 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results by price, displaying the most affordable hotels at the top. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category—selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Shaftesbury with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury is an excellent destination for outdoor and scenic adventures, steeped in history and culture. Visitors can explore notable attractions such as Shaftesbury Abbey, the Abbey Museum, the Theatre, the Arts Centre, and the charming Shaftesbury Avenue. This picturesque town offers a perfect blend of romance and adventure, making it ideal for travellers seeking enriching experiences amidst its historic houses, cathedrals, and castles.

• Wimborne Minster: Located 27km from Shaftesbury, this charming old town is renowned for its stunning Minster church, with intricate architecture and a rich history. Visitors can enjoy the quaint streets lined with independent shops, cafés, and the vibrant local culture that permeates the area.
• Old Sarum: Situated 29km away, this historic site offers a fascinating glimpse into England's past. Explore the ruins of an ancient hillfort and cathedral, while soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, reflecting its significant role in history.
• Royal Signals Museum: Just 16km from Shaftesbury, this technology museum showcases the evolution of military communication. Interactive displays and exhibits provide insight into the vital role of signals in warfare, making it an engaging experience for history and technology enthusiasts.

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.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	47.5°F (8.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	62.1°F (16.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
September	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	46.4°F (8.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Shaftesbury

Reaching Shaftesbury is convenient via several major airports. London Heathrow (LHR) is approximately 132km away, with luxurious hotels nearby such as Sofitel London Heathrow, located 3km from the airport, and Great Fosters, 10km away. London Gatwick (LGW), situated about 143km from Shaftesbury, offers nearby options like Alexander House And Utopia Spa, just 8km away. Bristol International Airport (BRS) is the closest, at 55km, with excellent inns like The Rising Sun, 3km from the airport. Each of these airports provides accessible transport options to the respective hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay before heading to Shaftesbury.