Are you thinking about living in Shaftesbury?

There are few views in England as famous as the one from Gold Hill.

The steep, cobbled street, with its thatched cottages tumbling down the hillside, is the classic image of rural England.

But Shaftesbury is much more than a picture postcard; it’s a living, breathing market town with a fiercely independent spirit.

For anyone considering a move, Shaftesbury offers a unique proposition: a peaceful, community-focused lifestyle perched high above the Blackmore Vale.

At R.H. Pardy, we’ve been navigating Dorset’s lanes and helping families relocate for over a century.

We understand the lie of the land, and we know what makes this historic town a truly special place to call home. This guide gives you a real feel for what life in Shaftesbury is like today.

1. That Famous Hill and a History to Match

You can’t talk about Shaftesbury without mentioning Gold Hill.

Made famous by the Hovis advert, its charm is undeniable.

Yet, the town’s history runs far deeper. Founded by King Alfred the Great, Shaftesbury was once home to a hugely influential abbey, the ruins of which still lend the town centre a powerful atmosphere.

Living in Shaftesbury means your daily walk can take you past ancient stones and along panoramic viewpoints like Park Walk, where the sense of history is everywhere.

2. A Truly Independent High Street

Forget cloned high streets. Shaftesbury has held onto its character, with a town centre full of independent shops.

You’ll find proper butchers, bakers, cosy bookshops, and unique boutiques.

This isn’t just charming; it fuels a strong “shop local” culture that underpins the town’s community.

Regular events, including a buzzing monthly artisan market, bring people together and showcase the best of Dorset’s local produce.

Expert Insight from R.H. Pardy: “We often move families here from larger towns and cities. The feedback we get time and again is about the friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where you quickly get to know the shopkeepers, and that sense of belonging makes a real difference when you’re new to an area.”

3. Finding Your Footing: The Property Market

Character is the keyword when it comes to housing in Shaftesbury. The town offers everything from period cottages packed with original features to solid, post-war family homes and modern developments on the outskirts.

While Dorset can be an expensive county, Shaftesbury often delivers better value for money than the coastal hotspots.

• Average Prices (as of late 2025): The overall average house price hovers around £320,000.
• Property Types: Terraced houses, many with stunning views, are the most common, averaging around £255,000. A semi-detached family home typically costs around £350,000, with larger detached properties closer to £435,000.

4. Good Schools for Growing Families

For families putting down roots, Shaftesbury provides a solid educational base.

The town has several well-regarded primary schools, including The Abbey CofE VA Primary School.

For secondary education, Shaftesbury School is a popular choice, serving the town and its surrounding villages with a strong community focus.

5. Surrounded by Unspoilt Countryside

Shaftesbury’s position at over 700 feet above sea level guarantees one thing: incredible views.

The town is effectively an island in a sea of green, with stunning panoramas across the Blackmore Vale, Thomas Hardy’s “Vale of Little Dairies.”

It sits on the edge of the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, meaning world-class walking, cycling, and exploring is right on your doorstep.

6. A Town for Food Lovers

For a place of its size, Shaftesbury punches well above its weight in the food and drink department. There’s a fantastic selection of traditional pubs with roaring fires, independent cafes, and quality restaurants.

The Grosvenor Arms is a stylish focal point for dining, but you’ll also find excellent Italian food, classic British fare, and delis stocked with local Dorset cheeses and ciders.

7. Connections to the Wider World

You might feel like you’re in the heart of the countryside, but you’re not cut off.

Shaftesbury sits on the A30, giving straightforward road access to Salisbury (around 40 minutes).

Crucially, the nearby town of Gillingham (a 10-minute drive) has a mainline train station with direct services to London Waterloo.

This makes commuting or city day trips perfectly manageable.

Planning on living in Shaftesbury? Book Your Move with R.H. Pardy

Relocating to a unique hilltop town like Shaftesbury requires local know-how, especially when navigating its sometimes-narrow streets with removal vehicles.

As a BAR-accredited firm with over a century of experience in Dorset, R.H. Pardy Moving & Storage Ltd has the deep local knowledge to ensure your move is seamless.

From professional packing to secure storage solutions, we provide the assurance that you’re in the safest hands.

Speak with our friendly team today for a free, no-obligation quote and let us help you start your new life in Shaftesbury.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Shaftesbury a good place to retire? Shaftesbury is incredibly popular with retirees. Its peaceful atmosphere, strong community, accessible high street, and stunning scenery make it an ideal choice for those seeking a high quality of life.

2. What are the job opportunities like? The local economy is built around retail, hospitality, and services that support the community and tourism. Many residents find work in these sectors or commute to larger towns like Salisbury. The good train link from Gillingham also makes London a viable, if long, commute for some.

3. What is there to do in Shaftesbury? Aside from exploring its historic sites, Shaftesbury has a vibrant arts centre, a good selection of pubs and restaurants, and a busy calendar of local markets and events. It’s also the perfect base for exploring the incredible Dorset and Wiltshire countryside.