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Market Towns

There are a variety of fascinating market towns to explore in Dorset. Follow the town trails and discover their colourful histories and beautiful buildings. Spend time browsing the local shops for unique gifts and indulge in some of the wonderful pubs, restaurants and cafes serving simply good local food.

Beaminster

With over 200 listed buildings, Beaminster is a charming place to shop and sample the local fare. It stands at the head of Dorset's 'Hidden Valley', the historic vale of the River Brit, known for its wonderful walks.

Blandford

Located on the banks of the River Stour, Blandford Forum is unique in Dorset for its Georgian architecture, particularly its stunning marketplace and parish church. The home of Hall and Woodhouse `Badger` ales and the Royal Signals, and host to the annual Great Dorset Steam Fair, this picturesque town offers four museums and a wide choice of local shops.

Market: Thursday and Saturday
Farmers' Market: Every 2nd Friday of the month

Bridport

Bridport is a friendly and vibrant market town with its own thriving artistic and literary community. It is recognised for the quality and variety of its locally produced food and has its own food festival. The town is also one of the gateways to the Jurassic Coast, being just over one mile inland from the colourful harbour at West Bay.

Market: Wednesday and Saturday
Farmers' Market: 2nd Saturday of the month

Dorchester

With its elegant 18th century houses, broad walks and cultural tradition, Dorchester is still very much the 'Casterbridge' of Thomas Hardy's novels. There's plenty to discover in Dorset's county town, including fascinating attractions such as the Roman Town House, the finest of its kind in Britain, and the Dorset County Museum. The busy town centre offers varied shopping and there is a busy weekly market. Prince Charles's internationally renowned Poundbury can be found on the western side of the town and it is here that the monthly farmers' market takes place.

Market: Wednesday
Farmers' Market: 1st Saturday of the month (at Poundbury)

Shaftesbury

This hilltop Saxon town has stunning views over three counties and is the home of 'Gold Hill' made famous by the 'Hovis' advertisement for its idyllic English view. The busy town centre has a lovely atmosphere with a range of local shops and places to eat. The Shaftesbury Abbey Museum and Garden is set on the site of a Saxon Benedictine Abbey founded by King Alfred in 888AD.

Market: Thursday
Country and Farmers' Market: 1st Saturday of the month

Sherborne

Sherborne is a beautiful, fascinating town nestled in green valleys and wooded hills. There are many fine art and antique shops as well as a variety of individually owned shops and boutiques to browse around. The town has a wealth of history and is renowned for its ancient Abbey Church, famous schools, 15th century almshouse and two castles, one built by Sir Walter Raleigh.

Market: Thursday and Saturday
Farmers' Market: 3rd Friday of the month

Sturminster Newton

A delightful market town situated in the heart of the Blackmore Vale. Explore the historic market place and the town's charming lanes and visit the Sturminster Newton Mill - one of the few working mills in Dorset. The annual Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival in September is a two day extravaganza of local food and drink, crafts, music and entertainment.

Market: Monday
Farmers' Market: 4th Saturday of the month

Wareham

Wareham, an attractive and tranquil town, lies between the rivers Frome and Piddle and has been a market town for over 500 years. The perfect way to discover the town's history is to follow the Walls Walk, which traces the Saxon town walls. From the lively quay, you can take a boat trip, hire your own boat or follow the waymarked circular riverside walk.

Market: Thursday and Saturday
Farmers' Market: 4th Thursday of the month

Wimborne Minster

Wimborne is steeped in history and has a wonderful atmosphere making it a fascinating town to visit. Explore the quaint streets and hidden courtyards with their variety of small shops and boutiques and visit the bright and lively weekly markets. The annual Wimborne Folk Festival in June is a weekend event which transforms the town's streets with colour, music and dancing.

Market: Friday (including a Farmers' Market), Saturday and Sunday
Farmers' Market: 2nd Saturday of the month (town centre)