Jasmine O’Hare and photographer Jayne Jackson share their new favourite spot in Dorset.

Nestled in a beautiful natural valley and surrounded by rolling hills is Beaminster, a charming town that’s perfect for a peaceful and relaxing day out. It’s just five miles north of Bridport and ten minutes from West Bay’s coastline.

Here are some of our favourite cultural spots in the town for some shopping, especially in the summer months, and an exciting festival in June.

Little Toller Books

This powerhouse is both an independent publisher of books and a beautiful bookshop in Beaminster. Little Toller Books started with a singular purpose: to revive forgotten and classic books about nature and rural life in the British Isles, and it now publishes writers and artists who reconnect us with the natural world and celebrate the places we live in.

Rambling Rose Florists

Dedicated to selling english garden flowers, Rambling Rose Florists stocks mostly locally grown flowers from Spring to late Autumn. They even grow their own tulips, sweet peas and dahlias.

Sophie’s Studio

Artist and Illustrator Sophie Harrison Knibbs opened a lovely studio and gallery in Beaminster in 2017. Pop in to view beautiful artworks from local artists. Art & Beyond, Art Framers and Gallery A creative duo have dedicated their lives to serving the creatives in Dorset. Their shop offers professional and friendly framing services and showcases artworks by Dorset’s emerging and established artists. They offer a discount during Dorset Art Weeks to help the creative community, and it’s a lovely place to find your next favourite artist.

Beaminster Festival

The Beaminster Festival is an annual highlight in the Town, and this year it will be held from 17 - 30 June 2024. It’s a big celebration of the creativity in Dorset and features music, arts, and plenty of activities for all ages. It’s a great way to experience the town’s vibrant spirit.

All images by Jayne Jackson. Written in collaboration with Arts Development Company.

Thinking of booking a spring or summer break to Beaminster?

Book one of the many accommodation options close to the town centre or in the nearby villages and hamlets. Choose from boutique hotels, self-catering cottages, historic inns and even shepherd's huts with hot tubs!