Want to spend time exploring the old market town of Blandford and wondering what there is to see and do?
Here’s all you need to know to get the most from your time exploring this unique Georgian gem with its stunning architecture, charming parish church and wonderful market place.
A great place to browse, shop and explore.
Fascinating town history
Located on the banks of the River Stour, Blandford Forum is the most complete, small Georgian town in England and is located in the north of Dorset.
In the early 18th century, fires decimated much of the town, but it was largely rebuilt and is a wonderful example of Georgian architecture.
Most town centre buildings date from this early period and were designed by the Bastard brothers, noted architects of the time.
The Fire Monument in the Market place acknowledges its fiery past and a visit to the Blandford Museum tells the intriguing story of the rebirth of the town.
Markets and Shopping
Surrounding the attractive market place is a variety of independent shops and boutiques, cafes, restaurants and pubs.
You will also find a mix of brand names and independent retailers along West Street, East Street and Salisbury Street. Don't forget to check out the shops found in the side streets and alleys including Barnack Walk, Hardys Yard, Georgian Passage and Tabernacle Walk.
For a local 'tipple' pay a visit to the Hall and Woodhouse Brewery and shop where you can buy bottles of famous Badger beer.
There are also a number of indoor and outdoor markets in Blandford Forum throughout the week.
Food and Drink
The historic town of Blandford Forum has a wide variety of places to eat and drink ranging from independent coffee shops and cafes to the local brewery – brewing award winning Badger beers since 1777.
There are pubs, bars and bistros too, so there is plenty on offer for all occasions and budgets.
Many are now offering takeaway options for delivery to your door or to grab and go for a picnic in Dorset.
Blandford's biggest event!
The Great Dorset Steam Fair takes place annually on the late Bank Holiday weekend and is an amazing, fun and action packed day out for all the family.
It’s the World’s largest heritage and cultural event and is a must for anyone interested in how people lived, worked and played in bygone years.
With over 2,000 exhibits including an old time steam funfair, it’s a huge, colourful festival that celebrates our national heritage.
Where shall we explore today?
Blandford Fashion Museum, located in Lime Tree House, a beautiful Georgian building, contains a wonderful collection of fashions dating from the early 18th century to the 1970's and includes day wear, evening wear, wedding dresses and accessories.
Nearby Kingston Lacy is a lavish family home in rural Dorset countryside, built to resemble an Italian Palace. There’s plenty to see, from grand, beautifully detailed carvings, to intimate family souvenirs and even strange curiosities such as an ‘I owe you’ note from a king. See paintings by Rubens, Van Dyck, Titian and Brueghel and the largest private collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts in the UK. Enjoy a summer picnic on the lawn or let the children run wild in the nearby play areas. There’s plenty of space to explore on this 8,500 acre estate.
If you want to get out and about there are plenty of lovely walks in and around Blandford.
The North Dorset Trailway is a splendid walking and cycling path that runs along a dismantled railway line from Stalbridge to Spetisbury via Blandford with regular views of the River Stour.
If you'd like to walk a little further, the White Hart Link walking route links the 5 North Dorset towns in a 50 mile circular, passing through many pretty villages and idylic countryside.
Plan your break to Blandford
Feeling inspired to explore more of this beautiful part of north Dorset? Start planning your break today.
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