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Abbotsbury is a popular, pretty, picture-postcard village steeped in history and surrounded by spectacular scenery.
It’s home to two of Dorset’s most popular attractions; The Swannery and Subtropical Gardens.
Read on to see why this is one of the most visited villages in Dorset…
One of the most striking features about Abbotsbury is its aesthetic appeal.
As you wander down its archetypical Dorset streets, you’ll be surrounded by delightful cottage architecture (with many buildings dating back to the 16th century), traditional country tea rooms and olde worlde pubs.
If you are approaching Abbotsbury from the west, the descent down into the village rewards you with one of the most awe-inspiring views in the whole of Dorset with panoramas over Chesil Beach and Portland.
A truly unique experience, Abbotsbury Swannery is home to the only colony of nesting mute swans that can be visited anywhere in the world.
From mid-May to the end of June, the Swannery pathways and streams are filled with baby swans and if you time your visit just right, you will even be able to witness and take photographs of the cygnets hatching before your eyes!
Families can also help hand feed 600 swans at 12.00 noon and 4.00pm daily, get lost in the largest willow maze in Dorset, swing on the swinging nests play area, and dine at the Kennels café.
Winner of a silver medal at Chelsea and silver gilt at Hampton Court, the exotic paradise that is Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is set inside a magnificent Victorian walled garden, the unique micro climate enabling rare and tropical species from all over the world to thrive.
Trails meander up and down through woodland, sunken gardens with golden pheasants and alongside the stream crossed by a succession of Japanese-style bridges and there’s a superb colonial style teahouse in which to stop for refreshments.
Abbotsbury offers much more than first meets the eye and the village is steeped in history.
Abbotsbury was once home to a richly endowed abbey, founded in 1044. The remains are still visible and date from the 13th and 14th centuries.
Nearby is the abbey's vast tithe barn, built about 1400, and there are further abbey remains in the churchyard of St Nicholas Church, including two medieval sarcophagi.
High on Abbotsbury hilltop sits St Catherine’s Chapel, a barrel-vaulted 14th century chapel built by the monks of Abbotsbury Abbey as a place of pilgrimage and retreat.
Make your way up the hill, take in the fantastic views of the abbey ruins, and explore the nooks and crannies of this curious little chapel, including the 'wishing holes' where local women used to pray to St Catherine and ask her to find them a husband
If you are a fan of art, you will love exploring Abbotsbury’s many craft exhibitions and galleries.
Here is the village you’ll find contemporary furniture, antiques, handcrafted silver jewellery & silverware, woodwork, fine art, stone carvings and sculpture.
They’re a creative bunch in Abbotsbury!
The scenic setting of Abbotsbury makes it a hotspot for walkers.
There are many footpaths to be taken up and over the undulating folds of farmland that surround the village, each route offering tremendous views over the lush green fields and across the sparkling sea to Portland.
Hikers can choose to venture up to Hardy Monument, where Nelson's fighting companion is remembered, or across to the quaint neighbouring villages of Portesham and Little Bredy or even take in an ancient stone circle or two.
There are some beautiful properties in the Abbotsbury area, from cottages hidden away in secluded valleys such as Gorwell Farm to beach front holiday homes like Katrek.
Abbotsbury a popular visitor destination and it's an ideal base from which to explore the highlights of West Dorset.
Browse our list of Abbotsbury accommodation and we’re sure you’ll find somewhere that ticks all the boxes.
Number of results: 9
WEYMOUTH
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WEYMOUTH
Comfortable well equipped spacious cottages in secluded scenic valley near coastal path and beaches.
West Bexington
The picturesque park is set amongst six acres and provides a peaceful haven even at the peak of the holiday season. It is ideal for those who appreciate a quiet and relaxing holiday yet is within easy reach of Weymouth, Dorchester & Bridport
WEYMOUTH
Sleepers is a comfortably furnished and tastefully modernised former railway station with the platform still preserved. The property sleeps 4 and stands in its own grounds amid beautiful Hardy country in the charming village of Portesham.
Dorchester
Four great properties, ideally located for exploring West Dorset and the Lyme Regis area. Great for family holidays or walking breaks. Family friendly properties can accommodate 19, 13, 6 and 4 with a homely feel.
JURASSIC COAST
Overlooking the Chesil Beach in the heart of the Jurassic Coast, our cottages are surrounded by unspoilt countryside on our organic farm. They provide a comfortable and relaxing base to explore and enjoy this part of Dorset, or simply to make the…
Dorchester
Standing in it’s own secluded grounds with wonderful sea views across the world-famous Jurassic Coast, this house is divided into 3 tastefully furnished self contained apartments.
East Shilvinghampton is less than 10 minutes from dramatic Chesil Beach and only 15 minutes from the golden sand of Weymouth Beach, and offers panoramic views across the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. East Shilvinghampton's luxury…
Dorchester
Small family run campsite in a lovely village which is mainly stone built with some thatched cottages. The pub is nearby. Situated in a beautiful conservation area in west Dorset. www.homefarmcaravanandcampsite.com
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