The Grosvenor Arms

This beautifully styled Georgian coaching inn, with roofs dating back to medieval times, has captured the essence of Shaftesbury and its history whilst combining this with modern luxuries to create an atmosphere of modern rusticity. The leather seats and deer antlers in the lounge, combined with the glow of the fireplace, will have you almost falling asleep in the cosy atmosphere, were it not for the artisan cocktails providing the place with an excited buzz. The restaurant is run by famed chef, Tom Blake, former head chef of River Cottage, so you can rest assured that the food will be mouthwateringly divine.

The rooms are chic, decorated in neutral tones, with all of the amenities needed to make your stay the most comfortable possible (including a Nespresso machine for that necessary morning coffee). Pets are welcomed in all rooms, so your furry friends can join you for your relaxed vacation. Rooms on the 1st floor are fully accessible by elevator but rooms on the 2nd floor require climbing a flight of stairs, so make sure to ask for a room which suits you better. 

The location is outstanding, just 100m away from the Gold Hill that looks out over the Blackmore Vale. Shaftesbury itself, the Shaston from Thomas Hardy's novels, is overflowing with Saxon history. King Alfred the Great chose this quintessential British village as the location for his Abbey. Explore the chalk downlands and ancient woods in the area and then set out to visit some more historical towns. You'll find Bath, Salisbury, Old Wardour Castle, Stonehenge, and Lulworth Cover all within an hour's radius, as well as some of England's most beautiful manor houses and landscapes.