Blandford Forum Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Blandford Forum Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Blandford Forum packs a punch for sightseeing despite its modest size. The town centre is a Georgian architectural showcase with over 100 listed buildings. Start at the Market Place where you'll find the parish church of St Peter and St Paul with its distinctive cupola - it's one of Britain's finest Georgian churches.

The Blandford Town Museum (DT11 7HA, open Tues-Sat 10am-4pm) houses fascinating local exhibits including items from the Great Fire of 1731. TripAdvisor rates it 4/5 with visitors praising the friendly volunteers.

Just outside town, Kingston Lacy House (BH21 4EA) is a stunning country mansion with Egyptian artefacts and extensive gardens. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor and opens 10am-5pm daily except Thursdays.

The Priest's House Museum in Wimborne Minster (BH21 1HR, 10am-4:30pm Mon-Sat) is worth the 15-minute drive, scoring 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. Its walled garden is particularly lovely in summer.

I recommend visiting Badbury Rings (DT11 9JQ), an Iron Age hill fort with spectacular views across Dorset. It's free to visit and open dawn till dusk. Bring your walking boots!

Pet Friendly

Many Blandford Forum cottages welcome dogs and the area is brilliant for four-legged visitors. The town sits on the edge of Cranborne Chase AONB with endless walking opportunities. We've found locals are generally relaxed about well-behaved dogs.

The Crown & Anchor pub (DT11 7AJ) in town has a dog-friendly bar area and even offers treats for good dogs. The Langton Arms (DT11 9HE) in nearby Tarrant Monkton not only welcomes dogs but provides water bowls and has a large garden.

For off-lead exercise, try Stour Meadows along the riverside path - there's a dedicated dog exercise area. Just watch for livestock in adjacent fields.

Hambledon Hill National Nature Reserve offers spectacular walks with your dog (on lead during ground-nesting bird season). The views from the top are worth the climb and your dog will love the exercise.

Remember to pack towels for muddy paws after countryside walks - especially useful before getting back in the hot tub!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Blandford Forum

The Fashion Museum (DT11 7AJ, Tues-Sat 10am-4pm) houses an outstanding collection of historic clothing from the 18th century onwards. It's housed in a beautiful Georgian building and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. The volunteer guides are incredibly knowledgeable. "I was blown away by the quality of the displays and how much I learned," wrote one recent visitor.

Hall & Woodhouse Brewery (DT11 9LS) offers fascinating tours showing how they've brewed Badger beers since 1777. Tours run Wednesday-Saturday at 11am and 2pm, cost £15 and include tastings. They score 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor with visitors particularly praising the generous samples! Book ahead as they often sell out.

The Great Dorset Steam Fair (held annually near Blandford, usually late August) is Europe's largest gathering of steam and vintage equipment. It's a massive event with over 200,000 visitors. "Even if you're not into machinery, the scale and atmosphere are incredible," notes one TripAdvisor reviewer. The fair scores 4.5/5 overall. Check dates before booking your cottage if you want to coincide with this event.

Is Blandford Forum good for families?

Yes! Kids love the riverside walks and playgrounds at Stour Meadows. The Blandford Fashion Museum runs children's dress-up sessions during school holidays. Nearby attractions include Monkey World (20 minutes drive) and Adventure Wonderland (25 minutes). Many cottages with hot tubs are family-friendly with enclosed gardens.

What's the best time to visit Blandford Forum?

May to September offers the best weather for enjoying your hot tub. The town hosts a Georgian Fayre in May with period costumes and street entertainment. August brings the Steam Fair, while autumn offers beautiful colours in the surrounding countryside.

Are there good restaurants in Blandford Forum?

Yes! Try The Venner (DT11 7AJ) for modern British food, Origami (DT11 7AA) for excellent Japanese, or The Crown Hotel (DT11 7AJ) for traditional fare. The farmers' market (every 2nd Friday) is great for local produce if you're cooking at your cottage.

Can I get around without a car?

It's possible but limiting. Blandford has bus connections to Poole, Salisbury and surrounding villages. Taxis are available but booking ahead is essential. The nearest train station is Gillingham (11 miles) with connections to London and Exeter.

What's the nightlife like?

Blandford is quiet after dark, which is why many visitors appreciate returning to their cottage hot tub with a glass of wine! The Crown Hotel has a decent bar and there are several traditional pubs including The Greyhound and The Kings Arms. For serious nightlife, you'll need to head to Bournemouth (30 minutes drive).

How far is the coast from Blandford Forum?

The Jurassic Coast is about 30 minutes drive, with Poole and Bournemouth beaches 25-30 minutes away. Studland Bay (35 minutes) offers beautiful sandy beaches. After a day at the coast, your cottage hot tub will feel even better!

1. Visit Dorset - Official Blandford Forum Guide
2. Blandford Forum Town Council - Visitor Information
3. Kingston Lacy - National Trust