Sturminster Newton Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Sturminster Newton Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Sturminster Newton packs in plenty of interest despite its small size. The town's most famous landmark is the working watermill (DT10 1EW, open April-September, Sundays and Bank Holidays 11am-5pm). Dating back to the Domesday Book, it's one of the few remaining mills that still produces flour using traditional methods.

The Exchange (DT10 1FH) serves as the town's arts centre and hosts regular events, exhibitions and performances. It's worth checking their schedule before your visit as they often feature well-known comedians and musicians.

Sturminster Newton Museum (DT10 1AS) tells the story of the town's past, including its once-thriving cattle market which was among the largest in Europe. The museum scores 4/5 on TripAdvisor and opens Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-4pm from April to October.

For walkers, the North Dorset Trailway follows the old Somerset and Dorset railway line, offering flat, easy walking with great views. You can access it directly from the town and walk as far as you like before returning for a dip in your hot tub.

Pet Friendly

Dogs will love the countryside around Sturminster Newton. The Trailway mentioned above is perfect for dog walks, with plenty of spots where they can run off-lead. The River Stour also offers pleasant walking routes where dogs can splash about.

The White Hart pub (DT10 1AN) welcomes dogs in its bar area and garden, even providing water bowls and treats. They serve good pub grub too, so you can enjoy lunch without leaving your four-legged friend behind.

Sturminster Newton Common is a great open space for exercising energetic dogs, with 30 acres to explore. The Common has remained largely unchanged for centuries and offers a mix of grassland and wooded areas.

If you need pet supplies during your stay, Pets Corner (DT10 1QU) stocks essentials and the staff are happy to advise on local dog-friendly spots. Most cottages with hot tubs in the area provide secure gardens, but always check the boundary fencing if your dog's a wanderer.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Sturminster Newton

Sturminster Newton Mill is my top recommendation. This 1000-year-old working watermill offers fascinating guided tours where you'll see the machinery in action. You can buy freshly-ground flour to take back to your cottage for baking. The riverside location is stunning, with a picnic area where you can watch kingfishers and otters if you're lucky. Visitors consistently rate it 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor, praising the knowledgeable guides.

Fiddleford Manor (DT10 2BX) sits just outside town and is an English Heritage site with free entry. This medieval manor house dates from the 14th century and features an impressive great hall with original roof timbers. It's small but atmospheric and rarely crowded. Open Thursday to Sunday during summer months, 10am-4pm. One visitor called it "a hidden gem that feels like stepping back in time."

The Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival (held annually in September) transforms the town with over 60 artisan cheese producers. Beyond cheese, you'll find local cider, crafts and live music. It's grown from a small local event to one that attracts visitors from across the UK. If your visit doesn't coincide with the festival, you can still sample local cheeses at The Udder Farm Shop (DT10 1FE), just outside town.

Is Sturminster Newton good for shopping?

The town has a small but characterful high street with independent shops rather than chains. Market day (Monday) brings additional stalls selling local produce. For serious shopping, you'll need to head to Sherborne (15 minutes drive) or Dorchester (30 minutes).

Where's the best place to eat in Sturminster Newton?

The Swan Inn (DT10 1AF) consistently gets the best reviews, offering locally-sourced food in a traditional pub setting. For something different, try Spice Cottage (DT10 1AN) which serves excellent Indian cuisine. Both get booked up quickly, especially at weekends.

Can I get around Sturminster Newton without a car?

There's a limited bus service connecting to Sherborne and Yeovil. The X10 runs Monday to Saturday, but services are infrequent. A car is definitely recommended for exploring the wider area and making the most of your stay.

What's the best time of year to visit?

Spring and early autumn offer the best balance of good weather and fewer tourists. September brings the Cheese Festival, while May sees the countryside at its greenest. Winter stays can be magical too - nothing beats a hot tub under the stars on a crisp December evening!

Are there any good walks directly from Sturminster Newton?

Yes, loads! The Stour Valley Way runs through town, offering riverside walking. The 14-mile circular Sturminster Newton Countryside Walk takes in beautiful villages like Hinton St Mary and Marnhull. Pick up a free walking guide from the museum.

Is there anywhere to go swimming nearby?

The nearest public swimming pool is in Gillingham, about 7 miles away. For wild swimming, locals use the River Stour at Fiddleford Mill when water levels are safe (summer only). Of course, you've always got your private hot tub back at the cottage!

1. Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival
2. English Heritage - Fiddleford Manor
3. Visit Dorset - Sturminster Newton Guide
4. Sturminster Newton Community Website