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Post Code SP7 At over 750 feet above sea level, it is the height of the land at Shaftesbury that has been the determining factor in its history. It was the Saxons who first founded a hilltop town here because of its strategic position overlooking the surrounding countryside. For the same reason King Alfred, of burnt cakes fame, made Shaftesbury a defended town in the 9th Century, after his defeat of the Vikings. He was so confident in its geographical security that he founded an Abbey for his daughter. The town overlooks the Blackmore Vale, the valley of the river Stour. Situated 7 miles north of Blandford and 4 miles from Gillingham. The coast is approximately 45 minutes drive. London is approximately 120 miles away with fairly good road links. Famous for its Gold Hill, featured in the 1970's and 80's Hovis bread adverts. The town relies on tourism but does have light industry within industrial estates. Population 6740 (2005) The average property in this postcode district was valued at £223,799. Farming is still in evidence although the livestock market has ceased to be held. Average annual rise of approx. 13%Number of dwellings 3278 (2005) The town centre has a healthy number of local shops and businesses as well as some nationals such as Boots and national supermarket. There is a healthy number of restaurants, take aways and snack/cafe premises in the town as well as accommodation to suit all pockets. Other facilities include a leisure centre, swimming pool and library. There are hospitals in Shaftesbury and in Salisbury. Transport The local bus service (Dorset & Wilts) run a service to Blandford and Salisbury as well as a number of local services. National Express run services to other locations including Bath and Manchester. Education is catered for all ages by the Local Authority and private schools are nearby. Our View In our view Shaftesbury is a pleasant former market town. There are a number of pretty villages around the town. A visit to the nearby Compton Abbas Airfield is worth a visit The height of the town does mean that it can attract adverse weather in the winter months. See also our article on Shaftesbury in relation to future development. Useful links.
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