Former Benedictine Abbey from 888. It became really famous as a place of pilgrimage after the relics of King Edward the Martyr were brought here a good 100 years later.
Today everything lies in ruins, but is lovingly cared for and managed by a trust. Admission is free, but donations are requested. With a souvenir shop, many benches and toilets. We liked it!

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MCW73

August 22, 2025

Hiking

Once one of the most important and wealthiest nunneries in England. The abbey's ruins, consisting mainly of its foundations and remnants of walls, are located in a peaceful walled garden …

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Best Hikes to Shaftesbury Abbey — Ruins and Gardens

4.6

(7)

hikers

1. Gold Hill – View of Castle Hill loop from Shaftesbury

5.59km

01:34

120m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

3.8

(4)

hikers

2. St Peter's Church, Shaftesbury – Gold Hill loop from Shaftesbury

9.62km

02:39

160m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.0

(5)

hikers

3. Gold Hill – St Peter's Church, Shaftesbury loop from Motcombe

11.1km

03:01

170m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

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Elevation 260 m

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Location: Shaftesbury, North Dorset, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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Shaftesbury Abbey — Ruins and Gardens

1. Gold Hill – View of Castle Hill loop from Shaftesbury

2. St Peter's Church, Shaftesbury – Gold Hill loop from Shaftesbury

3. Gold Hill – St Peter's Church, Shaftesbury loop from Motcombe

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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