TRAVEL-GUIDES
Coolstays guide to the Cranborne Chase AONB
30th September 2022
With its diverse landscapes and picturesque villages, we think the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty might just make the perfect spot for your next staycation. Overlapping the boundaries of Wiltshire, Dorset, Hampshire and Somerset, this peaceful AONB is popular with cyclists, hill walkers, avid golfers, fishing enthusiasts, horse riders and general lovers of the great outdoors.
And with an abundance of fabulous places to stay, dotted amongst chalk river valleys and ancient woodlands, we’re sure you’ll find somewhere you love.
And with an abundance of fabulous places to stay, dotted amongst chalk river valleys and ancient woodlands, we’re sure you’ll find somewhere you love.
Where should you go?
Bokerley Ditch image courtesy of Jim Champion via Flickr Creative Commons.
Five nature reserves - Take your pick!
The Cranborne Chase AONB is home to five charming nature reserves.
Not far from Shaftesbury, Oysters Coppice Nature Reserve is tucked away on a gentle slope and is home to an ancient woodland that features a mixture of oak, alder, ash and birch trees. The forest is also known for its array of wild flowers, including daffodils, ransoms and wood sorrel. Boggy areas, streams and swampy ponds offer a haven for wildlife, and bird watchers might want to keep an eye out for the bullfinch, song thrush and tawny owls that occupy the wood.
The Martin Down Nature Reserve might not offer up a dramatic landscape and challenging hikes, but what it does provide is a peaceful, gentle vista of open meadows, scrub and ancient hedge-lines. Ideal for a casual walk amongst nature and the perfect spot for a picnic, you can also take in the vast Bokerley Ditch (pictured). This big dyke winds its way down the western edge of Martin Down and historians believe it may have been built as a boundary in the Iron Age and fortified in the 5th or 6th centuries AD against the invading Saxons.
The remaining three nature reserves include Prescombe Down, which is tucked away far from the road and offers a peaceful, short walk across the chalk downland; Middleton Down, which curves and dips its way through a secluded reserve in the Chalke Valley and offers stunning views across the countryside; and Coombe Bissett Down, which encloses a 0.9 mile-long section of narrow, dry valley that’s home to grazing livestock and some delightful wild flowers.
Not far from Shaftesbury, Oysters Coppice Nature Reserve is tucked away on a gentle slope and is home to an ancient woodland that features a mixture of oak, alder, ash and birch trees. The forest is also known for its array of wild flowers, including daffodils, ransoms and wood sorrel. Boggy areas, streams and swampy ponds offer a haven for wildlife, and bird watchers might want to keep an eye out for the bullfinch, song thrush and tawny owls that occupy the wood.
The Martin Down Nature Reserve might not offer up a dramatic landscape and challenging hikes, but what it does provide is a peaceful, gentle vista of open meadows, scrub and ancient hedge-lines. Ideal for a casual walk amongst nature and the perfect spot for a picnic, you can also take in the vast Bokerley Ditch (pictured). This big dyke winds its way down the western edge of Martin Down and historians believe it may have been built as a boundary in the Iron Age and fortified in the 5th or 6th centuries AD against the invading Saxons.
The remaining three nature reserves include Prescombe Down, which is tucked away far from the road and offers a peaceful, short walk across the chalk downland; Middleton Down, which curves and dips its way through a secluded reserve in the Chalke Valley and offers stunning views across the countryside; and Coombe Bissett Down, which encloses a 0.9 mile-long section of narrow, dry valley that’s home to grazing livestock and some delightful wild flowers.
Why visit the nature reserves of Cranborne Chase
- Ancient woodland: Discover Oysters Coppice, filled with oak, alder, ash and birch trees.
- Seasonal blooms: See wildflowers such as daffodils, ransoms and wood sorrel in spring and summer.
- Birdwatching haven: Look out for bullfinches, song thrushes and tawny owls among the trees.
- Open meadows: Wander through the gentle landscapes and ancient hedgerows of Martin Down.
- Historic landmark: Explore the Iron Age Bokerley Ditch, a fascinating earthwork steeped in history.
- Peaceful walking: Enjoy tranquil strolls across the chalk downland of Prescombe Down, far from busy roads.
- Scenic views: Take in the panoramic countryside vistas from the rolling slopes of Middleton Down.
- Wildlife and grazing: Spot livestock and wildflowers thriving in Coombe Bissett Down’s dry valley.
- Perfect picnic spots: Relax with a picnic or capture beautiful photos surrounded by nature.
- Quiet escape: Ideal for visitors seeking calm, history and wildlife in the heart of Dorset.
Longleat image courtesy of Lucy Djevdet via Flickr Creative Commons.
Longleat Safari Park
Ideal for groups travelling with children, Longleat Safari Park hosts a treasure trove of activities that all the family will love. Longleat sits in a beautiful slice of Wiltshire countryside and offers up a true adventure as you hop in your car and drive past tigers, lions, wolves and more amazing creatures from around the world. Or, why not set out on foot and walk with meerkats before boarding a train on the Longleat Railway to steam past lazy hippos and magnificent gorillas?
As well as the abundance of wildlife, Longleat Safari Park is also home to Longleat House, which is one of the finest examples of Elizabethan architecture in Britain today. You can wander the grounds and formal gardens taking in the splendour with your loved ones. The park also offers kids play areas, a fantastic maze and also plays host to a number of seasonal events throughout the year!
As well as the abundance of wildlife, Longleat Safari Park is also home to Longleat House, which is one of the finest examples of Elizabethan architecture in Britain today. You can wander the grounds and formal gardens taking in the splendour with your loved ones. The park also offers kids play areas, a fantastic maze and also plays host to a number of seasonal events throughout the year!
Why visit Longleat Safari Park
- Family fun: Perfect for visitors of all ages, with activities to delight both kids and adults.
- Wildlife adventure: Drive through enclosures with lions, tigers, wolves and more from around the world.
- Unique experiences: Walk among meerkats or take a ride on the Longleat Railway past hippos and gorillas.
- Historic beauty: Explore the grand Longleat House, a masterpiece of Elizabethan architecture.
- Gardens and grounds: Wander through formal gardens and beautifully kept parkland.
- Kids’ activities: Enjoy play areas, a maze, and interactive exhibits to keep younger visitors entertained.
- Seasonal events: From light festivals to special animal experiences, there’s always something new happening.
- Scenic setting: Nestled in rolling Wiltshire countryside, it’s a stunning day out in nature.
How to get to Longleat
- By car: Longleat is just off the A36, near Warminster in Wiltshire. It’s easily reached from Bath (30 minutes), Salisbury (45 minutes) and Bristol (1 hour). On-site parking is available.
- By train: The nearest stations are Warminster and Westbury, both with regular services from Bath, Bristol and London. Taxis are available from the stations to the park.
- By bus: Local bus routes connect nearby towns such as Warminster and Frome with stops close to Longleat. Check timetables in advance as rural services can be limited.
- By tour or coach: Several operators run day trips to Longleat from cities like London, Bath and Bournemouth – ideal for visitors without a car.
Stourhead House & Gardens image courtesy of Graeme Churchard via Flickr Creative Commons.
Stourhead House & Gardens
If you are a big fan of the National Trust and love to spend your afternoons wandering around wonderfully manicured gardens then you’ll want to look no further than Stourhead House and Gardens.
Stourhead House sits up on a plateau of high ground overlooking the scenic countryside that surrounds it. You may enjoy a walk through the house itself, which was one of the first grand Palladian-style villas to be built in England, however, the real delight on offer here is the wonderful garden.
This inspiring garden, which was described as ‘a living work of art’ when first opened in the 1740s, features hills, ponds and some classical architecture as well as a lovely range of trees and shrubs. Be sure to wander the paths and you’ll be delighted at the many surprises that pop out at every turn.
If you want to venture slightly out from the house and gardens, you can explore the 2,500 acres of land that surrounds the estate. This sprawling countryside features an Iron Age hill fort, acres of ancient woodland and King Alfred's Tower - a 160ft high folly!
Stourhead House sits up on a plateau of high ground overlooking the scenic countryside that surrounds it. You may enjoy a walk through the house itself, which was one of the first grand Palladian-style villas to be built in England, however, the real delight on offer here is the wonderful garden.
This inspiring garden, which was described as ‘a living work of art’ when first opened in the 1740s, features hills, ponds and some classical architecture as well as a lovely range of trees and shrubs. Be sure to wander the paths and you’ll be delighted at the many surprises that pop out at every turn.
If you want to venture slightly out from the house and gardens, you can explore the 2,500 acres of land that surrounds the estate. This sprawling countryside features an Iron Age hill fort, acres of ancient woodland and King Alfred's Tower - a 160ft high folly!
Why visit Stourhead House and Gardens
- Architectural beauty: Step inside one of England’s first Palladian-style villas, rich in history and design.
- Living art: Explore gardens once described as a ‘living work of art,’ filled with ponds, bridges and temples.
- Historic landscape: Wander among classical features like grottoes, follies and ornamental lakes.
- Natural splendour: Enjoy colourful displays of trees and shrubs that change beautifully with the seasons.
- Peaceful walks: Follow winding paths revealing new surprises at every turn.
- Wide open spaces: Venture into 2,500 acres of surrounding parkland and ancient woodland.
- King Alfred’s Tower: Climb this 160ft-high folly for spectacular views across Wiltshire and Somerset.
- Family friendly: Perfect for picnics, gentle walks and relaxed days out in nature.
- Photography paradise: Capture stunning shots of landscaped gardens, reflections and countryside vistas.
- National Trust gem: A must-visit destination for heritage lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.
How to get to Stourhead
- By car: Located near Mere in Wiltshire, just off the A303. It’s around 25 minutes from Frome, 45 minutes from Bath and 1 hour from Bristol. Ample parking is available on site.
- By train: The nearest stations are Gillingham (Dorset) and Warminster, both with connections from London, Salisbury and Bristol. Taxis are available to the estate from each station.
- By bus: Local bus services run from nearby towns, but schedules are limited – check in advance if travelling without a car.
- By bike or on foot: Stourhead is surrounded by quiet country lanes and footpaths, making it a pleasant destination for cyclists and walkers.
Tisbury image courtesy of Philip Bragg via Flickr Creative Commons.
Tisbury
The charming village of Tisbury is often voted as one of the best places to live in the whole of the South West. It is steeped in over 2,000 years of history and offers an abundance of beautiful thatched cottages and winding country walks.
Lovers of classic British pubs will enjoy wandering the streets of Tisbury, bouncing from The Bennet Arms to the Boot Inn, before enjoying a delicious meal at the Mess Restaurant that offers creative, casual dining with a twist.
History lovers may also wish to visit St John’s, the 12th century parish church that sits in the centre of the village. The churchyard is home to a magnificent ancient yew tree that is over 4,000 years old!
The village is also nicely connected to the amazing network of public rights of way that can take you out into the scenic Wiltshire countryside towards a number of the area’s fantastic local attractions, including our next recommendation…
Lovers of classic British pubs will enjoy wandering the streets of Tisbury, bouncing from The Bennet Arms to the Boot Inn, before enjoying a delicious meal at the Mess Restaurant that offers creative, casual dining with a twist.
History lovers may also wish to visit St John’s, the 12th century parish church that sits in the centre of the village. The churchyard is home to a magnificent ancient yew tree that is over 4,000 years old!
The village is also nicely connected to the amazing network of public rights of way that can take you out into the scenic Wiltshire countryside towards a number of the area’s fantastic local attractions, including our next recommendation…
Why visit Tisbury
- Historic charm: Step back in time in a village with over 2,000 years of history.
- Beautiful architecture: Admire traditional thatched cottages and timeless village streets.
- Classic pubs: Enjoy local favourites like The Bennet Arms and The Boot Inn for a true English pub experience.
- Delicious dining: Sample creative, locally sourced dishes at The Mess Restaurant.
- Cultural heritage: Visit St John’s Church, a 12th-century gem at the heart of the village.
- Ancient wonder: See the incredible 4,000-year-old yew tree in the churchyard.
- Scenic walks: Explore the vast network of public footpaths connecting Tisbury to the Wiltshire countryside.
- Perfect base: Ideal for exploring nearby attractions within the Cranborne Chase AONB.
- Community spirit: Experience the warmth and friendliness that make Tisbury one of the South West’s most desirable villages.
- Peaceful atmosphere: A tranquil escape that blends heritage, hospitality and countryside beauty.
How to get to Tisbury
- By car: Tisbury is located just off the A30 between Salisbury and Shaftesbury. It’s around 25 minutes from Salisbury, 45 minutes from Bath and 1 hour from Bournemouth. Free and paid parking options are available in the village.
- By train: Tisbury has its own railway station on the Exeter to London Waterloo line, with regular services from Salisbury, Gillingham and London. The station is just a short walk from the village centre.
- By bus: Local buses connect Tisbury with surrounding towns and villages, though service frequency can vary, so check timetables in advance.
- By bike or on foot: Surrounded by scenic lanes and trails, Tisbury is a lovely stop for walkers and cyclists exploring Wiltshire’s countryside.
Old Wardour Castle image courtesy of Michael Day via Flickr Creative Commons.
Old Wardour Castle
Situated not far from Tisbury, by a pretty lake in the Wiltshire countryside is Old Wardour Castle. Originally built in the 14th century, and heralded as one of the most daring and innovative homes in Britain, the castle is now a ruin that provides history lovers, couples and families with a peaceful day out.
If you want to learn about the history of the castle then be sure to take the free audio tour as you wander the ruin. You can hear about Lord Thomas Arundell who went to war during the Civil War in 1643, leaving his 60 year old wife Blanche to defend against attack!
Children will love exploring the different rooms of the ruined castle, and kids and adults alike will enjoy climbing to the top to enjoy the breathtaking views out across the countryside. And afterwards you can enjoy a picnic beneath the shade of an ancient tree in peace and tranquillity.
If you want to learn about the history of the castle then be sure to take the free audio tour as you wander the ruin. You can hear about Lord Thomas Arundell who went to war during the Civil War in 1643, leaving his 60 year old wife Blanche to defend against attack!
Children will love exploring the different rooms of the ruined castle, and kids and adults alike will enjoy climbing to the top to enjoy the breathtaking views out across the countryside. And afterwards you can enjoy a picnic beneath the shade of an ancient tree in peace and tranquillity.
Why visit Old Wardour Castle
- Historic gem: Explore one of Britain’s most daring and innovative 14th-century castles.
- Beautiful location: Set beside a tranquil lake surrounded by lush Wiltshire countryside.
- Family friendly: Perfect for children to roam, play and discover hidden corners of the ruins.
- Fascinating stories: Learn about Lord Thomas Arundell and his wife Blanche through the free audio tour.
- Stunning views: Climb the towers for panoramic vistas across the surrounding landscape.
- Romantic setting: A peaceful and picturesque spot ideal for couples’ picnics and walks.
- Picnic perfect: Relax beneath ancient trees and enjoy the serenity of the castle grounds.
- Photographer’s dream: Capture atmospheric shots of arches, towers and reflections in the lake.
- Educational experience: Great for families keen to mix fun and history.
- Close to Tisbury: Easily combined with a visit to nearby villages or Cranborne Chase attractions.
How to get to Old Wardour Castle
- By car: Located about 2 miles west of Tisbury off the B3089. It’s around 30 minutes from Salisbury and 1 hour from Bath. There’s a small car park on-site for visitors.
- By train: The nearest station is Tisbury, on the Exeter to London Waterloo line. From there, it’s a short taxi or a pleasant 2-mile countryside walk to the castle.
- By bus: Local buses serve nearby villages, but services are infrequent — driving or walking from Tisbury is recommended.
- By bike or on foot: The surrounding countryside offers scenic routes for cyclists and walkers heading to the castle.
Best time of year to visit the Cranborne Chase AONB
The Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a year-round destination, with every season offering its own distinct charm. Whether you’re here for wildlife watching, long countryside walks, or historic exploration, each time of year provides something special.
Spring (March–May) brings new life to the chalk grasslands and ancient woodlands. Wildflowers bloom, birds return, and the countryside bursts into colour.
Summer (June–August) is the perfect time to explore the area’s rolling landscapes under long, sunny days.
Autumn (September–November) transforms the AONB with fiery foliage and crisp air — a magical time for walkers and photographers alike.
Winter (December–February) brings a calm beauty to the landscape — perfect for a tranquil escape.
Spring in Cranborne Chase
Spring (March–May) brings new life to the chalk grasslands and ancient woodlands. Wildflowers bloom, birds return, and the countryside bursts into colour.
- See wildflowers: Spot bluebells, primroses and wood anemones carpeting the woodlands.
- Birdwatching: Listen for skylarks and see migrant birds arriving back in the area.
- Mild walks: Enjoy gentle temperatures perfect for exploring nature reserves like Martin Down and Oysters Coppice.
- Historic sites: Visit Old Wardour Castle or Stourhead House surrounded by spring blossom.
- Photography: Capture bright greens and early morning mists over the downs.
Summer in Cranborne Chase
Summer (June–August) is the perfect time to explore the area’s rolling landscapes under long, sunny days.
- Outdoor adventures: Walk or cycle the scenic countryside trails that link the villages of Tisbury, Broad Chalke and Shaftesbury.
- Picnics and views: Relax in wildflower meadows or atop chalk ridges with panoramic views.
- Wildlife watching: Look for butterflies and bees on Prescombe Down and Coombe Bissett Down.
- Family fun: Visit Longleat Safari Park or enjoy open-air events at historic estates.
- Sunset strolls: Enjoy warm evenings with glowing skies over the Wiltshire hills.
Autumn in Cranborne Chase
Autumn (September–November) transforms the AONB with fiery foliage and crisp air — a magical time for walkers and photographers alike.
- Seasonal colour: Enjoy vibrant golds, reds and oranges across the woodlands and valleys.
- Harvest festivals: Visit local markets and farm shops for seasonal produce and cider.
- Peaceful paths: Explore quieter trails as summer crowds fade.
- Historic charm: Visit villages like Tisbury and Shaftesbury for cosy pubs and hearty food.
- Deer spotting: Look out for red and fallow deer during their autumn rutting season.
Winter in Cranborne Chase
Winter (December–February) brings a calm beauty to the landscape — perfect for a tranquil escape.
- Frosty mornings: See the downs and woodlands glitter with frost or occasional snow.
- Cosy stays: Warm up by the fire in one of the region’s charming cottages or pubs.
- Winter walks: Follow circular routes around Old Wardour Castle or Stourhead Gardens.
- Stargazing: With its low light pollution, Cranborne Chase is an International Dark Sky Reserve — ideal for spotting constellations on clear nights.
- Festive atmosphere: Enjoy Christmas markets and seasonal events in nearby towns like Salisbury and Shaftesbury.
How to get to the Cranborne Chase AONB
Nestled across parts of Wiltshire, Dorset, Hampshire and Somerset, the Cranborne Chase AONB is well-connected yet blissfully rural. It’s accessible by car, train or bus, and is surrounded by a network of scenic lanes and countryside trails.
Travelling by car is the easiest and most flexible way to explore the Cranborne Chase AONB. The area is crisscrossed by quiet rural roads and is easily reached from nearby towns and cities.
Several railway stations surround the Cranborne Chase AONB, making it possible to reach the area without a car. Services connect directly with London, Exeter, Bristol and Salisbury.
Public transport within the AONB is limited, but local bus routes connect many of the key villages and market towns around the area.
For those who love slow travel, Cranborne Chase offers excellent cycling and walking routes across its unspoilt countryside.
Travelling to Cranborne chase by car
Travelling by car is the easiest and most flexible way to explore the Cranborne Chase AONB. The area is crisscrossed by quiet rural roads and is easily reached from nearby towns and cities.
- From London: Take the M3 or A303 towards Salisbury and follow signs for Shaftesbury or Blandford Forum.
- From Bath or Bristol: Follow the A36 or A37 south-east towards Warminster or Frome.
- From Bournemouth or Poole: Head north on the A350 or A354, both of which run through the heart of the AONB.
- Parking: Many attractions, nature reserves and villages have designated parking areas, though some smaller spots may be limited.
- Tip: A car is ideal for visiting scattered sites like Old Wardour Castle, Martin Down and Stourhead Gardens.
Travelling to Cranborne chase by train
Several railway stations surround the Cranborne Chase AONB, making it possible to reach the area without a car. Services connect directly with London, Exeter, Bristol and Salisbury.
- Tisbury Station: The most convenient for exploring the central AONB; on the Exeter–London Waterloo line.
- Salisbury Station: Well-connected with frequent trains from London, Bath and the South Coast.
- Gillingham (Dorset): Ideal for reaching the western side of the AONB, including Shaftesbury and Wardour.
- From the station: Taxis are usually available, and local buses or walking trails link some nearby attractions.
- Tip: Plan ahead if exploring multiple sites — not all areas are easily accessible on foot from the stations.
Travelling to Cranborne chase by bus
Public transport within the AONB is limited, but local bus routes connect many of the key villages and market towns around the area.
- Main routes: Regular services run between Salisbury, Shaftesbury, Blandford Forum and Wimborne.
- Village links: Smaller services connect Tisbury, Cranborne, Broad Chalke and Sixpenny Handley.
- Timetables: Check local operators (such as Salisbury Reds or Damory) in advance, as rural services can be infrequent.
- Combination travel: Consider combining bus and train travel — for example, train to Salisbury then bus to the Chase.
- Tip: Some attractions like Longleat Safari Park and Stourhead are best accessed by car or organised tour.
Travelling to Cranborne chase by bike or on foot
For those who love slow travel, Cranborne Chase offers excellent cycling and walking routes across its unspoilt countryside.
- National Cycle Network: Route 25 passes through the AONB, linking Salisbury, Gillingham and Sturminster Newton.
- Walking trails: The Wessex Ridgeway, Jubilee Trail and Monarch’s Way all cross through the area.
- Scenic access: Many footpaths begin in villages like Tisbury, Ashmore and Broad Chalke.
- Bike hire: Available in nearby towns such as Shaftesbury, Blandford Forum and Salisbury.
- Tip: Always carry an OS map or GPS app — mobile signal can be patchy in remote areas.
Top Coolstays in near the Cranborne Chase AONB
FAQs about visiting the Cranborne Chase AONB
Where is the Cranborne Chase AONB and what makes it special?
It spans parts of Wiltshire, Dorset, Hampshire and Somerset. Expect rolling chalk downland, ancient woodlands, pretty villages and star-filled skies — it’s peaceful, rural and perfect for walkers, cyclists, wildlife lovers and history buffs.
When is the best time to visit?
It’s a year-round destination. Spring brings wildflowers and birdsong; summer offers long days for walks and picnics; autumn glows with woodland colour; winter is quiet, crisp and ideal for cosy pub stops and stargazing.
How do I get there?
By car via the A303, A350 and A354; by train to Tisbury, Salisbury or Gillingham (Dorset) with taxis or local buses for the last leg; by bus on rural routes linking market towns; and by bike on scenic lanes and NCN Route 25.
Can I explore without a car?
Yes — base yourself near a station such as Tisbury or Salisbury, combine trains with local buses/taxis, and plan circular walks from villages. Some headline sights (e.g. Longleat, Stourhead) are easier by car or organised tour.
What are the must-see nature spots?
The five reserves: Martin Down (open meadows and the historic Bokerley Ditch), Oysters Coppice (ancient woodland and spring flowers), Prescombe Down (quiet chalk downland), Middleton Down (big views), and Coombe Bissett Down (wildflowers and grazing).
What family-friendly days out are nearby?
Longleat Safari Park (drive-through wildlife, meerkats, railway and maze) and Stourhead House & Gardens (temples, lakes and easy paths). Old Wardour Castle is brilliant for kids who love exploring ruins and climbing for views.
Where should I base myself?
Tisbury is a great hub with a railway station, traditional pubs, dining at The Mess Restaurant, and footpaths straight into the countryside. Nearby villages and market towns also make charming bases for walks and day trips.
Is the area dog-friendly?
Yes, with miles of rights of way and countryside. Keep dogs under control around livestock and in nature reserves during nesting season, follow on-site signage, and check individual attractions for dog policies.
Is it good for stargazing?
Absolutely — Cranborne Chase is an International Dark Sky Reserve. Choose a clear, moonless night, bring warm layers and a red-light torch, and let your eyes adjust for dazzling views of constellations and the Milky Way.
How long should I spend?
A full day lets you sample a reserve and a village pub. A long weekend is ideal to combine a couple of nature reserves with highlights like Stourhead, Old Wardour Castle or Longleat — with time for scenic walks and relaxed dinners.