Gold Hill Museum

Shaftesbury & Gillingham

At the top of picturesque Gold Hill, well known for the Hovis “Boy on a Bike” advert, this modern, volunteer-run museum is set in two historic buildings.

One was once the priest’s house and still has a “squint” through the wall to St Peter’s church; the other provided basic lodgings for traders at the market on Gold Hill.

Eight galleries tell the story of rural and town life, starting even before Shaftesbury’s notional foundation by Alfred the Great. Highlights of the collection include the unique Byzant, carried during annual celebrations of the securing of the water supply, so vital to a hilltop town; Dorset’s oldest fire engine, dating from 1744; a medieval altarpiece perhaps looted from Shaftesbury Abbey; fine lacework and costumes; handmade Dorset buttons; and a mummified Dorset cat.

Dolls’ houses and activities for younger visitors. Wildlife-friendly garden overlooks Thomas Hardy’s Blackmore Vale. Open daily April – end October 10.30-4.30 with last admission at 4.10, but please check our website www.goldhillmuseum.org.uk

Free entry; donations welcome. Car parks, cafes and coffee shops within a few minutes’ walk.