Edwardstowe

About Edwardstowe

Listed on the Shaftesbury Heritage Trail – Edwardstowe sits at the end of the ancient road of Bimport, home to a number of other listed buildings, many of which may have been associated with the abbey. On a sunny day take the alternative routes from the town; Castle Hill to the north will give breathtaking views as far as the Quantock Hills, look out for King Alfred’s Tower near Stourhead and Glastonbury Tor, both clearly visible. To the south, the pathway along Abbey Walk will reward you with many far reaching views across open farmland and gently rolling hills of the Blackmore Vale, and an opportunity to visit the abbey.

The garden is set in the conservation area and has a rich variety of wildlife, it is not unusual to see 20 or more species of birds and 7 species regularly nest about the garden. The garden plantings are focused on being wildlife friendly, hence mainly single flowers rather than the fancy often nectar free doubles.

Very occasionally the bees may swarm later than their usual month of May. If this happens we may have to rope-off a section of garden.

February 2017 – opening for the snowdrop display on the main lawn and borders – many thousands of snowdrop bulbs produce several carpets of white.

The nearest cafe/restaurant is King Alfred’s Kitchen – in the town centre – it is conveniently situated for a stroll along Abbey Walk. Shaftesbury has a wide selection of coffee shops and restaurants, many open at weekends, allowing visitors to explore this historic Saxon hill top town.