Explore Shaftesbury and the Local Attractions
Set in the north Dorset countryside, Lakeside Tranquility Glamping is the perfect glamping spot for relaxation and a convenient base for explorations.
Shaftesbury
Whilst the retreat is a haven of peace, the charming Saxon hilltop town of Shaftesbury is just a 20-minute walk away (or five-minute drive). The first settlement in Shaftesbury was in the Stone Age, 8000 years ago, but it is more well known for its connections to Alfred the Great, who established a burgh here in 880 and later a nunnery for his daughter. In more recent times, Shaftesbury has become famous for its very steep yet picturesque, Gold Hill, thanks to the 1980s Ridley Scott-directed Hovis bread advert.
Discover the Abbey ruins medieval castle and explore the Shaftesbury Museum. Enjoy the fantastic far-reaching views across the Blackmore Vale and Cranborne Chase from the Abbey Walk. When you have finished exploring the history, there are plenty of independent shops, cosy coffee shops, restaurants and charming pubs waiting for you.
Salisbury
Salisbury is a bustling market town with plenty going on. Visit the Charter Market on a Tuesday or Saturday. There are many historic buildings that house museums, art galleries, and independent shops. You’ll be spoilt for choice if you want a quaint British pub or perhaps a more modern coffee shop or eatery.
Stonehenge
A visit to Wiltshire would not be complete without a visit to the Unesco world heritage site of Stonehenge. Walk in the footsteps of our Neolithic ancestors and take a tour of what is perhaps the world’s most famous prehistoric monument. These ancient sarson giants are a powerful testament to human ingenuity, imagination and creativity, and must be seen!
Wardour Castle
The romantic and ethereal 14th-century Wardour Castle is the perfect place to explore if you are a fan of ruinous castles with violent histories. It’s claim to fame is as Locksley Castle, Robin Hood’s ancestral home in the film, Robin Hood – Prince of Thieves.
A twenty-minute drive from Shaftesbury, this English Heritage site is still quite the secret so if you are lucky, you can wander the grounds in peace.
Roman Baths in Bath
One of the finest historic sites in the country, the Roman Baths in Bath area must-see. In the times of the Romans, visitors came to Bath to worship the goddess Sulis Minerva and bathe in the waters of the natural thermal springs, which still flow with hot water.
Visit the Roman Baths complex, walk on the original Roman pavements and see the ruins of the Temple of Sulis Minerva. The attached museum is full of interesting Roman artefacts, including a gilt bronze head of the Goddess herself.
If you would like to experience your own Roman bath, book into the original natural thermal spa and treat yourself to a wonderful spa experience.
Longleat
Safari parks are not just for kids! And Longleat, with an excellent reputation, is one of the best.
Explore the zoo on foot and visit all the animals before driving through the safari park to spot some of the bigger, and sometimes more ferocious, creatures living there. With the historical Longleat House, boat trips, a steam train and many other attractions, Longleat will keep you busy for the whole day!
Visit the South Coast
Only an hour’s drive away are Dorset’s beautiful beaches and seaside resorts. Choose from the quieter National Trust beaches of Studland or Swanage or head to the livelier resorts of Weymouth or Bournemouth to experience authentic English seaside charm. It’s not very far to the beautiful beaches of Dorset.
Embrace The Essence of Tranquility
Your perfect lakeside escape awaits!
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to assist.