Shaftesbury, England, United Kingdom: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Shaftesbury, England, United Kingdom? If you're planning to go to Shaftesbury, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Shaftesbury, England, United Kingdom

Based on the climate and weather in Shaftesbury, England, United Kingdom, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Shaftesbury, England, United Kingdom

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Shaftesbury, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Shaftesbury, England, United Kingdom by month

January

January here can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost regularly. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shaftesbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you find the necessary type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are planning to visit the majestic Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Gold Hill Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you vacation in Shaftesbury during February, you will probably see that it can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. There is frost 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shaftesbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are planning to visit the majestic Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Gold Hill Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Shaftesbury can be brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time. There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shaftesbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the correct type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you are planning to visit the majestic Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Gold Hill Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you vacation in Shaftesbury during April, you might see that it is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. There is frost once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shaftesbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the right type. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you are planning to visit the majestic Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Gold Hill Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May for Shaftesbury is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shaftesbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are planning to visit the majestic Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Gold Hill Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you go to Shaftesbury in June, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shaftesbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you are planning to visit the majestic Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Gold Hill Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July here is mild. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shaftesbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you choose the right type. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you are planning to visit the majestic Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Gold Hill Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you go to Shaftesbury in August, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shaftesbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are planning to visit the majestic Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Gold Hill Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you are traveling to Shaftesbury in September, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shaftesbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you get the necessary type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are planning to visit the majestic Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Gold Hill Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Shaftesbury is cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shaftesbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you are planning to visit the majestic Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Gold Hill Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Shaftesbury can be brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shaftesbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are planning to visit the majestic Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Gold Hill Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you visit Shaftesbury during December, you may see that it is cold and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time. There is frost regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shaftesbury. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are planning to visit the majestic Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Gold Hill Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Shaftesbury, England, United Kingdom

Shaftesbury is a charming market town located in Dorset, England. Famous for its picturesque streets, stunning countryside views and rich historical heritage, Shaftesbury is a popular tourist attraction for both locals and visitors alike.

Without further ado, here is our list of top tourist attractions in Shaftesbury, England:

1. Gold Hill

Gold Hill is perhaps the most recognizable attraction in all of Shaftesbury. The steep street is lined with picturesque houses, making it a popular photo spot. Dramatically angled, the historical street has been used as the backdrop for many films and TV shows, including the famous Hovis bread advertisement.

2. Shaftesbury Abbey Museum and Garden

Shaftesbury Abbey was once one of the wealthiest and most powerful religious institutions in England. The museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits, telling the story of the Abbey's rich and fascinating history. The surrounding gardens and grounds are also well worth a visit, offering a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

3. The Trinity Centre

The Trinity Centre is a community centre and arts venue located in the heart of Shaftesbury. The center hosts a wide variety of events, including live music, theatre productions, film screenings, and art exhibitions. There's always something happening at the Trinity Centre, so be sure to check their website before visiting.

4. Shaftesbury Park Walk

Shaftesbury Park Walk takes visitors on a scenic route around the town, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The walk is a great way to appreciate the town's natural beauty and historical landmarks, including the iconic Gold Hill and the historic St. James's Church.

5. Stourhead Gardens

While not technically in Shaftesbury, Stourhead Gardens are only a short drive away and are well worth the trip. The gardens are home to a stunning array of flora and fauna, including a vast range of trees and shrubs, rare plants, and ornamental structures. The lake, grottoes, and follies make for the perfect backdrop for a picnic, walk, or just a relaxing afternoon enjoying the tranquility of the countryside.

In conclusion, Shaftesbury is an idyllic market town with a rich history and plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained. From charming streets to picturesque gardens and cultural venues, Shaftesbury is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty and heritage of rural England.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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