Sturminster Newton is situated at a historic fording point on the Stour. The ford was replaced in the 16th century with a six-arch stone bridge. A 19th-century plaque affixed to the stonework states that anyone damaging the bridge would be transported to Australia as a felon.
Did you know?
Thomas Hardy lived in Sturminster Newton from 1876 to 1878 after he married Emma Gifford. He said that his home was ‘idyllic’ and described his years there as being among the happiest of his life. The house is now a private home.
Sturminster Mill dates from the 17th century but a mill was in the same spot in the Domesday survey. It’s one of several that have dominated the banks of the Stour over the centuries. It was once a place for hiding contraband liquor and is now a working tourist attraction.
Highlights of Stur
Literary Festival
We have heard that there is a team designing a literary festival loosely built around our Hardy Barnes and Young connections. The date for your diary is 15th June 2019. Contact person Mrs Pauline Batstone email [email protected]/
A new town centre?
On Friday the local council and friends are meeting with Dorchester CC to make our case for a submission to the government competition for grants for redeveloping Town centres. Before we can go ahead we need to convince Dorchester that we have the best proposal / chance of success in Dorset as only 1 town can be sponsored by the council. Good luck to everyone involved
A walk on the tame side
In the interests of our health the Doctors at Sturminster Medical centre are running a fortnightly walk of between 1 – 2 miles, all from the medical centre. The next one starting from the Medical Centre entrance (no booking necessary) is on January 21st click here for details
The Exchange
A busy week for the Exchange with a showing of Mamma Mia at 7:00pm on 17th Jan followed by Fleetwod Bac, a tribute band taking the stage at 7:30 on the 19th.
The SNADS Panto is nearly on us.
SNADS are gearing up for the annual panto, this year Treasure Island, promising to be as big a spectacular as they have managed in many a year. Oh yes it is! Tickets are on sale at the Exchange from £7:50. Book for 13/14/15 or 16th Feb on the The Exchange
Quick facts about our town
Sturminster highlights
Oxfords Bakery, run by fourth generation baker Steve Oxford, uses equipment dating back to the early 1900s. Its a traditional artisan bakery, with a very modern owner, and a town highlight.
Hansons is one of the largest craft and fabric warehouses in the South of England. With over 20 000 rolls of fabric, as well as sewing machines, wools, patterns and a myriad of craft utensils, its no surprise it attracts loyal customers from far and wide.
Or visit Harts of Stur – owned and run by Philip Hart and now nearly 100 years old. It’s a cookware specialist but sells everything you ever need for your home. From tiny picture screws to Christmas lights, coffee pots and wellington boots. Its a local treasure.
Our Partners
This site is brought to you by Sturminster Newton Town Council, supported by Our Partners:
Accommodation
Stay at one of the many local bed and breakfasts, an old inn or choose a holiday cottage hidden away in the Blackmore Vale.
Food & Drink
There is something for everyone – pubs, cafes, tea shops or Holebrooks, the high end deli which sells a great cup of coffee.
Attractions
Visit the ancient Sturminster Mill, stroll down the trailway, or drop into The Exchange – the prestigious arts and community centre.
Retail
A fresh fruit shop, a high end butcher, an exceptional baker, a friendly newsagent. What more could you want?
Services
From great local garages to plumbers, financial services and more.
Travel Guide
How to get here, where to park and what to do first with so much on offer.