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.
On 15/16 June, Hinton St Mary are holding their Open Garden event in the village. Why not combine your visit on the 15th with one to the literary festival down the road in Sturminster?
Sturminster’s Inaugural Literary Festival is on 15th June
Remember, come in Victorian costume and see if you win our competition? Pin a poem on the poetry tree outside the POET cafe.
Maiden Oak lead the music at the Railway Gardens. Bring a picnic, where your costume, dance a ceilidh. What more could you want?
The Taboo theatre Company perform at The Swan and the young dance group Steps in Time will be Maypoling on the recreation ground. All timings see the festival web site https://sturlitfest.com/
Visit our authors and poets in the cafes and pubs around the town. See Tim Laycock perform a solo version of Tess of the D’Urbevilles in the Swan at 4.
Children try out lessons in the Victorian classroom, visit the Scouts at the recreation ground and play Victorian games with them. Kids, make sure your mums and dads are in Victorian costume too!
Picnic at Railway Garden? Leave your hamper with us till you need it and enjoy the new Hardy Barnes walk around the old part of town.
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.