Local area guide

Living in Beaminster

Thinking about moving to Beaminster? Discover why it's a great place to live, fun things to do here, what the local schools and transport connections are like - and of course the most important thing of all: how much houses cost to buy.

Your guide to moving to Beaminster

Why Beaminster is a good place to live

Living in Beaminster promises the charm of rural English life in a beautiful and historical setting. This quaint Dorset town is brimming with delightful honey-coloured stone architecture found in its conservation area surrounding the market square. Beaminster's geography alone is captivating, nestled in a lush valley and surrounded by the bewitching allure of four of Dorset's highest peaks. More than simply a picturesque location, Beaminster offers an enticing culinary scene with its selection of highly-regarded eateries and old-fashioned pubs that add an extra layer of comfort and community to the town. Despite its village-like charm, Beaminster is not isolated, with larger towns like Dorchester and Yeovil just 30 minutes away and the coast merely 7 to 8 miles away.

What's Beaminster famous for?

Beaminster is famous for its significant place in works of literature, specifically as 'Emminster' in Thomas Hardy's 'Tess of the D'Urbervilles'. It's also the home to the widely-appreciated Buckham Fair, a community-led, vintage-themed dog and pony show that greatly contributes to local charities. More than just a literary reference, Beaminster boasts noteworthy architecture with its honey-coloured stone buildings and the unmissable Elizabethan manor, Mapperton House. It has even made a mark in the culinary world with MasterChef 2009 winner Mat Follas opening The Wild Garlic in Beaminster, bringing a dash of celebrity to the town's vibrant food scene.

Things to do in Beaminster

There's no shortage of things to do in Beaminster. For start, one could explore the enchanting Mapperton House, named as 'The Nation's Finest Manor House', which appeals to architecture and history enthusiasts alike. If you're a fan of the outdoors, the beautiful countryside that surrounds Beaminster offers stunning scenery for walking, with routes such as the Brit Valley Way and the Hardy Way. Visit the Beaminster Museum to learn more about the town's rich history. Alternatively, you can embark on a leisurely stroll through the town's cobbled lanes, discovering the variety of shops and cafes that keep the heart of Beaminster beating. Every year, the Beaminster Festival fills the town with music, literature and art, an event not to be missed for lovers of the arts.

We have used a bespoke generative AI model to help us research and create our area guides. All of our content is reviewed, and edited where needed, by our trusted team of Zoopla content editors.