The Grosvenor Arms has been an inn since Medieval times. The original timber framed building was a busy coaching inn, originally The Red Lion, it was bought by the Grosvenor family and re-named The Grosvenor Arms in 1820.

Shaftesbury, famous as ‘Shaston’ in Thomas Hardy’s novels, has long been known as the gateway to the South West. It is well positioned on the edge of the historic Cranborne Chase, the most beautiful of English Countryside. The famous Gold Hill is but 100m away, and within striking distance are many historic houses, gardens, museums and even Stonehenge. There are so many opportunities for walking and exploring, and for those inclined, fishing, hunting and shooting.

The bar, deli and courtyard are open all day, and the restaurant from 12- 2.30pm and 6.30 to 9pm. Drop in at any time to eat at our bar, enjoy brunch, or for a muffin or brownie in the conservatory. We serve great coffee and specialist loose leaf teas. Our relaxed restaurant serves the finest ingredients, simply, but whenever possible, seasonal, local, wild and organic. The Grosvenor also serves traditional wood oven thin crust pizzas. Take your choice to sit at either oak tables in the Conservatory, a relaxed zinc topped table in the deli or the most comfortable leather banquettes in the restaurant.

There are 16 bedrooms at The Grosvenor Arms in Dorset. Choose from: cosy double, spacious double, deluxe double, balcony double, Room 15 or The Cranborne – each one is beautifully appointed and furnished, decorated in a style appropriate to one of Shaftesbury’s oldest inns, but complete with the modern facilities you expect.

As for our events we have a choice of three functions rooms on offer. The Assembly Room where you'll find a beautiful fire place at each
end, high ceilings and an original wooden floor, it’s truly breath taking. If you are looking for a more intmate space The Grosvenor Arms also have The Library and Private Dining Room on offer available for hire.