WELCOME TO OUR TOWN
Neolithic, Roman, Saxon, Medieval, Georgian and Victorian - all these layers make up the ancient town of Stalbridge, sitting on the eastern slopes of a ridge of hard Jurassic rock above the Blackmore Vale in north Dorset.
Starting as a permanent settlement in Saxon times, by 1086 it had become important enough to be included in the Domesday Survey. Known as Staplebridge at that time and Stalbriggh or Stapleford in Medieval times, our town takes its name from a bridge on posts (stapuls), now long gone.
From the 19 villagers listed in the Domesday Book, the Stalbridge population grew to 500 in Tudor times, 1,700 in Victorian times and is now heading towards 3,000. Noted for its former markets and commercial activity, it yet remains the smallest town in Dorset, but retains an ancient core of many listed buildings and a long and intriguing history.
During that history, notable sons have included the world-famous scientist and “father of chemistry” Robert Boyle, the artist Sir James Thornhill who painted the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral, and Douglas Adams who, in his youth, witnessed the destruction of old cottages in the town, a sight that provided him with the opening of “The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy”.
Starting as a permanent settlement in Saxon times, by 1086 it had become important enough to be included in the Domesday Survey. Known as Staplebridge at that time and Stalbriggh or Stapleford in Medieval times, our town takes its name from a bridge on posts (stapuls), now long gone.
From the 19 villagers listed in the Domesday Book, the Stalbridge population grew to 500 in Tudor times, 1,700 in Victorian times and is now heading towards 3,000. Noted for its former markets and commercial activity, it yet remains the smallest town in Dorset, but retains an ancient core of many listed buildings and a long and intriguing history.
During that history, notable sons have included the world-famous scientist and “father of chemistry” Robert Boyle, the artist Sir James Thornhill who painted the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral, and Douglas Adams who, in his youth, witnessed the destruction of old cottages in the town, a sight that provided him with the opening of “The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy”.
Recently added items
We are delighted to announce that the dig at Stalbridge House has recently started again. Stalbridge History Society has been supporting and working with the Dorset Diggers Community Archaeology Group in uncovering the remains of Stalbridge House. More Here
Benefits, Brass and the Girtest Grandest Day West Country Friendly Societies and their Brass Emblems
Phillip Hoyland will talk about the history of Friendly Societies, their role in village life and the significance of their brass pole-head emblems. More Here
Hilary’s Diary When you reach the North Lodge at Thornhill House, you turn to drive the good country mile to Stalbridge and very quickly reach a little hamlet known as Poolstown. - Read more
Website updated 10th June 2021
