Town Walk, Shaftesbury - Shaftesbury

This is a typical 18th century town amenity given by Robert Dyneley to the town in 1753.

Visitor Access, Directions & Contacts: Website
https://www.shaftesburytourism.co.uk/shaftesbury-walk-ancient-trees-with-glorious-views/3002075
Access contact details
This is a municipal site for general public use.

History: This is a typical 18th century town amenity. It was given to the town by Robert Dyneley in 1753. It is illustrated in Upjohn's 1799 map of Shaftesbury as having an avenue of trees commanding the important view southwards.
In 1827 there were references to a 'broad walk or terraces lined with trees'. There were also plans for imminent extension around to the west and north, including the Castle site and Bimport. This was part of Dyneley's original vision, but never materialised.
Later developments include a bandstand (1866), Coronation extension and flowerbed (1953) and a war memorial. The Pine Walk and Stony Path are in need of further investigation.

Features & Designations

Key Information: Type
Park
Purpose
Recreational/sport
Principal Building
Recreational
Survival
Part: standing remains
Open to the public
Yes
Civil Parish
Shaftesbury

References

Hutchins, John {The History and Antiquities of the County of Dorset, Volume III} (1870) 1 The History and Antiquities of the County of Dorset, Volume III
RCHME {RCHM, Vol. IV} 57 RCHM, Vol. IV
Upjohn, William {Plan of the Town of Shaftesbury} (Shaftesbury: W. Upjohn, 1799) Plan of the Town of Shaftesbury
Innes, Brenda {Shaftesbury : an illustrated history} (Wimborne: Dovecote Press, 1992) 62 Shaftesbury : an illustrated history
Rutter, John {An historical and descriptive account of the town of Shaftesbury} (Shaftesbury: Rutter, John, 1827) An historical and descriptive account of the town of Shaftesbury