Welcome to Blandford

Words by Janine Pulford • images Danny Howe Photography unless otherwise stated

Pulford Publicity has been publishing free community magazines for 20 years in East Dorset and West Hampshire. For a while now we have been asked to deliver our publications in Blandford Forum and cover local news there.

How could we resist such a request? We have expanded our distribution of Viewpoint into Blandford Forum and welcome news items from the area. Our news editor, Marilyn Barber, would love to hear from groups, societies and clubs, and report on any local issues that may be exciting or concerning you. Email newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk.

Town centre © CatchBox

Did you know the name Blandford comes from Blaen-y-ford meaning ‘the place near the ford’?

Despite being so near a river, the town was devastated by fires in the early centuries, but after the Great Fire in 1731, when the majority of the town, including the town hall and parish church were destroyed, Blandford was rebuilt.

Otter in the River Stour, Blandford

By 1760 the new Blandford was complete and the Georgian town remains largely unchanged today. There’s a Corn Exchange and narrow passageways, which contribute to the town’s charm.

Blandford developed as an important market town in the 13th century, and prospered with major industries being button making, wool spinning and glove making. Pubs and inns increased in the coaching era and helped expand the local brewing industry.

Georgian Passage © CatchBox

Its population (2021 Census) was 10,355 and is currently estimated to be over 14,000.

There once was a railway but this was closed in the 1960s so the best way to visit Blandford is by bus, coach or car.

Woodhouse Gardens © CatchBox

It’s only a 20-minute drive from Wimborne and 30 minutes from Poole. Blandford offers an interesting day out with its Georgian architecture, museums, art galleries, a variety of independent retailers, markets, places to eat and drink, and some beautiful walks including a trailway leading to Milldown Nature Reserve. Or follow the path along the riverbank from the town centre and you could well spot otters and kingfishers which both inhabit the Stour.

The active community and town council in Blandford plan to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III with free community events between 5-8 May in the town. Friday will be proms night, Saturday is Coronation Day, Sunday will be the community lunch and music and Monday The Big Help Out, which will be promoting volunteering in the area. To get involved email admin@ blandfordforum-tc.gov.uk

Blandford Fashion Museum © CatchBox

On 25 March from 10am1pm is Community Expo at the Corn Exchange in Market Place where you can find out about local groups and how you can get involved. We are looking forward to finding out much more about Blandford in the coming months. In the meantime if any community premises or shops would like bulk supplies of Viewpoint dropped off in multiples of 50, please let us know on 01202 870270.

Anyone wishing to advertise should contact our account manager Simon Thornton 01202 941470 or email simon@dorsetview.co.uk.