Fiddleford Manor — A Beautiful Medieval Manor House

A Manor with Remarkable Medieval Craftsmanship

Hidden beside the River Stour near Sturminster Newton, Fiddleford Manor is one of Dorset’s finest small medieval houses.
Built around 1370 for a high-ranking official of the Sheriff of Dorset, it features an exceptional timber roof, elegant stonework, and a peaceful rural setting.
Today, its atmospheric rooms and quiet gardens make it a delightful place to explore.

It’s a rare survivor of medieval domestic architecture.

A Manor Built for Status and Comfort

The manor was constructed for William Latton, a royal administrator who needed both a functional home and a symbol of status.
Its great hall showcased wealth through its soaring roof and carved details.
However, later owners altered the surrounding buildings, leaving the medieval core remarkably intact.

Therefore, Fiddleford Manor offers a clear glimpse into comfortable 14th-century living.

Exploring Fiddleford Manor
1. The Great Hall

The hall is the highlight of the site, with its magnificent medieval timber roof.
Tall trusses, curved braces, and carved bosses draw the eye upward.
In addition, the large windows fill the space with soft natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

2. The Solar and Private Rooms

Adjoining the hall is the private solar, once used for more personal and comfortable living.
You can still see medieval windows, fireplaces, and architectural details that reveal how the household moved between public and private life.
Moreover, the layout gives a vivid sense of medieval domestic routines.

3. Riverside Grounds and Quiet Setting

The manor sits next to the River Stour, surrounded by greenery and wildlife.
The peaceful setting enhances the experience and offers gentle walking routes around the area.
Furthermore, the tranquillity makes this an ideal stop for anyone seeking a calm, historic escape.

Learn more at the English Heritage website

A Gem in Dorset’s Countryside

Fiddleford Manor’s charm lies in its simplicity and authenticity.
Unlike large fortified castles, it represents everyday luxury rather than military power.
Additionally, its medieval structure survives with surprising clarity, making it perfect for history lovers and photographers alike.

It’s not just a house — it’s a beautifully preserved window into medieval life.

Visiting Fiddleford Manor
How to Get There

Address: Fiddleford, Dorset DT10

By Car: Short drive from Sturminster Newton; small parking area nearby

By Train: Gillingham (Dorset) is the closest major station

By Bus: Local routes to Sturminster Newton, then a walk

Opening Hours & Admission

Open daily

Free entry

Facilities

No facilities on site

Shops and cafés in Sturminster Newton

Grassy paths; may be muddy in winter

Nearby Attractions

Sturminster Newton Mill — Traditional working watermill

Sherborne Old Castle — Romantic medieval ruins

Hambledon Hill — Dramatic Iron Age hillfort

Shaftesbury Gold Hill — Iconic steep cobbled street

Together, they form the North Dorset Heritage Trail.

Why Visit Fiddleford Manor?

The Fiddleford Manor experience offers:

A superb medieval hall with stunning timber roof

Quiet riverside surroundings

Free and easy access

A clear view of medieval domestic life

Whether you enjoy architecture, photography, or peaceful countryside visits, Fiddleford Manor is a rewarding and atmospheric stop.
It’s not just a ruin — it’s one of Dorset’s most charming historic buildings.