10 November 2012

A long overdue visit to this small North Dorset town. A place I have driven through many times but never stopped to walk around and explore.

Living in Sherborne we are not many miles away from Stalbridge but we have never stopped for a wander around. We needed to buy a new light for my wife’s bike and we thought of Dorset Cycles. So here is new set of images from a new destination for Dorsetcamera. This view is looking north along the High Street towards the old cross.

The corner of High Street and Station Road. Stalbridge used to be on the Somerset and Dorset railway. However, the station closed in the 60’s along with many more!

The Post Office. On the left is Barrow Hill.

Heading off along the High Street to the bike shop, passing Stalbridge Pharmacy and the Swan Inn.

The 15th century cross. There is a plaque on the side that reads “This is a 15th century cross (built of Marnhull stone) The top was replaced in 1950.”

The shop we needed to visit. The sign says “Dorset Cycles, The littlest big bike shop in the country. We got what we needed. Very friendly personal service. Well worth a visit.

The water pump and phone box at the bottom of Church Hill.

C C Moore animal feeds.

The approach to the church of St Mary. Looking very colourful with autumn leaves and blue skies.

I wonder how old this spring is in the wall below the church?

 The church of St Mary's is mostly of 19th century design although it does retain its 14th century medieval roof.

Inside the church. The font has been in regular use since 1899. The font is older than the more modern base.

Walking back down Gold Street to the High Street.

Compare the above picture with this old postcard of Gold Street which dates from circa 1896. This picture and the one below were kindly given to me by a work colleague. I have assumed that the copyright has long expired

This photograph was taken from slightly higher up the street and provides the dating evidence.

Back on the High Street walking past the Swan.

Back at the centre of the town. The congregational church in Station Road.

On the High Street looking past the Fish and Chip shop towards the Crown Inn.

The old Methodist chapel which is now for sale.

Walking past the green along Ring Street. In the background a line of cottages known as Anglesey Cottages. These were built around 1831 as a result of an upturn in the fortunes of the town and the need for suburban development.

An old pump on the green with a sign warning of the penalties for damaging it.

The other side of the pump.

Walking back past the green and a very elegant looking old water pump. The pump dates from around the mid 19th century.

I saw this sign on a house near to the green. It made me smile.