Exploring the Historic Village of Cerne Abbas, Dorset
Cerne Abbas is a historic village in the heart of the Cerne Valley, surrounded by the Dorset countryside.
Famous for the Cerne Abbas Giant and its connection to Cerne Abbey, the village offers historic streets, medieval buildings, traditional pubs, local shops and countryside walks.
Once an important town that grew around the wealth of the abbey, Cerne Abbas still reflects much of its long history through its buildings, layout and landscape.
Visiting the Cerne Abbas Giant?
The Cerne Abbas Giant is one of Dorset’s most famous historic landmarks and one of the best known chalk hill figures in England, overlooking the village from the hillside above the Cerne Valley.
Many visitors combine a visit to the Cerne Abbas Giant with Cerne Abbey, a historic abbey site founded in AD 987 in the centre of the village. The abbey grounds sit below Giant Hill and form part of the wider historic landscape of Cerne Abbas.
After visiting the Giant, explore Abbey Street, St Mary's Church, historic pubs, local shops, countryside walks and the surviving medieval Guest House at Cerne Abbey.
Around Cerne Abbey
Over time, the village evolved around the abbey, with its history reflected in the buildings, layout and landscape that remain today.
The Cerne Abbas Giant
The iconic chalk hill figure overlooking the Cerne Valley.
Abbey Street
Historic Tudor buildings lining one of the village’s oldest streets.
The Dig
Recent archaeological work uncovering more of the lost abbey.
The Village Stocks
A reminder of late medieval life and community justice.
Village Pubs
The village is home to three historic pubs, including The New Inn, a 16th-century coaching inn, The Giant Inn with a 15th-century fireplace, and The Royal Oak, built around 1540.
St Mary’s Church
A medieval parish church at the centre of the village.
Cerne Abbas Stores
One of the South West’s most charming village stores, serving the Cerne Abbas community and visitors alike.
The Old Saddler
Local gifts, Dorset souvenirs and Cerne Abbas keepsakes.
Cerne Abbas Brewery
Cerne Abbas Brewery produces traditional Dorset ales, with a tap room and shop popular with both locals and visitors.
Stay in Cerne Abbas
For visitors wanting to stay longer, Cerne Abbey offers accommodation within the historic grounds, including the cottage and studio.