About Charminster

Charminster is a village located in the county of Dorset, in the south of England. It lies within the DT2 postcode area and is situated near the River Stour, which forms part of the border between Dorset and Somerset. The village has a long history, with evidence of settlement dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period. Charminster is known for its rural setting and traditional English countryside character, with a mix of stone and brick buildings lining its main street. The village has a church, a pub, and a small shop, offering basic amenities to residents and visitors. It is a peaceful place, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat in the English countryside. The surrounding area is popular for walking and enjoying the natural beauty of the Dorset landscape.

School Ratings in Charminster

There are 18 schools in and around Charminster. A further 8 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Charminster

The average property price is £420K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £519K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Charminster

Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Charminster, with 1 recorded incidents in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Charminster

Charminster sits around the middle of the national deprivation scale, according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment levels are broadly typical for the area, sitting close to the national average. Household incomes are broadly in line with the national average.

Broadband and Mobile Internet in Charminster

Broadband speeds in Charminster are generally strong, with superfast and ultrafast options widely available. Mobile coverage across 4G and 5G networks is reliable throughout most of the area. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 3,734 sales

Average Price £420K
£2K £7M
Detached £519K 1,588
Semi £340K 769
Terraced £282K 794
Flat £190K 281

Deprivation and Employment in Charminster IMD 2025

Charminster sits around the national average for deprivation according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment and income levels are broadly typical, reflecting a mixed local economy. The area offers a balance of residential and commercial activity common to most parts of England.

Overall Deprivation
6/10
Income
7/10
Employment
7/10
Education
6/10
Health
8/10
Housing
1/10
Living Environment
3/10
5,766 Children (0-15) 14%
22,445 Working Age 56%
15,914 Older (60+) 40%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 24.6% of children in income-deprived families
Above Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 8.7% of over-60s in income-deprived households
Data from English Indices of Deprivation 2025 · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

Crime in Charminster 7 crimes · January 2026

Low Crime Area

Charminster records relatively low levels of reported crime compared to national averages. Violence & sexual offences is the most commonly logged offence type, though overall numbers remain modest. The area is generally considered a safe and settled town with a strong sense of community.

4 Violence & Sexual Offences
1 Anti-Social Behaviour
1 Burglary
1 Criminal Damage & Arson
Data from data.police.uk · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.

Nearest Train Stations 6 stations

Dorchester West Train Station 1.4 miles
Dorchester South Train Station 1.6 miles
Upwey Train Station 5.8 miles
Moreton (Dorset) Train Station 6.2 miles
Maiden Newton Train Station 6.3 miles
Weymouth Train Station 8 miles

Location

Local Government

District Dorset
Ward Eggardon
Constituency West Dorset
Parish Maiden Newton
Region South West