The Saxon origins of the town are reflected in the War Memorial on Park Walk. The Memorial is in the style of a Saxon Cross with interlacing designs on the shaft and figures cut on all the four faces of the cross head. The former Holy Trinity Church is now the Trinity Centre and incorporates a Scout Hall and Offices amongst other facilities. The former church of St. Rumbold is now part of Shaftesbury School and is known as the Chapel Arts Centre. It provides a venue for plays and musical events similar to the Arts Centre in Bell Street.
Cultural life is supported by many local organisations.
The Gold Hill Fair in July and the traditional carnival in October.