The Little Sanctuary

The Stores, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4QJ

About us

A unisex hair salon based in Gillingham Dorset.

Gillian and her creative team welcome you to enjoy this relaxed experience.

Let nature care for your hair.

Read more...

Opening hours

Monday 10:00 - 16:30
Tuesday 09:30 - 17:30
Wednesday 09:30 - 17:30
Thursday 09:30 - 20:00
Friday 09:30 - 17:00
Saturday 09:00 - 17:00
Sunday Closed

Reviews

4.97
790 verified reviews
Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere
Filter by rating

I’m obsessed!

Liberty Campion
14th Aug 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Thank you so much Elsa, everything was perfect and I’m looking forward to my next appointments! Xx

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Hair cut

Leonie Delamar
14th Aug 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

A great hair cut by “Lee. He’s old school, Very attentive, creative, and pays attention to detail.
The Team and general atmosphere in the salon is caring & friendly.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Best in town

Carol anne Smith
11th Aug 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Had a great time at The Sanctuary today with Gilly. Known her for over 10 years and never been disappointed. Great haircut, thank you.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Biab Nails to perfection!

Nicola
6th Aug 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

I love getting my nails done with Elsa. She is fantastic at creating the most beautiful set of nails and always so nice and friendly.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Elsa

paige twine
5th Aug 2025
5.0

I can not recommend elsa enough! I regularly go to her for eyebrow wax and tint and i would not trust anyone else with it. Elsa has got it spot on every time and can’t fault her at all! My whole experience at the salon was perfect!

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

10/10

Emily
5th Aug 2025
5.0

Always have my treatments done by Elsa and it’s always 10/10 experience from start to finish. She perfects everything she does and she’s a good laugh at the same time. Would recommend every time

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

hair cut

kim gina
2nd Aug 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Nice friendly , great cut for a great price

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Eyebrows, manicure, and pedicure

Cheryl Glasscoe
2nd Aug 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Really pleased with my nails.
Elsa did a lovely job!

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Just amazing

Aralynne Monksummers
25th Jul 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Thank you Liv!! You were absolutely fantastic with Aralynne, calm, patient and listened to her, recognising exactly what she needed whilst she was having her hair cut!! And you made her day with the tinsel!!! She can't wait to come back

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

flawless biab nails everytime!

Ellie Watling
24th Jul 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

I’ve been getting my Biab nails done by Elsa for a while now, and I honestly couldn’t recommend her more! She’s incredibly talented, especially when it comes to nail designs – I can show her a rough idea or inspo pic, and she always brings it to life (usually even better than I imagined). The attention to detail is amazing, and my nails always last so well. Plus, she’s so lovely and professional, it’s always a relaxing experience in the most beautiful salon! If you’re looking for beautiful, strong nails with flawless designs, Elsa is 100% the one to go to!

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Happy hair

Eliza Parker
23rd Jul 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Very well looked after. Went into salon as one woman. Came out another much better.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Lovely service

Magdalena Zielinska
19th Jul 2025
4.5
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Lovely and quality service from beginning to an end. Happy with my hair as always :)

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Amazing experience

Gail Morris
17th Jul 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

I was so impressed with the phone call I received following my booking to get an insight into my needs. Then the service was amazing I am not used to the salon experience but felt totally relaxed Lois was brilliant so pleased with my new haircut am already planning my next visit.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Elsa

Ayshia Mills
16th Jul 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Always a lovey very relaxed experience with Elsa.
She's very professional and makes u feel at ease.
Love having mine and my daughters eyebrows done Ona regular basis.
Look forward to my next appointment

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Nails

Anonymous
15th Jul 2025
5.0

Elsa was amazing fixed all my broken nails and went above and beyond with my design definitely the best in the game

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Outstanding experience

Naomi Culley
13th Jul 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

The salon manager managed to squeeze me in last minute for a hair appointment for a themed event with Katie. I was aware I had been slotted in so did not want to take up too much of Katie’s time so I was happy with a simple style, Katie got to work on my very thick hair, even got excited about the event herself, putting lots of extra detail to my style. My hair looked amazing, more than I could have asked for. I had an evening full of compliments, some thought I had extensions, it really did look that good! My hair at the end of the night looked just as good as when I walked out of the salon, even after spending most of the evening on the dance floor! I was also given tips on how to manage my hair the next day after lots of back combing, it worked, no awful knots to deal with!
There is not enough stars to rate this appointment!

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Recommended

Sharon Evans
11th Jul 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

A beautiful salon, and very happy with my appointment with Olivia, she was friendly and professional. I would definitely recommend this salon

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Never Disappoints!

Rachael W
11th Jul 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

I have been having my haircut at the little sanctuary ever since it opened - first by Gillian at Gillingham and now Roddy in Shaftesbury. A visit to this Sanctuary is always a lovely experience. Roddy cuts my hair brilliantly and I can rely on him to give me an honest opinion :)

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Excellent friendly service

Gill
10th Jul 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Lovely salon, with friendly staff. Olivia is very professional, gave good advice on products I could use and made me feel very welcome, left feeling pampered.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Very happy!

Lisa
27th Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

I had foils done by Olivia today and extensions put in for the first time and I am so very happy with them. She did a great job and was great during my consultation ahead of time. Olivia really took the time to answer all my questions and I’m so happy I decided to do it. Everyone at the salon was so friendly and I felt quite pampered the whole time I was there.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

What a treat!

Julie Harris
26th Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

First time at this gorgeous salon in the capable hands of Olivia. Relaxed few hours with hand massage and resulting in a great hair cut and transformed colour. A much needed boost. Thanks

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Fantastic service

Emma Dowley
26th Jun 2025
5.0

I have been visiting Elsa for my lashes for the past 2 years, she is always friendly, professional and provides an excellent service. It is so lovely to now visit her at The Little Sanctuary which is a beautiful setting with a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere.
Excellent results and service as always x

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Lovely haircut

Ben Parkes
25th Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Lois explained each procedure easily making my son feel comfortable and settled. Lovely salon, great staff, perfect setting. Thankyou

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Love my nails

Angela Wareham
25th Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

So pleased with my nails and all the advice when choosing the colour

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

My curly hair

Sarah Cruickshank
24th Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Lee has been brilliant cutting and shaping my curly hair. Thank you Lee!

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Amazing!

Kate
23rd Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Lois is amazing, especially with curly hair and advice with colour. I wouldn’t go anywhere else. The salon is friendly and clean with a relaxing atmosphere.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Beautiful airy treatment rooms in this full service salon

Barbara Ambrose
21st Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

I stopped in for a manicure, thinking this was largely a hair salon. Much yo my surprise this salon is large, bright and offers a full range of treatments. Elsa (I hope I have her name right) gave me a very good manicure, indeed. My one minor complaint is the small array of appealing colours in their range of gel polish.
I shall visit her again for some waxing and perhaps a facial.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Restyle

Libby Woolacott
12th Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

After having enough of my hair being all the way down to my bum I decided to chop it all off into a bob. Lois was amazing the whole way through and I've never been happier with a hair cut, it's given me a spark back! Will definitely be going back, thank you

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Enjoyable first visit

Julie Gregory
12th Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

This was my first visit and Olivia had lots of helpful advice. We went with her recommendations and I was very happy with the result. A different look for me but I like it. I also enjoyed the salon experience many thanks

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Eye lash lifr and tint

Wendy Roberts
11th Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Fantastic treatment, lovely atmosphere and setting

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Eye lash lift and tint

Wendy Roberts
11th Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Excellent experience, first class

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Lovely work

Gabriella Fisher
10th Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Olivia did a beautiful job with my hair today - looking forward to my next visit.
Thank you 🤍

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

An absolute transformation

Amy Cawley
8th Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

I had the best experience at the sanctuary in Shaftesbury. It’s a beautiful old building beautifully presented and has an aura of calm and well-being from the moment you walk through the door. All of the staff are friendly and welcoming. I booked a hair appointment with Maddison after a walk-in consultation and her knowledge, attention to detail and absolute passion for hair gave me so much confidence in coming back for a new look. Her approach was so considered and professional. I spent a couple of hours in the chair and had a hand massage whilst I waited with a lovely hot chocolate too. What Maddison achieved was outstanding and I can honestly say one of the best hair cuts I have ever had. She completely transformed my hair. I would without doubt recommend both Maddison and the Sanctuary in Shaftesbury if your looking for a hair or well-being treatment.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Brilliant

Trudie Phillips
6th Jun 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Gill is the only person who can cut my hair... that's why I have been having my hair cut by her for nearly 20 years!

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Simply fabulous

Maggie Rasheva
31st May 2025
5.0

Love going back every time, RODY is such a rare gem. Always greeted with such warm reception and taken such great care. Simply fabulous and unmissable. Definitely recommend.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Nail and Eyebrow appointment

Ellie Norman
29th May 2025
5.0

Couldn’t recommend Elsa enough!!! Amazing work as usual and the atmosphere is superb. ☺️

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Eyebrows

Anne Macdonald
28th May 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

First class.. clean bright and welcoming..staff pleasant and friendly.. well set out.. found whole thing relaxing..
Will definitely pop in again when next down that way.. its well worth a visit..
5 star rating.. well done to everyone..

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Wet cut

Jemma Liddell
22nd May 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

I had a lovely appointment with my stylist Lee
I was so helpful and cheery
They managed to fit me in when my original stylist couldn't do it and were very accomodating

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Hair cut

Elaine Spencer-White
21st May 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Styled well
Lovely calm atmosphere and efficient servo
Forgot to add to loyalty card- was not prompted to do so

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Eyebrows shape and tint

Anne Leigh
20th May 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Very welcoming and friendly.
Beautician very good .
More than happy with eyebrows.
Decor really lovely .
Delicious coffee and biscuit much appreciated.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

My hair appointment today 20.5.25

Mardi Tilling
20th May 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

I am completely new to your salon & very pleased with the wash your junior member gave me & Olivia’s blow dry of my hair. I shall definitely call there again when I am next in the are.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Cut and blow dry with michelle

NicOla Goddard
20th May 2025
5.0

Fabulous..havnt been to the hairdressers in years..my hair looks amazing..see u in 4 weeks x

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

A cut above….

Julia Wells
20th May 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Just discovered this salon - very handy location, and a great stylist gave me a beautiful cut! Added bonus, they don’t have a ‘salon dog’ ! Highly recommended - a refreshing change

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Aveda facial

Naomi Culley
10th May 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

What a start to my Saturday, visiting Ella for the first time and having an early morning Aveda Facial. The beauty room setting had a lovely tranquil feel, and was impeccably clean. The products smelt amazing whilst the transitions during my facial felt wonderful on my skin. Ella spoke me through the process at the start. Ella was so welcoming, at the end I thought I had known her for years. My skin was glowing and the best it has ever felt, 12 hours later and it’s still got that same glow I left the salon with! I can’t wait for my next treatment, the hardest part will be what to decide on!

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Great Experience

Yvette Hoskins
9th May 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

I visited the salon today and had my hair done by Ruby, the apprentice. From the moment I arrived, she was friendly, warm, and incredibly considerate. She made me feel relaxed and at ease throughout the appointment, and the end result was fantastic—my hair looks amazing! Ruby clearly has a natural talent and a great attitude. I'm confident that when she graduates, she'll continue to make her clients feel just as great as I did today. Highly recommend! A great Hairdresser in the making Thank you Ruby @The Little Sanctuary.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Colour, cut & curled

Anonymous
9th May 2025
5.0

Excellent colour & cut by Michelle as always

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Haircut

Anna Petrova
6th May 2025
5.0

Very good attitude professionalism and I'm very happy with the results.Thank you!

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

The Little Sanctuary

Shona Winter
30th Apr 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

I discovered Lee in Bridport and then relocated but he just knows my hair so although it is a long round trip it is worth it. All the salon staff are first class with a lovely welcoming atmosphere.

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Chop chop

Eliza Parker
30th Apr 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

Very pleased with the new hairstyle from Michelle. She’s very thorough and good at listening to what you want. I’m so lucky to have found someone who is as good as my old London stylist but 1/3 the price!!!!

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere

Amazing

Jemma
29th Apr 2025
5.0
Appointment verified by Salon Manager

I have had my hair coloured 3 times now by Lois, everytime I have been over the moon with my colour, Lois always goes above and beyond to make sure clients are happy and comfortable, she always takes the time to listen and she genuinely cares about ensuring clients are happy. Would recommend Lois to anyone! X

Service
Value
Result
Cleanliness
Atmosphere