Visit Sherborne

Nestled in green valleys and wooded hills, Sherborne is without doubt, one of the most beautiful towns in England.

Medieval and mellow-stoned, this Dorset gem has a reputation for art, antiques and world famous schools.

Sample the best local produce at the Saturday farmers’ market; seek out an antique bargain at the regular vintage market or enjoy a guided walk around this pretty town.

A visit to Sherborne is an absolute must! To help you find your way, you might like to download our Sherborne town map.

Fascinating history

With its abundance of ancient and beautiful buildings, superb Abbey, picturesque Almshouse and two Castles (one built by Sir Walter Raleigh), Sherborne’s many attractions make for a captivating visit.

The town trail, available from the Tourist Information Centre will help guide you around Sherborne’s star attractions and unravel the town's past.

Specialist shops

With a wide range of individually-owned shops and boutiques, Sherborne is a great place to find a unique gift, inspiration for the home and exclusive fashion. The town is also a real treasure trove for antiques lovers.

Visit Sherborne on a Thursday and Saturday and there will be lots of tempting fare on offer at Cheap Street’s Pannier Market where you can hunt for a bargain or two as well as scour the many hidden shops.

Know before you go

If you are planning to visit during the Covid-19 pandemic, things will be a little different this year, but the business and the community will still offer you their friendly welcome.

If you would like to know what to expect when visiting, please read the ‘know before you go’ information about Sherborne to help you plan ahead and enjoy your visit.

Festivals and events

There are plenty of events to entertain you all year round in Sherborne.

Classical music lovers can be serenaded at one of Sherborne Abbey’s many concerts and performances where the spectacular setting adds to the magical atmosphere.

The annual Sherborne International Film Festival is not to be missed off the diary as are the Spring and Autumn colours weekends at Sherborne Castle which really show off the natural beauty of the area.

Attracting the crowds year after year are the Sherborne Literary Festival and the Fireworks Extravaganza which should also be right up there on your itinerary.

Eating out in Sherborne

Sherborne is popular with foodies and rightly so! Choose from tempting tearooms, coffee shops, cafés, pubs, bistros and a la carte restaurants. Many are now offering takeaway options to collect or have delivered to your accommodation.

Experience wonderful intimate dining in a relaxed and informal setting at Season's Restaurant. Every table comes a perfect garden view and there's a terrace for al-fresco dining when the weather's warm. This 2 AA Rosette restaurant must not be missed!

The town also has some tempting delis and a regular farmers’ market where you can find lots of fresh local produce.

A real life film set

It’s not just tourists that pay a visit to Sherborne.

Hollywood’s 2015 adaptation of Hardy’s classic novel ‘Far From the Madding Crowd’ was partly filmed in the town.

Keen film buffs will also recognise Sherborne School and other locations in both ‘The Imitation Game’ and BBC’s historical drama, ‘Wolf Hall’.