Spring in Sherborne

Spring is a delightful season to visit Sherborne; the weather starts to warm up, the countryside bursts back into bloom and the sound of birdsong fills the air. The town’s historic streets, beautiful gardens and iconic landmarks offer a perfect mix of relaxation and discovery at this time of year. Come rain or shine, there’s plenty of things to do here in Dorset’s prettiest town! Read on for lots more reasons to book a holiday or short break to Sherborne this spring.

Enjoy a Blossom-filled Walk in Sherborne’s Gardens

Immerse yourself in the fresh fragrances of Spring as you enjoy a stroll around Sherborne’s beautiful gardens and open spaces.

Pageant Gardens make for a wonderfully pleasant stroll. The formal design elements of this picturesque garden are beautiful and include an elegant bandstand, water features and wide paths suitable for both pushchairs and wheelchairs.

On the opposite side of town, Paddock Gardens is an equally scenic park to wander around or a enjoy a picnic and appreciate nature’s floral displays.  

A short drive out of town is Minterne Gardens which is a haven of tranquility for exploration and inspiration. The gardens are at their peak during April and May with dazzling shows of spring bulbs, magnolias and a world renowned collection of rhododendrons.

Step Back in Time with Sherborne Walks

A local guide offers so much more than simply walking around the town; you’ll see the sights but also discover the hidden secrets, quirky facts and humorous tales that will bring 1300 years of history to life in just a short stroll!

Sherborne Walks offer a variety of guided tours, all conducted by qualified and passionate Blue Badge Guides. So if you’re curious to find out Sherborne’s association with Saxon Kings, medieval treasures, fire, film locations, the history of its market or why Sherborne became the first town in the West of England to experience a severe bombing raid, book yourself a spot on the next Sherborne Walk!

The centerpiece of the town is the awe-inspiring Sherborne Abbey, a marvel of medieval architecture. Standing proudly against the sky, the abbey's imposing façade and intricate details make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados alike. The Abbey is open for every day for the public, unless services are taking place and entry is free. You might also be interested in a free 45 minute guided tour which take place from early April on Tuesday and Thursday mornings or Wednesday and Friday afternoons.

Be Serenaded at the Sherborne Abbey Festival

One of the highlights of the Spring events calendar in Sherborne is the Abbey’s famous music festival. It's a week-long celebration of music from 30 April to 7 May 2026, showcasing a wide range of world-class performances and genres; from opera, choral and classical music to jazz, swing and more. Many festival events are free, but some are ticketed.

Explore Sherborne's Two Castles

Visit Sherborne Castle and Gardens where the gardens are especially beautiful in the spring when the flowers are in bloom. Or why not take a stroll around Sherborne Old Castle: The ruins of the old castle are a fascinating place to explore, and the surrounding countryside is picturesque.

Expand Your Horizons at the Travel Writing Festival

From 10 to 12 April 2026 some of the UK’s finest travel writers will come to Sherborne to transport readers, listeners and both armchair and intrepid travellers alike towards the four corners of the globe.

The Sherborne Travel Writing Festival is the first festival devoted exclusively to travel literature to be held in the UK in recent years and promises to widen the horizons of the mind for all who attend.

Head Indoors to The Sherborne

If spring showers try to put a dampener on your holiday, head indoors to the beautifully restored The Sherborne - where you'll find art exhibition spaces plus a cafe and restaurant. Entry is free and if the weather improves, you can explore their charming garden as well.

Until 12 April 2026, there are three art exhibitions to see - two by famous illustrator Quentin Blake and the third is a newly conserved artwork attributed to Sir James Thornhill called The Folke Alterpiece: The Resurrection. Donations to view the exhibitions are welcome.

Visit Sherborne Castle Country Fair

Another reason to visit Sherborne in the Spring is the popular Sherborne Castle Country Fair, held on the late May Bank Holiday Monday - 25 May 2026.

On this day each year, Sherborne Castle’s spectacular grounds and lake are transformed into a fun-packed Country Fair with attractions, entertainment and activities for all the family, including one of the largest Rare Breed Shows in the country.

Watch and cheer at the exciting Dragon Boat racing, visit the Food Court and sample gourmet delights, enter your pup into the lively dog show events or try your hand at rural crafts like hedge laying.