Sherborne Castle & Gardens

About

Sherborne Castle & Gardens is one of Dorset’s most refined historic estates, created in 1594 by Sir Walter Raleigh as his dream residence. Built beside a shimmering lake and framed by rolling parkland, it later became the home of the Digby family, who expanded and embellished it over four centuries. The castle remains remarkably intact, offering a rare blend of Tudor origins, Georgian elegance, and Victorian comfort. Inside, visitors can explore beautifully furnished state rooms, including the Oak Room with its rich panelling and Raleigh’s own turreted study. Portraits, tapestries, fine furniture, and personal artefacts trace the lives of the Digbys and their distinguished guests. The Great Hall showcases centuries of family history, while the museum displays highlight Raleigh’s legacy and the castle’s architectural evolution. The surrounding Capability Brown‑designed gardens are a highlight in their own right. Sweeping lawns, specimen trees, and lakeside walks create a serene landscape, punctuated by colourful borders and peaceful woodland paths. The view across the lake to the castle’s honey‑coloured façade is one of Dorset’s most iconic scenes.

Sherborne United Kingdom

Location

Sherborne Castle and Gardens is a splendid Elizabethan stately home set within forty-two acres of glorious Capability Brown landscape grounds. Located in northwest Dorset, its official address is New Road, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 5NR. Built by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594, the historic house features rich interior collections, splendid artwork, and sweeping garden paths leading around a central fifty-acre lake. The surrounding area offers plenty of additional cultural and historic sites to discover right on the doorstep. Just across the lake stands Sherborne Old Castle, the romantic twelfth-century ruin of the original bishop's palace destroyed during the English Civil War. A very short journey into town brings you to Sherborne Abbey, a majestic parish church famous across the country for its magnificent medieval fan-vaulted ceiling.Further exploring in the town centre reveals the Sherborne Museum, which displays local history and archaeological finds, as well as The Sherborne, a restored historic venue hosting arts and cultural exhibitions. Industrial heritage fans can visit the Sherborne Steam and Waterwheel Centre to see historic Victorian pumping equipment in action. If you fancy a short drive into the nearby countryside, South Cadbury Castle provides a fascinating trip to an ancient Iron Age hill fort closely tied to King Arthur legends.