Sherborne, England facts for kids

Sherborne, England is a charming and historic market town located in the county of Dorset. It's a place full of interesting stories, ancient buildings, and beautiful countryside. Sherborne is famous for its grand abbey and two historic castles, which have stood for many centuries.

Discovering Sherborne, Dorset

Sherborne is a special town that combines a rich past with a lively present. It's known for its stunning architecture and its connection to important moments in English history. Many people visit Sherborne to explore its old streets and learn about its heritage.

Where is Sherborne?

Sherborne is found in the northwest part of Dorset, a county in the southwest of England. It sits by the River Yeo and is surrounded by rolling hills and green fields. The town is about 6 miles (10 km) east of Yeovil, a larger town nearby. Its location has made it an important place for trade and travel for a very long time.

A Glimpse into History

Sherborne has a history that goes back over 1,300 years! It was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Wessex, which was a powerful Anglo-Saxon kingdom before England was fully united. In 705 AD, a bishopric (an area led by a bishop) was established here, making Sherborne a very important religious center.

Over the centuries, the town grew around its famous abbey. It also became known for its two castles, one old and one new, which played roles in different historical events, including the English Civil War.

Famous Buildings and Places

Sherborne is home to several impressive landmarks that tell its story.

Sherborne Abbey

The most famous building in Sherborne is Sherborne Abbey. It's a magnificent church with a long history. It started as a Saxon cathedral in the 8th century. Over time, it was rebuilt and expanded, especially in the Norman and Perpendicular Gothic styles. The abbey is known for its beautiful fan vaulting (a type of ceiling design) and its peaceful atmosphere. It has been a place of worship and community for over a thousand years.

Sherborne Castle (Old)

The original Sherborne Castle, often called the "Old Castle," was built in the 12th century by Roger, Bishop of Salisbury. It was a strong, fortified palace that served as a home for bishops and later for the Crown. This castle saw many changes and battles, especially during the English Civil War in the 1640s. Today, it stands as a dramatic ruin, but you can still explore its walls and imagine its past.

Sherborne Castle (New)

Right next to the ruins of the Old Castle is the "New Castle," or Sherborne Castle, built by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594. Raleigh was a famous explorer and courtier during the time of Queen Elizabeth I. He designed it as a grand country house, not a fortress. This beautiful mansion is surrounded by stunning gardens and a lake, designed by the famous landscape architect Capability Brown. The New Castle is still a private home but is open to visitors at certain times.

What is Sherborne Like Today?

Today, Sherborne is a thriving market town. It has a busy town center with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. The town also has excellent schools, including the famous Sherborne School for boys and Sherborne Girls. These schools attract students from all over the world.

Sherborne hosts various events throughout the year, including markets, festivals, and fairs. It's a popular place for tourists who want to experience English history and enjoy the Dorset countryside. The town's strong sense of community and its beautiful surroundings make it a wonderful place to live and visit.

See also

• Sherborne, Gloucestershire
• Sherborne, Somerset
• Sherbourne (disambiguation)