Sherborne hotels and self catering cottage accommodation in Sherborne

Dorset » Sherborne accommodation

Located right on the border between Somerset and Dorset, lies one of the country's most gorgeous towns: Sherborne. Its great transport options also make it an ideal base from which to discover the Wessex region and nearby Wiltshire and Somerset.

'Scir burne' was the Saxon name for this 'clear streamed place'. Once the capital of Wessex, both King Ethelbert and King Ethelbald were buried in the Abbey Church. In the 11th century, the church became a Benedictine monastery, and was later sold to John Horsey, with the dissolution of monasteries, who built the Sherborne Boys School on its few remains. This renowned public school is still active and making use of the Abbey's buildings, particularly its great roof and Lady Chapel, which features work by Whistler.

Sherborne Old Castle was built in the 12th century and later given to Sir Walter Raleigh by Elizabeth I. Later on, she'd become annoyed by his secret marriage, and locked him up in the Tower of London. When he was released, he got permission to retire to his castle, but seeing that it had been abandoned for years, decided to build a new one nearby, which is now known as the Sherborne Castle.

Also of interest are the two local waterwheels. The Nether Cerne is allegedly one of the first iron wheels in the country, while the Castleton Wheel, built in the 19th century, has been rebuilt and is now in function. Sherborne also offers great accommodation, as well as a great shopping centre, filled with boutiques and craft shops, and a great number of cafés, restaurants and bars.