Sherborne Old castle, Dorset

Sherborne Old Castle is the ruin of a 12th-century castle in the grounds of Sherborne Tudor mansion. The old castle was built as the fortified palace of Roger de Caen, Bishop of Salisbury and Chancellor of England.

After passing through Sherborne on the way to Plymouth, Sir Walter Raleigh fell in love with the castle, and Queen Elizabeth relinquished the estate to Raleigh in 1592. Raleigh built a new lodging in the grounds, known as a lodge. Today, only the Southwest Gatehouse and parts of the castle, including the Great Tower and the North Range, survive.

Guided tours are available. Visitors are welcome to picnic in the grounds. There is a souvenir shop and light refreshments are available.

(Photographs courtesy of Trish & Chris Seymour).

Opening Times

April to October

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Ticket Prices

Adults: £3.40
Children: £2.00 (5-15yrs)
Concessions: £3.10

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Disabled Facilities

Access to castle and grounds is via sloping timber bridge. Area within the castle is mostly smooth grass with some uneven patches, and impacted gravel. All parts level except steps to chapel area. Benches.

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More Information

Telephone: 01935 812730

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