The Gardens at Sherborne Castle

'An English Landscape Garden’

Our Grade I listed Garden was one of Capability Brown’s first commissions giving us a magnificent English Landscape Garden which survives largely unaltered today. In the Museum we have an exhibition Capability Brown at Sherborne Castle which draws on the castle archives to tell the story of his work here.

Paths and trails lead you through 42 acres of Gardens and Pleasure Grounds commanding spectacular views of more than 1,000 acres of parkland.

On our map we suggest two walks: The Pleasure Grounds and Fossil House Walk approx. 2.1 km and the Thatched Hut and Gingko Lawn Walk approx. 1.6 km, combine both walks together and see the whole garden. Rolling landscapes, sweeping lawns and majestic specimen trees surround the 50-acre lake. Colour is provided throughout the seasons, from spectacular displays of spring bulbs and daffodils, through Summer Herbaceous borders to the breathtaking colours of Autumn reflected in the lake. A programme of tree and plant labelling helps identification of the many species. The Garden boasts many champion trees including cedars of Lebanon and a particularly important Ginkgo tree. This natural and tranquil setting provides an ideal habitat for the abundant wildlife found on the lake and adjacent grounds. This provides a perfect stage set for all amateur and professional photographers alike. Children enjoy our Gardens Trail and enjoy our special themed events. We hope you will take the time to explore our beautiful garden.

Click to download our Garden Map & Visitor Information leaflet

The Great Garden Trail of Dorset

Visit the top 6 must see gardens in dorset showcasing the very best in English garden design, planting & history

We’re excited to be taking part in the 2023 RHS Partner Garden of The Year competition!

It’s never been more important to get out into nature, and enjoy the sounds, scents, and sights of the nation’s gardens and the RHS is once again asking people to show appreciation of their favorite among its 221 Partner Gardens by clicking to vote.

The theme of the competition is ‘Feel Good’, reflecting how beneficial exercise and a connection to nature are for good mental health and wellbeing. If your visits to our garden have made you feel good, we want to know!

We’ve been so grateful for your continued support, and we’d love it if you would vote for us when voting opens on 10 April.